Bannerghatta National Park

It is not often that you get to see a wildlife sanctuary so close to a major city unless you are in Bangalore. Placed almost in the outskirts of the city, Bannerghatta National Park is one of the only parks in the world that is placed so close to the city. What makes it even more special is that all kinds of animals like tigers, lions, sloth bears, deer and bison etc. The place is large enough for all these animals to co-exist and have their own personal space this making it one of the most versatile national parks in the country.

The national park is located around 22kms from the city and is easily accessible by all forms of transport. Tourists looking for accommodation nearby can choose the ITC Windsor, Lalit Ashok Bangalore etc. The park is open from 9.30 AM to 5 PM and to completely enjoy the park it is recommended that you reach the place early. You can take bus no. 365 from the Majestic Bus Stand and reach the place in about one and half hours time. If possible you can carry with you food for the visit as it can help cut costs however there are food joints available that are also pretty affordable. 

Once you reach the spot, if you are traveling by a car you will find decent parking space outside the place. Parking charges are pretty low so there is no need to worry about. Once inside expect a decently long queue in the ticket counter of around 20 to 30 people. The best and the most obvious ticket that you should purchase is the Wild Safari ticket that is charged Rs.160. After the ticket has been purchased, move to the opposite gate into the spot where the Safari begins.

You will be asked to get into a fenced bus which will take you around the interior of the jungle and give you a genuine view of the wild animals present here living in their national habitat. Don’t be worried if the animal does look angry at your arrival you are protected well enough from it. Make sure you keep your hands away from the fences just in case. The park boasts of a range of wild animals that live in their natural habitat. In fact this is the only park that boasts of both lions and tigers in the same location. 

The trip around the jungle should take about an hour and it is recommended that you choose a healthy sunny day for the visit as the chances of seeing the animals out in the open is more. If you have somehow chosen a rainy day then fret not as the zoo in the same park should suffice your needs. The Butterfly Park at the end of the safari is a must for all those who really want to experience god’s real beauty. The ticket should cost you around Rs. 25 at max, so feel free to give this place a visit. Plus it is recommended that you do this before 3PM as the butterflies tend to retract post this time. The cost of the zoo is covered by the Safar ticket and inside you’ll find very rare animals that are difficult to manage in the open. Plus you can also visit the museum at a cost of Rs. 5.