If you’re looking for a travel destination that offers stunning natural beauty and a chance to observe exotic wildlife, then Bandipur should be on your list. This charming town is nestled amidst lush green forests in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, on the border with Tamil Nadu. As part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bandipur is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Whether you’re keen on embarking on a wildlife safari, trekking through the wilderness, or just seeking some peaceful time amidst nature, a trip to Bandipur promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Table of Content
- Why travel from Bangalore to Bandipur?
- Traveling from Bangalore to Bandipur by car
- Important highway information about Bangalore to Bandipur
- Best time to visit
- Popular routes from Bangalore to Bandipur
- Other means of traveling from Bangalore to Bandipur
- Price comparison for choosing different travel means
- Attractions in Bandipur for sightseeing
- Savaari’s customer recommends – Popular places to eat in Bandipur
- Hotels and resorts in Bandipur
- Nearby road trips from Bandipur
- Highway updates
Why travel from Bangalore to Bandipur?
Traveling from Bangalore to Bandipur is a great idea for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. Once you arrive in Bandipur, you’ll be greeted by the town’s peaceful and relaxed vibe, which is a far cry from the noise and chaos of Bangalore. When you travel from Bangalore to Bandipur by road, the journey takes you through some of the most scenic routes in the region, offering breathtaking views of lush green forests, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers. In Savaari, Bangalore taxi service offers you a unique opportunity to turn your road trip into an adventure, tailored to your preferences, budget, and schedule. So, why settle for a cookie-cutter tour or a generic road trip when you can personalize your travel experience and make it truly unforgettable with Savaari?
Traveling from Bangalore to Bandipur by car
The road trip between Bangalore and Bandipur is a stunning journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in South India. The route winds through lush forests, rolling hills, and verdant valleys, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
If you are planning a Bangalore to Bandipur road trip, then Savaari’s personalized travel packages offer the ultimate way to experience it. With the help of our expert team, we have thoughtfully crafted itineraries to ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the incredible sights and sounds along the way.
Important highway information about Bangalore to Bandipur
| Highway Name | Bangalore-Mysore Expressway |
| Alternate Name | – |
| Highway Number | NH275 |
| Distance | 217 km |
| Starting Point | Bangalore |
| Ending Point | Bandipur |
| Highway Quality | Good |
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is highly dependent on what you wish to experience during your visit. Although the park is accessible throughout the year, the optimal time to explore it is between October and May, which is the dry season. The favorable weather conditions make it easier to spot wildlife gathering around water sources, and the comfortable temperatures make it an enjoyable experience. Additionally, the dry season is perfect for birdwatchers as many migratory bird species visit the park during this period. Alternatively, if you’re eager to witness the lush greenery of the forest and see wildlife with their newborns, then the monsoon season, between June and September, is an ideal time to plan a visit. However, it’s worth noting that the park is closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and safety concerns.
- Peak: December-February
- Optimal: October-May
- Avoid: June-September
Popular routes from Bangalore to Bandipur
Route 1: Distance and Time Taken from Bangalore to Bandipur via NH275
This is the shortest and the best route to travel between Bangalore and Bandipur. The distance between Bangalore and Bandipur on this route is around 217 KM and takes about 4 hours. Always check live maps and instant traffic updates for the latest information on Bangalore to Bandipur road conditions.
Driver-Suggested Sights/Monuments/Offbeat Places Along This Route
If you’re driving along the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway, there are plenty of sights and offbeat places that you can explore. Here are a few driver-suggested options:
- Channapatna – You can take a small detour from NH275 to visit the Toy Town of India – Channapatna. It is famous for its colorful wooden toys. You can stop by one of the many workshops along the highway and witness the art of toy-making.
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Srirangapatna – This bird sanctuary is home to several bird species, including storks, herons, and kingfishers. You can take a boat ride along the river to witness these feathered creatures up close.
- Railway Museum, Mysore – The Railway Museum in Mysore is a fascinating and educational attraction that showcases the rich history of railways in India. It houses a collection of steam engines, locomotives, coaches, and other railway artifacts that date back to the 19th century.
Popular Places to Eat Along this Route Where our Customers Usually Stop
As you travel from Bangalore to Bandipur, you’ll be pleased to discover an abundance of culinary delights along the way. Whether you’re a foodie at heart or simply looking for a quick snack, the options are plenty. So, if your driver suggests taking a short detour to sample some of the local cuisines, don’t hesitate to indulge in this culinary adventure. Here are a few popular food spots to check out along the route:
- Imperial Restaurant, Guddadahalli – This is a family restaurant for snacks and meals. The cuisines available are North Indian, Mughlai, and Chinese. Some of the must-try dishes are Spicy Chilli Chicken, Grill Chicken, Ghee Rice, and Biryani.
- Karnataka Hindu Military Hotel, Kengeri – It is popular for serving traditional Kannada cuisine. It is known for its mouth-watering biryani and meat-based dishes, which are cooked in the traditional military style of the state’s Hindu community. Some of the must-try dishes include Mutton Fry, Donne Biryani, Ragi Mudde, and Mutton Paya Soup.
- Ambara Fine Dining, Hardinge Circe – This rooftop vegetarian restaurant offers North Indian and Continental cuisines. Some recommended dishes are Paneer Tikka Masala, Dum Biryani, and Gobi Manchurian.
Bangalore to Bandipur Road Condition via Route 1:
The road is in excellent condition, allowing you to cruise through some of the most breathtaking countryside scenery at a quick pace. As you zip along, be sure to take in the sights and sounds of the surroundings that will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated.
Route 2: Distance and Time Taken from Bangalore to Bandipur via NH948
This is a longer route to travel from Bangalore to Bandipur than the previous one. Also, the road conditions on this route are variable. The distance from Bangalore to Bandipur on this route is around 234 KM and takes around 5.5 hours. To avoid road closures, always check for the latest updates and follow a live map when traveling to get the best idea of Bangalore to Bandipur road conditions.
Driver-Suggested Sights/Monuments/Offbeat Places Along This Route
Here are some of the must-visit places on a Bangalore to Bandipur road trip along this route:
- Thottikallu Falls, Kanakapura Road – Thottikallu Falls, also known as TK Falls, is a picturesque waterfall located on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is a popular picnic spot and attracts visitors throughout the year. The area around the falls is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Sri Vaidhyanatheshwara Temple, Talakadu – At a small detour from the highway near Talakadu, you can reach the serene and peaceful Sri Vaidhyanatheshwara Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered to be one of the Panchalinga Kshetras. The temple has unique architecture and is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures. It is believed that visiting this temple and taking a dip in the nearby river can cure diseases and ailments.
- Agara Lake, Agara – You can take a right from the Agara bus stop on the highway to reach this beautiful man-made lake. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and has a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for picnics and nature walks.
Popular Places to Eat Along this Route Where our Customers Usually Stop
Here are some of the best stops for food and drinks on the Bangalore to Bandipur road trip on this route:
- NASA’s Food Court, Nettigere – This is a popular food court en route from Bangalore to Bandipur via the NH948. It is one of the best breakfast places along this route. Some of the must-try dishes are the Davanagere-style benne dosa, Tatte Idli, and Medu Vada.
- Tasty Fish By Taayi Magalu, Barachukki Falls – If you love eating seafood, then don’t give this place a miss. The restaurant’s name translates to “Grandma’s Tasty Fish” and the recipes used are said to be passed down through generations. Some of the must-try dishes are Crab Masala Fry, Fish Pulimunchi, and Prawn Ghee Roast.
- Madeena Restaurant, Gundlupet – If you are looking for a hearty non-vegetarian meal, then drop by the Madeena Restaurant. Located on State Highway SH81 in Gundlupet, you can try their signature Mutton Biryani for a hearty meal. Some other recommended dishes are Kebabs and Tandoori.
Bangalore to Bandipur Road Condition via Route 2:
This is a slightly longer and slower route to travel from Bangalore to Bandipur. This route traverses multiple highways and while the condition of the highways is good, please check the status of any road closures before leaving.
Most Preferred Route from Bangalore to Bandipur by Savaari Customers
Both the above routes are good for traveling from Bangalore to Bandipur. However, the route via NH275 is the best route for Bangalore to Bandipur road trip and can get you there within 4 hours. However, if you want to explore the interiors of Karnataka while traveling and don’t mind a longer route, then you can opt for the route via NH948.
Other means of traveling from Bangalore to Bandipur
How to Reach by Train?
Bandipur does not have a train station. Hence, if you want to travel from Bangalore to Bandipur via train, then you will have to take a train to Mysore and then take a bus or book a cab from there to Bandipur. The distance from Mysore Railway Station to Bandipur National Park is around 80 km. A taxi can get you there within 2 hours while a bus might take longer due to multiple halts. Savaari offers the convenient option of booking a cab from Mysore Railway Station to Bandipur at affordable rates.
If you want to take this route, then here are some popular trains from Bangalore to Mysore to help you plan your journey:
- Railway Station in Bangalore: KSR Bengaluru Station (SBC)
- Distance from the city center: 7 km
- How to reach the railway station: You can hire a cab in Bangalore to reach the railway station comfortably
- Railway Station in Mysore: Mysore Junction railway station (MYS)
| Train Number | Train Name | Departure Days | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration |
| 20607 | MYS Vandebharat | All days of the week except Wednesdays | 10.20 am | 12.20 pm | 2 hours |
| 12007 | MYS Shatabdi | All days of the week except Wednesdays | 10.50 am | 1.00 pm | 2 hours 10 minutes |
| 12614 | Wodeyar Express | All days of the week | 3.15 pm | 5.45 pm | 2 hours 30 minutes |
For updated train timings for Bangalore to Mysore, visit IRCTC and follow their latest timetable.
How to Reach by Flight?
There is no airport in Bandipur. Mysore Airport is the nearest airport to Bandipur. It is at a distance of around 69 km. This translates into a driving time of around 1-1.5 hours.
While this option is not usually recommended, if you want to travel to Bandipur from Bangalore by flight, then you can take a flight to Mysore and book a taxi in Mysore to get you to Bandipur.
How to Reach by Bus?
There are not many buses available between Bangalore and Bandipur. In fact, currently, there is only one direct bus from Bangalore to Bandipur that is run by Gubera Experts Logistics. The bus leaves at 6.30 am from MR Market Metro Station and reaches Bandipur National Park by 11.25 am. The ticket cost is affordable and priced at Rs.999. You can visit any travel portal to get a deal on the tickets.
While there are numerous buses from Bangalore to Mysore, many people take a bus to Mysore and then another bus to Bandipur. This is recommended for people who are comfortable with changing buses as it can take longer and get tiring. If you are looking for the most affordable way to travel from Bangalore to Bandipur, then you might consider a direct bus or a bus to Mysore and then to Bandipur.
Price comparison for choosing different travel means
| Means of transportation | Travel time via each of these means | Price |
| Bangalore to Bandipur by train (Bangalore to Mysore by train and then a cab to Bandipur) | Train: Around 2 hoursCab: Around 1.5 hours Total travel time: 3.5-4 hours | Train: Rs.300-500 (AC Chair Car)Cab: Rs.2700 Total cost: Rs.3000-3500 |
| Bangalore to Bandipur by bus | Around 5 hours | Rs.999 |
| Bus to Mysore and then another bus to Bandipur from Mysore | Bangalore to Mysore: 2-7 hoursMysore to Bandipur: 2-2.5 hours Total time: 5-10 hours | Bangalore to Mysore: Rs.400-2500Mysore to Bandipur: Rs.600 Total cost: Rs.1000-3000 |
| Bangalore to Bandipur by flight | – | – |
| Bangalore to Bandipur by cabs | 4 hours | Rs 3900 |
When it comes to traveling from Bandipur to Bangalore, choosing a bus ride might seem like a cost-effective option, but it can’t match the convenience and comfort of booking a cab. Savaari’s car rental service in Bangalore offers a reasonably priced and personalized mode of transportation that saves you from the inconvenience of public transit and its numerous stops. With Savaari, you have the freedom to make impromptu stops, delve into local traditions, and relish authentic cuisine on your journey. Whether you’re planning a round-trip or a one-way ride, you’ll only be charged for the distance traveled, with no hidden costs or cancellation fees
Attractions in Bandipur for sightseeing
While Bandipur is popular for its national park, there are various other attractions in Bandipur as listed below:
- Bandipur National Park: Spanning an area of over 874 square kilometers and home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, the Bandipur National Park is an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple: This is a famous temple located on a hilltop in Bandipur National Park, Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to be built by Hoysala king, Ballala. You will have to climb 1000 steps to reach it but the views of the surroundings from up there are mesmerizing.
- Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012, the Reserve is spread across an area of 5,520 sq. km across the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. This stunning reserve comprises several national parks and offers breathtaking views of wildlife, lush forests, and the magnificent Western Ghats.
Savaari’s customer recommends – Popular places to eat in Bandipur
The national park attracts thousands of tourists around the year. This has led to the development of the tourism industry in the area and resulted in the opening of various restaurants to cater to the varying preferences of travelers.
These are some of the best-rated places to eat in Bandipur:
- Samay Baji
- Bandipur Kaushi Beans Cafe
- Café Red Castle
- Red Stones House
- Kakshya Cafe
Hotels and resorts in Bandipur
| Hotel Name | Address |
| The Serai Bandipur | Address: Kaniyanapura Village, Mangala Post Gundlupet Taluk, Chamarajanagar District 571126 Karnataka Phone: +91 80 4889 3964 |
| MC Resort | Address: Bandipur National Park, Bangalore-Ooty Road, Melukamanahally, Gundlupete, Karnataka 571126Phone: +91-8861933044, +91-9019954162, 08229-297090 |
| Ambuja Farms | Address: Mangala Village Road, 560085, Bandipur, IndiaPhone: +91 9741423001, 9731854001 |
| Nijaguna Resorts & Spa | Address: Mysuru-Ooty Road, Panjanahalli, Gundlupete, Karnataka 571111Phone: +91 9902984872 |
| Dhole’s Den | Address: #56, Kaniyanapura Village, Bandipur National Park, Gundlupet Taluk, Chamrajanagar Dist, Karnataka-571126, IndiaPhone: +91-79758 54445, +91-63633 12390 |
Download our Savaari Car Booking App for a smooth and pleasant journey.
Nearby road trips from Bandipur
If you happen to find yourself with some extra time on your hands while visiting Bandipur, you’re in luck because there are numerous nearby road trips that offer the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding areas. From the picturesque hill stations to the ancient temples and wildlife reserves, this region is replete with diverse landscapes and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful weekend retreat or a thrilling adventure, the possibilities are endless and bound to leave you with cherished memories. Here are some suggestions for a road trip from Bandipur:
| Route | Distance | Best time to visit |
| Bandipur to Ooty | 41 km | October to May |
| Bandipur to Nagarhole | 108 km | October to May |
| Bandipur to Wayanad | 37 km | September to April |
| Bandipur to Coonoor | 60 km | October to March |
Highway updates
- Two-Wheelers & Autos To Be Banned From Bangalore-Mysore Expressway
- Green cess for non-Karnataka vehicles at Bandipur
