Love Being Close To Nature? Check Out These Great Forest Getaways Near Bangalore!

Sitting in front of the laptop for en-number of hours, thanks to work from home and coronavirus has stopped us from exploring the outside world. But now, let's pack our bags and clean our four wheel beast cause it’s time to hit the road and explore the forest getaways near Bangalore. Are you ready?

Bandipur

Bangaloreans, your forest trail can begin with Bandipur since it is the nearest to home. On your drive there, we suggest you switch off your stereo and take in the sounds of silence. The National Park organises a safari from 6 am to 9 am in the morning; so waste no time in getting ourselves a jeep for the safari with a guide that comes with the package, which costs Rs 1,500. Thus, starts the winding journey on the mud tracks in the jungle.
This particular forest is famous for bison and if you are lucky enough, you'll even get  to spot a herd. Be ready to also catch a glimpse of a happy family of elephants and deer. Also, Bandipur has two types of deer here, spotted deer with angular antlers and the fleshy sambar that make sumptuous meals for carnivorous predators. PS: The highway that passes through Bandipur, on its way to Ooty is closed from 6 pm in the evening to 6 am in the morning!
Where To Stay: Tusker Trail Resort, Serai Resorts, Tiger Ranch Resort and Bush Betta Wildlife Resort are some premium properties in Bandipur. Cicada Bungalows & Homestays as well as Bandipur Safari Lodge are the budget options. 
Distance From Bangalore: 234 kms

Mudumalai

Mudumalai forests is where notorious sandalwood dacoit Veerapan once roamed free. Even today, the eerie silence of the woods is a stinging reminder of the terror he unleashed on highway travellers for a decade. The Mudumalai Forest Reserve stretch has the densest wilderness in these parts. The forest was once abundantly filled with fragrant sandalwood trees - though they have been depleted by years of thieving by Veerapan’s gang, you can still get whiffs of that distinctive aroma as you drive through the forest.
The chances of spotting tigers at Mudumalai are pretty good, so opt for the early morning safari (6 am to 8 am) that costs Rs 600 for two. Have patience and you'll spot the Indian Rock Python, Nilgiri Langurs, Cheetal Deer and Indian Gaur.
Where To Stay: The Wilderness is a rate premium resort in Mudumalai or you can check into Bamboo Banks and Jungle Retreat, they are also decent resorts to stay at. The homestays in this area are not very professionally managed so it’s best avoided unless you are on a shoe-string budget.
Distance from Bangalore: 242 kms

Masinagudi

Nestled in a tiny cove at the foothills of the Nilgiri range is the hamlet of Masinagudi. The forest is the same stretch as Madhumalai and Nellakotta. This reserve forest is close enough from Bangalore but it comes under the state territory of Tamil Nadu, so basically, you have to cross the state border in order to get here. Safaris are conducted here in between 6.30 am and 8.30 am as well as between 3 pm and 6 pm. Each safari lasts for about 45 minutes and yes, the chances of spotting game is much better in the morning before the sun beats down brightly.
Although the National Forest of Masinagudi has been declared as a Tiger Reserve, it is rare to spot the animal here. This forest is more popular for its Elephant Camp. 30 odd beasts are trained here and they are quite a sight! 
Where To Stay: Blue Valley Jungle Resort, Masinagudi Wildlife Stay and Glen View Resort offer high-end stay options with packages that include nature walks and bird watching. You can also try the Safari Land Resort and Masinagudi Guesthouse for budget options.
Distance from Bangalore: 250 kms

Kabini

Once a private hunting area for the British, Kabini is known for the Nagarhole National Park and luxury hotels near the Kabini River. This wildlife destination is the largest place for Asiatic Elephants in the world and is also home to the world’s most living black panther, Saya. And yes, it is next to impossible to spot him, try your luck!
Kabini is famous for its wildlife and birdlife, just grab binoculars to catch a glimpse! We recommend you to opt for the Boat Safari and Jeep Safari to spot the tiger, leopard, guars, elephants and other majestic species. And if you are a photographer, there is no better place than Kabini to shoot the beautiful wildlife, especially leopards.
Where To Stay: If you have a high budget, stay at The Red Earth Kabini, The Serai Kabini, Evolve Back Kabini, The Bison Resort or Kaav Safari Lodge. Budget-friendly travellers can take a look at The Morning Mist or Pugmarks Jungle Lodges.
Distance From Bangalore: 245 km

Dandeli

Drive through the Western Ghats and reach Dandeli, an adventure hotspot in Karnataka which is bestowed with lush green forests on the banks of the Kali River. A hub for river rafting, you can also get that adrenaline pump through kayaking, canoeing, trekking and mountain biking.
But travellers come down to Dandeli to explore the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot Bisons and Black Panthers. Floral lovers? Head to this Uttara Karnataka place and maybe, go camping with your folks for a memorable experience!
Where To Stay: Dandeli doesn’t have many premium resorts except the Hornbill River Resort or The Whistling Woods. Or else you can stay at budget resorts such as Pebble Bay Homestay, Staymaker River Wood Residency or The Stag.
Distance From Bangalore: 478 km