5-Day Nature Itinerary for Bandipur

  1. Day 1: Bandipur National Park
    25 minutes (12.6 km) from the city center

    Bandipur National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. Go on a wildlife safari and spot tigers, sloth bears and giant squirrels. Trek to Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, the highest peak in the region to enjoy a scenic sunset.

  2. Day 2: Gopalaswamy Hills
    30 minutes (21.1 km) from Bandipur National Park

    At an elevation of 1454 meters, Gopalaswamy Hills offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys. From the top of this hill, you can see the whole of the Bandipur National park and myriad fields that surround the place.

  3. Day 3: Devarayanadurga
    1 hour 15 minutes (65.4 km) from Gopalaswamy Hills

    Escape to the scenic Devarayanadurga for a half-day trek. Visitors can hike to the top of the hill to discover the ancient temples.

  4. Day 4: Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple
    1 hour 5 minutes (53.1 km) from Devarayanadurga

    Visit the ancient Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple located atop a hill for a taste of local culture. This offers panoramic views across Mysore city and Western Ghats. Don't forget to sample authentic local sweets in the Belur township while on the way back.

  5. Day 5: Kunti Betta
    1 hour 5 minutes (35.6 km) from Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple

    Go on a morning trek along Kunti Betta, which was believed to be the abode of Kunti, mother of the Pandavas. Trekking along the hill is an exciting adventure with a 360-degree beautiful view of the surroundings. End your trek with a swim in the fresh water of the Thonnur Lake.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Bandipur National Park Safari (3-4 hours, INR 2000-3000)
  • Gopalaswamy Hills (2-3 hours, INR 1000-2000)
  • Devarayanadurga Trek (4-5 hours, INR 500-1000)
  • Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple (2-3 hours, INR 500-1000)
  • Kunti Betta Trek and Lake Swim (4-5 hours, INR 1000-1500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 5000-8500

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore local markets in the evenings and engage in boating activities at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. If you have less time, you can skip Devarayanadurga and spend more time bird watching in the Hassan district. Don't forget to bring sturdy walking shoes and a bathing suit!

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