Tag: western ghats of Karnataka

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.
16/10/2024
8 Most popular hill stations in Karnataka
Every time someone mentions a vacation, everyone always thinks of cities, beaches, and islands but a hill station is a place that can take your vacation experience to a whole new level.
Up there, at high altitudes from sea level, soaring amongst the clouds and breathing the fresh air is an elevating experience that would make anyone feel physically and mentally rejuvenated. Hill stations are often surrounded by lush, green forests which are brimming with so many varieties of flora and fauna.
The best part about all hill stations, in general, is the pleasant climate that comes with it. The weather at hill stations is never too hot and is always cool or chilly. This makes hill stations the ideal destination for a vacation any time of the year.
Whenever anyone talks of hill stations, the first place that comes to mind is always Karnataka. The Nilgiris, or the Blue Mountains, which form a part of the Western Ghats in the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and a part of Kerala are a sight to behold. Due to this, there are many hills and hillocks spread across these states. This provides us with a plethora of Hill Stations in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, in particular.
Although Tamil Nadu boasts of some beautiful hill stations like Ooty and Coonoor, these fade away in comparison with the hill stations in Karnataka. These hill stations in Karnataka are more popular because they have better and cooler weather than the ones in Tamil Nadu.
Some of the best hill stations in Karnataka are:
Coorg
Coorg, which is locally known as Kodagu, is one of the most commercial hill stations in Karnataka and is popularly called “The Scotland of India”. This is because the weather of Coorg is very similar to that of the European Country, Scotland.
Coorg, which was originally an administrative state near Mysore has now become one of the topmost hill stations in Karnataka, which attracts tourists from all over the world. The beauty of Coorg is best witnessed during the monsoons, which occur between the months of June and September. The rainfall is the heaviest during the month of June and it is during this time that tourists flock to this place.
The town of Kodagu is filled with acres and acres of lush green, tea and coffee plantations on one side, and dense forests on another. Also, it has so many places to visit and things to do that you can plan a trip to Coorg for a day, a week or a month but you’ll never get bored.
This place is something of a heaven for adventure and nature enthusiasts as Coorg provides scope for a plethora of adventure activities like Paragliding, white-water river rafting, Kayaking, Rappelling, Canoeing and Waterfall rappelling. Coorg also has endless possibilities when it comes to trekking and camping.
All these attributes make Coorg one of the best hill stations in Karnataka and in India. The place can get very crowded during the peak seasons and it may be very difficult to get hotel bookings and flights, but it would be well worth your time to make reservations in advance.
Undoubtedly, despite the commercialization, Coorg is the first choice for most tourists and travellers when hill stations in Karnataka are being considered.
Chikmagalur
Located in the deeper regions of Karnataka, Chikmagalur rests in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range. This is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka owing to its favourable climate, which stays pleasant throughout the year, and its acres and acres of Coffee Plantations.
While this place may not be the most popular of hill stations in Karnataka, it is very commonly known to and sought-after by the people who travel a lot. Chikmagalur offers many of the best activities to do, places to visit and hotels to stay in. The place is also famous for some of its beautiful homestays and resorts.
Chikmagalur is often referred to as a trekker’s backyard owing to the many trekking trails available here, the most popular of which is the Mullayanagiri.
The Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Chikmagalur and gives stunning, picturesque views of the valleys nearby. This trail is best covered during the spring season as it may get too hot during summer and may get too slippery and hazardous during the monsoons. Some of the other better trekking trails in Chikmagalur are the Kudremukh National Park trail and Datta Peeta.
They are all easily accessible from the city centre of Chikmagalur and have a tendency to bring out the adventurer in you, invoking your curiosity and making you want to explore more and more. This is one of the hill stations in Karnataka which can boast of its own Wildlife Sanctuary, the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Chikmagalur also has a few waterfalls where you can enjoy a picnic with your family and take some time to relax, breathing the clean air and enjoying the roar of water falling from the cliffs. Some of the other popular attractions around are the Bhadra Dam, Shringeri Sharada Peetha and the Sharadamba temple amongst many others.
To top it, there are many Nature-stay types of homestays and resorts, most of which are located in the middle of coffee plantations. All these aspects make Chikmagalur one of the top hill stations in Karnataka.
Nandi Hills
This is one of the top hill stations in Karnataka and it is renowned for its picturesque views of the nearby hillocks covered in mist and a heavenly sunrise. This place is located at a short driving distance of 60 kilometres from Bangalore and is usually used as a weekend or a one-day getaway by the citizens of Bangalore.
This place is somewhat a paradise for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts but it also provides a calm and peaceful atmosphere for the religious ones. The place gets its name from a Nandi temple and a statue of the Bull Lord Nandi, who is the most ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, which is located and the entrance of the hills.
The best feature of this place, which sets it apart from the other hill stations in Karnataka, is the scope of adventure activities like paragliding. The tourist department employs people experienced in paragliding and trainers to teach the tourists how to paraglide.
After a training session and getting accustomed to the environment, you will be able to just jump off the cliff, and emerge out soaring above the skies at 5000 feet above sea level. Having a bird’s eye view of the beautiful hillocks nearby is an ethereal experience and is a must-not-miss opportunity.
Other places of attraction are Tipu’s drop, Tipu’s summer residence, and the Nandi Temple. Nandi Hills has many resorts, homestays, and hilltop hotels to provide accommodation and a lot of restaurants and dhabas, which will keep your appetite satiated throughout your trip.
It is undoubtedly one of the best hill stations in Karnataka where you can feel your veins pumping from the adrenaline rush.
Gangamoola
Gangamoola is located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka and is unique in terms of serene beauty when compared to other hill stations in Karnataka. This place is located in one of the hilly ranges of the Western Ghats and is unrivalled in terms of its natural scenic beauty.
This is one of the must-visit hill stations in Karnataka for all nature lovers and trekkers. The place is special and holds a divine connection as it is the origination point of the three rivers Tunga, Bhadra, and Nethravathi, which are associated with the River Ganga.
A visit here in itself is a trek that will take you through the forest so it will be compulsory to get permission from the local Forest Department, prior to embarking on the trek.
The trails are beautiful and will take you through dense forests, across rivers and streams, and past the cascading mighty waterfalls. It is one of the most scenic trekking trails amongst all other hill stations in Karnataka.
A part of the trek involves going through caves, wherein one might have to crawl through, to make it to the other side, which makes for a great adventure.
The place is best visited during the monsoons as the forests look ethereally beautiful in the rains. There is always a chance of spotting wild animals and one should also be wary of snakes in the vicinity.
Kundadri
Covered with dense forests throughout, it is one of the hill stations in Karnataka that are located in the ranges of the Western Ghats. This place is an amazing weekend getaway as it is one of the few hill stations in Karnataka which are not at all commercialized.
It makes for a beautiful drive from the nearby Agumbe region. While the place does not have many places to visit and things to do, it offers a beautiful view of the sunset.
The peak can be scaled even by small cars but as it is a one lane road, it may be a bit tricky to give way to oncoming vehicles. The drive should be completed within the sunrise as the view of sunrise is not to be missed. There is a small Jain temple on the way, which is also very beautifully constructed and offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
This is one of the hill stations in Karnataka which should not be missed if you’re anywhere near the Udupi area.
Kodachadri
This is another one of the hill stations in Karnataka that are located in the Western Ghats and it’s covered in dense forests. What makes it unique from the other hill stations of Karnataka is that it has been declared as a natural heritage site by the Karnataka government.
It is the 10th highest peak in Karnataka and offers a lot of scope for trekking in the dense forests. There are many temples like the Mookambika Temple and Shankaracharya Temple on this trail.
One of the best features of this place is the jeep ride which is offered at 2800 rupees for 8 people. Being one of the most scenic hill stations in Karnataka, the view from the summit is one not to be missed.
Accommodation may be availed at the IB stop, about 1 hour away from the peak.
Biligiriranga Hills
This place, popularly known as BR Hills, is located in south eastern Karnataka and shares the border with Tamil Nadu. This is one of the hill stations in Karnataka which provide the right mix of natural beauty and tourist locations.
While there are adventure activities like karting, fishing and river rafting to quench your thirst for adventure, it also provides scope for leisurely sight-seeing with some of the most popular tourist attractions being BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, Biligirirangaswamy Temple, and the Dodda Sampige Mara.
This beautiful hill station is perfect for visiting irrespective of how you are travelling, solo or with family or friends. Another thing that sets it apart from the other hill stations in Karnataka is the forest shops that are here. It allows tourists to take back great souvenirs in the form of Tribal artefacts and handicrafts.
Agumbe
Agumbe is located in a small district called Shimoga in Karnataka. If the rain dampens your spirit, this is not the place for you because, in this place, it always rains. Commonly known as the “Cherrapunji of the South”, this place is one of the best hill stations in Karnataka for all those who love living in forests in all their beauty.
The place is best visited between November and February and has a plethora of places to stay in and many restaurants serving the delicious local cuisine.
There are many places to visit in Agumbe like the Gopala Krishna Temple, Sunset point and Jogigundi falls among many others. This is one of the hidden gems in Karnataka which not many people have heard of and is not very crowded when compared to the other hill stations in Karnataka.
So now that you know which are the best hill stations in Karnataka, when are you visiting?
26/07/2021
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!
12/07/2021