Bannerghatta National Park

Bannerghatta National Park is a protected area in India.

Bannerghatta National Park at a Glance

Location
Western Ghats & Deccan Plateau, India, South Asia
Coordinates
12.583674, 77.559870
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler, dry months) for tiger safaris and wildlife.

Getting to Bannerghatta National Park

Nearest airport: Salem Airport (SXV), 105 km away.

Nearest international airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), 181 km away.

Wildlife in Bannerghatta National Park

Home to 78 recorded species including 30 waterbirds, 22 birds of prey, 20 iconic birds, 5 tropical birds, 1 big herbivores.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Bannerghatta National Park

49 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Western Ghats & Deccan Plateau

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for India

Travel advisory for India

Bannerghatta National Park FAQs

When is the best time to visit Bannerghatta National Park for a safari, and what kind of safari experience can I expect?

The ideal time to visit Bannerghatta National Park for a safari is during the cooler, drier months from October to March, when wildlife viewing is generally better. You can expect a guided bus or jeep safari through dedicated enclosures for lions, tigers, bears, and various herbivores, offering guaranteed sightings rather than tracking animals in a vast wilderness.

What are the typical costs for a safari and entry to other attractions at Bannerghatta National Park, and how should I book?

Entry to Bannerghatta National Park typically involves separate fees for the safari, zoo, and butterfly park, with combo tickets often available to save costs. Safari prices vary based on vehicle type (bus vs. jeep) and nationality, so it's advisable to check the official park website for current rates and book tickets online in advance, especially on weekends.

Beyond the safari, what unique wildlife and attractions does Bannerghatta National Park offer?

In addition to the safari featuring lions, tigers, and bears, Bannerghatta National Park is renowned for its dedicated Butterfly Park, housing over 20 species in a climate-controlled enclosure. The park also includes a well-maintained zoo and a rescue center for various animals, providing a comprehensive wildlife experience distinct from traditional open-range safaris.

How accessible is Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore, and what are the best transport options?

Bannerghatta National Park is conveniently located just about 22 kilometers south of Bangalore city center, making it an easy day trip for urban visitors. You can reach the park by public transport (BMTC buses from various parts of Bangalore), private taxis, or ride-sharing services, with the journey typically taking 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic.

What specific safety guidelines should visitors follow during the safari and while exploring Bannerghatta National Park?

During the safari, it's crucial to remain seated, keep your hands inside the vehicle, and avoid making loud noises or feeding animals to ensure your safety and prevent disturbing the wildlife. Within the zoo and butterfly park areas, follow designated paths, do not litter, and respect animal enclosures to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for everyone.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.