Bangalore is known as India's Silicon Valley and in the southern corner of this happening city lies a pristine National Park filled with lush flora and fauna. Known as Bannerghatta National Park, and founded in the 1970s that’s famous for Tiger and Lion Safaris. It was created to conserve wildlife and promote wildlife tourism in Karnataka. A tiny area of the park was converted into a zoological garden in 2002. They protect wildlife and their habitats from human destruction. They provide a safe place for animals to survive and sustain.
Lesser Known Facts on Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta is an elephant sanctuary in the national park and is fenced and wooded. It provides a safe place for elephants to roam freely in the national park. The sanctuary covers 122 acres of land.
In 1972 a mini zoo was built at Bannerghatta National Park. And today, it has grown to more than 78 animal species and more than 1300 animals.
Tourists in Bannerghatta National Park have elephants, Indian gazelles, leopards, jackals, sluggish bears, Royal Bengal tigers, monitor lizards, hippos, Asian lions, wild boars, barking deer, spotted deer, langurs, foxes, tigers, crocodiles, and fox Animals can see.
India's first butterfly enclosure opened in 2006 in the National Park. The conservatory in the National Park has an audio-visual room and a museum. It supports more than 20 butterfly species in the National Park's 10,000 square-foot space.
In the reptile park, you can find multiple species including python, Russell's viper, monitor lizard and cobra.
The plants that can be grown in this national park include bamboo, eucalyptus, tamarind, citrus, sandalwood, Santalum album and many more.
This National Park has many safari options for tourists including lions and tiger safari, herbivore safari and bear safari. In it, visitors can observe the animals in a safe safari vehicle while the animals wander in their natural environment.
Depending on the tropical climate, September is the best time of year for visitors to visit this national park each year.
History of Bannerghatta National Park
In 2002, the Karnataka Government made the decision to establish a company named the Zoo Authority of Karnataka for the management of zoos. In 2007, within the limits of the biological area, a butterfly park was established.
Bannerghatta National Park has a Safari, Zoo, Butterfly Park, and Rescue Center spread across a total area of 731.88 hectares.
Bannerghatta National Park is located near Anekal Revenue Taluk in Bangalore.
Things to see at Bannerghatta National Park
Zoo
This zoo was started as a picnic spot for visitors and tourists and was controlled by the Forest Department, Government of Karnataka. There are several species of animals, reptiles, and birds. They have an interesting museum and Auditorium for the visitors. It has been said that there will be eight new enclosures in the expansion area.
Safari
Safari is an expedition in which people search for animals in the natural environment. On safari, you can see several mammals such as Tigers, Lions, Giraffes, and many more. There are a few safaris that are categorized below: -
Herbivore safari
This Herbivore safari was developed in the 1970s but opened to the public for viewing only in 2002. The entire area has been made with stone walls along with the help of solar-powered fences and Elephant proof trenches.
Bear Safari
This safari is also provided with animal housing facilities namely Panchavati, Chitrakuta, Kishkinda, and Jambava. The forest area is planned to be planted additionally with varieties of fruit-yielding trees to stimulate a natural habitat for bears. In 2005, the facility was allowed to also house and maintain bears rescued from kalandars from all over India.
Lion Safari
Lion Safari was started in 1979 and occupies around 5.00 Ha of forest area enclosed by a tall chain link mesh with a height of around 15 feet. Additionally, a big moat all around the chain link mesh fence has been created to avoid the trespassing of any wild animal living in the area. For the advantage of incoming tourists, the indicated groups of animals are frequently permitted onto safari on a reasonable basis.
Tiger Safari
The safari was started in 1987 with the highest number of tigers in Bannerghatta Park with a closer view to see the tigers on safaris. An open moat and another chain-linked mesh fence make up the three units' outer perimeter within the safari area. The Indira Gandhi Tiger Safari has 11 holding rooms available. Two animal housing complexes are available at the Appaiah Tiger Safari. There are ten animal holding rooms between the two animal houses. The facilities of 2 animal housing complexes are available at the white tiger safari. There are eight separate animal holding areas. There are basic water and sanitary services available in each holding facility.
The park is a destination for walking and climbing and contains old temples for devotion.
Six small rural communities for sheep and cattle farming are contained within three sizable fences within the national park region.
If you plan to extend your stay, there are various nature and adventure camps and resorts in the vicinity to catch a break and soak in the serenity. Here are some of the recommended places near Bannerghatta National Park:
Bannerghatta Nature Camp: This is a government-run eco-camp located within the park premises. It offers basic accommodation options like tents and cottages and provides an immersive experience of staying amidst nature.
JLR Bannerghatta Nature Camp: Another popular option is the Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR) Bannerghatta Nature Camp. It offers various types of accommodation, including cottages, log huts, and tents, and is known for its serene location and wildlife-focused activities.
Discovery Village: This is a private resort located near the park, offering a range of accommodation options including cottages and tents. It also offers adventure activities like zip lining, trekking, and bonfire nights.
Holiday Village Resort: This is a budget-friendly option located close to the park, offering cottages and tents for accommodation. It has a swimming pool, restaurant, and other amenities.
Confident Amoon Resort: This is a luxury resort located near the park, offering premium accommodation options like villas and suites. It has a range of facilities including a swimming pool, spa, and multi-cuisine restaurant.
Wild Valley Adventure Resort: This is one of the best resorts in Kanakapura Road near the National Park. It offers a range of adventure activities like zip lining, rope courses, paintball, and more. The resort has various accommodation options including cottages, tents, and tree houses, providing a unique and thrilling experience.
Jungle Hut Adventure Resort: This is a popular adventure resort located near Bannerghatta National Park. It offers a range of adventure activities like trekking, rappelling, ziplining, and more. The resort has various accommodation options including cottages, tree houses, and tents, and provides a unique and adventurous experience.
Bannerghatta Organic Retreat: This is an eco-friendly resort located near the park that offers sustainable accommodation options like mud huts and tents. The resort has a focus on organic farming and offers a serene and rustic experience amidst nature.
In conclusion, Bannerghatta National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. With its diverse flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal tigers, as well as its range of thrilling adventure activities, the park offers a unique and immersive experience. It's a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing an opportunity to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the wilderness. So, if you're looking for an exciting and enriching experience, visiting Bannerghatta National Park should definitely be on your travel bucket list.