Any list of places to visit in Bandipur National Park rightly begins at the park itself. Spanning close to 872 sq. km, this tiger reserve is part of the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and shelters tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, and a striking range of birdlife. Since The Serai Bandipur sits right on the edge of the reserve, at around 14 km, it is the easiest first stop on any Bandipur itinerary.
For a closer look at safari planning, explore our guide to safari in Bandipur, covering routes, safari zones, and the wildlife you may encounter throughout the year.
- Things to Do: Jeep and canter safaris, guided nature walks, birdwatching, and wildlife photography
- Timings: Safaris run twice daily, in a morning slot around 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM and an evening slot around 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM, though exact windows can shift slightly by season.
- Entry Fee: Park entry is around INR 250 per adult and INR 125 per child, with safari charges billed separately, roughly INR 300 to INR 450 per person for a bus or canter seat, and INR 3,000 to INR 4,500 for a private jeep that seats 5 to 6 guests
- Travel Tip: Book your safari a day ahead where possible, since seats fill quickly during weekends and the winter season
For a closer look at safari planning, explore our guide to safari in Bandipur, covering routes, safari zones, and the wildlife you may encounter throughout the year.
Crossing into Tamil Nadu, Mudumalai forms a continuous forest belt with Bandipur as part of the same biosphere reserve. Within its boundaries lies the Theppakadu Elephant Camp, one of India's oldest elephant conservation centres, where rescued and resident elephants are cared for by their mahouts.
- Things to Do: Jeep safaris, elephant feeding viewing, and nature walks along the Moyar riverbank
- Timings: Elephant feeding at Theppakadu is open to visitors twice daily, from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: The elephant camp charges a nominal fee of around INR 150 per person, while safari costs at Mudumalai are billed separately.
- Travel Tip: Combine this with a Gopalaswamy Betta or Moyar Gorge visit, since all three lie along a similar stretch of road.
This hill is the highest point in the Bandipur Range and easily one of the most photogenic places to see in Bandipur. Wrapped in mist for much of the year, its summit holds the centuries-old Gopalaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, and rewards the climb with sweeping views over the surrounding forest.
- Things to Do: Trekking to the summit, temple darshan, photography, and simply taking in the panoramic view over the valley
- Timings: Visitors are allowed onto the hill only between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: A nominal forest checkpost fee applies, along with a separate charge for the mandatory shuttle.
- Travel Tip: Private vehicles are not permitted beyond the checkpost, so you will need to park and continue by the Forest Department's shuttle bus or a KSRTC service.
About 21 km away, this rugged gorge has been carved over centuries by the Moyar River as it cuts through the forest. It is quieter than the park's main attractions, which makes it a favourite for travellers who prefer their sightseeing places in Bandipur with a little more solitude.
- Things to Do: Landscape photography, birdwatching, and gentle riverside walks
- Timings: Best visited in daylight hours, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light
- Entry Fee: No separate entry fee at the viewpoint
- Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for langurs moving through the treetops and butterflies along the wildflower-lined paths; both are common sightings here.
The farthest destination on this list, BR Hills, is around 95 km from Bandipur. It rewards the distance with forested trekking trails, winding mountain roads, and the revered Biligiri Ranganatha Temple, as well as a living connection to the indigenous Soliga community who call these hills home.
- Things to Do: Trekking, birdwatching, temple visits, and exploring Soliga tribal culture
- Timings: Best explored across a full day, given the distance involved
- Entry Fee: Temple visits are generally free, while forest permits may apply for guided treks.
- Travel Tip: Plan this as a day trip rather than a quick stop, and set off early to make the most of the drive and the destination alike.
Bandipur National Park
Best for: Tiger, elephant, and leopard safaris
Time Required: 2 to 3 hours per safari
Best Season: March to May
Mudumalai National Park & Theppakadu
Best for: Elephant camp and cross-border safaris
Time Required: Half a day
Best Season: November to June
Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta
Best for: Panoramic views and temple visits
Time Required: Half a day
Best Season: October to February
Moyar Gorge
Best for: Photography and quiet river views
Time Required: 1 to 2 hours
Best Season: October to February
BR Hills
Attraction: Trekking and tribal culture
Time Required: A full day
Best Season: October to March
Good to Know Before You Set Off
- Reserve your safari and stay well ahead, especially through the winter and summer peak seasons.
- Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife, however calm they may appear.
- Pack layered clothing, since early mornings on safari and hilltop visits can turn surprisingly cool.
- Avoid single-use plastics, particularly on treks and inside the reserve.
- Carry your identification, since forest checkposts often ask for it before entry.
Distances to the sightseeing places in Bandipur from The Serai:
- Bandipur National Park: ~14 km
- Mudumalai National Park & Theppakadu Elephant Camp: ~19 km
- Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta: ~20 km
- Moyar Gorge: ~21 km
- Biligiriranga Hills (BR Hills): ~95 km
Set close to the national park, our resort brings together private cottages, open spaces, and thoughtful experiences that make it easy to slow down between excursions. Guests may take in the surrounding hills from our swimming pool, unwind in our Oma Spa, or settle into our open-air dining spaces for leisurely meals inspired by the flavours of the region.
Our resort also offers plenty to do without venturing far. Nature trails and naturalist-led walks offer a closer look at the landscape, while the pool provides a relaxed setting to spend an unhurried afternoon. Families can make use of the open spaces and outdoor experiences, while those looking for a quieter stay can simply enjoy the views and the stillness of the forest. Evenings bring their own charm, with outdoor dining and time to unwind beneath the open sky. Whether you are here for a jungle safari, exploring beyond the places to visit in Bandipur National Park, or simply taking a few days to reconnect with nature, The Serai Bandipur gives you a comfortable base to experience it all.
