Bus Safari - Veeranahosahalli Gate, Nagarhole National Park - Timings, Safari Cost, Best Time to Visit

Bus Safari from Veeranahosahalli Gate near Hunsur (30 km from Nanchi gate of Nagarhole) is the best way to enjoy the wilderness of the Nagarhole National Park. It is an ideal choice for travelers to spot many large and small herbivores in their natural habitat.

The forest department runs mini-bus safaris (90 minutes) in the park in the mornings and evenings. Safaris start from the Range Office at the entry point, 25km inside the park from the Veeranahosahalli checkpost. Although Nagarhole National Park is home to a large number of tigers, the sighting of the tiger is purely luck.

Safari slots are often limited and advance booking is recommended. The bus safaris are crowded during weekends & holiday seasons. Apart from bus safari arranged by the forest department, Jungle Lodges by JLR is the only third party authorized to offer jeep safari in Nagarhole. Staying at the Jungle Lodges Resorts by JLR is the best way to explore the Nagarhole as their package includes Jeep Safari into the park with experienced guides. JLR operates JLR Kings Sanctuary at the entrance of the park near Veeranahosahalli village.

The best time to spot animals is during the summer, in March and April when the waterholes are dry and the animals congregate near the lake. However, the temperature outside is more pleasant from November through February. During the monsoon season (July to October) safaris may not operate due to muddy, impassable roads, and wildlife sightings are minimal.

Safari Timings: 6 AM - 9.30 AM & 2.30 PM - 5.30 PM

Safari Cost (90 mins): Rs. 650 for Bus Safari, & Rs. 2242 for Jeep Safari. Prices are for Indian Visitors as of Jan 2023.