Bannerghatta National Park

The Basics

Forests and scrubs cover the hilly park, which plays home to all sorts of wild creatures, including elephants, deer, leopards, and even bears. It also offers an interesting variety of plant life, including tamarind, eucalyptus, and sandalwood. This off-the-beaten-track attraction makes for an excellent day trip from Bangalore, and private tours from the city are available for those who don't want to figure out bus schedules or book taxis and tickets independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Bannerghatta National Park is great for families with young kids.

• Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.

• Book ahead or go with a tour to guarantee a seat in a safari vehicle.

How to Get There

Bannerghatta National Park is located south of Bangalore, about an hour's drive from the city center or an hour and a half by bus. Mysore is a 3-hour drive away, and the park can be visited as a stop off between the two cities, if traveling by car or taxi.

When to Get There

The park is open throughout the year, except Tuesdays. Weekdays can be busy with school groups, while weekends get lots of families. However, the biggest consideration for many travelers is weather. While the climate is generally mild in the region, with warm winters and not-too-hot summers, monsoon rains fall from June through September and can put a literal damper on outdoor activities.

Safaris

Many travelers come here for safaris, and the park offers three different experiences: lion and tiger safaris, bear safaris, or even herbivore safaris, which focus on all sorts of native deer (though you may even spot an elephant). Visitors travel in special secure vehicles and are joined by local guides who are experts in animal spotting.