An ethereal destination where you witness a variety of flora and fauna, Bandipur National Park in winter is a haven for all things wild and beautiful. Amidst lush green where animals and birds add to this enchanting beauty. Spotting a plethora of animals and birds it’s a delight for nature lovers, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bandipur National Park or Bandipur Tiger reserve forest is regarded as one of the most beautiful and better-managed national parks of India.
Located amidst the picturesque surroundings of the towering Western Ghats on the Mysore-Ooty highway in Karnataka, it is an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve that constitutes Karnataka’s Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarahole) to its Northwest, Tamil Nadu’s Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary to its South, and Kerala’s Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to its Southwest.
The total extent of Bandipur National Park is 872.24 sq km. It is located partly in Gundlupet taluk of Chamarajanagar District and partly in H.D.Kote and Nanjangud taluks of Mysore District. Planning your next trip in the winter months, read on to know more about this place.
Bandipur National Park in winter travel guide
What are the winter months in the national park?
Bandipur National Park is best visited during the winter season between October -March. This time you can spot many migratory birds living in action is a rich enchantment. Bandipur can also be visited during the monsoon season between July and September where the park looks mesmerising.
The rain enhances the beauty of the national park by making the whole place seem even more greener. Summers are comparatively warmer especially during the day when the sun shines brightly. However, it’s the best time to spot animals and a plethora of colourful birds.
It was once the private hunting grounds of the erstwhile Maharajas 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.
Apart from the two famed residents, a number of other endangered species such as sloth bears, gaurs, Indian rock pythons, jackals, muggers, and four-horned antelopes can be spotted in this national park. Bandipur also shelters sambar, mouse deer, chital, sloth bear, and the rare flying lizard.
Over 200 species of birds and a diversity of flora add to its attraction. Bandipur also supports a wide range of timber trees including teak, rosewood, sandalwood, Indian-laurel, Indian Kino tree, giant clumping bamboo, etc. Overall this place is a sheer treat to all who love to be with nature and animals.
Packing list for Bandipur National Park in winter
We are the best makers of winter wear in India, with a legacy of over 25 years. Every garment is thoughtfully designed, tested and graded for warmth. We help buyers make a decision on the layers you need based on the temperature and weather of the place. Reach out to us for a free consultation on our helpline / whatsapp +919820999006 and our winter wear expert will be happy to help you.
Bandipur National Park is an amazing park to visit all year round. In every season it has something amazing to offer. If you are planning to visit Bandipur National Park during winter, know that the air is going to be dry and windy coupled with an early morning mist.
You can also experience a drizzle of rain from the northeast monsoon that delight the animals and tourists. Winter is the right time to watch those amazing birds, like the Peregrine Falcon, Warblers and Flycatchers, that migrate into the wetlands of Bandipur. Temperature averages between 15°C-18°C.
Hence you need to prepare yourself when you visit there. Winter is the time to flaunt your colourful side and be stylish. Since it is going to be windy therefore you need proper protection to keep your body warm.
The cons about winter travelling are, you have to carry a lot of luggage that makes it a little tiring. Therefore, you must buy winter wear that is easy to carry and also helps you in protection. Many people try different ways to travel during winter. They rent or they buy at the place, but it is always advisable to have your own and invest in a good product that will last long.
Kosha is the best maker of winter wear in India with a legacy of over 25 years. Every garment is thoughtfully designed, tested and graded for warmth. Kosha’s consultation helps buyers to make decisions based on the temperature and weather of the place. It also helps them to understand what is important to buy for their trip.
Outerwear like puffer jackets, parkas or a coat
For Bandipur National park good outerwear like puffer jackets, coats or parkas are ideal. The weather is windy therefore this outerwear from Kosha will help you to keep yourself warm. Kosha has created a wide array of winter gears for every purpose, both for men and women. So you can choose according to your needs and tolerance.
Stylish Hooded Parka Jacket
Puffer jackets and Parkas are ideal in windy places or snow adventures where you need to keep the harsh wind at bay. Kosha’s waterproof puffer ski jacket is versatile, elegant looking, fleece-lined and a hardshell will be the right companion.
The underarm vents increase breathability and keep you warm even on snowy trails. Suitable up to 15oC to -20oC. Own this for the Bandipur National Park Trip.
Coats are multi-purpose. They are effortlessly stylish and best as winter wear. Elevate your style by owning fabulous woollen coats. Kosha’s woollen coats are made of 80% wool and 20% polyester.
The fabric construction keeps the wearer warm and cosy during extremely cold temperatures. It comes with an inner satin lining to give you comfort.
Great buy for all types of corporate meetings and dry winters. Suitable up to -5oC to 15oC. This is going to be the ideal companion for your Bandipur National Park trip.
Check the Fleece lined puffer jacket for men here
Check the Fleece lined puffer jacket for women here
Mid layer with Jackets and Hoodies
Winter travel needs a layering style of clothing to keep yourself warm. A mid-layer is here to add a bit of warmth and protection from the harsh climate. Be it for your Bandipur National Park trip or your winter outdoor sports, this hoodie with a jogger set is good for urban activewear and also for use as a mid-layers.
With solid colours, you can pull off in any style and especially when you are travelling you need to be effortlessly stylish. These hoodies are designed as a commuter collection which is ideal for any travel. Layer it over the base layer and keep the cold temperature at bay.
Kosha’s hoodies are equipped with 6 pockets of varying sizes with zippers. 2 front hand pockets, 1 concealed pocket for your phone with an earphone outlet, 2 larger pockets for documents, tabs or snacks, 1 chest pocket for cards or passports. These are made to keep your travelling hassle-free. These pockets are particularly essential when you are travelling, it would be easy to carry necessary things when needed.
Sweaters and Pullovers
For winter fashion sweaters and pullovers come very handy. They can go in any style, be it casual or formal. Get yourself one of the smart-looking Kosha’s Supima Cotton Pullovers. These are the perfect choice for the eco-conscious explorer.
For any purpose or trip, these amazing pullovers can keep you warm and also stylish. Attending a party or just going on a road trip during winter, these pullovers will be your best mate for winter. Available both for men and women in versatile designs.
Get yourself a cool looking cardigan. With brilliant quality and timeless designs, you are all set for a new fashion adventure. Be it western or Indian you can match any style easily. The Raglan sleeves and V neck not only enhance your silhouette but also make it durable and more comfortable.
Made from soft Merino wool that’s naturally odour resistant, moisture-wicking & skin-friendly, it is ideal for travellers or long winters. Suitable up to 15oC to 0oC.
A sweater is your all-winter pal. With a two-in-one style sweater, you can style it any way you want. Go for Kosha’s reversible full sleeves crew neck pullover. Style it casually or formally is your choice. Made from soft, skin-friendly Merino Wool, with inbuilt moisture wicking & odour resistant properties.
Kosha’s sweater for men
Kosha’s sweater for women
Base layers
Your winter wardrobe is incomplete if you do not have a perfect base layer. It is also important for your winter trips and travelling.
Be it any cold weather, having a base layer is like having a best friend who will protect you from any cold harsh weather. You should put an effort and invest while you are buying the base layer. It needs to be skin-friendly and at the same time, warm enough to protect you.
Get Kosha’s innovative Merino Wool and Bamboo thermal that is softer on the skin and lightweight with temperature regulating properties keeping you warm and odour free all through. Running a marathon or visiting northern lights or just doing winter work out these thermals are good for every purpose.
Along with a thermal top, own Kosha’s merino wool and bamboo crafted stretchable thermal leggings. This will protect your legs and keep you comfortable.
Ideal for winter workouts with optimum warmth and breathability. Its slim-fit style is perfect to layer with our Waterproof Pants for whale watching at Húsavík, Iceland or the Chadar Trek. Crafted with care for an eco-conscious explorer.
Check out base layers for men here
Check out base layers for women here
Woollen bottoms – Snow Pants
One pro-tip while you plan and pack for the Bandipur National Park trip, do carry your snow pants. As the weather is going to be windy, it is best to carry your snow
Kosha’s highly versatile hardshell pants to explore the snowy hills. Made of 100% Nylon with PU Breathable coating. The stable and comfy fit makes it easy to move in. It is a good choice for activities in cold temperatures. Available for both men and women. Suitable up to -20oC to 5oC.
Check out snow pants for men here
Check out snow pants for women here
Warm accessories
Now, almost 70% of your body is protected, but you need to pay attention to other necessary parts like the head, ears, neck and hands. These are the vital places from which cold can enter.
Keep your head and ear warm with a Merino Wool Reversible Monkey Cap. This cap can be worn in multiple styles to keep you warm yet fashionable. Suitable up to 15oC to 0oC
Get cosy warm stylish mufflers for your neck. Kosha’s soft Merino Wool Muffler, designed with a diamond row pattern that adds a hint of texture to your wardrobe. Style in casual or formal, drape anyway you like, this stylish muffler will suit any style. Give a trendy look by pairing it with a beanie and gloves. Suitable up to 15oC to 0oC.
Stoles can be trendy if you know how to wear them right. Warm, lightweight and super soft wool stole with a special diamond weave will add that finesse to your look. Get a luxurious touch with a contrasting style that smoothly blends with other winter wears.
Toasty warm hands for winter especially when you are travelling to Bandipur National Park. Keep your hands warm with Woolmark certified soft merino wool gloves. With touchscreen ability on your index and thumb finger you can use your smart devices easily.
Made with a fine conductive yarn interwoven with merino wool. This allows you to use your smartphones/cameras laptops with ease without having to remove your gloves and expose your fingers to the cold. Ideal for dry winters, its stylish design will elevate your winter outfit effortlessly. Suitable up to15oC to -5oC.
Check out accessories here
Warm shoes or boots
A good shoe goes a long way. One must always wear good shoes to protect their body. Comfortable shoes that provide ample support and warmth along with their ease to travel is very important. Whatever shoes you are wearing make sure that it suits the weather and climate of that place.
Boots are a good choice, you can also go for warm suede shoes but be very careful with water and rain. The important factor is that it needs to help you travel worry-free. Make your choice according to the place.
Check out winter boots for men here
Check out winter boots for women here
Warm socks
Along with shoes, socks are equally important. A warm cosy sock ensures total protection of your body. Give your feet a treat with these non- blister cotton socks. Perfect for a slow hike, morning jog, or a casual day out. The inherent moisture-wicking and breathable properties of the cotton help keep your feet fresh and odour free.
Check out Kosha’s socks for men here
Check out Kosha’s socks for women here
In Bandipur National Park you may need a good outer layer and a base layer while you are travelling during winter. To find all your winter needs, check Kosha’s website and choose from a wide variety and style at an affordable range.
Things to do in Bandipur National Park in winter
As you land in Bandipur National Park, you can take several tour packages for your trip. You can also try going all by yourself. There are forest lodges and rest houses which can be booked via online websites.
Alone Bandipur National Park is big enough which would require a lot of time to visit and watch animals and birds. Yet there are other activities which you can do while you are at Bandipur National Park.
Bandipur Forest Safari:
Forest safari is now one of the most common activities. Jungle Lodges and Resorts alone is now licensed to operate jeep safaris. Mini-bus safaris operated by the Forest Department begin from the range office. The bus safari is conducted between 6:15 am-9 am and 2:15 pm-5 pm.
The fee is 350 INR per person. The jeep safari costs 3000 INR pax and is conducted between 6:15 am-8 am, 8 am-9:45 am, 2:30 pm-4:30 pm and 4:30 pm-6:30 pm. Trekking is now permitted in Bandipur. Elephant safaris have been discontinued for safety reasons.
Gopalaswamy Betta, Bandipur National Park:
This park is also known as the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, this majestic and lofty hill lying in the core area of the Bandipur National Park. Located in the Chamarajanagar district of the state of Karnataka, at the height of 1,450 metres above sea level; the name of the hills gets the prefix Himavad since the mountain is surrounded by mist all year round.
Himavad in the native language of Kannada means fog, while Betta in the same language means mountain. This Park is frequented by wildlife, especially elephants. This hill is home to a dense forest and is also the highest peak in the park.
The main attraction is its elephant safari rides. Another popular tourist destination here is the Gopalaswamy Temple located on the hill. This temple is dedicated to Lord Venugopala Swamy, who is considered to be one of the incarnations of the Hindu God Krishna. The hill thus is deemed to be a place of worship and penance and holds great religious and historical importance other than being an important sightseeing spot.
Gopalaswamy Betta is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills. Visitors are particularly fond of the spectacular views of the sunrises and sunsets from the top of the hill.
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve:
The sprawling park is in the midst of lush green hills of Nilgiris in the Western Ghats, Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is an International Biosphere reserve that was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. It includes the Mudumalai, Mukurthi, Wayanad and Bandipur national parks.
The biosphere encompasses an area of 5,520 sqm km and is spread across the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The best way to explore the wildlife of the biosphere reserve is trekking where you can enjoy not only the sights of animals from a close distance but also the splendid views of the Western Ghats.
A major part of the Nilgiri biosphere is reserved under Project Tiger and Project Elephant. Hence, it is an essential habitat for two of the most important species of fauna in India. The elephants and tigers remain the unmatched attraction of the place.
Apart from this, the reserve is famous for the Indian leopard (and black panther), gaur, Indian elephant, mongoose, Malabar giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaque, grey langur and Nilgiri tahr. The national park is also famous for its flora which includes a variety of plants and orchids. Out of these, a few can only be found at Nilgiri biosphere reserves.
Along with Bandipur, you can also visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Mudumalai National Park, BRT Wildlife Sanctuary and Rajiv Gandhi National Park, all these parks are government undertaken. Both Karnataka and Kerala governments take care of the rare species of both flora and fauna.
If you are at Bandipur, visiting Ooty is a must. This place is a haven for chocolate lovers and tea enthusiasts. Amidst clouds, mountains and tea gardens you will find a serene beauty. Try their different types of teas and chocolates and enjoy your trip.
This ends the total Bandipur National Park trip, hope you enjoy reading the blog and now have some idea about the place and what needs to pack.
This post was written by Kosha Team member – ‘Girl in the Box’
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