Bandipur Safari Lodge – Jungle Lodges in Bandipur

Once the private hunting grounds of the maharaja, Bandipur is unapologetically wild terrain. Elephants roam in large herds, deer stare at you brazenly and peafowl flit in and out as they deem fit. Nestled at the foothills of the Nilgiris, Bandipur has had a long tryst with tigers. One of the thirty reserves identified across the country to save the tiger and its habitat, it’s also one of the last refuges of the endangered Asiatic wild elephant. The Bandipur Safari Lodge is your way of being a part of this ecological haven.

Experience

We all have a role to play in maintaining the ecological balance. Nothing makes you more aware of how much we take for granted than a visit to the wild. Be prepared to leave an environmental activist, as the wildlife experience is known to touch the deepest recesses of your mind.

The sheer majesty of elephants so aware of their power, the enormity of the forest and its ancient secrets, the unblinking gaur that dares you to try stare him down, and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of a tiger or leopard, arrogance clearly written on their feline features: is a resounding lesson in learning to respect nature. Our guests are taken every evening to the jungle with a trained naturalist for company.

Bird-lovers will not suffer for company. With over two hundred species of birds including peafowl, hornbills, woodpeckers, the Crested Hawk Eagle, wagtails, blue jays, partridges, etc. one can spend hours trying to spot as many of these brightly hued winged creatures as possible.

The premises are filled with herbs, medicinal and ornamental plants. The garden, by itself, inspires the naturalist in you. If ever your curiosity gets ahead of your knowledge, our naturalists are at hand: they’ll clear any doubts you might have. End the day on a peaceful note, with the cicadas taking over the night shift from the birds: the perfect accompaniment to your campfire barbecue dinner.

Season

Though Bandipur is around-the-year tourist destination, summers are the best time for wildlife sightings. March to May being the dry season, the animals come out of hiding and can be spotted by the watering holes. But for bird-watchers, the winter months are a better bet, for November to January, many migratory birds from the North, especially the Himalayas come down south to roost.

Itinerary

Notes