Karnataka is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and people looking for an adventurous and exciting vacation. The serene environment and the opportunity to see wild animals in their habitat make Karnataka the ideal place for these animals. Are you one of those adventurers looking for your next vacation spot?
If yes, then the South Indian state of Karnataka is a place you must explore.
A biodiversity hotspot, Karnataka has a number of protected areas that provide excellent opportunities for wildlife exploration, trekking, and spotting wild animals and birds while enjoying the alluring beauty of nature. Home to several of the best national parks to visit the wildlife sanctuaries, Karnataka offers you a unique experience where you can hear the roar of tigers and trumpeting of elephants while watching exotic birds play beautiful tunes.
But how many famous national parks are there in the state, and which ones should you visit? The state has five official national parks. However, nature adventure is not limited to these top national parks. The state is also home to some of the country’s premier wildlife sanctuaries that offer equivalent safari opportunities, making the overall count more attractive to travelers. If wildlife adventures are on your next vacation checklist, we’re here to help with this blog. A compiled list of national parks in Karnataka that every safari and adventure lover should visit besides wildlife sanctuaries in the state is revealed.
If you are looking forward to an exciting experience, the five national parks of Karnataka listed below deserve a place in your itinerary. The list also shows you the state’s must-see wildlife reserves.
Nature lovers consider Nagarahole National Park in Karnataka as one of the most loved national parks. Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, this national park is located in the Kodagu and Mysore districts. The park spreads across forested lands and the Kabini River area while being an essential part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
The wild environment of Nagarahole provides a sanctuary for Bengal tigers and also protects leopards, wild elephants, and numerous bird species. People can experience thrilling jeep safaris while taking boat trips on the Kabini backwaters in this well-maintained national park. When it comes to the list of national parks in Karnataka, Nagarahole always tops the list.
Morning Safari: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Evening Safari: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Closed Days: Open all year
The Mysore-Ooty Highway is home to Bandipur National Park, a prestigious wildlife sanctuary of Karnataka. The Maharaja of Mysore game reserve now functions as a Project Tiger reserve, as it ranks high in sightings of both elephants and tigers.
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve includes Bandipur National Park, which maintains a perfect combination of dry deciduous forests with grasslands and moist mixed forests. Wildlife safaris in this location offer an amazing cinematic experience. Visitors can see numerous species, including gaur, dhole, leopard, and sloth bears. Overnight accommodation in lodges on the fringes of the wilderness allows adventure seekers to take part in morning and evening wildlife safaris. This nature experience combines exciting times with tranquility and is a perfect retreat for people seeking healing in nature.
Morning Safari: 6:15 AM to 9:00 AM
Evening Safari: 2:15 PM to 5:00 PM
Closed Days: During heavy monsoons (June to September)
Authorities recognize Dandeli as a nature reserve in official documents, but locals refer to it as a national park due to its vast forest area, rich wildlife population, and safari tourism opportunities. The location of Dandeli in North Karnataka attracts tourists with its adventure sports and wildlife conservation.
At this place, visitors can enjoy whitewater rafting and ziplining. Kayaking enthusiasts will enjoy this site, as will those who enjoy abseiling. Nature lovers visiting Dandeli will be able to spot black panthers, elephants, Malabar giant squirrels, and hornbills.
The Kali River adds to the natural beauty of the forest ecosystem and attracts many adventurous tourists to Dandeli. Officials will eventually include this natural area in the list of national parks in Karnataka.
Morning Safari: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM
Evening Safari: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Closed Days: Heavy monsoon months (June to September)
In the Western Ghats, in the Uttara Kannada district, is the Anshi National Park, which is part of the Kali Tiger Reserve. Visitors seek ecotourism activities in this park, which is home to dark, dense forests and diverse wildlife.
Visitors are drawn to this park primarily for their encounters with rarely seen black panthers, tigers, leopards, and Indian bison. Bird watchers will enjoy observing many species of endemic and migratory birds that inhabit the region.
Adventure lovers will find their perfect paradise in Anshi, as they can enjoy activities like rafting on the Kali River, forest treks, and night wildlife tours. Traditionally unknown to many visitors, Anshi is independently the top of the national parks in Karnataka, as it brings together treasures of biodiversity and adventure activities.
Timings:
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed Days: Monsoon months (June to September) are not ideal due to heavy rainfall.
Located in the Chikkamagaluru district, Kudremukh is named after a peak that resembles the head of a horse. It is one of the most picturesque national parks in Karnataka, with misty mountains, dense Shola forests, and sparkling streams.
Travelers who love hiking must add Kudremukh Peak Trail to their adventure list, as the park attracts many hiking enthusiasts. This area is home to tigers, leopards, and wild dogs, as well as numerous flying species and butterfly populations.
Visitors experience purely magical moments walking between the hills while enjoying the misty weather. The park is a beautiful destination known for its lush greenery and biodiversity.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed Days: Monsoon months (June to September) due to heavy rainfall
Located in the Kodagu district, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is an important habitat for bird watchers and attracts bird watchers due to its famous status as a bird watcher’s paradise. The nature reserve protects populations of endangered and endemic birds, making it attractive to birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts.
Kumara Parvatha Peak is considered one of the top trekking destinations in Karnataka. Visitors greatly enjoy the strenuous climb, which offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats. Although Pushpagiri is not considered a national park, it is mentioned as part of the protected areas of Karnataka due to its exciting tourism value.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee: Rs.75 per person.
#200, 4th floor, 10th cross, CBI Main Road,
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