Scanning the deep forests on a rip-roaring safari while spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. Do you like the sound of it? If yes, you are in for a treat at the wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka.
India is blessed with a great diversity of exotic flora and fauna and Karnataka is one of the biggest and richest destinations in terms of wildlife. Don’t you agree?
Like other states of the country, there are some vast, incredible, and famous wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka that house a flamboyant variety of animals and vegetation.
If you are among the wildlife enthusiasts or a nature lover looking for an unforgettable wilderness experience, visit these popular Karnataka wildlife sanctuaries.
The lush greenery, peace, and splendid surroundings will de-stress your mind and let you explore the paradise of wildlife lovers.
By trekking or by safari, explore these wild expanses and relish great adventures on your Karnataka holiday. Bring yourself closer to nature and unfold new adventures that await you on your next trip.
To wander into the wild, here is the list of famous wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka
1. Nagahole National Park
2. Bannerghatta National Park
3. Bandipur National Park
4. Kudremukh National Park
5. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Anshi National Park
7. Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
8. Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary
9. Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary
10. Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary
11. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
12. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
13. Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary
14. Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary
15. Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
16. Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
17. Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve
18. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Nagarhole National Park
Forming a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Nagarhole National Park (also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park) is one of the best and largest wildlife sanctuaries in South India.
One of the most amazing aspects this sanctuary is that the hunter-gatherer tribe, the Jenu Kuruba still live here and if you are fortunate enough, you can have a chance to see them.
There is a wonderful accommodation in the form of Kabini River Lodge, that makes staying here one of your most memorable experiences.
- Location: Mysore-Madikeri Road, Hunsur, Karnataka
- Things to do: Wildlife spotting, vehicle Safari, boat safari, coracle ride
- Best time to visit: November – February
- Fees: Adults – INR 50 (Indians), INR 1500 (Foreigners)
Timings:
- Vehicle Safari: 5.30 am – 10 am, 3 pm – 7 pm
- Boat Safari: 6.30 am – 9.15 am, 3.30 pm – 6.15 pm
- Coracle Ride: 9 am – 11 am, 5 pm – 6 pm
How to reach:
- From Mysuru Airport: 94 km (approx.)
- From Mysuru Junction: 87 km (approx.)
Check-out more Tastefully crafted Nagarhole nataional park Tour Packages
Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park is one of the most famous wildlife parks in Bangalore and in India. The park, a haven for exotic flora and fauna, has been divided by the authorities into a separate section for herbivores and carnivores.
Private safaris are very popular, although one needs a prior permission from the people in charge.
Another popular highlight of the area is the butterfly conservatory which is one of the first such facility in India.
Dotted with over 20 such different varieties of butterflies, the building is circular in form and is a great attraction especially for children.
- Location: Bannerghatta Main Rd, Bannerughatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Things to do: Lion Safari, Tiger Safari, Butterfly Park visit, wildlife spotting
- Best time to visit: October – June
Entry Fees:
- Adults – INR 50 (Indians), INR 1500 (Foreigners)
- Adults – INR 100, Children/Senior Citizens/ Differently-Abled – INR 80
- Jeep Combo (Zoo + Safari + Butterfly Par): Jeep Bolero (6 seater) – INR 3500. Jeep Xylo (6 seater) – INR 4500, Jeep Innova (6 seater) – INR 5500
- Bus Combo (Zoo + Safari + Butterfly Park): Adults – INR 400, Children/Senior Citizens/ Differently-Abled – INR 350
Timings:
- Zoo/ Butterfly Park/ Boating – 9.30 am – 5 pm
- Grand Safari – 10 am – 4.30 am, Closed on Tuesdays
How to reach:
- From Kempegowda International Airport: 70 km (approx.)
- From Bengaluru Railway Station: 33 km (approx.)
Also read: Top Things to Do in Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park is popularly known to be one of the best places to sight tigers in South India.
The Sanctuary is one of the 15 sanctuaries that belong to the Project Tiger Scheme. Under the Wildlife Protection Act, Bandipur was declared a National Park in 1974.
The national park has a sizable number of elephants, butterflies and tigers which makes visiting this exotic place fruitful for nature enthusiasts.
Spread in vast area of 880 square kilometers, Bandipur is a year round destination and a great place to sight exotic views and locations.
- Location: Hangala Village, Gundlupet Taluk, Bandipur
- Things to do: Wildlife spotting, mini-bus safaris, jeep safaris
- Best time to visit: March – May
Fees:
- Adults – INR 50 (Indians), INR 1500 (Foreigners)
- Bus Safari: INR 300 per person (90-minute)
- Jeep Safari: Indians – INR 3500, Foreigners – INR 5000
- 9-seater Vehicle: Indians – INR 5000, Foreigners – INR 7000
Timings:
- Bus Safari: 6.15 am – 9 am
- Jeep Safari: 6:15 am -8 am, 8 am – 9:45 am, 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm and 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
How to reach:
- From Mysuru Airport: 64 km (approx.)
- From Mysuru Junction: 74 km (approx.)
Check-out more Tastefully crafted Bandipur nataional park Tour Packages
Kudremukh National Park
The park is one of the most popular reserves for lion tailed macaques and a significantly popular tourist spot in Karnataka.
Identified by steep cliffs, deep valleys and chain of fabulous mountains, Kudremukh National Park house a wide array of exotic birds and animals and an amazingly diverse species of vegetation.
The park has derived its name from a hill top, which appears to be in the shape of a horse head. Marked by resplendent views all around, the best time to visit this fabulous location is from October to May, when it is most pleasant to view the park in its myriad colors.
- Location: Kudremukh, Chikmagalur District, Karnataka
- Things to do: Bird watching, trekking, witness lush greenery, Kadami waterfall visit
- Best time to visit: October – May
- Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
Fees:
- Adults – INR 50 (Indians), INR 1500 (Foreigners)
- Indians: INR 200 per person
- Foreigners: INR 1,000 per person
How to reach:
- From Mangaluru International Airport: 93 km (approx.)
- From Mangalore Central Railway Station: 101 km (approx.)
Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
An erstwhile private hunting ground for the Maharajas of Mysore and later of the British, the Kabini is home to nearly 250 different varieties of flora and fauna.
Kabini is often slated to be one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka, having one of the largest flock of Asiatic elephants. Located on the banks of the Kabini River, the best time to visit this amazing place is between October and May, which is roughly the winter and spring season in the country.
Kabini is nearly 80 kilometers from Mysore and about 205 kilometers from Bangalore. It is pretty famous for its diverse topography and rich vegetation which look exquisitely beautiful.
- Location: On the banks of Kabini River, Karnataka
- Things to do: Spot leopard, sambar, panther, cheetal, safari ride, boat ride
- Best time to visit: October – May
- Fees: Indians – INR 300, Children (below 12 years) – INR 150, Foreginers – INR 500
Safari: Adults – INR 300 (90-minute), Children (below 12 years) – INR 150, Foreigners – INR 500
Timings:
- Safari at Dammana Katte Gate: 6 am, 7 am, 3.30 pm, 4.30 pm (1.5 to 2 hours)
- Safari at Veerahosanhalli Gate & Nachni Gate: 6 am, 7 am, 8 am, 3.30 pm, 4.30 pm (1.5 to 2 hours)
How to reach:
- From Kempegowda International Airport: 270 km (approx.)
- From Mysuru Junction: 63 km (approx.)
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
One of the largest bird sanctuaries in the wonderful state of Karnataka, Ranganathittu is a great place for avifauna enthusiasts to indulge in their passion.
Located at a distance of 16 kilometers from Mysore and 3 kilometers from the historic town of Srirangapatna, the Bird Sanctuary is made up of six islets on the banks of the Kaveri River.
A wonderful boat ride drive you thorough these islets where you come across the sanctuary’s incredible flora and fauna.
Although spread in comparatively lesser space of 67 square kilometers, the sanctuary is a significant breeding ground for migratory birds which can be spotted here along with the resident species. The best time to visit this place is between June and October.
- Location: Ranganathittu Road, District Mandya, Srirangapatna, Karnataka
- Things to do: Boating, bird watching of Kingfishers, Painted Stork, Ibis, Spoonbill, Egrets, etc.
- Best time to visit: December – April
- Timings: 9 am – 6 pm, open all days of the week
Fees:
- Indians: Adults – INR 75, Child – INR 25
- Foreigners: Adults – INR 500, Child – INR 250
- Boating: Indians – Adults – INR 100, Child – INR 35, Forerigners – Adults – INR 500, Child – INR 250
- Special Boating: Indians – INR 2000 per trip, Foreigners – INR 3500 per trip
How to reach:
- From Mysuru Airport: 32 km (approx.)
- From Mysuru Junction: 15 km (approx.)
Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary
Offering a wonderful destination as a weekend gateway, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is host of exotic evergreen and semi-green forests and a wide range of exquisite wildlife.
The Park derives its name from the famous Brahmagiri peak (1607 m), which is located in its vicinity.
Spread in a vast area of 181 kilometers, the Sanctuary house a large number species such as Elephant, Guar, Tiger, Leopard, Wild Pig, Spotted deer, Nilgiri Langur, Giant Flying, King Cobra, Slender Loris, Common Otter, Civets, and Bonnet Macaque etc. Treat your eyes to some amazing views and enjoy a great vacation here.
- Location: Kappimala – Paithalmala Rd, Vellad, Karnataka
- Things to do: Trekking, spot lion-tailed macaque, elephants, leopards
- Best time to visit: October – March
- Timings: 9.30 am – 5 pm
Fees:
- Indians – INR 200, Foreigners – INR 1000
- Trekking: INR 300
- Guide: 500 per day
How to reach:
- From Kempegowda International Airport: 350 km (approx.)
- From Mysuru Junction: 152 km (approx.)
Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary
Called as a haven for anglers, The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places in South India for bird watching. Located on the banks of the Kaveri River, the Sanctuary boast of nearly 200 different species of birds.
The sanctuary is also home to dry deciduous and riverine forests. In addition to this there are a number of other exquisite variety of animals such as spotted dear, jackals, elephants, Sāmbhar, grizzled giant squirrel as well as elephants and leopards.
Owing to cool and pleasant weather, the best time to visit Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is between September and February.
Besides, one can also enjoy other exciting activities like trekking and camping in the midst of the great verdant views of the park.
- Location: Chamarajanagar, Karnataka
- Things to do: Spot wild dog, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, Asian Elephants, chital, striped hyena
- Best time to visit: August – March
- Fees: INR 150 per person
- Safari Timings: 10 am – 4.30 pm
How to reach:
- From Kempegowda International Airport: 265 km (approx.)
- From Ramnagar Railway Station: 178 km (approx.)
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Also known by the name Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, this is one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka that was declared a Project Tiger Reserve.
Apart from tigers, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place in Karnaraka to see the Jagara Giant, the largest teak tree in the state; 5.1 m wide and 32 m high.
Also, it is some 400 years old. Other than this, you can observe various mammals, reptiles, and over 25 species of birds, many of which are endemic to the Western Ghats.
Located on a hillock on the edge of the Bhadra reservoir, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka is spread across 500 sq. km in two districts namely, Shivamogga and Chikmagalur districts.
- Location: Behind Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tarikere, Lakkavalli, Karnataka
- Things to do: Jeep safari, Bhadra Dam visit, sunset viewing, boating in Bhadra Reservoir
- Best time to visit: October – March
- Timings: 6.30 am – 8.30 am, 4 pm – 6 pm
Fees:
- Jeep Safari: Adults – INR 400, Children (below 10 years) – INR 200
How to reach:
- From Mangaluru International Airport: 192 km (approx.)
- From Kadur Junction: 51 km (approx.)
Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
This Karnataka wildlife sanctuary is named after Goddess Moolambika, the chief idol of the well-known Mookambika Temple at Kollur, Udupi.
It spans over an area of 370.37 sq. km and is snuggled with thick evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous Western Ghats forests and has blotches of teak plantations all over.
Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary houses wild dogs, wild boards, jackals, deer, sloth bears, and tigers.
This place is also home to reptiles like Python, King Cobra, and others. If you are a bird watcher, the sight of Myna, Drongo, Hornbill, Bulbul, Kingfishers and Purple Sunbirds will leave you enchanted.
- Location: Behind Kollur, Udupi District, Karnataka
- Things to do: Visit Kollur Mookambika Temple, visit waterfalls – Theertha waterfalls and Koosalli waterfalls, wildlife spotting
- Best time to visit: September – April
- Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
Fees:
- Safari Fees: INR 135 per person
- Jeep Safari: Adults – INR 400, Children (below 10 years) – INR 200
How to reach:
- From Mangaluru International Airport: 136 km (approx.)
- From Molakalmuru Railway Station: 339 km (approx.)
Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary
A small sanctuary in Mandya district, Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary was established on 30th April 1985. Spread across 14 sq. km, this place displays lush scrub forests and plantations and is bounded by agricultural fields.
If you want to spend time in nature and spot wildlife in peace, visit Arabithitthu Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka.
Leopard, spotted deer, hare, fox, wild pig, common mongoose, and porcupine are some of the animals you can spot at this wildlife sanctuary. Apart from this, you can witness a massive area of eucalyptus and sandalwood plantations.
- Location: Mandya District, Karnataka
- Things to do: Spot leopards, fox, spotted deer, common mongoose, etc.
- Best time to visit: December – February
- Timings: 9 am – 6 pm
Fees:
- Indians – INR 50, Foreigners – INR 300
- Jeep Safari: Adults – INR 400, Children (below 10 years) – INR 200
How to reach:
- From Mysore Airport: 156 km (approx.)
- From KRNR/ Krishnarajanagara Railway Station: 193 km (approx.)
Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka. All the wildlife lovers must visit here to witness Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat, a threatened species on the verge of extinction.
Other animal species that can be here include the Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Emerald Dove, Imperial Pigeon, and the elusive Malabar Trogon.
The highlights of Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary include Bhimgad Fort, Barapede Caves, and Belgaum Golf Course.
- Location: Khanapur Taluk, Belgaum District, Karnataka
- Things to do: Spot Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat, Barapede Caves visit, explore Bhimgad Fort and Belgaum Golf Course
- Best time to visit: November – February
- Fees: Indians – INR 150, Foreigners – INR 1000, safari fee extra
- Timings: Any time of the day, however, 2 pm to 3 pm is the best time.
How to reach:
- From Belagavi Airport: 66 km (approx.)
- From Khanapur Railway Station: 27 km (approx.)
Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Abundantly filled with sloth bears, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is Karnataka’s famous wildlife sanctuaries.
Located in Ballari District, the sanctuary has a good number of sloth bears who shelter themselves in the strewn areas concealed under the bushy forests.
Also, the bears are fond of sugar and thus, you will see most of the area covered in sugarcane, Ber fruits, Mahuva, etc.
This place has a rugged terrain, which houses other animals too including jackals, mongooses, black-naped hares, leopards, wild boars, etc. So, on your next visit to Karnataka, do not forget to visit this wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka.
- Location: Seetharama Tanda, Karnataka
- Things to do: Spot sloth bears, porcupines, pangolins, mongoose, wild boards, visit watch tower for better fauna view, bird watching
- Best time to visit: August – April
- Fees: Indians – INR 50, Foreigners – INR 300, safari fee extra
- Timings: 4 pm – 6 pm
How to reach:
- From Hubballi Airport: 173 km (approx.)
- From Hosapete Junction (Hospet): 22 km (approx.)
Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to several species of birds, butterflies, reptiles, and wild animals, Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place in Karnataka for wildlife lovers. If you seek peace, this is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the state of Karnataka.
The rich flora and fauna can be seen here both in variety and biodiversity. You can enjoy the sight of different kinds of butterflies; wild animals like tigers, wild dogs, wild boards, Malabar giant squirrels, and leopards; birds like minivets, hornbills, herons, and woodpeckers; reptiles like Python, Monitor Lizards, King Cobra, Rat Snake, and more.
- Location: Aralagodu To Kanchikai Temple Road, Halethota, Karnataka
- Things to do: Visit Jog Falls, explore Linganamakki Reservoir, boating, kayaking, trekking, nature walks, Sigandur backwaters and Chowdeshwari Temple visit
- Best time to visit: September – April
How to reach:
- From Mangaluru International Airport: 177 km (approx.)
- From Talguppa Railway Station: 66 km (approx.)
Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve
Bestowed with lush greenery, this reserve is the only notifies protected area in Tumkur District. Covering an area of 798 acres, Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve is home to the largest population of blackbucks.
In 2002, a population of 800 blackbucks was recorded in Jayanmangali Blackbuck Reserve. Apart from these, this reserve is dotted with Acacia and Eucalyptus plantations.
There are more than 80 species of medicinal plants and 67 different types of butterflies and mammals that include rodents, Indian vare, jungle cat, Indian gray mongoose, Indian wolf, small Indian civet, and more.
Also, this reserve in Karnataka has 26 species of reptiles and 14 types of snakes along with 125 species of birds. Undoubtedly, this is a delight for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Location: Mud Road Through Jayamangali Blackbuck Sanctuary, Mydanahalli, Karnataka
- Things to do: Visit Jog Falls, explore Linganamakki Reservoir, boating, kayaking, trekking, nature walks, Sigandur backwaters and Chowdeshwari Temple visit
- Best time to visit: September – April
- Fees: INR 100 per person
- Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
How to reach:
- From Bengaluru International Airport: 103 km (approx.)
- From Hindupur Railway Station: 31 km (approx.)
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Among the top wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka, this sanctuary is enveloped by dense forest making it a favored sanctuary amongst trekkers and nature lovers.
The best way, however, to spend time at this wildlife sanctuary is by camping and celebrating wilderness with friends and family.
Here, you can spot fauna including wild pig, stripe-necked mongoose, gaur, mouse deer, the Indian hare, spotted deer, giant flying squirrel, and more.
Botanists, ornithologists, and zoologists frequently visit Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary for research purposes and to explore the area. And if you are a photographer, you can get amazing pictures of nature.
- Location: Subramanya, Road, Kumarahalli, Kodagu, Somwarpet Taluk, Karnataka
- Things to do: Witness colorful butterflies, nature walks, spot wild animals, trekking, camping
- Best time to visit: November – March
- Fees: INR 75
- Timings: 5.30 am – 5 pm
How to reach:
- From Mangaluru International Airport: 156 km (approx.)
- From Mysuru Junction: 138 km (approx.)
Excited to spend time in the wilderness and spot exotic animals? Plan a wildlife tour to Karnataka and explore the famous wildlife sanctuaries in the state.
Take your friends, family, or beloved along and enjoy unforgettable adventures on your Karnataka wildlife holiday. So, which wildlife sanctuary will you visit first?
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