The amusing south of India has a lot to offer; Situated on the border of Kerala and Karnataka, once a hunting ground for kings of Mysore, Nagarhole National Park boasts of being one of the premier tiger reserves in India. Being a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and the thirty-seventh addition to Project Tiger in 1999, this national park is almost considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The park comprises an area of approximately 650 square kilometers. It is covered with hills, waterfalls, valleys, and forests with many animals like tigers, monkeys, crocodiles, elephants, leopards, and deers roaming freely. In 1955, Nagarhole National Park got established as a wildlife sanctuary; upgraded to a national park in 1988; finally got declared as a tiger reserve in 1999. It is now considered one of the best national parks in India.
Image Credits: Ooty India
The forest cover is impressive with a vast range of flora growing into the system. The animals and birds live in an independent state untouched by external pollutants and exploitations. Numerous bird watchers enjoy their time here, especially along the riverbanks of the Kabini river where exotic birds like peafowls, osprey, oriental darter, kingfishers, hornbills, eagles, and more take a dip. A few wild animals are black panthers, spotted deers, sloth bears, tigers, spotted leopards, gaurs, wild dogs, sambar deers, giant squirrels amongst others.
Kabini wildlife safari is considered one of the best wildlife safaris in the country by many adventurers. The Kabini Forest Reserve aka Nagarhole National Park is notably accessible for Keralans and Karnatakans since it is only about 200 kilometers away from the city of Bengaluru. It is well-maintained with many spottings of deers, white-backed vultures, panthers, and even tigers for the fortunate ones. The riverbanks of the Kabini river also have an array of bird species and wildlife frequenting the waters, making it a must-visit place for wildlife photographers. Many resorts in the vicinity of the reserve offer different types of safaris to their guests. A wildlife safari in the Kabini forest is one of the most adventurous and thrilling experiences. Best to visit in winters and summers from October to May. Among the many types of safaris this reserve has to offer are:
Boat Safari: The Kabini Backwaters Safari is a unique experience for many. Float through the Kabini river and explore the surrounding flora and fauna dipping in and out of the waters.
Jeep Safari: A jeep safari conducted by the forest guesthouses and lodges is a fantastic option for people on a budget. Enjoyed with a larger group of people, these safaris are organized by the Forest Department. The Kabini forests have two zones, A and B. These safaris usually cover one at a time but some options do have an unrestricted route.
The accommodations you book like guesthouses, lodges, and resorts will usually have options to experiences these safaris and will also take their own vehicular or boat safari bookings. You can also book your safaris by visiting the Dammanakatte Forest Department located in Antharasanthe.
The Forest Department has also established a portal for booking safaris online on the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve Website. Make sure to go through the details and rules well before booking; provide the appropriate information required for the bookings. One thing to remember while booking a wildlife safari in a free zone for fauna is that sightings of animals are not guaranteed since it is the experience of riding through the forest, that is home to many magnificent animals, is that you are being charged for.
A Kabini wildlife safari experience is one to remember and reminisce about, so make sure to go on one when you visit the area.
