Things to Do in Bandipur National Park in 1 Day
A one-day trip to Bandipur National Park is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the noise of daily life and spend time in nature. The national park lies on the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and is known for its peaceful vibes. You don’t need to plan a long vacation to enjoy Bandipur - even a single day is enough to experience its charm. The beauty of Bandipur lies not just in its forests but also in the small scenic spots around it. Planning your day properly helps you enjoy more. Start early, cover a few key spots, and end the day with a safari through the beautiful landscape. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer, or just someone looking for peace, Bandipur won’t disappoint. You can also combine your visit with nearby attractions like Mudumalai and Nagarahole, to extend your wildlife adventure the next day.
Let’s see how to make the most of your one-day trip to Bandipur National Park.
Start Early with a Visit to Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta Hill
Begin your day early with a calm drive to Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta Hill. It’s one of the highest points near Bandipur National Park and offers a lovely view of the forest stretching endlessly below. If you reach around 8:00 am, you can enjoy the mist-covered view before the sun gets too bright. The hill remains open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, so it’s best to visit early. Spend about 1 to 2 hours here, walk around slowly, and visit the old temple at the top. The area is peaceful and gives a sense of calmness that you rarely find elsewhere.
Optional Drive: Head to Needle Rock View Point
After exploring Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta Hill, you can head towards Needle Rock View Point, which is about 48 km away. The drive itself feels refreshing, surrounded by greenery and occasional mist. Needle Rock View Point is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, and it’s famous for its sweeping views of the Nilgiri hills and the valleys below. The place is also called Oosi Malai, meaning "needle hill," because of its unique pointed shape. From the top, the view looks endless, especially when clouds float close to the ground.
However, this stop is optional. If you’re someone who prefers to travel slowly and enjoy fewer stops, you can skip this and go directly to Bandipur for the safari. But if you enjoy exploring scenic landscapes, this detour is worth your time. The viewpoint feels untouched and calm - a great spot to take a few pictures or simply enjoy the silence of nature.
Experience a Thrilling Safari in Bandipur National Park
The highlight of your one-day trip is the Bandipur National Park Safari. Once you return from the viewpoint or the hill, head straight to the safari point. Depending on your schedule, you can choose between two options. Whatever you choose to execute, it has to be pre-planned to secure your Bandipur Safari tickes in advance. • If you visited Needle Rock View Point, go for the Bus Safari in the 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm slot. The bus is comfortable, and it gives you a great view from all sides. • If you skipped the viewpoint, you can choose the Canter Safari, which runs from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This slot is ideal as the forest looks golden under the setting sun. The safari experience feels thrilling yet peaceful, giving you a glimpse of the untouched beauty of Bandipur.
As the day ends, take a slow drive back from the forest area. The road looks even more beautiful during sunset, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink. Even if it’s just for one day, the calmness stays with you for a long time. The combination of scenic hills, breathtaking viewpoints, and a safari through the forest makes your trip memorable.
