Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary in Shimoga district is a place worth visiting especially for bird lovers. The island amidst Tunga river offers food and shelter to a wide species of birds. On the way to Mandagadde, travellers can visit Sakrebyle elephant training camp and Gajanur dam site. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary that is surrounded by river Tunga is known for its avian diversity of birds that include median egrets, cormorants, darters and snakebirds.

Spanning over 1.14 acres, this bird sanctuary is an ideal picnic and tenting spot too. Inside the sanctuary, there is a watchtower from wherein you could view different hen species with convenience. The wooded area department also offers boating services to observe birds and revel in the beauty of nature.

The well-known Tunga River is thought for lots of things, it’s superbly sweet water, the numerous temples located on its banks, and maximum outstanding of all, the little island in Mandagadde.

Location

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is situated in Shimoga district about 35 kms from the main city of Shimoga in Karnataka.

How to Reach

By Air: Hubli airport is the nearest and is about 160 kms far from the destination. Shimoga airport is about 195 kms; Mangalore airport is 200 kms and Bangalore airport at 275 kms. And coming up is the airport of Sogane.

By Rail: There is one station at Shimoga itself where regular trains come from Bangalore and Mysore. If you are from other states then you can use the Birur station, which is 60 kms away from sanctuary. One can catch up the KSRTC buses to cover rest of the distance.

By Road: National Highway – 206 is connected to Bangalore city, approximately 6 hours journey from the main point of the Bangalore city. Travel by KSRTC or private luxury buses or even a taxi anything that suits your pocket. Other route goes something like this from Udupi-Mangalore and then Shimoga.

Best Time to Visit

Plan your trip in the month of May and enjoy watching a huge collection of beautiful and colorful birds.

 Major Attractions

Enjoy your day watching the scenic beauty of nature. Click some beautiful pictures of rigid mountains and green landscapes from hill stations and viewpoints, as a remembrance of visiting this place. People who love adventure should not miss hiking and trekking.

You can find variety of wild animals, birds, butterflies, snakes, moths and insects. Birds chirping and tweeting is really nice to hear an ideal spot for people who love watching birds. Migratory birds fly from their native place to India in order to have fun at this beautiful place. It holds beautiful lush green landscape and river Tunga is an additional beauty of this sanctuary. Other tourist spots are Sringeri Math, Chintamani, Narasimha Temple and Brahma Temple.

Please don’t miss the Lion and Tiger safaris in the intense and sinister forest.

Food and Drink

You can find few bars and restaurants in the nearby commercial areas. Unfortunately there is nothing special for you at night. Taste some the native foods like the Patrode, colocasia, Jackfruit buns i.e. Halasina hannina Kadubu, Jackfruit pancake which is nothing but halasina hannina dose, tender mango chutney (maavina kaai chutney) and finally the hal garige a snack made from milk and rice powder.

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A Unique habitat for Birds

If you are a person who love nature and bird watching then don’t miss to visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka that was inaugurated in the year 1940 by an ornithologist called Dr. Salim Ali. It covers an area of about 70 sq kms and the sky seems to be a habitat for all the birds.

Location

Lush green islands on river Cauvery enclose Ranganathittu Bird sanctuary and are situated 13 kms far from Mysore, near Srirangapattana.

How to Reach

This place is well connected with all the means of transport. Bangalore airport is about 120 kms far from the destination and Mysore railway station is the closest that is just 15 kms from this Sanctuary. It lies on the highway that connects Bangalore and Mysore. Hire a taxi or one can find private and state buses that will take you to this place.

Best Time to Visit

It will be better if you plan your trip during the monsoon in the months of June to November.

Climate

From April to June the temperature will be around 20-30 degree Celsius and during winter i.e. between November and February the temperature falls to 15 degree Celsius.

Major Attractions

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary will be opened from morning 9 till 6 in the evening. And you need to pay at the entrance that costs about Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 50 for outsiders.

It shelters unique species of birds that migrate from countries like Siberia, Australia, North America, Middle East, Egypt, Europe, China etc. birds migrate this place for two reasons one is holiday destination and the other is for breeding. And during summer they fly back to other place with their young ones.

You can find variety of species like the Cranes, Herons, pelicans, darters, kingfisher, open bill stork, peafowl, partridges, wild ducks, spoon bills, open bill stork, cormorant, pond cattle-egret, white ibis and many other peculiar ones. You can also find elongated crocodiles on the islands moving here and there. Major attraction of this sanctuary is the boat ride along the riverside where you get to see beautiful and colorful birds resting on the trees. And it costs about Rs.25 per head, which is really worth. And for children of below 5 years the ticket costs you Rs.10/-

So what are you waiting for? Plan your weekend to the place with your family and friends.

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Kudremukha National Park covers an area of about 650 km square and the land is composed of ridged hills, mountains and lush green forest. Initially it was a reserved forest in the year 1986 later came to be called as national park in 1987. The mountain peak over here looks like a ‘horse head’ and hence got its name as “Kudremukha’.

Location:

Situated in Karnataka in the city called Chikamagalur that is about 125 kms from Mangalore.

How to Reach

Nearest airports are Mangalore Airport and Bangalore International Airport and cab from here to this place will cost minimum Rs.5000/-. Mangalore railway station is well connected with this place and other tourist spots. You can find KSRTC buses and private buses from Bangalore city that is about 328 kms far, Mangalore about 128 kms and about 48 kms from Karkala. You can choose anything from the above that suits your pocket.

Best Time to Visit

All through the year the temperature lies between 10 degree Celsius and 35 degree Celsius. And in the months of March, April and May the temperature remains 35 degree. During winter season in the months of December and February the temperature falls to 17 degree. Coming to the rainy season it is very difficult to find animals close by.  Hence ideal time to visit is in the months October to February as you can easily spot the animals that come out in search of food.

Major Attractions

This sanctuary shelters some of the extinct creatures that are protected by the Government of Karnataka. Wild animals like the wild dogs, Leopard, tigers, Languor, wild pig, lion tailed Macaque and sambar is found here.

Permission should be taken from the head office of the national park for the safari and costs Rs.30 for an Indian visitor and Rs.80 for a foreigner. Coming to the trekking guide fee it’s Rs.100. All this money is for the maintenance.

You can also visit the mining ore company that is in Kudremukha and also look in for the six feet statue Varaha statue present inside an ancient cave. Don’t miss the temple of Goddess Bhagavathi.

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Situated adjacent to Kokrebellur village and people speak in the language called Kannada. A place that shelters species of birds, few of them include painted storks and spot-billed pelicans. In fact, a place that makes a connection between human beings and birds.

Location

Situated adjacent to Kokrebellur village in Karnataka this place is known for the collection of beautiful migratory birds. Kokrebellur is about 65kms from Mysore and 20 kms from Mandya.

Getting here:

This place is well connected with all the means of transport. Bangalore International Airport is the nearest one and later state or private buses will lead you to this place. Railway junctions are found at Maddur and Mandya. On road you can find KSRTC buses and some private buses that will travel from Bangalore – Kengeri – Ramnagaram – Maddur – Mandya and finally to the Mysore state highway.

Best Time to Visit

It is better if you plan your trip in the months October and April as you get see many seasonal birds only during these months.

Major Attractions

You can find birds of different species migrating from place to place that offer you a spectacular sight. This place is crucial for both human beings and wildlife. Migratory birds in this place come here to enjoy their holidays and mainly for breeding also. The twittering and peeping of these birds is really good to hear.

The contact between human beings and birds is creating a good relation between the two of them. You also get to learn something from them for example the care taken by the birds for their young ones. Major attraction of this place is the immaculate white pelicans; that enrich the beauty of the sanctuary’s environment. You get see pelicans of various colors with an elongated beak and a short stature. Nests are built on the peepul and tamarind trees found here and perch as soon as they reach letting us know about their arrival.

Some crucial birds make their nest very close to the village this is mainly for breeding. It is said that “February witnesses an egg-laying agitation,” for this place. It’s just an unforgettable moment for people who love nature and birds. You can find more than 20 trees on each tree.

Villagers believe that if these birds don’t turn up then it signifies bad luck to them. The chirp, high-pitched cries and inharmonious calls form a unique orchestra. They are considered as family members for the sugarcane-rich Mandya district who are awaited every year.

Nearby Places 

Srirangapatna

Brindavan Gardens

Shivanasamudra Falls

Melkote

Panchalingeshwara Temple

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One of the best tourist glees in the southern part of India is Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary of Karnataka, which is a reserve for the extinct species of both animals and birds.

The Origin 

Situated in the midst of the Karapur Forest, which is full scenic beauty. Formerly it was a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Mysore and at present serves as for an adventurous, mystic charm and magical holiday.

The Location 

Located at the southern tip of the Nagarahole National Park and holds a tributary of Cauvery called the Kabini. Kabini wildlife sanctuary is put up at about 210 kms from Bangalore and 70 kms from Mysore.

The Flora 

This sanctuary shelters a wide range of flora and fauna and greenery is found everywhere. Thick forests are seen along the valleys and overwhelming torrents and pond like stuffs enrich the beauty of this sanctuary. It has a 60 sq-km static water body that bi-furcated the Nagarahole and Bandipur National parks, which forms the major attraction for people who love nature. This Sanctuary is a blend of serene beauty and exciting adventure.

The Fauna 

You get to see many dangerous wild species of animals that include Panther, leopard, spotted deer, sambar, cheetah and many more. The list continues with barking deer, sloth bear, chital, gaur, tiger and antelope are some other animals that are easily seen in this Sanctuary. Along with the above you also get to watch the giant Asiatic elephants in small groups in a place called Pachyderm Palace. Collection of reptiles includes crocodiles, python, cobra and many more. Coming to birds it holds about 250 species. Are these not enough for you?

Time to visit

Plan your trip to Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary in the months of October and May. It is mainly because during summer animals gather near the lake and in the rainy season it is very hard to find animals nearby.

Reaching Route 

This Sanctuary is easily accessible by air, rail and road and about 210 kms far from Mysore. You can find buses from all the major cities of the state. And is just 78 kms from Mananthavadi main road.

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If you are a person who love nature and wish to watch the activities birds in front of your eyes then visit Gudavi Bird Sanctuary that will fulfill all your wishes. You get to see variety of colorful species, the most astonishing sight. It is situated in Karnataka in Shimoga district that is easily accessible as it is well connected with all major cities. Spend your weekend with your family and friends in this exciting place.

Introduction and description

Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is about 17 kms from the Banavasi main road away from the hustles of the city life. You can find many small villages and agricultural fields surrounding this sanctuary. It covers an area of about 74 hectares and one among the top 5 sanctuaries of Karnataka.

Magnetism: 

This sanctuary shelters more than 190 species of birds. It’s a place where birds from nowhere migrate to this place for breeding. In the months of June and November the sanctuary will be in high spirits. It a pleasure to watch those colorful birds upon the tall trees and some hop around in the lake that adds and extra beauty to this sanctuary. A special platform is made for you from where you can watch the beautiful scenery of the lush green and birds moving around here and there. You are welcomed by the chirp of all kinds of birds that you can find here like the White Pebis, Snake Bird, Gray Heron, Night heron, Egrate, white headed crane, Stone Bill and many more.

Most excellent time to visit:

Ideal time to visit this sanctuary is in the months of June and November and opens from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. enjoy your day exploring new species of birds like the waterfowl, jungle fowl, and black- headed crane and pond heron that is the major attraction of this sanctuary. You can also spend some time in the Gudavi Park. A binocular will definitely help you out.

So what are you waiting plan your weekend to this place and explore nature in a better way.

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Overview

Indian Wildlife is boundless and shelters variety of species. You must remember that a part of it is becoming extinct due to lack of preservation. A main reason for this is the increase in the number of poachers of wildlife and lack of natural resources. Indian government is prepared with some perspectives against this and working under preserving wildlife. Under this perspective one such initiative is the largest sanctuary Of Karnataka called Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka.

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated in Uttar Karnataka and is about 487 kms far from Bangalore. This sanctuary is known for its tranquil beauty and holds different landscapes at different point. Small streams found in between the lush green land makes it ideal for the wildlife. On the other hand it serves as a beautiful holiday spot with your family and friends. A different experience of watching your favorite animals closes by almost beside you.

Main Attractions of Dandeli Wildlife sanctuary

Dandeli wildlife sanctuary shelters vast range of flora and fauna. Don’t miss the safari tours that are organized by the Park authorities to watch the animals close by. You can find wild animals like the tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, Deers, panthers, partridges, gaurs, Sambars, and crocodiles. Different species of birds like the magpie, robin, golden backed woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and many more can be seen here.

Additional to all these is the temple at Ulavi where Goddess Kali is worshiped and people who like trekking can visit this. It also serves as the camping spot. Adventure sports include river rafting in the waters of river Kali River.

How to reach Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Airways: Dabolim airport in Goa that is just 140 kms far from the destination.

Railways:  3 railway stations in neighboring cities namely Londa at a distance of 23 kms, in Dharwad about 58 kms and Hubli which is at a distance of 70 kms.

Roadways:  Travel by private or state buses from Dharwad (55 km), Hubli (70 km), Belgaum (110 km), Goa (138 km) and Bangalore (486 km).

Where to Stay in Dandeli

You can find fully furnished cottages, hotels, guesthouses and many more. And also individual rooms with attached baths for people without any company.

Best Time to Visit:

It is better if you visit this place in the months of January and May also in the months of October to December.

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Planning your vacation in Karnataka? Make sure that you will not forget to visit Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary that is located in between mountains on one side and river Cauvery on the other side. Major attraction of this sanctuary is its serene beauty and covers an area of about 530 sq kms.

The arrogant green mountain ranges offer finest land for wildlife. If you are a person who is trying to explore yourself to nature then this is the ideal place for you!!

Origin & Salient Features

In the year 1987 was awarded the status of a Sanctuary. Located in Mysore and considered as the best gateway for lovers of nature and anglers. Try out the most exciting and adventurous events like the trek up to the hilltop or down to the beautiful Shiva temple. You can also indulge yourself in catching fishes.

You also get to see the beautiful sight of river Cauvery flowing through its sheer gorges, tumbling into a stream and the  beautiful sanctuary where you can catch the view of wild animals moving here and there. So what are you waiting for pack your bags and check out this sanctuary with your family and friends.

 The Flora 

Greenery of Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is composed of dehydrated and trance deciduous forests and a few patches of scrub forest are also found.

The Fauna 

The fauna of Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is of diverse character. You can find a variety of species in this forest that include leopard, tiger, sambar, wild boar, spotted deer, elephant, four-horned antelope, grizzled giant squirrel, barking deer, Malabar giant squirrel, hare, common otter and many more. Reptiles include python, banded krait, cobra, Russell’s viper, turtles, marsh crocodiles etc. Exclusive species of birds are found here like the green-billed malkoha, Sirkeer cuckoo, white-browed bulbul and pigmy woodpecker. Scarce species of fishes like the Masher fish are found here.

Other Attractions

You can check out nearby temples that uphold Indian culture and tradition. These temples were constructed by the Kings of different dynasties and showcases art and talent of the craftsman in olden days.

Reaching 

By Air: Nearest airport is in Bangalore.

By Railways: Get down in the Bangalore railway station and catch a bus to reach the destination.

By Road: You can find private and government buses from Bangalore city that brings you to this place.

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Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka is located in between Chikamagalur and Shimoga districts. A place known for its lush green serene beauty and is one of the famous tourist spots surrounded by Western Ghat mountain ranges. Hebbegiri, Mullaianagiri, Babaudangiri and Gangegiri hills encircle this Sanctuary. The water of the Bhadra’s stream is also found that is used by the wild animals of the sanctuary.

The Origin 

The Sanctuary covers an area of about 492 sq. kms. Located around 270 kms north of Bangalore it was declared as Jagara Valley Game Reserve in the year 1951 by Government of Mysore. Later in the year 1974 it came to be called as Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and in the year 1998 it was affirmed as the 25th Project Tiger of the country.

Salient Features 

Plan your trip to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary to explore a wide range of flora and fauna. It holds the highest peak called the Kallahathigiri, which is about 1872 m in height. You can also take a round in the beautiful Jagara village adjacent to the sanctuary.

The Flora 

You find variety of trees of about 122 species that include Rosewood, Teak, Kindal, Nandi, Mathi, Tadasalu, Honne, Bamboo etc.  Medicinal plants are also found here. Moist and deciduous forests are part of the sanctuary’s greenery. Green vegetation grown on the slopes of snooty hills forms an interesting beautiful sight.

The Fauna 

You get to see wild and giant animals like the Elephants, Tigers, Jackals, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Spotted Deers, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Mouse Deer, Bonnet Macaque, Langur, Gaur, Slender Loris and many other exclusive species.

Reptiles like King Cobra, Vine Snake, Common Cobra, Bamboo Pit Viper, Common Wolf Snake, Russell’s viper, Rat Snake, Gliding Lizard, Common Indian Monitor and Marsh Crocodiles are found here.

Exclusive species of birds like the Red Spur fowl, Painted Bush Quail, Grey Jungle fowl, Southern Green Imperial Pigeon, Emerald Dove, Malabar Parakeet, Great Black Woodpecker, the Ruby-throated Bulbul, the Hill Myna, Hornbill, Whistling Thrush Racquet-tailed Drongo and many more. You also get to watch beautiful and colorful butterflies that enrich the beauty of sanctuary and one can find species of Crimson Roses, Yam Flies, and Southern Bird wings, Baronets, Bamboo Tree Browns, Tailed Jays, Blue Pansies and Great Orange Tips.

Tourist Attractions 

One can enjoy the boat ride to small islands present within the Sanctuary. People who love adventure should not be missing the jungle safari.

Time to visit

Ideal time to visit is during October and February.

Reaching Route 

By air: Mangalore Airport is the nearest that is about 177 kms and Bangalore Airport of about 273 km far.

By rail:  Kadur railway station is the nearest, which is about 36 kms far from destination.

On road:  You can find private and government buses from the city of Chikamagalur, just 28 kms far.

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Bandipur National Park, formerly known by Venugopala Wildlife Park in Karnataka is the most stunning forest store that is working under natural conservation. This park came into existence in the year 1930 that was one of the hunting places of Maharajah Wodeyar.

In the year 1941 they joined with the neighboring Nagarahole national park and expanded its area and d formed the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve: a complete land that protected forests. In the year1973 it came to be called as Tiger Reserve.

Location: Lies on the Indian Deccan plateau of Karnataka and about 82 kms from Mysore and Ooty. It covers an area of about 875.30 sq kms.

Reaching

By Air: Nearest airport is in Bangalore that is just 217 kms from Bandipur.

By Rail: Mysore railway station is the nearest one of about 76 kms.

By Road: It is well connected with the highways of major cities like Bangalore, Mysore and Ooty with about 218 kms from Bangalore and 78 kms from Mysore and Ooty i.e. about 5 hours of journey. You can catch the private or government buses from any of these places.

Ideal Time to Visit:

Plan your trip to this place in the in the months of April and October as the summers is too hot, the temperature ranges from 25-30 degree Celsius and winters, the temperatures falls to 15 degree Celsius. Rains are obviously wobbly, so can trust on this time and visit during the Rainy season.

Accommodations:

You can find some cottages that come under the rule of first come first serve. You can choose the private lodgings also.

Travel Tips:

Wear cotton clothes in summer and woolen clothes during winters. And one must not forget raincoats or umbrellas in the rainy season.

Major Attractions

Flora: Various breeds of Timber trees like the Teak, rosewood, sandalwood, Indian-laurel, Indian-Kino tree, giant clumping bamboo and grewia tiliaefolia is found at this place. You also get to see flowering plants and trees and some Fruit trees like Kadam tree, Indian-gooseberry, crape myrtle, axle-wood, black myrobalan, satinwood, black cutch, indigo-berry and many more.

Fauna: Wild animals like the elephants, tiger, leopard, sloth bear, chevrotain, gaur, and sambar, hital, wild boar, barking deer, osprey and many unfamiliar species are found here. Beautiful and rare birds like the grey junglefowl, pompadour green pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, little spider hunter, plain flowerpecker, peacock, red headed vulture and brown hawk owl. Reptiles like cobra, python, rat snake, crocodile, water snake, lizard, chameleon, tortoise etc and rare species of insects are also found here.

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