Tag: Wildlife Sanctuary

  • 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.

  • Best Weekend Trip from Bangalore

    Best Weekend Trip from Bangalore

    A short break is more necessary when the stress and work load starts affecting the mind. The weather in the city makes the envy of the metropolis. When there is a day or more than a day plan for the weekend trip from Bangalore, to the beautiful destination for a break that leaves u raring to go again.

    The Silicon city or the IT city of Bangalore has a several options to have a great weekend vacationers, with a below 500kms radius of the Bangalore, with an every kind of travelling places like nature, adventure, spirituality, wild, etc,.

    kerehaklu-eco-retreat-51

    Narure

    Coorg: – Coorg is known as a Scotland of India, it is a stunning hill station with a misty hill, lush green valley, evergreen forest and the breath taking weather, and waterfalls. If u wants to sit back, enjoy and relax the vacation away from the city, then the Madikeri is the one of the place in Karnataka for you. Madikeri (at Coorg) it is a hill station and a tourist place in Karnataka. It’s 252kms away from the Bangalore. Coorg is on the western ghat.

     

    Chikmagalur: – its literally means ‘the land of young daughter’. it is said to have been gifted as the dowry of the younger daughter of a legendary chieftain here, and there is also a place called Hiremagalur, ’land of the Elder daughter’ which is a part of the Chikmagalur district. Chikmagalur tourism place of the paradise for all tourists that lies near many tourist spots, pilgrimage site of the coffee plantation. Hills station, temples, waterfalls, etc.

     

    Sangama: – Sangama in a scenic spot it is located 92kms away from the Bangalore. This place represents the point where Arkavati River meets the river Kaveri. There are some unexpected twists and turns on the road that makes the trip rather interesting and also a fabulous view of the river can be enjoyed.

    A trip from Sangama would also provide the activities are like trekking, and fishing at the Kaveri Wildlife Sanctuary.

     

    Jog Falls: – This place is most popular destination. The Jog falls is perhaps the most stunning example of the nature’s majesty. The falls is originated by the river Sharavathi and consist of four distinct segment and they are Raja, Rani, Rover, and Rocket. The sight of the magnificent sheet of the water cascading straight down a height of 830 feet unfettered by the rocks. The beauty of this view is enhanced by the natural beauty of its lush green surrounding. Best season to visit Jog falls is monsoon.

     

    Spirituality

    Murudeshwar: – It is the rich past home of the second largest Shiva Statue in the world. It is located on the main Mangalore – Karwar Highway; mududeshwara is a sandwich between the picturesque Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Its main attraction are its beach, an awesome Shiva statue and a Shiva temple with chalukya and kadamba sculptures built in the Dravidian style, of architecture, the temple located on a hillock offering u a magnificent view of a sea.

    The best season to visit this place would be in between October to March.

     

    Kollur Mookambika temple: – The distance from Bangalore is 484km, to the Kollur Mookambika temple. The temple Kollur Mookambika is located 135km away from Mangalore and 80km away from Udapi, in the valley of the Kodchadri peak of the western ghat a serene town of Kollur. The Mookambika temple, is one of the seven most sacred spots of the coastal region, is dedicated to the goddess of emotional power and strength. The goddess mookimbika is represented in the form of Jyothir-Linga incorporating both Shiva and Shakthi.

    Melkote: – It is 150km away from Bangalore.it is situated in pandapur Taluk of Mandya District. The god worshipped in melkote is Lord cheluva Narayna Swamy. This is built in the 12th century enjoyed the tipu sulthan and the maharaja’s. The temple gopura are in rose coloured, the lions are faced to the east , west, south, and to the north also.

     

    Wildlife Sanctuary

    Dubare wild life sanctuary:- The training camp of the Mysore Dasara elephant, dubare camp beckons wildlife enthusiasts as well as travelers. A trained naturalist is at hand to explain the various aspects of elephant history, ecology n biology. At Dubare elephant camp u get unique insight into these amazing creatures. The most deciduous forest of dubare are home to wild elephant are regular and so is spotting the spotted tiger, wild dogs, deer, birds sanctuary etc., are also seen in this forest. Crocodiles also can be found in the river of this forest.

     

    Bhadra wild life sanctuary: – It is situated in the western ghat of the Chikmagalur. The bhadra wildlife has its own flora and the fauna. Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is a protected area and the project tiger reserve. The sanctuary is surrendered by the scenic hills and steps slopes of the mulayangiri, bababudangiri. In the sanctuary were you can find more than 100 species tress can be found example teak, silver, sandal wood, rosewood, bamboo, medicinal plants, fruit plants, jungle flowers, etc., and a different kind of species birds, and the tigers, wild dog, deer, and reptiles, mammals, etc., all kind if the animals are found in this sanctuary. In this sanctuary there will be a day safari.

    Distance is 285kms from Bangalore, 190kms from Mangalore.