Karnataka is a major tourist state in India. Which is also known for its palaces, religious places as well as its national park. The state of Karnataka serves as the preserve of many rare and endangered species for its rich diversity of fauna and flora. Due to this many national parks have been established in Karnataka.
These parks not only attract wildlife enthusiasts of the country but for nature lovers and flora lovers, this place is nothing short of heaven. Along with natural beauty, it offers many exciting activities.
Discover Karnataka’s Top 10 National Parks for Wildlife and Nature Enthusiasts:
1. Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, where we can enjoy and enjoy seeing a variety of wild animals. You can be delighted to see wild cats, leopards, tigers, tigers, and elephants in the wild. This national park is located 20 kilometers south of Bangalore. It takes half an hour to reach this beautiful place. The Snake and crocodile park is also located here. This place is a house of nature that can be enjoyed to its fullest.
This zoological park is a major tourist destination spread over 25000 acres. Bannerghatta Biological Park was built in 2002 as part of Bannerghatta National Park. This garden was established in 1961. Since then this tiger is home to crocodiles. Apart from this, cheetah, kakad, rabbit, fox, wild pigeon, jackal, bear, gaur, etc. can be seen in this nation. There is also a specialty of different species of flora, which includes sandalwood, plum, tamarind, jalari, etc.
There are also 10 types of protected forests in this park. Those are looked after by the Bangalore Forest Department. The country’s first butterfly park is also located here and about 20 species of butterflies can be seen. It is an area spread over 7.5 acres
The park was established in 2007 by the Zoo Authority of Karnataka, the University of Agricultural Sciences, and the Ashoka Trust (ATREE) for research in the field of environment.
Things to Do:
- Safari Tours: Embark on a jeep safari to observe tigers, lions, and other animals up close.
- Butterfly Park: Explore India’s first butterfly park, home to numerous butterfly species.
- Zoo and Rescue Center: Visit the zoo and animal rescue center to learn about wildlife conservation efforts.
Temperature: Mild to warm (18-34°C), varies with seasons.
Popular Attractions to See: Safari park, Butterfly park, Zoo.
How to Reach (Distance): 25 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Safari tours, nature walks, zoo visits.
2. Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park is located in Chamarajanagar in Karnataka state. This place is thrilling for nature lovers. This garden is a beautiful and dense forest spread over 43 square kilometers. It is full of sandalwood, teak, and rosewood trees. And bamboo is available in plenty. Animals include tigers, four-horned deer, giant squirrels, elephants, hornbills, wild dogs, cheetahs, and dormant bears.
Bandipur National Park was established in 1973 under the tiger reserve. There are good arrangements for safari vehicles, trained elephants, and guide guides to visit Bandipur National Park, which make your journey unforgettable. Here the herd of elephants roams here and there, tourists are advised to stay away from them. The nearest railway station from here is Chamarajanagar which is 53 km away.
Things to Do:
- Jeep Safari: Experience an exciting jeep safari to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
- Birdwatching: Explore trails to observe diverse bird species.
- Nature Walks: Join guided nature walks to discover unique flora and fauna.
Temperature: Moderate to warm (20-35°C), cooler in winter.
Popular Attractions to See: Wildlife safaris, Gopalaswamy Betta.
How to Reach (Distance): 220 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Jeep safaris, bird watching, nature walks.
Also Read: What to See in Karnataka This November
3. Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park is located in Mysore, Karnataka. This national park is known for Asian elephants all over the world. Here large herds of elephants can be easily seen. Under this, seeing a large number of colorful birds in the pre-monsoon rainy season can be delightful. This place is very beautiful for bird lovers. Tourists can enjoy the chirping of birds here.
The park is also known as “Rajiv Gandhi National Park”. This garden is one of the top 5 parks in India. The name of this garden is derived from the words “Naga” and “Hole”. This national park was established in 1955 as a Games Century. It was expanded to include the forests of Mysore in 1974. And in 1988 it was given the status of a national park.
The park has a lot of water resources which include 47 seasonal streams, four small perennial lakes, 41 artificial lakes, Sarti Hole, Nagarhole, and four perennial streams, etc. apart from the Kabini River
You can enjoy jeeps, elephant safaris, and boats in this park.
Things to Do:
- Wildlife Safari: Go on jeep or boat safaris to spot tigers, elephants, and leopards.
- Birdwatching: Home to over 250 bird species, it’s ideal for bird enthusiasts.
- Photography: Capture stunning landscapes, rivers, and a variety of animals.
Temperature: Pleasant (19-30°C), varies with seasons.
Popular Attractions to See: Kabini backwaters, wildlife safaris.
How to Reach (Distance): 90 km from Mysore; accessible by road.
Activity: Boat safaris, jeep safaris, trekking.
4. Kudremukh National Park
Kudremukh National Park is a national park located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka state. This national park is situated in the hills of Kudremukh, this park is very popular for its natural beauty. This national park is spread over an area of 600 km. This park was given the status of a National Park in 1987.
The high peaks here are full of fauna and flora and routes have also been made for tracking. Here you can feel the view of nature and creatures. The name of the park is derived from the local language, which means “looking like a horse’s face”. Hence it is named Kudremukh. This mountain is 1894 meters high.
In this park, you will get to see different species of animals. Which is extinct in other parts of the country. The park was initially developed for iron mining. But a campaign was launched against the adverse impact on the environment and the park was converted into a Wildlife Century.
Kudremukh’s green cover is considered to be a paradise for nature and wildlife.
Things to Do:
- Trekking: Trek to the Kudremukh peak, which offers sweeping views of the Western Ghats.
- River Exploration: Explore scenic rivers and waterfalls within the park.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot leopards, sambar, and the endangered lion-tailed macaque.
Temperature: Cool to warm (15-30°C), cooler at higher altitudes.
Popular Attractions to See: Kudremukh peak, waterfalls.
How to Reach (Distance): 330 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Trekking, bird watching, exploring waterfalls.
5. Mudumalai National Park
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the Kerala-Karnataka border. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Bandipur National Park. Which is spread over 321 square kilometers. The Moyar River plays an important role in separating these two parks. A variety of wildlife species can be seen in Mudumalai.
Such as langurs, tigers, elephants, gaurs, and flying squirrels. Apart from this, many types of birds can also be seen here such as Malabar Trogan, Gray Hornbill, Crested Hawk Eagle, Crested Sarpant Eagle, etc. Many endangered animals are also found here. And many rare species of flora and fauna are also found.
Apart from animals, colorful birds also appear flying here. Theppakkadu Elephant Camp, built in the sanctuary itself, attracts children.
Things to Do:
- Jeep and Van Safaris: Discover the park’s animals through guided safari rides.
- Elephant Camp: Visit the elephant feeding camp for a close encounter with these gentle giants.
- Birdwatching: Spot unique and endangered bird species across the park.
Temperature: Pleasant (15-30°C), cooler in winter.
Popular Attractions to See: Elephant safaris, Theppakadu elephant camp.
How to Reach (Distance): 220 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Jeep safaris, elephant rides, bird watching.
6. Anshi National Park
Located within the Uttara Kannada district, Anshi National Park is a blanketed location covering around 340 rectangular kilometers. The park is known for its wealthy biodiversity and pristine natural beauty, with a extensive variety of flora and fauna.
It is domestic to many endangered species, such as tigers, leopards, and the Malabar massive squirrel. Other flora and fauna observed here include barking deer, sambar, spotted deer, wild boar, and various species of birds.
Things to Do:
- Night Safari: Experience a rare night safari to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
- River Rafting: Try river rafting on the nearby Kali River.
- Trekking: Take guided treks through lush forest trails.
Temperature: Moderate to warm (20-30°C), cooler in winter.
Popular Attractions to See: Dandeli Anshi Tiger Reserve, wildlife sightings.
How to Reach (Distance): 515 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Jeep safaris, bird watching, trekking.
7. BR Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary
Also referred to as BR Hills, this sanctuary is placed within the Chamarajanagar district and covers an area of around 540 square kilometers. It is named after the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple on a hill inside the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is domestic to numerous natural world, including elephants, tigers, and sloth bears. Other species observed here consist of gaurs, sambars, chitals, and many bird species.
Things to Do:
- Jeep Safari: Explore the forests and spot tigers, elephants, and other animals.
- Trek to Biligiriranganatha Temple: Reach the temple at the top of a hill for scenic views.
- Birdwatching: Observe a wide range of bird species along the forest trails.
Temperature: Pleasant to warm (15-30°C), varies with seasons.
Popular Attractions to See: Biligirirangan Hills, wildlife safaris.
How to Reach (Distance): 180 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Jeep safaris, bird watching, trekking
8. Kali Tiger Reserve
Located inside the Uttara Kannada district, Kali Tiger Reserve covers an area of around 1300 rectangular kilometers.
With its dense forests, majestic waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, the reserve is known for its tigers, leopards, and black panthers. Other flora and fauna determined here consist of wild puppies, jackals, gaur, and many species of birds.
Things to Do:
- River Rafting: Enjoy river rafting on the Kali River for an adventurous experience.
- Wildlife Safari: Go on jeep safaris to spot tigers, black panthers, and other animals.
- Birdwatching: Spot hornbills, eagles, and various bird species in the park.
Temperature: Moderate to warm (20-32°C), cooler in winter.
Popular Attractions to See: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, scenic landscapes.
How to Reach (Distance): 485 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Jeep safaris, bird watching, trekking.
9. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary is situated in the Somwarpet taluk of Kodagu district and covers an area of around 102 square kilometers. It is understood for its picturesque panorama and varied range of flora and fauna.
The sanctuary is domestic to many species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, along with the Malabar giant squirrel and the endangered Nilgiri langur. Other species include elephants, leopards, barking deer, and sambar.
Things to Do:
- Trekking: Trek to Kumara Parvatha, a popular trail that offers stunning views.
- Birdwatching: See rare and endangered bird species.
- Photography: Capture the lush landscapes, especially during the monsoon.
Temperature: Cool to warm (15-30°C), cooler at higher altitudes.
Popular Attractions to See: Kumara Parvatha, Shola forests.
How to Reach (Distance): 250 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Trekking, bird watching, exploring waterfalls.
10. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary covers around 490 square kilometers in the Chikmagalur district. The sanctuary is domestic to many species of mammals, consisting of tigers, leopards, elephants, and many bird species.
The sanctuary also boasts various vegetation, with many species of bushes, shrubs, and herbs located right here. Visitors can enjoy trekking, camping, and birdwatching in the sanctuary, which is thought for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
Things to Do:
- Boat Safari: Take a boat safari on the Bhadra Reservoir to see animals along the shore.
- Wildlife Safari: Join jeep safaris to spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and more.
- Birdwatching: Spot hornbills, parakeets, and other birds.
Temperature: Moderate (15-28°C), varies with seasons.
Popular Attractions to See: River Bhadra, Mulayanagiri peak.
How to Reach (Distance): 285 km from Bangalore; accessible by road.
Activity: Jeep safaris, bird watching, trekking.
Conclusion
If you plan to visit the National Park of Karnataka, then this trip is going to be memorable for you. For nature lovers, this place is no less than a paradise. Here you can enjoy nature to the fullest.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which are the most popular wildlife national parks in Karnataka?
The most popular parks include Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Bannerghatta National Park, Kudremukh National Park, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
2. What animals can I see at Bandipur National Park?
Bandipur is famous for elephants, tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and various deer species.
3. Where is Nagarhole National Park located?
Nagarhole National Park is situated in the Kodagu (Coorg) and Mysore districts in Karnataka.
4. Is Bannerghatta National Park good for a day trip?
Yes, Bannerghatta is close to Bangalore and is ideal for a day trip. It has a safari, zoo, and butterfly park.
5. What is Kudremukh National Park known for?
Kudremukh is famous for its lush green landscapes, hill views, and a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards and sambar deer.
6. Are there safari options available at these parks?
Yes, Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Bannerghatta offer safari rides to see wildlife up close.
7. When is the best time to visit Bandipur National Park?
The best time to visit Bandipur is from October to May when the weather is pleasant, and animals are easier to spot.
8. Can I see tigers in Karnataka’s national parks?
Yes, Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Bhadra have tiger populations and are part of the Project Tiger initiative.
9. Is there an entry fee for these parks?
Yes, most parks have an entry fee, and safaris may have separate charges.
10. Can I trek in Kudremukh National Park?
Trekking is allowed in some parts of Kudremukh with prior permission, and it offers scenic trails through the Western Ghats.
11. What is special about Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary?
Bhadra is known for its tiger reserve status, as well as sightings of elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.
12. Are accommodations available near these parks?
Yes, there are lodges, resorts, and government guest houses near parks like Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Bannerghatta.
13. Which national park is closest to Bangalore?
Bannerghatta National Park is closest to Bangalore, around 22 km from the city.
14. Is camping allowed inside these parks?
Camping is generally restricted to specific areas and only allowed with permission in some parks, like Kudremukh.
15. Are these parks suitable for family visits?
Yes, all of these parks are family-friendly and offer a great experience for nature and wildlife lovers.
