🦁 Bannerghatta National Park | Travel Guide from Bangalore – Travel Taxi

Discover the ultimate guide to exploring Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore, featuring comprehensive information on safari options, animal attractions, and convenient transportation. Learn about diverse wildlife experiences, optimal visiting times, and practical tips for navigating this natural sanctuary located just a short drive from Bangalore's urban center.

Exploring Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore: The Complete Guide

Located just 22 kilometers south of Bangalore, Bannerghatta National Park offers an accessible wildlife escape from the urban hustle. This biological reserve spans approximately 731 hectares and serves as a vital sanctuary for native flora and fauna. For Bangalore residents and visitors alike, the park presents a perfect day trip opportunity to experience wildlife in a semi-natural setting without venturing far from the city.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore, including transportation options, attractions, safari details, and practical visitor information.

About Bannerghatta National Park

Established in 1970 and declared a national park in 1974, Bannerghatta has evolved from a picnic spot to a significant conservation area. The park features diverse ecological zones including deciduous forests, scrublands, and several man-made lakes. This varied landscape supports numerous native species and provides a home for rescued and rehabilitated animals.

The park operates under the management of the Karnataka Forest Department and works in conjunction with the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP), which includes the zoo, safari, butterfly park, and rescue center components.

Key Attractions at Bannerghatta National Park

Bannerghatta offers several distinct experiences within its boundaries, each providing different ways to engage with wildlife and nature.

Grand Safari Experience

The safari remains the park's primary attraction, allowing visitors to observe animals in spacious, naturalistic enclosures. The safari is divided into herbivore and carnivore sections:

Herbivore Safari Areas:

  • Deer Park: Home to spotted deer, sambar deer, and blackbuck

  • Bear Safari: Features Indian sloth bears in a forested environment

  • Elephant Zone: Houses Indian elephants in a larger landscape

Carnivore Safari Areas:

  • Tiger Safari: Observe Bengal tigers in a controlled natural setting

  • Lion Safari: View African lions and white tigers

  • Bear Safari: Dedicated area for sloth bears

Visitors remain in safari vehicles (buses or jeeps) throughout the experience, which typically lasts 45-60 minutes depending on animal activity and visibility.

Bannerghatta Zoo

Adjacent to the safari area, the zoo houses numerous species in more traditional zoological exhibits, including:

  • Various primates including lion-tailed macaques

  • Reptile house featuring king cobras and pythons

  • Aviary with native and exotic bird species

  • Small mammals including jackals and foxes

  • Crocodile pond

The zoo area allows visitors to spend as much time as desired observing animals and reading educational information.

Butterfly Park

A unique attraction within the complex, the butterfly park is housed within a climate-controlled dome structure covering approximately 7,500 square feet. Visitors can observe:

  • Over 20 species of butterflies in free flight

  • Host plants that support butterfly life cycles

  • Mounted specimen displays explaining butterfly biology

  • Educational exhibits on conservation

The butterfly park provides a peaceful contrast to the more dramatic safari experience and is particularly popular with children and photography enthusiasts.

Animal Rescue Center

Though not primarily a visitor attraction, portions of the rescue center can be viewed. This facility houses animals that have been:

  • Rescued from circuses or illegal captivity

  • Recovered from injuries in the wild

  • Confiscated from wildlife trafficking

The center highlights the park's conservation mission and provides insight into wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

Planning Your Visit from Bangalore

Best Time to Visit

Bannerghatta National Park is open year-round, but certain seasons offer better experiences:

October to February (Winter):

  • Ideal visiting season with comfortable temperatures (15-28°C)

  • Better animal visibility during safari as animals are more active

  • Less crowded on weekdays

  • Clear skies for photography

March to May (Summer):

  • Hot temperatures (25-38°C) but animals often near water bodies

  • Early morning visits recommended to avoid midday heat

  • Higher chance of animal sightings at water holes

  • Consider weekday visits to avoid vacation period crowds

June to September (Monsoon):

  • Lush green landscapes after rainfall

  • Potentially reduced safari operations during heavy rain

  • Beautiful scenery but potentially muddy conditions

  • Fewer visitors during rainy days

Visiting Hours and Timings

  • Park Opening Hours:

    9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

  • Safari Timings:

    10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last safari departs at 4:00 PM)

  • Butterfly Park Hours:

    9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

  • Weekly Closure:

    Tuesday (entire park remains closed)

Note that ticket counters close 30 minutes before the park closing time, and final entry to attractions may be earlier than the official closing time.

Entry Fees and Safari Costs

Ticket prices are subject to change, but current rates (as of 2023) are:

Park Entry:

  • Adults: ₹80 (Indians), ₹400 (Foreign Nationals)

  • Children (6-12 years): ₹40 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreign Nationals)

  • Children under 6: Free

Grand Safari (Bus):

  • Adults: ₹300 (Indians), ₹400 (Foreign Nationals)

  • Children (6-12 years): ₹150 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreign Nationals)

Grand Safari (Jeep - Private safari for 6 people):

  • ₹2,500 per jeep

Butterfly Park:

  • Adults: ₹30 (Indians), ₹50 (Foreign Nationals)

  • Children (6-12 years): ₹15 (Indians), ₹25 (Foreign Nationals)

Camera charges apply separately:

  • Still Camera: ₹30

  • Video Camera: ₹200

Combination tickets for multiple attractions offer better value and can be purchased at the main entrance.

Transportation: Reaching Bannerghatta from Bangalore

Multiple transportation options connect Bangalore city with Bannerghatta National Park:

By Private Vehicle

Driving to Bannerghatta offers maximum flexibility and takes approximately:

  • 60-90 minutes from central Bangalore areas

  • 30-45 minutes from South Bangalore localities

Route Options:

  1. Bannerghatta Road (most direct route)

  2. Nice Road to Bannerghatta Road (can be faster during peak hours)

Parking:

  • Available at the main entrance for both cars and two-wheelers

  • Parking Fee: ₹20 for two-wheelers, ₹50 for four-wheelers

By Public Transportation

BMTC Bus Services:

  • Bus #365 from Shivajinagar to Bannerghatta

  • Bus #366 from K.R. Market to Bannerghatta

  • Volvo AC buses available from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic)

Buses typically drop passengers near the park entrance, requiring a short walk to the ticket counters.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing

TravelTaxi Services: For a comfortable, hassle-free experience, TravelTaxi offers dedicated services to Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore with the following advantages:

  • Door-to-door service

  • Air-conditioned vehicles

  • Experienced drivers familiar with the route

  • Flexible waiting time at the park

  • Option for guided tours

By Auto Rickshaw

Auto rickshaws can be hired from South Bangalore areas, but:

  • May be expensive for the return journey

  • Limited availability for return to Bangalore

  • Better suited for one-way trips if combined with other transportation

Practical Tips for Visitors

Safari Experience Optimization

To maximize your wildlife viewing experience:

Timing Your Safari:

  • Early morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) safaris offer better animal activity

  • Weekday visits mean fewer crowds and more relaxed animal viewing

  • Allow 2-3 hours for the complete safari experience including waiting time

Safari Vehicle Selection:

  • Bus Safari: More economical but crowded during weekends

  • Jeep Safari: Higher cost but better visibility and photography opportunities

  • Photography enthusiasts should consider the jeep option for unobstructed views

Wildlife Viewing Tips:

  • Wear neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors)

  • Speak quietly during the safari

  • Keep hands and cameras inside the vehicle at all times

  • Follow all safety instructions from safari guides

Full-Day Itinerary Suggestion

For visitors planning a complete day at Bannerghatta from Bangalore:

Morning Plan:

  • 8:00 AM: Depart from Bangalore

  • 9:00-9:30 AM: Arrive at Bannerghatta, purchase tickets

  • 10:00 AM: Join the first safari of the day

  • 11:30 AM: Visit the zoo sections

Afternoon Plan:

  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at park canteen or packed lunch in designated areas

  • 2:00 PM: Explore the butterfly park

  • 3:00 PM: Visit any remaining zoo sections or nature trails

  • 4:30 PM: Depart for Bangalore

Essential Items to Carry

Prepare for your visit with these necessities:

  • Water bottles (park has limited refreshment stands)

  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Binoculars for better wildlife viewing

  • Camera with zoom lens if interested in photography

  • Light snacks (eating is restricted in many areas)

  • Hand sanitizer and tissues

  • Cash for tickets and purchases (card facilities may be limited)

Facilities Available at the Park

The park provides basic visitor amenities including:

  • Restrooms near entrance and at intervals within the park

  • Canteen and small food stalls

  • Drinking water stations

  • Souvenir shops

  • First aid facilities

  • Stroller rentals for families with young children

  • Wheelchairs for visitors with mobility issues (limited availability)

Family-Friendly Features

Bannerghatta National Park offers several experiences particularly suitable for families with children:

Educational Opportunities

The park provides numerous learning experiences:

  • Information boards throughout exhibits explaining animal behavior and conservation

  • Guided tours with knowledgeable staff (available at additional cost)

  • Interactive displays in the education center

  • Conservation messaging highlighting wildlife protection efforts

Child-Specific Attractions

Beyond the main safari, children particularly enjoy:

  • Animal feeding sessions (scheduled throughout the day)

  • Butterfly park's interactive elements

  • Small animal petting area (subject to availability)

  • Play area near the canteen

Safety Considerations for Families

When visiting with children, keep in mind:

  • The park involves considerable walking; plan accordingly for young children

  • Strollers can be useful but may not work on all paths

  • Some pathways have uneven terrain

  • Safari vehicles do not have special child restraints

  • Noise levels during safaris can occasionally frighten very young children

Conservation Efforts and Ethical Tourism

Bannerghatta National Park plays an important role in wildlife conservation:

Rescue and Rehabilitation

The park's rescue center works to:

  • Provide sanctuary for confiscated wildlife

  • Rehabilitate injured animals

  • House animals rescued from circuses and illegal captivity

  • Conduct research on endangered species

Visitor Contribution to Conservation

Tourists support these conservation efforts by:

  • Paying entrance fees that fund park operations

  • Following responsible wildlife viewing practices

  • Learning about conservation challenges

  • Supporting additional programs like animal adoptions

Ethical Considerations

When visiting, practice ethical tourism by:

  • Not feeding any animals

  • Disposing of waste properly

  • Keeping noise levels down

  • Respecting barriers and boundaries

  • Not purchasing wildlife products from vendors outside the park

Beyond the Main Attractions

Visitors with additional time can explore these lesser-known aspects of Bannerghatta:

Nature Trails

Several marked trails allow for self-guided exploration:

  • Herbivore Trail (1.5 km, easy difficulty)

  • Forest Walking Path (2 km, moderate difficulty)

  • Butterfly Park Surroundings (500 meters, easy difficulty)

These trails are best enjoyed early in the day before temperatures rise.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your Bannerghatta visit with these nearby destinations:

  • Ragigudda Temple (16 km)

  • Hulimavu Lake (8 km)

  • Jigani Paintball Arena (12 km)

  • Big Banyan Tree (30 km)

Extended Stay Options

Though most visitors make Bannerghatta a day trip from Bangalore, limited accommodations exist for those wishing to extend their visit:

  • Jungle Lodges and Resorts properties near the park

  • Guesthouses in Bannerghatta town

  • Farm stays in surrounding rural areas

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time should I allocate for visiting Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore?

A complete experience requires at least 4-5 hours in the park itself, plus travel time (1-1.5 hours each way from central Bangalore). A full-day allocation (8-9 hours) is recommended to enjoy all attractions without rushing.

Are food options available inside the park?

Yes, there's a canteen serving simple South Indian and North Indian meals, plus smaller food stalls selling snacks and beverages. However, selection is limited and during peak times, the canteen can be crowded. Consider bringing packed food for convenience, though eating is restricted to designated areas.

Is photography allowed during the safari?

Photography is permitted with an additional camera fee. However, flash photography is prohibited as it disturbs the animals. For the safari, a zoom lens is highly recommended as animals may be at a distance. Remember that all photography must be done from inside the safari vehicle.

Can I explore the park independently without joining a safari?

Most wildlife areas are accessible only via the official safari vehicles for safety reasons. The zoo section, butterfly park, and some nature trails can be explored independently. Private vehicles are not permitted in the safari zones.

Is Bannerghatta National Park suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges?

The park has varying degrees of accessibility. Safari buses can accommodate visitors with limited mobility, though boarding requires navigating a few steps. Wheelchair availability is limited, so bringing your own is recommended if needed. The zoo and butterfly park areas have paved pathways but some sections may be steep or uneven.

What is the best day of the week to visit from Bangalore?

Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday) offer the least crowded experience. Weekends typically see significantly higher visitor numbers, especially on Sundays. The park is closed entirely on Tuesdays for maintenance.

Exploring Other Wildlife Destinations in India

For wildlife enthusiasts interested in expanding their experiences beyond Bannerghatta, consider these destinations accessible through TravelTaxi's services:

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Bannerghatta Visit

Bannerghatta National Park offers a valuable wildlife experience within easy reach of Bangalore's urban center. While not as expansive as some of India's more remote national parks, its accessibility makes it an excellent introduction to wildlife viewing and conservation for families, tourists, and nature enthusiasts.

By planning your visit thoughtfully—choosing optimal timing, selecting appropriate transportation, and preparing adequately—you can enjoy a memorable day observing India's magnificent wildlife. The park's combination of safari experiences, zoological displays, and specialized attractions like the butterfly park provides varied engagement for visitors of all ages and interests.

Whether you're a Bangalore resident seeking a weekend escape or a tourist looking to add wildlife to your city itinerary, Bannerghatta delivers a worthwhile natural experience just beyond the city limits.

For convenient and comfortable transportation to Bannerghatta National Park from any location in Bangalore, contact TravelTaxi to arrange your perfect wildlife excursion.

Restaurants, Travel

Comment Form is loading comments...