Guide to Nagarhole: India’s Premier Tiger Sanctuary

Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is one of India’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. The park offers visitors a chance to witness the country’s rich biodiversity up close, particularly the elusive tiger. Spanning across Mysore and Kodagu districts, this national park forms a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, was originally a hunting reserve for the Maharajas of Mysore before being declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955.

Later, in 1988, it attained the status of a national park, and in 1999, it became a crucial part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program. Today, the park is a protected area under Project Tiger and is an integral component of India’s conservation efforts. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Nagarhole National Park;

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Overview of Nagarhole National Park

Located in the southwestern part of India, Nagarhole National Park covers over 248 square miles (642 square kilometers) and is also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. The park derives its name from the ‘Nagarahole’ river, which translates to ‘Serpent River’ in Kannada, reflecting its winding, snake-like course.

It’s part of an extensive conservation area, teaming up with Bandipur National Park, Mudumalai National Park, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Combined, these parks create a vast protected zone of 842 square miles (2,183 square kilometers). Nagarhole is renowned for being a tiger reserve and is home to diverse wildlife, with elevations ranging from 2,254 to 3,150 feet (687 to 960 meters).

The park’s landscape is dotted with five rivers and 47 seasonal streams, which support the lush vegetation of dry and moist deciduous forests, along with teak and rosewood trees. The rich undergrowth beneath the trees provides an ideal habitat for the varied flora and fauna, making the park an exceptional destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Wildlife in Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park, a protected tiger reserve, offers visitors the thrilling opportunity to spot the elusive Bengal tiger, the park’s most sought-after wildlife sighting. Alongside these majestic predators, the park is home to a range of carnivores, including the leopard, jungle cat, golden jackal, and the elusive leopard cat.

Mammals are also abundant, with species like chital, barking deer, and elephants roaming the area. The park also harbors sloth bears, sambar deer, four-horned antelope, and mouse deer, as well as rarer creatures such as pangolins, mongooses, and porcupines.

In addition to its terrestrial inhabitants, Nagarhole is a haven for birdlife, with over 270 bird species either nesting or migrating through the park. Recognized as an Important Bird Area, it attracts birdwatchers with spectacular sightings of the greater spotted eagle and an array of colorful, exotic birds that add to the park’s allure.

Best Time to Visit Nagarhole National Park

The ideal time to visit Nagarhole National Park is from October to May, which is predominately the dry season. During this period, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, creating perfect conditions for safari experiences. As the park’s water sources become the focal points for wildlife, the chances of spotting tigers, elephants, and a variety of other animals are significantly higher.

This is considered the peak season for safaris, attracting visitors eager to witness the park’s rich biodiversity. However, travelers should be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. On the other hand, the monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and a completely different charm to the landscape. However, it is not the best time for wildlife sightings due to the heavy rainfall.

Getting to Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park is accessible by air, train, or road. For air travel, the nearest airport is Mysore Airport, located about 96 km from the park. Alternatively, you can fly into Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, then take a connecting flight to Mysore for added convenience.

If you prefer train travel, Mysore Junction (MYS) is the closest major railway station, situated about 80 km away, with good connectivity to several key cities across India. For those traveling by road, the park is easily reachable via well-maintained highways and state roads.

From Bangalore, drive along NH 275 towards Hunsur and then continue on the route leading directly to the park. Alternatively, from Mysore, head on SH33 for a scenic drive to the park entrance.

Other Activities in Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park offers a wide range of exciting activities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. One of the highlights is the thrilling wildlife safaris, where visitors can embark on jeep or bus safaris through the park’s dense forests. These provide the chance to spot majestic tigers, leopards, elephants, and a variety of other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Birdwatching is another rewarding activity, as the park is home to both resident and migratory birds—perfect for birding with binoculars and a camera. For photography enthusiasts, the park offers the opportunity to capture stunning wildlife moments, and you can even join a guided photography tour to perfect your skills.

A serene boat ride on the Kabini River is a must-do, with options ranging from peaceful traditional boats to more calming clam boat rides. During the monsoon, exploring the Taraka reservoir adds a unique dimension to your visit. For a deeper cultural experience, you can visit the Kabini Dam, the Bylekuppe Tibetan Settlement, or the Dubare Elephant Camp.

Coffee lovers can also enjoy a tour of the nearby coffee plantations. Those seeking spiritual moments can visit the Betta Byraveshwara Temple, rounding off a diverse and enriching experience in Nagarhole National Park.

Park Fees in Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park charges different fees depending on the experience. For entrance fees, Indian citizens pay INR 50 ($0.60) and foreign nationals charged INR 150 (around $1.80). However, visitors should be prepared for additional costs for vehicle entry and safari rides, as well as fees for carrying video cameras, DSLR cameras, and their lenses. Parking for vehicles is also subject to extra charges.

For those interested in exploring the park’s wildlife, safari options include bus and jeep safaris. The bus safari costs INR 1400 ($16.80) per person at the Kakanakote Gate and INR 750 ($9) per person at the Nanachi Gate. Jeep safaris are priced at INR 9500 ($115) per jeep for Indian citizens and INR 10000 ($120) per jeep for foreign nationals at either the Nanachi or Veeranahosahally Gates.

FAQs

What is special about Nagarhole National Park?

Nagarhole National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to one of the highest tiger populations in India. It ranks 3^rd just after the famous Corbett and Kaziranga tiger reserves. The park offers a captivating blend of lush landscapes and winding streams that snake through the terrain, adding to the enchanting beauty of the region.

Can I drive through Nagarhole National Park?

Yes, you can drive through Nagarhole National Park. While most national parks restrict access to private vehicles, Nagarhole allows visitors to drive their own cars within the park between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Conclusion

Nagarhole National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. With its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and immersive safari experiences, it offers a perfect escape into the heart of India’s wilderness.