About Bandipur National Park
Halfway down the Mysore-Ooty highway, the Deccan Plateau rises to
meet the wrinkled folds of the Western Ghat mountains. Here lies one
of India's best-known wildlife reserves - Bandipur National Park. It
is situated within Chamarajanagar district in the southern Indian
state of Karnataka, and abuts the states of Tamil Nadu & Kerala.
Endowed with a moderate climate and diverse geographical features,
the park supports a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, making it
a veritable paradise for wildlife.
In 1973, Bandipur became one of the first of India's Tiger Reserves
and the southernmost of the nine reserves specially established
under Project Tiger. In 1974, intention was declared under the
Wildlife Protection Act to notify it as a National Park.
Flora & Fauna in Bandipur National Park
The scrub jungles towards the eastern limits of the park consist of
stunted trees, interspersed with bushes and open grassy patches.
Towards its northwestern fringes, there is a gradual shift in the
vegetation from open dry deciduous forests to tropical mixed
deciduous forests. These diverse habitats support an enormous
diversity of animal life.
With the onset of pre-monsoon showers in April, Bandipur begins to
unfold in all its glory. The resident birds commence their breeding
activities. The air is filled with their melodious calls. Sprouting
grass in the meadows and view lines attract elephants and the
majestic gaur in large numbers. For the tourist who comes to watch
the larger mammals in their natural surroundings, Bandipur is a
paradise from April to October. Even before this, during summer,
when dryness prevails over most parts of Bandipur, the backwaters of
the Kabini Reservoir in the northwestern portion of the park host
huge congregations of large mammals, especially the elephant and the
gaur. This unique feature makes a breathtaking spectacle, and is
almost the only one of its kind in Asia.
