Bannerghatta National Park

Wildlife

Karnataka

18°C / Clouds

History
Places to visit
How to reach

Bannerghatta National Park aka BNP is the wildlife habitat that is set amid the most serene geographical location of Bengaluru. Conservation of the endangered species and providing support to the research and development activities were the two main ideas behind the foundation of the national park in 2002. Bannerghatta National Park now is also known for numerous recreational activities and safaris.

Initially, the park was visited by locals to enjoy nature and indulge in some recreational activities with their children. Later, with time, the park developed and provisions for many other activities such as trekking, hiking, safari, and camping were made to entertain the tourists and visitors.

Now, let's move to the best time to visit Bannerghatta National Park. Although the choice varies from person to person, if you belong to the category of wildlife lovers, you surely need to come here in the first week of October. The weather is great during this time and one may also spot many wild animals on a safari. The entry fee for adults is INR 80 and for Children between 5-12 yrs is INR 40. The safari fees also vary basis the category.

History of Bannerghatta National Park

Founded in 1970 as a mini zoo, this park was given the status of being a national park in 2002. The national park accommodates a lot of different amusement places for kids such as a butterfly park, pet corner, aquarium, safari park, and a snake house. Spread in an area of 260 square kilometres, this park is known for being a habitat of many species of flora and fauna.

Major Attractions in and Around Bannerghatta National Park

1. Butterfly Park

The construction work for the butterfly park initiated in 2003 and it got completed in 2007. According to the data shared by the park, as many as 48 species of butterflies can be witnessed in the park. The research and exploration centre is another worth exploring place that lets you extend your wisdom about the natural habitat of butterflies. A view to research and captive breeding laboratory of butterflies is a must as you can gather a lot of information about butterflies. Not only kids but wildlife explorers also find the place fascinating.

2. Lion Safari

Another gigantic adventurous experience you can add to your itinerary is the Lion Safari that introduces you to the lions of the south region. If you get lucky, you can encounter the King of the Jungle in his natural habitat, either in action or just relaxing under the shadow of a tree.

3. Elephant Sanctuary

The elephant sanctuary is one of its kind in India as it is a fenced sanctuary made for the conservation of elephants. The construction of the fence was funded by a renowned organization named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The sanctuary is spread in an area of 122 acres and was designed by an elephant expert Carol Buckley.

4. Tiger Safari

Bannerghatta National Park is a place where you can spot the two deadly carnivores of the cat family which is both adventurous and scary at the same time. If you wish to have a close encounter, then you can opt for a tiger safari at the park. You may also make the most of this time by capturing the picturesque views of the national park.

5. Photography

Wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts from all over the country arrive here to capture the mesmerizing shots of sunrise, sunset, and wild animals at the park. This national park is a great place set in the lap of nature, featuring lush green landscapes, forest cover, and ponds that will rejuvenate your mind and soul.

How to Reach Bannerghatta National Park

If you want to explore your wild spirit then a trip to Bannerghatta National Park will do wonders for you. It is truly an exquisite place to experience that adrenaline rush. To visit here, you will need to cover a total distance of about 2,213, 1,015, 1,934, from Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata respectively. Check out the following details on how you can reach Bannerghatta National Park.

By Air

Named after Kempegowda I, the Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is the nearest to reach the park. From the airport, one is required to cover another 70km via bus or a taxi to reach Bannerghatta National Park. Direct and connecting flights from all parts of the country arrive here hence one may consider travelling by airways if budget is not a constraint and comfort is a priority.

From Jaipur - Board IndiGo, AirAsia flights from Jaipur Airport. The airfares are starting from INR 5,000 - INR 6,000
From Mangalore - Board Spicejet, IndiGo flights from Mangalore Airport. The airfares are starting from INR 2,000 - INR 3,000
From Madurai - Board Spicejet, IndiGo flights from Madurai Airport. The airfares start from INR 2,000 - INR 3,000

By Rail

You can consider deboarding at either Bangalore City Junction Train Station or Bengaluru Cannt Railway Station. Both of these railheads are situated at a distance of 20-40 km away from the national park. These train stations receive trains from all metro cities in the country. Karnataka Sampark Kranti Express, Kongu Express, and Karnataka Express are a few trains that one may consider travelling to Bannerghatta park. After deboarding at either of the stations, consider booking a cab or some other means of public transportation.

By Road

If you are planning to reach the Bannerghatta National Park by road then you may either take an inter-state tourist bus or drive in your personal car/bike from the nearby regions to the national park. The overall road connectivity is quite smooth thus, you won’t face any kind of hassle while you travel.