Attractions inside the Bannerghatta Biological Park
This article gives information on all the attractions inside Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore, Karnataka.
Tourists visiting Bangalore invariably head to the Bannerghatta Biological Park for its famed safari rides to see wildlife in their natural habitat. However, there are many more attractions inside the Bannerghatta Biological Park ranging from the tame to the wildly adventurous.
Here's what to see and do at the Bannerghatta Biological Park:
Ride a Jumbo in the Elephant safari:
Ever wanted to ride an elephant? The Bannerghatta Biological Park is one of the few places in India where you can ride the gentle beast in safe environs. From your lofty perch you can look down upon a variety of deer species and bisons in their natural habitat. Don't forget to look up in the trees – you could just be lucky to capture on camera a few exotic birds, such as the Oriental Magpie-Robin. Besides this 1 hour safari, you can also enjoy separate joy rides on elephants in an area demarcated for this purpose near the parking area. Get up close with the King of the Jungle:
Naturally, you won't get too close, though! A unique safari at the Bannerghatta Biological Park enables visitors to take a guided tour in closed well-protected vans within the large areas where Lions and Tigers roam freely. Known as the Grand Safari of the Bannerghatta Biological Park, you get to see not only the big cats (including white tigers) but also playful bears. Peer at the deadly jaws of Crocodiles:
From a safe distance, you can get to see a number of huge crocodiles which lazily make their way around their large tank area or simply lie still to snooze in the sun. Watch slithery creepy reptiles:
At the snake park in the Bannerghatta Biological Park you will probably shiver at a unique collection of reptiles. Some of them have got unusual scaly patterns. The residents here include common snakes and Russell vipers as well as exotic cobras and pythons.Listen to the music:
With sharp ears you can catch the tunes of hundreds of avian species as they flap and soar far above you or come to rest on one of the many trees in the Bannerghatta Biological Park. Besides unique owl species, such as the Collared Scop's owl, you can hear the calls of the paradise flycatcher and other birds. Don't miss the birds on the ground – a peacock may just oblige you by breaking into a dance, displaying its stunning span of feathers. Be awed at fluttering beauties:
The most colourful denizens are housed in the Butterfly Park at the Bannerghatta Biological Park. This butterfly park was set up by the Zoo Authority of Karnataka in association with the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) and the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment (ATREE). A vast cirucular enclosure with a polycarbonate domed-roof has a climate-controlled environment exclusively for 20 species of butterflies. This lovely conservatory has an artificial waterfall and the various flowers that attract butterflies are grown here. A small museum near the conservatory provides information through pictures on butterflies and there is an audio-visual section too. Visit the Zoo:
The Zoo at Bannerghatta Biological Park various mammals such as leapords, hyenas, and zebras, as well as birds in large cages. In this area there is also a Museum and an Auditorium. The auditorium regularly screens informative educational films on wildlife. Experienced veterinarians at the vet hospital within the zoo area provide good health care to the animals and birds.Go back to the Prehistoric Era:
The Prehistoric Park in the Bannerghatta Biological Park displays models of pre-historic animals. These include the Igunodon, the Styracosaurs, and the Dimterodon. Thanks to the creative endeavour of the Zoological Survey of India, these are very life-like models. In fact, these models will probably bring to mind Steven Spielberg's films! Enjoy a Picnic:
The authorities of the Bannerghatta Biological Park have designated a special Picnic Corner for visitors. This area has majestic shady trees and a lovely pond where waterfowls make a playful splash. A small restaurant here serves simple snacks.Pay obeisance to the Gods:
A number of ancient temples are spread out over a few hills within the Bannerghatta Biological Park. A bubbling stream named Suvarnamukhi makes its merry way through the Park. One of the famous temples is the Champaka Dhama Swamy temple. Enjoy the Outdoors:
You can find out about various outdoor activities organised within the Bannerghatta Biological Park. These include camping and trekking. For example, you can take a guided nature walk (ranging from 1 to 2 hours). Do a good deed:
When you buy your entrance tickets to the Bannerghatta Biological Park do read the large sign near the gates which requests visitors to adopt an animal. You can also be a volunteer by signing up for a program to spread the awareness on conservation of wildlife for ecological balance. Get more details at: [email protected]
It is hoped that this article gives sufficient information on all the attractions inside the Bannerghatta Biological Park.
