Tiger Tiger burning bright

 

In the mid seventies Bandipur National Park was established as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger. It adjoins Nagarhole National Park. I have been told it was once a private hunting reserve(sic)for the Maharaja of Mysore, now it now a Tiger Reserve.


Bandipur is located south of Mysore and it is a 2 hour easy drive. The road at times looks infinite and appears to stretch all the way to Kanyakumari. The lodge that we stayed was clean and neat and the food wholesome. The guides told us to avoid safaris after monsoon as the bushes and shrubs are very dense. The during summer one could spot wildlife on the main road itself.


 

Road less travelled 


 

Bandipur 


The reserve is a short ride from the lodge. A guided safari is arranged and dusk and dawn. The forest was still very green due to the late departure of the SW monsoons and early arrival of the NE. We were told that forest turns shades of orange and brown in the summer, and is devoid of grass. Tough to imagine as one looks across the tree tops to the Nilgiris mountains beyond. Forest department have maintained it well - i.e. no plastics and it still appears pristine.


 


The Nigiris beyond

 


Peace of the morning 

 


Sighting a Tiger is uncommon and I am thankful for that, as it will bring me back to try and see this most wonderful animal. On our safari we did sight spotted dear, Indian gaur, Elephant, Peacocks, Mongoose, and tiger pug marks. Just being among these magnificent creatures in the forest, is something to behold. If I could be critical, I will suggest that the diesel driven safari car, should be replaces by an electric one. One would then appreciate the sounds of the jungle.

My second trip to a Tiger reserve, my first being to Kabani in 2012, where a wild boar and myself frightened each other, when I decide to relieve myself in a bush

Enjoy the pictures 


 




 




 






 

 






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