If you are curious about wildlife, a journey to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary will offer you an unmatched experience. The sanctuary is predominantly a tiger reserve and home to several other endangered species. This protected area covers almost 1,875 meters and is surrounded by mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful place for nature lovers. The lush green grassland and dense shola forests make it a scenic landscape, offering several captivating views worth capturing. So if you plan to visit this verdant sanctuary, get a professional camera and enough time because there is much to explore here besides various wildlife species. Let’s dive into the natural beauty of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and the things to do here.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka- Overview
Like several other wildlife sanctuaries in India, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna. Tourists can see several wild species that have almost disappeared from the ecosystem. Located in Lakkavalli town, near Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, this beautiful place is perfect for visiting with family and friends.
Area: 1,875 meters
Established: 1974
Address: Behind Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tarikere, Lakkavalli, Karnataka, 577115
Timing: 6 AM – 8.30 AM and 3.30 PM to 6 PM
Temperature– Average temperature is 32℃ in summer and 19℃ in winter.
History Of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- The wildlife sanctuary was formerly known as ‘Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary’, which was named by the Mysore Government.
- In 1974, the Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary finally renamed Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary after a survey reported it has several types of flora and fauna.
- The sanctuary was declared a Bhadra tiger reserve project in 1998.
- Bhadra reserve forest is the first tiger reserve of the country.
- A total of 26 villages were successfully shifted to M C Halli to build Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Reasons To Visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Rich in lush greenery and home to numerous wild animals and plants, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal place to visit for the following reasons.
- The sanctuary is a tiger reserve home to over 30 tigers and over 20 leopards.
- The forest department and the administrative authority organise a jeep safari through which you can tour the sanctuary and explore the natural and wildlife beauty.
- There is also Bhadra Dam, where you can see all the magnificent views. The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary also has a waterfall which looks extremely beautiful when water falls from it.
- Besides tigers and leopards, you can also spot birds, reptiles, and different plant species.
- On the side of Bhadra Reservoir, you can also enjoy a Boat ride which offers several picturesque views of the nearby places.
- If you love to spot sunset, reach Mullayanagiri Peak.
Did all these attributes attract you? Planning to visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary? We know the natural beauty of the sanctuary can amaze anyone. Tourists reach here from across the world to see the unexplored nature. The sanctuary is home to several plants and animals that are almost disappearing from the Earth.
What To Do In Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary?
Jungle Safari
Jeep safari is one of the most amazing things to do in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Book the jeep to roam the jungle if you are coming here with your friend or family. It is the most convenient option to see rare species safely. The price for a Jeep safari is approximately Rs. 40o per person, which is worth spending.
Trekking
Yes, a 3.5 km trail inside the sanctuary engages the tourists with natural beauty. While trekking, you can spot nature’s majesty. The colourful butterflies, birds chirping, green plants and dense trees can amuse you.
Boating
If you are an adventure enthusiast, water sport activities like boating can run your adrenaline. Some resorts or lodges can arrange a comfortable boat ride for tourists that will take tourists to beautiful trails.
Bird Watching
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary houses more than 300 species of birds. From native and migratory, you will get a chance to see various birds chirping, dancing, mating and flying. They look extremely beautiful and easily attract anyone.
Travel Tips For Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- The best time to visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is October and March. At this time, most animals and reptiles are out of their shelters, and you can get a chance to see them. Plants and trees are fresh and greener, attracting more tourists than usual.
- Wear unrevealing clothes that cover your entire body to avoid insect bites.
- Take adequate drinking water with you because the sanctuary has no canteen.
- If possible, keep some snacks with you to satisfy your appetite.
- Do not forget to carry a good quality camera to capture the scenic views.
- Use sunglasses, a scarf and sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
- Also, carry identification proof.
- The network connectivity is poor in some areas of the sanctuary, so be with your group every time.
How To Reach Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary?
This sanctuary is easily accessible by road, train and air.
By Road- Several taxi and bus transportation services from major cities will take you to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
By Train- The nearest railway station is Kadur Station, from where Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is just 51 km away. You can take a cab or taxi, which will take almost an hour.
By Air- Mangalore Domestic Airport is the nearest airport which is 185 km away. After reaching the airport, you can hire a cab or taxi to reach the sanctuary.
To visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, you can stay in a hotel in Chikkamagaluru. The accommodation is affordable and easily accessible to several other nearby attractions, such as:
- Belavadi
- Hebbe falls
- Jhari waterfalls
- Mullayanagiri peaks
Now you have a complete guide to plan your trip. Make it as soon as possible and let us know your experience.