Tag: karnataka wildlife

  • Best Jungle Lodges in Karnataka for Wildlife and Bird Watching

    Best Jungle Lodges in Karnataka for Wildlife and Bird Watching

    Karnataka is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering diverse landscapes that range from dense forests to lush river valleys. If you’re keen on exploring wildlife and birdwatching, the state’s various jungle lodges provide an ideal base. Here’s a list of the best jungle lodges in Karnataka where you can enjoy wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and immerse yourself in nature.

    1. Kabini River Lodge – Nagarhole National Park

    • Location: Kabini, Karnataka (near Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks)
    • Known for: Wildlife safaris, sightings of tigers, leopards, elephants, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
    • Highlights:
      • Located on the banks of the Kabini River, this is one of the most renowned wildlife lodges in India.
      • Offers Jeep safaris, boat safaris, and nature walks.
      • The lodge is a hotspot for birdwatchers, home to species like the Malabar pied hornbill, Osprey, Crested serpent eagle, and kingfishers.
    • Accommodation: Colonial-style cottages, tents, and rooms with all modern amenities.

    2. Bandipur Safari Lodge – Bandipur National Park

    • Location: Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
    • Known for: Tiger and elephant sightings, wildlife safaris, and diverse birdlife.
    • Highlights:
      • Located within the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, the lodge offers Jeep safaris to see tigers, Indian elephants, and other wildlife.
      • The park is home to around 200 species of birds, including the Indian roller, crested hawk-eagle, and peafowl.
      • The lodge arranges guided birdwatching tours and nature walks.
    • Accommodation: Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, set amidst nature.

    3. Bheemeshwari Nature Camp – Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

    • Location: Bheemeshwari, Karnataka
    • Known for: Riverside location, birdwatching, and activities like fishing and trekking.
    • Highlights:
      • Situated on the banks of the Cauvery River, the camp offers a rich experience for birdwatchers with sightings of birds like the grey-headed fish eagle, osprey, and various kingfishers.
      • It’s ideal for spotting animals like the Indian otter, marsh crocodile, and sambar deer.
      • The camp offers coracle rides, fishing, and nature treks along the river.
    • Accommodation: Log huts, tented cottages, and bamboo huts that offer rustic comfort.

    4. K Gudi Wilderness Camp – Biligiriranga Hills (BR Hills)

    • Location: BR Hills, Karnataka
    • Known for: Wildlife safaris, rich flora and fauna, and a tranquil jungle experience.
    • Highlights:
      • Located in the Biligiriranga Hills (BR Hills) Tiger Reserve, the lodge offers excellent wildlife sightings, including gaur (Indian bison), elephants, and sometimes tigers.
      • This camp is particularly famous for its birdlife, including species like the crested serpent eagle, Malabar trogon, and green imperial pigeon.
      • Enjoy open-top Jeep safaris, guided birdwatching walks, and stargazing at night.
    • Accommodation: Tents and log cabins that provide a rustic yet comfortable stay.

    5. Sharavathi Adventure Camp – Sharavathi Valley

    • Location: Sharavathi Valley, near Jog Falls
    • Known for: Scenic beauty, birdwatching, and water-based activities.
    • Highlights:
      • Located near the backwaters of the Sharavathi River, this camp is perfect for birdwatching, with regular sightings of species like grey-headed mynas, Malabar whistling thrush, and brahminy kites.
      • The surrounding forests and riverbanks are home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
      • The lodge offers coracle rides, kayaking, and nature treks.
    • Accommodation: Well-equipped cottages with views of the Sharavathi backwaters.

    6. Jungle Lodges and Resorts, Dandeli

    • Location: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
    • Known for: White water rafting, wildlife safaris, and birdwatching.
    • Highlights:
      • Dandeli is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species of birds, including the Malabar pied hornbill, great Indian hornbill, and black panther sightings.
      • Jungle safaris, coracle rides, and rafting on the Kali River are popular activities.
      • The forest is home to leopards, bison, elephants, and a wide variety of flora.
    • Accommodation: Comfortable cottages and tents with eco-friendly designs.

    7. Galibore Nature Camp – Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

    • Location: Galibore, Karnataka (along the Cauvery River)
    • Known for: Fishing, birdwatching, and serene river views.
    • Highlights:
      • This peaceful camp is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts, with regular sightings of birds like the grey-headed fish eagle, green bee-eater, and various species of hornbills.
      • It’s also an excellent place for fishing, with the famous Mahseer fish found in the Cauvery.
      • Visitors can enjoy guided nature walks and coracle rides on the river.
    • Accommodation: Tented cottages with basic amenities and scenic river views.

    8. River Tern Lodge – Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    • Location: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
    • Known for: Wildlife safaris, water sports, and birdwatching.
    • Highlights:
      • Located near the Bhadra Dam and backwaters, this lodge is ideal for birdwatchers, offering sightings of species like the river tern (from which it gets its name), Malabar whistling thrush, and Indian cormorant.
      • Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife, and the lodge arranges safaris for wildlife sightings.
      • You can also enjoy water sports like kayaking and boating.
    • Accommodation: Comfortable cottages and log huts with views of the backwaters.

    9. Blackbuck Resort – Bidar

    • Location: Bidar, Karnataka
    • Known for: Blackbuck sightings, birdwatching, and scenic surroundings.
    • Highlights:
      • The resort is located near a blackbuck reserve, making it ideal for spotting these beautiful animals along with various bird species.
      • The lake nearby attracts a range of birds, including herons, egrets, and spot-billed ducks.
      • Guests can enjoy nature walks, photography, and tranquil boat rides.
    • Accommodation: Lakeside cottages that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

    10. Kemmannugundi Hill Resort – Chikmagalur

    • Location: Chikmagalur, Karnataka
    • Known for: Scenic beauty, trekking, and birdwatching.
    • Highlights:
      • Located amidst the Western Ghats, this eco-friendly lodge is perfect for nature lovers, offering guided birdwatching trails with chances to spot species like the Indian pitta, black bulbul, and Malabar trogon.
      • Chikmagalur is also ideal for trekking, with lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and waterfalls.
      • The lodge offers various outdoor activities, including nature walks and camping.
    • Accommodation: Cozy cottages set amidst coffee plantations and forests.

    These jungle lodges in Karnataka offer an immersive experience in the wild, with abundant opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife safaris, and nature-based activities. Each lodge offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of Karnataka’s varied ecosystems.

  • Complete Guide to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    Complete Guide to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    Complete Guide to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary gets its name from the Bhadra river, that flows through its lush habitat, sustaining its vast landscape. Cover Photo: River terns are extremely social birds that inhabit freshwater lakes and rivers, where they are usually seen in large flocks.

    History of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary has a rich history rooted in conservation efforts aimed at preserving the region’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

    1. Early History: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was initially declared as the Jagara Valley Game Reserve in 1951. This designation aimed to protect the region’s wildlife, particularly its rich population of large mammals, while allowing regulated hunting activities. The area included the lush forests of the Western Ghats and the Bhadra River, which flows through it, making it a critical zone for both wildlife and the local ecosystem.

    2. Formation of the Sanctuary: In 1974, recognizing the ecological significance of the region and in response to increasing concerns about habitat loss and dwindling wildlife populations, the Jagara Valley Game Reserve was officially upgraded to a wildlife sanctuary and renamed Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. This step marked the beginning of more serious conservation efforts in the area, as hunting was strictly prohibited and measures were taken to prevent human interference in the habitat.

    3. Part of Project Tiger: In 1998, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was brought under the ambit of Project Tiger, a nationwide initiative launched by the Indian government in 1973 to protect and conserve tiger populations in India. With this, the sanctuary was recognized as the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. This was a critical step for the sanctuary as it led to increased funding, better management, and stricter anti-poaching laws. The inclusion in Project Tiger also helped to raise awareness about the sanctuary’s unique wildlife, leading to more scientific research and eco-tourism.

    4. Relocation and Rehabilitation Efforts: One of the key milestones in the history of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was the large-scale relocation and rehabilitation of villages within the sanctuary’s boundaries in 2001-2002. Around 26 villages were relocated from the core areas of the sanctuary to provide a more secure habitat for the wildlife and reduce human-animal conflict. This process, managed by the Karnataka Forest Department, was one of the most successful village relocation programs in India. It not only helped protect the habitat but also improved the living conditions of the relocated villagers.

    5. Conservation Success: Since its inclusion in Project Tiger, Bhadra has witnessed remarkable improvements in its tiger population and overall ecosystem health. Tigers, which were once critically endangered in this region, have increased in number due to strict protection measures, anti-poaching activities, and habitat restoration. Besides tigers, the sanctuary has become home to a wide variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles, making it one of the most biologically diverse areas in the Western Ghats.

    6. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Western Ghats, of which Bhadra is a part, were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 due to their rich biodiversity and importance as a global biodiversity hotspot. The sanctuary’s inclusion in this prestigious list underscores its significance on an international level for conservation.

    Modern-Day Importance:

    Today, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary plays a vital role in safeguarding the Western Ghats’ flora and fauna. It serves as an important habitat for endangered species such as the tiger, and as a center for eco-tourism and education about wildlife conservation. Through scientific research, eco-friendly tourism practices, and active forest management, Bhadra continues to thrive as a model of successful wildlife conservation.

    The sanctuary’s history reflects the growing awareness of the need for preserving India’s natural heritage and the sustained efforts to create a harmonious balance between wildlife protection and human development.

    Guide to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    Best Time to Visit:

    • October to February: This is the best time for wildlife enthusiasts as the cool weather attracts a variety of animals.
    • March to May: Summers are good for birdwatching, as migratory birds flock to the region.
    • June to September: Monsoon season turns the sanctuary lush green, though wildlife spotting can be challenging due to heavy rains.

    Flora:

    Bhadra is a rich repository of biodiversity. The forest type here is primarily moist deciduous and semi-evergreen. Some of the prominent tree species include:

    • Teak
    • Rosewood
    • Mathi
    • Nandi
    • Honne
    • Kindal

    The dense foliage provides a home to various animal and bird species, as well as smaller creatures like insects and amphibians.

    Fauna:

    The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, with more than 30 species of mammals and 250 species of birds. Some key inhabitants include:

    1. Mammals:

    • Tigers: Bhadra is part of Project Tiger and has a healthy population of tigers.
    • Leopards
    • Sloth Bears
    • Elephants
    • Wild Dogs (Dholes)
    • Gaur (Indian Bison)
    • Spotted Deer
    • Sambar Deer
    • Malabar Giant Squirrel

    2. Birds:

    • Malabar Pied Hornbill
    • Crested Serpent Eagle
    • Great Indian Hornbill
    • Paradise Flycatcher
    • Ruby-throated Bulbul
    • Kingfisher

    3. Reptiles and Amphibians:

    • Crocodiles: Found around the Bhadra River
    • Cobra, King Cobra
    • Monitor Lizards
    • Frogs and Toads

    Wildlife Safari at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary:

    1. Jeep Safari: The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary offers guided jeep safaris that take you deep into the forest, providing an opportunity to spot large mammals and birds. The safari is generally conducted twice a day—early morning and late afternoon. Safari duration is usually 2 to 3 hours, depending on the route.

    • Timings: Morning 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM; Evening 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
    • Safari Cost: The charges may vary, generally around ₹400-500 per person. Jeep hire may have additional charges.

    2. River Safari: The Bhadra River, which runs through the sanctuary, offers boat safaris. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and spot aquatic species like crocodiles and otters.

    Accommodation at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary:

    There are several lodging options around Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, ranging from luxury resorts to forest guesthouses. Here are some of the popular choices:

    • River Tern Lodge (Jungle Lodges & Resorts): Located on the edge of the Bhadra reservoir, this is a popular choice for visitors seeking an immersive wildlife experience.
    • Kemmangundi Homestays and Resorts: Offer beautiful views of the hills and access to nature trails.

    Things to Do in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary:

    1. Wildlife and Bird Watching: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is ideal for those interested in wildlife and birdwatching. The sanctuary has a rich avian population and is a paradise for bird lovers.
    2. Trekking: There are a number of trekking routes around the sanctuary. The Kemmangundi Hill Station, Mullayanagiri (the highest peak in Karnataka), and Hebbe Falls are popular trekking spots nearby.
    3. Photography: With its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, Bhadra is a photographer’s dream, especially for capturing wildlife in its natural habitat.
    4. Boating and Kayaking: Water sports activities like kayaking and boating are available on the Bhadra River and the reservoir, offering a unique way to experience the sanctuary’s beauty.
    5. Nature Walks: Explore the sanctuary’s serene nature trails, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna and enjoy peaceful walks in the forest.
    6. Hebbe Falls and Kallathigiri Falls: These picturesque waterfalls near the sanctuary are popular for short trips, perfect for a day of picnicking or swimming.

    Conservation Efforts:

    Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a critical part of India’s Project Tiger, aimed at conserving tigers and their natural habitat. Various eco-tourism initiatives are in place to ensure that the sanctuary is preserved, with minimal human interference.

    Travel Tips:

    • Wear comfortable clothing: Prefer neutral or earthy tones to blend into the environment. Avoid bright colors.
    • Carry binoculars: Essential for birdwatching and spotting distant wildlife.
    • Travel in silence: Animals are sensitive to sound, so staying quiet improves your chances of spotting wildlife.
    • Pack essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit are important.
    • Respect the environment: Do not litter or disturb wildlife. Maintain a safe distance from animals at all times.

    Nearby Attractions:

    • Kemmangundi Hill Station: Known for its lush coffee plantations and viewpoints.
    • Mullayanagiri Peak: The highest peak in Karnataka, offering stunning views and trekking opportunities.
    • Sringeri Temple: A historical pilgrimage site located nearby, renowned for its architecture and spiritual significance.

    Location

    Location: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chikmagalur and Shivamogga districts of Karnataka, India. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it covers an area of about 492 square kilometers and is a part of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve.

    How to Reach:

    • By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 180 km away.
    • By Rail: Kadur (51 km away) and Birur (52 km away) are the nearest railway stations.
    • By Road: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. The nearest town, Chikmagalur, is about 38 km away. Taxis and buses can be taken from Chikmagalur or Shivamogga.

    Conclusion:

    Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique combination of thrilling wildlife experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and tranquil nature. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, birder, or simply seeking an escape into nature, Bhadra provides an enriching experience that showcases the natural beauty and diversity of India’s Western Ghats.

  • Experience Karnataka’s Biodiversity Through Its Wildlife

    Experience Karnataka’s Biodiversity Through Its Wildlife

    What can be a better way to experience a place if not through the biodiversity it offers? Known for its richness in flora and fauna, experiencing Karnataka is incomplete if you have not been among the wildlife of the state. Especially the western ghats of Karnataka prove to be a hotspot for the variety of birds, animals and plants. Even today, due to many unexplored places still present in the region, new species of flora and fauna are found here. It is like a paradise for wildlife lovers, explorers and for people who are looking to connect themselves more to nature.

    With around 20 major wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, Karnataka is a place one must visit if you really want to explore different kinds of species, experience the greens closely and connect or reconnect with mother nature. Here are some of the places you have to visit to get one of the best experiences in wildlife:

    Nagarhole National Park

    Known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole is one of the most famous Tiger Reserves in South India. Located in the Kodagu and Mysore district along the Western Ghats and Brahmagiri Hills, it is a prominent part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Offering a sight to behold for nature lovers, it is home to various species of flora and fauna. The major animals that are found here are Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, Elephants, Chital, Sambar Deer, and Barking Deer. Besides, the park is filled with sandalwood and teak trees.

    In 1955, the park was set up as a wildlife sanctuary, but with time the area increased and it was upgraded as a national park in 1988 and later as the 37th tiger reserve of India in 1999. Currently, it is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for a World Heritage site.

    Besides the biodiversity offered by this national park, the rich history behind the establishment of the national park is something you should experience whenever possible. The government offers many lodges within the national park for you to stay with all the facilities you need within the forest. If you are keen on experiencing Karnataka to its fullest, Nagarhole National Park is one such place for you!

    Kudremukh National Park

    Named after one of the most famous peaks of Southern India, Kudremukh, the national park is located at the Chikmagalur district in Karnataka. Kudremukh means horse-face which is the shape of the highest peak within the forests of the park and known for the amazing trekking experiences one has there. But the major reason you should visit the national park is the biodiversity it offers.

    Home to the lion-tailed macaques, the park also is a sanctuary for animals like tiger, leopard, wild dog, Malabar giant squirrel, common langur, sloth bear, gaur, porcupine, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, jackal, giant flying squirrel and the mongoose. Besides, the plantations of eucalyptus, casuarinas, acacia auriculiformis and Grevillea Robusta are also found here.

    To experience nature to its fullest, the best way is to stay inside the forests of the National Park, hence the Karnataka government has constructed many lodges for the tourists inside and near the jungles of the Kudremukh National Park. There are many Forest Rest Houses as well for the tourists to have a comfortable stay.

    Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

    Surrounded by serene hills all around like the Mullayanagiri, Hebbegiri, Gangegiri and Bababudangiri hills, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is one experience you cannot miss. Getting its name from the Bhadra river, the sanctuary is now one of the most famous tiger reserves under the Project Tiger in Karnataka.

    Offering a variety of over 120 species of flora spread across the land, the sanctuary is a habitat for tigers, gaur, elephant, wild boar, sloth bear, black leopard, jungle cat, jackal and other such animals along with many reptiles. Besides, there are more than 200 species of birds alone flying across the jungle! The sanctuary is also home to the largest teak tree in the state called the Jagara Giant, which has a girth of 5.1 m with a height of 32 m and is assumed to be 400 years old.

    A perfect place to spend time with your family and friends, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is something which all generations can enjoy. While kids with their ever curious minds could discover various species of animals and birds, adults can go on hiking and trekking to get their adventurous selves out. Meanwhile, the elderly can just stay inside the rest houses, hotels or resorts inside the forests to relax and experience the tranquil environment there.

    Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

    Deriving its name from Goddess Mookambika, the presiding deity of the famous Mookambika Temple at Kollur, in Udupi district, Coastal Karnataka, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is a place for all the explorers curious to know about various endangered and rare species of flora and fauna.

    Being a protected sanctuary of the Southern State, the wildlife sanctuary is home to some majestic animals like Slender loris, lion-tailed macaque, sambar, chital, sloth bear, gaur, wild pig, sambar, barking deer, otter, porcupine, tiger and leopard. Besides, there is a treat for all the bird-lovers since birds like Myna, Drongo, Brahminy Kites, lapwings, Hornbill, Bulbul, Egrets, Kingfishers, Golden Oriole, Magpie Robin, Purple Sunbirds wtc. Are also found within the forests of the sanctuary.

    With many attractions nearby to give you the much-needed break from the daily chaotic life of the cities, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is a gem when it comes to experiencing Karnataka for its biodiversity. If you are looking to stay here, go for the stays available at Kollur. There are many places where you can check-in, forget about the rest of the world for a while and explore nature all around you.

    Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

    Flourishing with plenty of flora and fauna, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary got its name from the Brahmagiri Peak which is a part of the forest. The lush green landscapes of the sanctuary along with attractive waterfalls within is nothing less than a sight to behold.

    Located along the Western Ghats in the Kodagu District of Karnataka, the Brahmgiris is famous for trekking within the forest and towards the peak. However, you need to take permission from the authorities to do the same. Animals like bonnet macaque, common langur, barking deer, mouse deer, Malabar giant squirrel, the giant flying squirrel, lion-tailed Macaque, jungle cat, sloth bear, porcupine, pangolin and many more birds and reptiles are found here.

    To stay within the forest, there are Forest Rest Houses only, built by the government with staff to cook and look after you during your stay. Besides, you can also stay in various kinds of homestays in the Coorg district to experience the whole area as a vacation and adventure place.

    Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary

    Created exclusively for the preservation of the sloth bears in 1994, the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is Asia’s first sloth bear sanctuary. Located in the Ballari district of the state, the sanctuary is very close to the World Heritage site of Hampi and has a rich mythological history to its fame straight from Ramayana!

    Along with the obvious presence of a huge number of sloth bears which can be usually found within the caves of the sanctuary, other animals which can be spotted in the forest are jackals, black-naped hares, leopards, wild boars, pangolins, mongoose, hyena, lizards, porcupines, peafowl with more than 70 species of birds!

    There are many jungle lodges and resorts within the sanctuary where you can stay and spend time with your family or friends or even alone but with a bunch of sweet little animals and birds around you. Staying and pondering over the Ramayana’s connection to a sanctuary is something which you wouldn’t have or rarely experienced, that too in the wildlife!

    Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

    Located in Uttar Karnataka, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most ideal destinations for wildlife and nature lovers. Just over the River Kali, this sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in the state.

    A paradise for birdwatchers, Dandeli houses more than 200 species of birds including the Blue-throated Barbet, Great Pied Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill and Peregrine falcon. Besides, many animals and reptiles such as barking deer, bison, Indian Mongolian, black panther, sambhar, tiger, leopard, elephant, flying squirrel, Malabar giant squirrel, different species of snakes and crocodiles can also be spotted deep into the jungles.

    There are various camps and tents in and near the sanctuary where you can stay. Besides, there are many lodges and resorts as well especially made for tourists and explorers to have one great experience within the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary

    Known for Barapede Caves, the only known breeding area of the Wroughton’s free-tailed bat, Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is a place that is a must-go for explorers and wildlife travellers. It is located in the Khanapur taluk at the Karnataka-Goa border in the Belagavi district.

    The sanctuary is famous for the presence of tigers, leopards, gaur, sloth bears, sambar, spotted deer, chitals, foxes, wild dogs, king cobras, elephants, and other threatened species of mammals, birds and reptiles. As for flora, it is famous for the existence of medicinal plants in the forest.

    There are various activities which you can take part in including adventurous camping, climbing and exploring the Bhimgad fort and researching its history, taking the jungle safari or merely relaxing amongst the serenity of the forest. There are many jungle lodges and resorts where you can stay.

    Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

    Very close to the Kudremukh National Park and the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, which is famous as the King Cobra research station, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is something no one would recommend you to miss. With a guarantee of thrills, excitement, adventure and simultaneously peace and relaxation, this sanctuary is a must go.

    Home to many animals such as Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Ussuri dhole, Indian elephant, Indian jackal, Asian palm civet, Indian crested porcupine, sambar, Indian spotted chevrotain, gaur (Indian bison), Black-naped hare, Indian giant flying squirrel, king cobra, etc, the sanctuary amazes you with the variety of flora and fauna one can sight there.

    Besides the wildlife, the place is full of adventure sports such as river rafting and trekking. Along with it, one can also do camping, river bathing and go around the King cobra research station to satisfy their curious minds!