Overview of Bannerghatta National Park Bangalore

Bannerghatta National Park is a national park located near Bangalore, India. It was established in 1970 and declared a national park in 1974. The park covers an area of 65,127.5 acres and is situated about 22 km south of Bangalore in the hills of the Anekal range. The park has a hilly terrain of granite sheets under moist deciduous forest valleys and scrubland in higher areas.

Bannerghatta National Park is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, lions, elephants, leopards, and several species of birds. The park also has a zoo, a butterfly park, and a safari park.

The park is open every day except for Tuesdays. The timings for the zoo are from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and for the Grand Safari, it is from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The entry fee for the park varies depending on the type of safari and includes several components, such as park entry fee, camera fee, and safari fee. The jeep safari costs INR 3,500 (which is inclusive of the cost of the zoo, safari, butterfly park, and camera), while the AC bus safari costs INR 500 for adults and INR 300 for children.

In addition to the safaris, visitors can also enjoy boating in the park. The boating fee is INR 60 per person for a trip of 30 minutes, and INR 300 for a full boat hire for a trip of 30 minutes (up to 4 persons). Visitors are also allowed to adopt an animal at the park.

Overall, Bannerghatta National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of India’s natural heritage.

Entry Details

Timings

Bannerghatta National Park is open every day of the week except for Tuesdays. Visitors can enjoy the park’s attractions from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, except for the Grand Safari, which closes at 4:30 PM.

Fees for Different Attractions

The entry fee for Bannerghatta National Park varies depending on the attraction. As of 2023, the following entry fees apply:

Zoo

• Indian Adults: INR 80
• Indian Children: INR 40
• Foreign Nationals: INR 400

Grand Safari

• Indian Adults: INR 260
• Indian Children: INR 130
• Foreign Nationals: INR 660

Visitors can also enjoy the Butterfly Park and boating for INR 30 and INR 50, respectively.

Special Discounts

Senior citizens who are Indian nationals and students with valid ID cards can enjoy a discount on the entry fee. The discount is INR 20 for senior citizens and INR 30 for students. Additionally, children below the age of six can enter the park for free.

It is important to note that prices are subject to change without prior notice. Visitors are advised to check the official website or contact the park for the latest information on entry fees and timings.

Attractions at the Park

Bannerghatta National Park in Bangalore is home to a variety of attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top attractions at the park:

Zoo

The Bannerghatta National Park Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers. It is home to a wide range of animals, including tigers, lions, bears, elephants, leopards, deer, and more. Visitors can take a stroll through the zoo and observe the animals in their natural habitats.

Safari

The park offers several safari options, including bus safari, jeep safari, and jungle safari. Visitors can choose the one that best suits their preferences and budget. During the safari, visitors can spot animals like tigers, lions, spotted deer, hog deer, thiamin deer, and more.

Butterfly Park

The Butterfly Park at Bannerghatta National Park is a unique attraction that is sure to mesmerize visitors. It is home to a wide range of butterfly species, and visitors can observe them up close in their natural habitats.

Aquarium

The park’s aquarium is another must-visit attraction. It is home to a variety of fish species, including the Malabar giant squirrel and the king cobra. Visitors can observe the fish up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors.

Reptile House

The Reptile House at Bannerghatta National Park is home to a variety of reptile species, including the Himalayan black bear, bonnet macaque, hare, gaur, jackal, fox, and wild pig. Visitors can observe these fascinating creatures up close and learn about their behaviors and habitats.

Overall, Bannerghatta National Park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park’s various attractions and learn about the diverse flora and fauna that call it home.

Flora and Fauna

Bannerghatta National Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers who want to explore the rich biodiversity of the region. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the beauty of nature.

The park boasts a diverse range of flora that includes more than 120 species of plants. Some of the prominent species of plants found in the park are neem, sandal, tamarind, eucalyptus, and bamboo. The park’s vegetation is a mix of dry deciduous forests and scrub forests, which makes it an ideal habitat for a wide range of animals.

The park is also home to a variety of fauna, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The park is home to around 40 species of mammals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and deer. The park is also home to over 150 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the prominent bird species found in the park are the great Indian hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, and Indian peafowl.

In addition to mammals and birds, the park is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians. Visitors to the park can spot snakes, lizards, and turtles in their natural habitat. The park is also home to a wide variety of insects and butterflies, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

Overall, Bannerghatta National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers who want to experience the beauty of nature and explore the rich biodiversity of the region.

Additional Services and Facilities

Apart from the wildlife and nature-related activities, Bannerghatta National Park offers several additional services and facilities to make the visitors’ experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Boating

The park has a boating facility that allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful ride on the lake while admiring the scenic beauty of the park. The boating service is available from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Butterfly Park

Bannerghatta National Park has a butterfly park that houses a wide variety of butterflies. The park is spread over an area of 7.5 acres and has a butterfly conservatory, a museum, and a breeding area. The butterfly park is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Crocodile Farm

The park has a crocodile farm that houses several species of crocodiles. Visitors can witness the crocodiles in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior. The crocodile farm is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Snake Park

Bannerghatta National Park has a snake park that houses several species of snakes. Visitors can witness the snakes in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior. The snake park is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Museum

The park has a museum that showcases the history, geography, and ecology of the park. Visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of the park and the efforts made by the authorities to conserve them. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Bus Service

The park provides a bus service that takes visitors on a tour of the park. The bus service is available from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Hat

The park has a hat that provides a shaded area for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park. The hat is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Reserve Forests

Bannerghatta National Park has several reserve forests that are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore these forests and witness the beauty of nature. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions while exploring the forests.

Overall, Bannerghatta National Park provides several additional services and facilities that make the visitors’ experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Getting There and Around

Bannerghatta National Park is located just south of the city of Bangalore in the state of Karnataka, India. The distance from Bangalore city to the park is approximately 23 km, which takes around 1 hour by road.

The nearest airport to the park is Kempegowda International Airport, which is located around 72 km away and takes around 2 hours by road to reach the park. The nearest railway station is Bangalore City Railway Station, which is around 22 km away and takes around 1 hour by road to reach the park.

Visitors can reach the park by road as well, either by hiring a taxi or by taking a bus. Many private operators offer taxi services, including Xylo and Innova, which are popular choices for visitors. The park also offers bus services for visitors, with buses departing regularly from Bangalore city to the park.

Once inside the park, visitors can explore the park on foot or by taking a safari. The park offers a Grand Safari, which takes visitors through the park in a closed vehicle, allowing them to see the wildlife up close. Visitors can also take a bus safari, which takes them through the herbivore and carnivore safari zones.

Overall, getting to and around Bannerghatta National Park is relatively easy, with a variety of transportation options available for visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Bannerghatta National Park is a popular destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is open throughout the year, except on Tuesdays. However, the best time to visit Bannerghatta National Park is between October and June. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, making it perfect to witness the wilderness in its full bloom.

The monsoon season, from July to September, is not an ideal time to visit as the park remains closed due to heavy rainfall. The winter season, from December to February, is also a good time to visit, especially for birdwatchers as many migratory birds visit the park during this time.

Visitors can also avoid the peak season, which is from March to May, as the weather can be hot and humid, making it uncomfortable to explore the park. However, if one is interested in seeing the exotic flora and fauna of the park, then this is the perfect time to visit.

It is important to note that the park opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. Visitors should plan their visit accordingly to make the most of their time at the park. Additionally, visitors should also check the official website for any updates or changes in timings or entry fees before planning their visit.

Overall, the best time to visit Bannerghatta National Park is between October and June, when the weather is pleasant and cool, and the flora and fauna are in full bloom.

Nearby Attractions

Apart from the natural beauty of the Bannerghatta National Park, there are several other attractions in the vicinity that visitors can explore.

One such attraction is the Anekal Range, which is a series of hills located close to the park. The range is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the hills.

Another nearby attraction is the Suvarnamukhi Hills, which are located to the east of the park. The hills are known for their lush greenery and are a popular spot for nature walks and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the Uddigebande, a small village located at the foothills of the Suvarnamukhi Hills.

For those interested in history and culture, the Mirza Hill is a must-visit attraction. Located to the south of the park, the hill is home to several ancient temples and monuments that date back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the ruins of these structures and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Other nearby attractions include the Champaka Dhama Swamy Temple, which is located close to the park entrance, and the Suvarnamukhi Stream, which flows through the park and is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

Overall, visitors to the Bannerghatta National Park will find plenty of nearby attractions to explore and enjoy, making it a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Conservation Efforts

Bannerghatta National Park is not just a tourist attraction but also a reserve and conservatory for wild animals. The park is spread over an area of 104.27 sq. km and is home to a variety of wildlife species. The park is a natural habitat for elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, and many other animals.

The park authorities have made various conservation efforts to preserve the natural habitat of the animals. They have set up a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured animals. The park also has a butterfly conservatory that houses a variety of butterfly species. The park authorities have also set up a snake park to educate visitors about the importance of snakes in the ecosystem.

The park has a wilderness area where visitors can observe animals in their natural habitat. The park authorities have set up watchtowers and observation decks to provide visitors with a safe and clear view of the animals. The park also offers a grand safari, which takes visitors through the wilderness area, providing a unique experience of observing animals in their natural habitat.

The park authorities have also taken measures to reduce human-animal conflict. They have set up electric fences and trenches to prevent animals from straying into human settlements. The park also has a team of trained personnel to handle any emergencies.

In conclusion, Bannerghatta National Park is not just a tourist attraction but also a reserve and conservatory for wild animals. The park authorities have made various conservation efforts to preserve the natural habitat of the animals and to reduce human-animal conflict. Visitors can observe animals in their natural habitat and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Bannerghatta National Park open?

Bannerghatta National Park is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Tuesdays.

How much does it cost to enter Bannerghatta National Park?

The entry fee for Bannerghatta National Park varies depending on the activity you choose. For Indian adults, the fee is INR 80 for the zoo and INR 260 for the Grand Safari. For Indian children, the fee is INR 40 for the zoo and INR 130 for the Grand Safari. Senior citizens can enter for INR 50 and foreigners for INR 400.

What are the timings for Bannerghatta National Park on Sunday?

The timings for Bannerghatta National Park on Sundays are the same as the regular timings, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Is there a holiday schedule for Bannerghatta National Park?

Yes, Bannerghatta National Park is closed on Tuesdays and some public holidays. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm the holiday schedule.

What are some reviews of Bannerghatta National Park?

Bannerghatta National Park has received positive reviews from visitors who appreciate the park’s natural beauty and the variety of animals they can see. Some visitors have also commented on the cleanliness of the park and the helpfulness of the staff.

How far is Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore city center?

Bannerghatta National Park is located approximately 22 kilometers from Bangalore city center. Visitors can reach the park by car or public transportation.