A trip to Bandipur national park, 220 km from Bangalore, gives a glimpse of the rich flora and fauna of the Nilgiri Biosphere reserve, of which it is a part. Once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Mysore, it became the first (of the 7) parks under Project Tiger to save the species.
There are rock formations, lush green fields, coconut groves, banana plantations and lakes and ponds on either side of the highway leading to Mysore, and on to Bandipur. One can stop at any number of places for a quick, hot South Indian meal on a traditional plantain leaf!
We stayed at the Bandipur Safari Lodge, situated at the end of and about a km from the Bandipur national park. There are 12 very comfortable cottages, each named after a wild creature! We stayed at the Mayura (peacock) cottage, complete with a huge motif on the wall.
The facilities and food are excellent, and the most attractive feature is trips in the early morning and evening in open top jeeps into the park, with well trained guides. (You can find detailed information on other activities on the “Jungle lodges and resorts' site). Tips for visitors: opt for an open jeep (instead of a covered van, worth the experience, even if it rains) request the person arranging the safari (Mr.Nataraja) for a guide called Basavanna (extremely enthusiastic and knowledgeable) and carry extra sets of clothes and socks (even for a one day trip) in case of sudden showers during the jeep ride!
The view from the resort is lovely, and the road leading to the park affords a view of hills and green countryside. More about the park in the next post.
Wonderful photos Nita. I like spicy southern Indian food; the hotter the better! You do not mention seeing any tigers.
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