Complete Road Route Guide to Bandipur from Bangalore, Mysore & Ooty
Bandipur National Park is one of South India’s most loved wildlife destinations. Located in Karnataka, it forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its rich forests, elephants, deer, birds, and occasional tiger sightings. The park attracts nature lovers, photographers, and families looking for a peaceful break from city life. Among all travel options, road travel is the most preferred way to reach Bandipur. The routes are scenic, the roads are mostly smooth, and the journey itself feels like a mini forest drive.
Bandipur is well connected by highways and state roads from the major cities of South India. The park lies close to the Karnataka–Tamil Nadu–Kerala border, making it easily accessible from all three states. National highways and forest roads together create a convenient road network for travellers. If you are searching for How to reach Bandipur, road travel offers the most direct and stress-free option. The routes from Bangalore and Mysore pass through major towns, while the Ooty route goes through dense forest stretches. Entry direction matters because Bandipur has multiple forest check posts, and some gates are better suited depending on your starting city.
• Karnataka connects Bandipur via Mysore and Gundlupet. • Tamil Nadu routes pass through Mudumalai. • Kerala travellers usually approach via Wayanad.
Road Route from Bangalore to Bandipur
The distance from Bangalore to Bandipur is around 215–220 km. The drive usually takes 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and breaks.
The most popular route is: Bangalore → Mysore → Gundlupet → Bandipur
You will mainly use NH 275 till Mysore and then NH 181 after Gundlupet. Mysore Road is smooth and has plenty of fuel stations and eateries. After Gundlupet, the landscape changes quickly, and you enter forest zones. Some tourists also prefer minor route variations via NICE Road or outer ring roads to avoid city traffic. Mysore remains the key junction where most people stop for food or rest before continuing toward the forest stretch.
Road Route from Mysore to Bandipur
Mysore is the closest major city to Bandipur and acts as the main gateway for visitors. The distance from Mysore to Bandipur is about 80 km, and the drive takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
The route is simple: Mysore → Nanjangud → Gundlupet → Bandipur
After Gundlupet, the drive becomes quieter, and speed limits are strictly enforced due to wildlife movement. Because of its proximity, many travellers stay in Mysore and do a same-day or overnight trip to Bandipur. This route is also popular among bird lovers visiting the region as part of an Indian bird watching tour, especially during winter.
Road Route from Ooty to Bandipur
Ooty to Bandipur is a scenic but slightly long drive. The distance is around 50–55 km, but the travel time can go up to 2.5 hours due to ghat roads and forest restrictions. The common route is: Ooty → Masinagudi → Mudumalai → Bandipur
This route passes through steep ghat sections and dense forest corridors. Driving during daylight hours is highly recommended. Night travel is usually restricted due to forest regulations. The Mudumalai–Bandipur stretch is especially rich in wildlife and bird species, making it a favourite among nature photographers.
Bandipur has multiple entry roads depending on your approach route. The most commonly used entry is from the Gundlupet side. This gate is well-organised and used by most visitors coming from Bangalore and Mysore. Visitors should carry valid ID proof and follow speed rules strictly inside forest areas. Entry timings are regulated, and gates may close during late evening hours.
