Bannerghatta National Park: A Complete Guide For You

Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka. This marvelous city welcomes tourists from different parts who never go disappointed. You will get to explore many different places in this heartious city. From serving the best delicacies to being a home to many flora and fauna species, Bangalore has a unique style of alluring tourists. Whether it is a devotee or an adventure enthusiasts, you will not want to miss any corner of this place. If you are a wildlife lover and want to watch some of the most endangered species, Bannerghatta National Park is the next place you should visit. All the details of this place like the best time to visit here, Bannerghatta National Park ticket price and opening hours are given below. Check them out below.

About Bannerghatta National Park

Bannerghatta National Park is a very integral area, situated near Bangalore, Karnataka. You will mostly find wildlife lovers and photographers here. It is one of the most ideal spots in Bangalore where you can spend a good leisure day with your family. It serves as a home to many rare species of animals. Some of the animals found here include Tiger, Lion, Bison and Elephants. There are not many places in the world where wild animals are preserved in such close vicinity to a big city and Bangalore marks its name in this list. It is not a National Park like any other, but is a hub for adventure seekers too. You can also trek around and enjoy the spectacular views of the surroundings. There are even temples inside this park, which makes this place even a spiritual centre.

Thrilling safari rides, an enduring zoo, and a beautiful butterfly park makes it a very favorable tourist destination. Species like cockatoos, Eclectus Parrot, Sulphur Crested Cockatoo and Scarlet Macaw are also found here which you will hardly find in any other place.

Location: Bannerghatta Rd, Bannerughatta, Bengaluru
Timings: 9:30 am- 5:00 pm
Entry Fare:
Phone No. : 080 2977 6466
Best Time To Visit: September to June

Tips For The Visitors

Park your cars only in the authorised places.
There are limited areas where visitors can go. So don’t wander everywhere freely.
Do not feed the animals
You cannot take plastics inside.
Enter the park before the sunset. Entry is prohibited after that.

How To Reach Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park is easily reachable for every tourist. You can visit this area through various transport means.

1. By Bus
Bus numbers 365, 366 and 366 are available every 20 minutes for all the tourists. The city buses are very comfortable and Jayadeva Hospital is the nearest landmark.

2. By Train
For reaching this captivating park, you can choose train. The nearest railway station is Yelachenahalli Train Station. It is 13.7 km away from the National Park. You can easily hire a cab from the railway station to reach your destination which will take around 35 minutes.

What can be a more fun and thrilling destination than this park? This park has everything you need for an extraordinary time. So, make sure that you visit this place when you are in Bangalore. You will surely witness much more things when you go to this park. Spending some time with nature amidst the wild animals will give an extra dose of happiness to your day.

MANALI: A journey to heaven? You’ll find your answers soon.

Nuzzled up at the northern end of Kullu valley, Manali is a beautifully crafted city by the heavens in the Himalayas. Located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh in India, Manali is situated at an elevation of 2000 meters approximately from the sea level. From Rohtang Pass in Manali to the famous Mall Road, Manali has something that lures the tourists in a way like no other place in Himachal Pradesh. 

There are two parts of Manali, which are a rigorous contradiction to each other. Separated by a bridge over the Beas river, these two parts within the distance of 1 km, portrays two different realities of the place. The first part is congested and the busiest place within the district, the Mall Road offers an authentic shopping experience where one will find almost everything and including the traditional products and handicrafts of Himachal Pradesh.

The other part, that is one bridge away, is Old Manali which is away from the hustle bustle of the city is a completely different world featuring laid back and hippie vibes. One can find cool places like cafes, restaurants, bars, etc. while looking at almost surreal views of mountains and nature. 

Weaving its charm like magic, Manali furnishes amazing scenic and a soulful journey that one goes through while wandering through its streets. No wonder it attracts such huge traffic of tourists from across the world. Although it might get a little annoying due to so much crowd, this place still holds its charisma within Old Manali which has so much to offer. The famous Siddu is one of the most popular local food preferred by visitors and locals. And here are the few places one must visit while planning a trip to Manali as mentioned hereafter.

Solang Valley: At a height of 2,560 m, Solang valley is a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts. It offers insanely crazy adventure experiences while going for adventure activities like skiing, trekking, paragliding, hiking, horse riding, zip lining, gondola rides(ropeway) and a lot more.

Rohtang Pass in Manali: Rohtang pass is 51 km from Mall Road situated on the eastern side of the Himalayan range of Pir Panjal. The most famous destination of Kullu district, Rohtang pass also connects the roads of Manali to Lahaul and Spiti. However, one has to get a permit, to cross through this pass while heading towards Lahaul and Spiti, which is allowed only in summer in the months of May- November. 

Hidimba Temple: This ancient cave temple, designed in pagoda style, is devoted to Hidimba Devi. It is at a distance of 2.6 km from Mall Road in Manali. The visiting hours for this temple are from 8:00 am in the morning to 8:00 pm in the evening.

Jogini Waterfalls: This waterfall at a distance of 5km from Mall Road, streams down from 150 feet above. At the top of it is the temple of Jogini Devi. One can also hike up to the fall via Vashisht temple. Featuring beautiful scenic views as you reach higher, this waterfall is considered sacred and has shrines along its trails.

Old Manali Cafes: There are a number of authentic cafes in Manali serving tempting food experiences. Few of these famous cafes are Cafe 1947, Drifters inn Cafe, Nirvana Cafe, and Cafe Meraki.

Other places: Other places than the mentioned above which holds dear the true essence of Manali are Manu Temple, Beas River banks, Vashisht Temple, Van Vihar, Tibetan Monasteries and Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art.

If you’re planning a trip to Manali and wondering how to reach here by various means of transport, then you need not worry because buses are easily available from Delhi and other places to Manali. However, if you are planning to travel by air, then Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is the nearest Airport in Kullu district and from there you can find buses heading towards Manali easily.

Due to the crowds getting attracted and it becoming more and more populous every day, one must avoid the months of May, June, and July while planning a trip to Manali. You can plan your trip in the months of August to October because that will enable you to get access to Lahaul and Spiti via Rohtang Pass in Manali since it opens only in these restricted months and also, the offseason traveling will ensure you enjoy the most of this beautiful place dodging the overcrowded and highly jammed roads when it’s season.

Things to know before visiting the Pine Forest in Vagamon

 An ethereal landscape studded by lofty pine trees on the steep edged hills of the Western Ghats, in the Kottayam district of Kerala is a picturesque paradise for nature lovers. Kerela is known for its beautiful lush green landscape and beautiful valleys. The pine forest meadows of Vagamon is one of the many precious jewels of Kerela.
Vagamon is a beautiful hill station often visited by travelers who wish to relish some tranquility in the majestic landscapes surrounded by tall pine forests, waterfalls, tea estates, and valleys and is an appealing getaway, The Pine Forest in Vagamon offers its visitors some private moments to relish with their friends and families or even have an unforgettable romantic moments for the newlywed love birds.
With such beautiful natural surroundings, you just cand resist yourself from clicking some wonderful pictures.

How to get there:
By Train: if you wish to travel by train, Vagamon Pine Forest is situated just 75Km away from Kottayam Railway Station can be easily reached by the visitors easily.
By Plane: If you prefer airways then Cochin international airport is the nearest one and located just 150 KM away from this forest.
Activities:
Trekking
   
Rock climbing
   
Paragliding


Best time to Visit:
The pine forest is open for visitors all through the year. However, it can be avoided during the monsoon season as the rain makes the tracks muddy and slippery.
The best time to visit is between March to June

Timing: 8:30 am to 6:00 pm

Entry Fees: Rs.10 for adults and Rs.5 for kids(below 12 years)

Nearby Places to explore:

The Chain of Three Hills-
The lush green meadows of Thangal, Murugan, and Kurismala, the three beautiful hills are often frequented by variours religious devotees. It is a great place to sit back and admire the marvels of nature generously scattered around.

Sunset Point-
Watching the sunset behind the hill from the beautiful mountain in Elaveezha Poonchira is a truly enchanting experience. A small lake nearby is fabled to be from the time of the Mahabharata and Panchali, the wife of Pandava came to bathe in this very pool.

Vagamon Orchidarium And Floriculture Project-
The Vagamon Orchidarium houses more than 3000 varieties of indoor as well as outdoor orchids and more than 200 varieties of roses spread across 15 hectares of land. This complex also features meadows and a small pond which provides a perfect spot for a picnic.

Mundakayam Ghat-
Also popularly known as the Suicide Point of Vagamon is a much-sought-after place for campers and trekkers. The picturesque view of the mountain and the valley is a truly rejuvenating experience. The location also offers a perfect spot for paragliding and is one of the most popular sports in the area.

Valankanni Church in Pattumalai-
Nestled among these silken hills at the top is the Velankanni Matha Church, a famous pilgrim center made entirely of granite. This Roman Era Church is surrounded by a beautiful garden which makes this place heavenly.
The Pine Forest in Vagamon is a dense forest and always has a cool atmosphere. Even though it sees a lot of visitors daily, it’s never crowded and always gives a great experience of walking in nature. The magical beauty of the forest is usually captured in the form of stunning pictures by its admirers.

Planning for a long weekend from Bangalore? Here is a sure shot win game for you

If you are surrounded by boredom then we have a rapid action plan for you. Spending time with friends is indeed a special time. If there is a long weekend coming then it serves as an icing on the cake. There are innumerable destinations that will perfectly suit your mood. Here we list out some of the brisk weekend getaways from Bangalore that will make your vacations exciting. Away from the technology broadcasts we will provide you an ultimate guide for your wonderful weekend.

Head 180 kms away to Mysore from Bangalore
Experience the glitz of the city of Mysore echoing with its splendid history. You along with your friends are going to love the city with diorama and temples. Weekenders can adopt any mode of travel as per their convenience like taxi, bus which takes approx. 2 to 3 hours costing from INR 1000 to INR 3000. Mysore is regarded as one of the finest weekend getaways from Bangalore where you can visit Chamundi Hills, fun and adventure activities.

Bandipur National Park
If you are eyeing for an unusual weekend getaway from Bangalore then you must plan for Bandipur National Park. Bird watching is one of the activities along with elephant safaris, jeep safaris which will leave you awestruck. Guests prefer to hire a taxi, bus or car costing from INR 1500 to INR 5000 taking approx. 4 hours. 

Ooty
One of the renowned peculiar weekend getaways from Bangalore is Ooty which is 270 km from Bangalore. Experience the beauty of lush greenery with high slopes surrounded by pine trees. The boat ride can be fun giving a feeling of picnic. People can prefer to have a 7 hours ride costing INR 2000 to INR 2500 in a bus or taxi to arrive at a beautiful destination. For all the adventurous people Ooty has a lot to offer such as trekking, horse riding, rope climbing and angling which can be super fun.

Coonoor
You can actually trek your way that will head you towards Nilgiris. Coonoor is a paradise which is approx. 20km from Ooty and is crowded by the visitors owing to its beauty. The mode of travel is taxi which takes approx. 7 hours costing around INR 5000. Camping and climbing are some of the fun activities that Coonoor offers.
Wayanad
Wayanad in Kerala is a 270 km ride from Bangalore surrounded by rice fields, beautiful mountains which makes it an attractive destination for weekend getaways from Bangalore. People can reach Wayanad through taxi in 6 hours’ time that will cost them INR 5000 to INR 6000.  Water sports in Wayanad are a must try for the visitors coming with friends.

Coorg
Coorg offers outstanding views and clean atmosphere with various plantations, green cover, wildlife and waterfalls. You can hire a taxi which takes at least 7 hours and will cost you INR 6000. River rafting, quad biking and trekking are some of the adventure activities that you can enjoy here.
Munnar
Munnar is a beautiful hill station in Kerala accompanied with spectacular views and stunning tea plantations. Taxi will take you to Munnar in 11 hours’ time, costing you INR 7000. Tea gardens are one of the highlights which the people generally visit in Munnar.

Yarcaud
Yarcaud is a destination which is 230km away from Bangalore which will bring you close to nature with lush green cover. A taxi will take 6 hours to take you to Yarcaud charging INR 5000. People often visit caves in Yarcaud which they find exciting.
If you are a local in Bangalore or a working professional and I want to give yourself some rest then you can add these amazing places for your weekend getaways from Bangalore. Unwind and offer yourself some relaxation that will help you revive in your normal life once again. Tie your shoes and get ready to visit the amazingness in store for you.

Hill Stations Near Chennai

Chennai is the heart and soul of not only Tamil Nadu but entire southern India. This capital city has proven itself to be worthy of safeguarding the artistic, gastronomical, and holy tradition of South India. Chennai is not only famed for its quirky cafes, marvelously structured temples, or the old-world charm. A myriad of natural marvels is yet another reason for this city to gain its fame. The best thing is that this stash of natural bounty is not only limited to the capital city but is spread all across the hill stations near Chennai. Here is a well-tailored list of all the top options that spoil the travelers with choices. 

Coonoor

Coonoor boasts about being home to the best Nilgiri Tea in the country. This hill station is legendary for those who seek to master the art of doing nothing but just relax on their vacation. Coonoor is filled to the brim with several marvels of nature. From gushing waterfalls to lush green jungles, from tranquil atmosphere to glorious trekking trails, Coonoor is idyllic for outdoorsy travelers. When in Coonoor, one should also not miss out on devouring some scrumptious baked goods from the Indian Bakery.

Coorg

Coorg is a stockpile of aromatic winds. With being home to an extensive number of fragrant coffee plantations, Coorg is a destination in Karnataka that is among the best hill stations near Chennai. These plantations perfectly blend with the monasteries and adventuresome experience to provide us all with what we now call ‘Scotland of India’. If you are a coffee freak, you would love this place. It is like dipping yourself in your own cuppa. The well-manicured lush greens of this place is a sight to behold, certainly.

Munnar

Munnar is famed for its misty hills. Sitting in God’s Own Country, this destination has been immensely blessed by mother nature and one can witness it. The emerald tea plantations form a major part of the landscapes of Munnar. The well-manicured hedges, scenic views of the dense Western Ghats, and the mist sitting atop the peaks like a tiara are routinely specialties of this hill station. The hundred shades of green that this town exhibits does its magic and leave one refreshed.

Wayanad

Wayand is a gem like bridge between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The majestic wildlife, mainly the elephants, that are reside in this town has led to this town earning the limelight. Wayanad has several rice paddies and luxuriant green plantations of bamboo that is a treat for the eyes. The red earth, tailored plantations of rubber and cardomon, and the vast spread ginger fields adds to the bag of natural marvels that can be observed in this town. This is among the most alluring hill stations near Chennai.

Thekkady 

Thekkady is another one of the hill stations sitting in the proximity of Chennai that is known for its population of mighty elephants. This sought-after destination is swarming with rolling hills and nodding lush foliage that gives one a chance to get closer to the nature. Thekkady is paradiasiacal for both nature admirers and animal lovers. This hill station also boasts about offering an opportunity for tourists to engage in some thrill inducing activities. Border hiking, bamboo rafting, and wildlife safari are the top adventures that await in Thekkady. 

The hill stations near Chennai are not home to some of the most exquisite wildlife but also gives one an opportunity to feast their eyes. The several thousand shades of green, milky white waterfalls, picturesque landscapes, and the perfect lighting makes these hills look like they are right of a storybook that we used to read as kids. The rolling grasslands, rice paddies, ornamented tea and coffee plantations, and the ever so pleasant weather is what combines together to give you the hill stations of the southern region. If you seek an escape route, this is it.