Karnataka - Tourism & Wildlife - Mysore @ whatisindia.com

Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary
Nesting in the foothills of the Nilgiris, the Bandipur National Park was formed by extending the Venugopal Wildlife Park, set up in 1931 by the Mysore Maharajas. It is one of the tiger reserves in the country.
Lone Deer wondering in the Forest.

A popular game resort of the rulers of Mysore, the flora in the forest comprises Teak, Rosewood, Honne, Mathi, Bamboo and Sandal Trees. The important animals in the park are Tiger, Elephant, Gaur, Leopard, Chital and Sambar. Birds like the Peafowl, Partridge, Quail, Hornbill and Ibis are also found here. Apart from these, Dhole (wild dog), Sambar, Muntjac or Barking Deer, Giant Squirrel and sometimes Sloth Bear and Nocturnal Porcupine and Blacknaped hare may be seen in the sanctuary.

Well planned motorable roads close to the perennial and seasonal water points, and adequate open space in the jungle allow visitors to observe animals closely, particularly elephant herds, by car. It is always advisable to maintain a safe distance from these large animals even if you are in your car.

Pug marks on soft earth in the permissible tourism zone attest to the presence of tigers, though they are rarely sighted. Much less seen is the leopard, the other major carnivore. Visitors can hire elephants or a vehicle to go round the park. They can also visit the nearby Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. The Moyar river forms a natural boundary between the two.

How to get there:
Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore, at a distance of 215 Kms.
Rail: The nearest railhead is Mysore, which is 76 Kms, and connects most of the major junctions of Karnataka.
Road: Bandipur is accessible by Road, either from Mysore or from Ooty (Tamil Nadu). It is at a distance of 215 Kms from Bangalore, 76 Kms from Mysore and about 70 Kms from Ooty. The best way of reaching Bandipur is either by your own transport which is recommended or government buses as no private buses go to Bandipur.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
The secrets of the jungle unwind as you go deep into the seemingly silent forest. Birds whistle their favorite songs. Monkeys chatter incessantly. Elephants trumpet in delight… Welcoming you to discover their magnificent land.

Yes, the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in the Chikmagalur & Shimoga Districts, is one of the most fascinating sanctuaries. Sheltering some exquisite flora & fauna. The great Indian Gaur, Barking Deer, Flying Fox, Mongoose, Elephant, Panther, Macaque, Babbler, Barbet, Bluejay, Kingfisher, Robin, Weaver Bird, Drongo….have all made their home here. So the next time you're looking for some adventure, don't forget to include Bhadra on your list. Or else, you'll be missing out on some real wild excitement.

How to get there:
Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore which is 257 kms via Hassan.
Rail: The nearest railhead is Hassan (approx. 75 kms)
Road: Access to Bhadra is through Hassan. Hassan being the district head quarters is well connected to rest of the state.

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
On the border of Goa state in Karnataka Dandeli abounds with a richness of Flora and Fauna. Its richness and diversity offers ample opportunities to nature lovers to enjoy the captivating landscape. The sanctuary is generally undulating with steep slopes with picturesque deep river valleys and rich hilly forest terrain. The breath taking valleys, regal looking meandering rivers and the splendid scenic beauty of the syntheri rock make it an awe inspiring experience. The forest in Dandeli is typical moist deciduous and semi evergreen types, with pockets of every green.

The main wildlife species include elephant, tiger, leopard, gaur, flying squirrel, mouse deer etc., and main bird species include magpie robin, golden backed woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and a large variety of other birds.

Bhimeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary
Lying between Shivanasamudra falls and Mekedatu falls is Bheemeshwari, A perfect picnic spot where nature has created a natural habitat for the Mahseer fish and a variety of exciting animals.

Bheemeshwari in Mandya district is an ideal place for viewing wildlife and a relaxing holiday. The lush forest sheltered by steep valleys and scattered by little streams, invites large groups of animals. Birds like Heron, Ibis, Cormorant, Kingfisher… have all made their home here.. You can see herds of elephants amongst the thick trees. Deer springing in the air. Wild boars, monkeys, jackals, crocodiles, otters and even leopards!

And what's more exciting is a Fishing Camp! The banks of the River Cauvery provide enthusiastic anglers a chance to try their luck at fishing. The Cauvery is abounds with Mahseer-the finest game fish (weighing 100 lbs) that can fight like a tier! The Fishing Camp here have comfortable tents equipped with all basic facilities like cots, mosquito nets, shower, toilet and even a kitchen. Food is served in the 'Gol-Ghar', the open air dining room. If you are the outdoor type this can be a exciting camping holiday.

How to get there:
Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore.
Rail: The nearest railhead Bangalore(100 Kms).
Road: The Distance between Bheemeshwari & Bangalore is 100 Kms and the roads take you via Kanakapuara & Halguru. Bheemeshwari can be reached by taxis from Bangalore.

Kabini Sanctuary
Nestled amidst the Karapur Forest lies a pristine piece of land that abounds with nature. Beckoning you to explore it for a wild and exciting holiday.

Kabini, a scenic delight was once the hunting lodge of the erstwhile Mysore Maharajahs. The steep valleys with rich forests, spectacular pools and rapids provide an ideal opportunity to revive your adventurous spirits.

A view from the Kabini River Lodge proves to be absolutely breathtaking. Patches of bright blue pools hidden between the trees, the sun peeping through the thick forest and animals roaming free. Breathe in the refreshing air, whistle with the wind and carry home timeless memories. Elephants playing catch, Leopards on the prowl, Antelopes jumping across the bushes, Or maybe even a tigress with her cubs. These are indeed pictures that you'll treasure for a lifetime. And no one can offer it better than Kabini.

How to get there:
Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore which is 220 kms via Mysore.
Rail: The nearest railhead is Mysore (80 kms)
Road: Kabini has to be reached via Mysore which is 80 kms.

Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary
Nagarahole is derived from the combination of two Kannada words-'nagar' meaning snake and 'hole' meaning streams and true to its name a number of streams snake through its rich tropical forests. Nagarahole is situated in the picturesque districts of Kodagu and Mysore in southern Karnataka.

The Nagarahole National Park was first set up in 1955. In 1975 its area was increased to include a greater expanse of forest reserve. Once an exclusive hunting preserve of the erstwhile rulers of Mysore, the terrain of this Park is gently undulating with lush green vegetation, swamps and numerous water resources, rendering it an ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.

How to get there:
Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore(200 Kms). Indian Airlines link Bangalore to most parts of the country.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Mysore(60 Kms) which is connected to Arsikere, Bangalore, Madras and Hassan.
Road: Motorable roads connect Nagarahole to Hunsur, Madikere and Mysore.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
The Sanctuary here is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Just glance around and you'll find a host of surprises. Crocodiles basking under the sun, otters running free, flocks of birds gathered on tiny islands. Ranganathittu is indeed a visual height. Birds would come from Siberia, Australia and even North America can be spotted here.

So when you're on the cane boats just be ready for a fluttering surprise. It may be the Open-Bill Stork, The White Ibis, Egret, Heron, Partridge or even the Cormorant trying to say hello!

How to get there:
Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore (125 Kms).
Rail: The nearest railhead Mysore(18 Kms).
Road: Ranganthittu forms a good excursion from Mysore or Brindavan Garden. As this lies on the Bangalore Mysore State Highway, all access here is either via Bangalore or Mysore. Private taxis are the best way to reach this place.

Reference:

http://www.karnatakatourism.com

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