Bannerghatta National Park, a captivating travel destination nestled to the south of Bangalore, spans an impressive area of approximately 104 km². Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the park serves as a sanctuary for a myriad of wild animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, deer, bears, birds, and butterflies.
We had the pleasure of visiting Bannerghatta National Park on a serene Sunday morning in March. In anticipation of the expected crowds, we made the strategic decision to start our day early, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Departing from our base at Cross Roads Inn around 10.00 a.m., we embarked on our journey to the park, which was approximately 21 km away. Opting for two OLA cabs to facilitate our transit, we encountered a slight hiccup when we learned that the park fell outside the operational zone for OLA. Nevertheless, undeterred by this minor setback, we were dropped off at Koli Farm Gate bus stop, where we seamlessly transitioned to an AC bus, V365, bound for the park.
The OLA ride to Koli Farm Gate incurred a reasonable fare of Rs. 148, followed by a brief 35-minute bus ride to the gate, and another 30-minute journey from the gate to the heart of the National Park. Arriving at Bannerghatta National Park, we were eager and ready to embark on our exploration of this natural wonderland.
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Things to do at Bannerghatta National Park
1. Buy your Entry tickets:
Once you reach the park you need to buy tickets for Entry in the park. There are three categories in the park namely – zoo, butterfly park and grand safari. The charges for each of them are different. For safari the charges vary depending upon the type of vehicle. Plus there is an additional 50% concession for school children’s in group. You can also buy the entry tickets online. We paid Rs. 260/- per head for Grand Safari + Zoo + Butterfly park.
Buses at Grand Safari
2. Enjoy the Grand Safari:
The Safari takes about 45 mins. Trust me it’s worth watching the wild animals in their natural habitat. Keep your cameras ready for the safari as its worth making memories of this thrilling experience. The safari includes Lion safari, Tiger Safari, Elephant Safari, Deer and Bear Safari. Additionally be prepared for bumpy roads in the Safari.
White Tiger at Safari !! Photo Credit : Elton Pinto
3. Butterfly Park:
Butterfly Park provides a beautiful butterfly trail. It is enclosed in a dome shaped structure which provide butterfly with necessary habitat to survive and breed. At the end of the trail is a museum providing information on butterflies. It ends with informative video sessions on butterflies.
Glimpse of Butterfly Park
4. Zoo:
The zoo houses a variety of animals from birds, reptiles, mammals. Just like butterfly park the zoo also has a museum and a theater which screens wildlife information shows. You can also enjoy the zoo through battery operated vehicles by paying additional charge. The zoo premise is quite big and so you have to walk for long and hence the battery operated vehicle is a good option. We paid Rs. 50/- per head to avail this facility.
Zoo animals at Bannerghatta National Park
5. Go Boating:
Though we did not avail the boating facility but yes the boating facility is available in the zoo premises. One can enjoy the boating facility by paying additional amount of Rs. 50/- per head for half hour or Rs 250/- for full boat for half hour.
6. Shop at the Park:
At the entry of Bannerghatta national park you get many shops right from food, handicraft, Karnataka special Channapatna toys, Caps etc. Also there is a shop inside the butterfly park where you can shop soft toys, bags, jeweler etc.
Shop at Bannerghatta National Park
7. Stop for Food:
There are many food stalls at the entrance of the Bannerghatta National Park. Here you can get variety of food like raw mangos, cucumber mixed with salt and chilies, coconut water, fruits etc. It is advisable to keep your tummy full as the zoo is spreads out in a large area and walking can make you hunger. Plus there are shops in the park to refill your tummy.
Note: Taking non vegetarian food inside the zoo or safari is restricted.
At Bannerghatta National park our day was well spent and we returned home with bags full of memories.
Insider tips
How to reach: The best was to reach Bannerghatta National Park is from Kempegowda Bus Station by bus number 365. Or bus number V365 from Majestic.
Budget: Maximum Rs. 1000 (inclusive of food, travel, ticket)
Time required from Bangalore: approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on the traffic)
Who can visit? : Everyone right from kids to senior citizens.
What essential information should one be aware of regarding Bannerghatta National Park?
Bannerghatta National Park, located to the south of Bangalore, covers an expansive area of approximately 104 km². This biodiverse sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, tigers, elephants, deer, bears, birds, and butterflies. Visitors can enjoy a range of attractions within the park, such as the Grand Safari, Butterfly Park, and Zoo, offering opportunities for memorable wildlife encounters and immersive nature experiences. Additionally, facilities for boating, shopping, and dining are available, ensuring a fulfilling visit for individuals of all ages. Accessible by public transportation and with various amenities onsite, Bannerghatta National Park promises an enriching excursion amidst the beauty of the natural world.
Can we take food inside Bannerghatta National Park?
Outside food and beverages are not permitted within the premises of Bannerghatta National Park. However, visitors need not worry as the park offers a variety of dining options including food stalls and restaurants where they can purchase refreshments and meals during their visit.
How much time is required to cover Bannerghatta National Park?
The amount of time required to cover Bannerghatta National Park can vary depending on various factors such as the attractions you wish to visit, the pace at which you explore, and the crowd levels during your visit. On average, visitors typically spend around 4 to 6 hours exploring the park to thoroughly enjoy the main attractions like the Grand Safari, Butterfly Park, Zoo, and other recreational activities. However, some visitors may choose to spend more or less time based on their interests and preferences. It’s recommended to plan your visit accordingly to make the most out of your time at Bannerghatta National Park.
Do we have to walk in Bannerghatta National Park?
Yes, walking is a common way to explore Bannerghatta National Park. The park is vast and offers various trails and paths for visitors to walk and explore its diverse attractions, including the zoo, butterfly park, and natural habitats where wild animals roam. While walking is a popular option, visitors can also opt for battery-operated vehicles available for hire within the park to cover larger distances more comfortably, especially for those with mobility issues or limited time. Additionally, some attractions may require walking to access, so wearing comfortable footwear is advisable for a pleasant and enjoyable experience at Bannerghatta National Park.
Hey. Thank you for the informative post. Could you please tell me according to you is it advisable to visit the park with a 2 yr old kid? Will he enjoy? Also overall how long it took for you guys to complete all three and exit the premise?
I would advise not to visit the park with a two-year-old especially the safari. Mainly for three reasons. Firstly, during the safari, the rods are bumpy. Secondly, people frequently shift from one window of the vehicle to another to watch the animals. There are chances of the child getting irritated by this. And thirdly, the kid might get scared by the roar of the animals. But if you are planning to only visit the zoo and butterfly park then you can take the child along with you.
For us, it took approximately five hours to complete all three activities.
Niranchala
Wohooo…. A good post…. Will plan a visit for sure… 🙂
ashwini12k
Thanks Niru!! I would love to hear your experience after the visit 🙂
Twisha
Detailed and informative post with good pictures.
Ashwini
Thanks Twisha 🙂
Ritam
Hey. Thank you for the informative post. Could you please tell me according to you is it advisable to visit the park with a 2 yr old kid? Will he enjoy? Also overall how long it took for you guys to complete all three and exit the premise?
Ashwini
I would advise not to visit the park with a two-year-old especially the safari. Mainly for three reasons. Firstly, during the safari, the rods are bumpy. Secondly, people frequently shift from one window of the vehicle to another to watch the animals. There are chances of the child getting irritated by this. And thirdly, the kid might get scared by the roar of the animals. But if you are planning to only visit the zoo and butterfly park then you can take the child along with you.
For us, it took approximately five hours to complete all three activities.