An Unforgettable Adventure through Bandipur, Kabini, and Dandeli
Bandipur: Where Nature Thrives
Located in the Nilgiri foothills of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is one of the oldest tiger reserves in India. Spanning over 874 sq km, Bandipur is famous for its conservation efforts, making it a top destination for tiger sightings. The park is home to an impressive range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, deer, and more than 200 species of birds. The national park offers thrilling jeep safaris through its vast landscapes of deciduous forests, grasslands, and water bodies, giving visitors an unforgettable encounter with nature’s raw beauty. Bandipur’s proximity to Mudumalai and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries makes it part of a larger wildlife corridor, enhancing its ecological richness.
Kabini: Where the Wild Roams Free
Nestled on the banks of the Kabini River, Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s most pristine and breathtaking wildlife reserves. Part of the Nagarhole National Park, Kabini is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Famous for its large herds of elephants and a variety of bird species, Kabini offers a unique blend of water and jungle safaris. The lush green forests are home to tigers, leopards, wild dogs, gaur, and other animals, while the boat safaris along the Kabini River provide a peaceful opportunity to spot aquatic creatures and diverse birdlife. Kabini’s charm lies in its untouched beauty, offering visitors an immersive and serene wilderness experience.
Dandeli: The Adventure Capital of Karnataka
Located in the heart of the Western Ghats, Dandeli is a paradise for adventure seekers. Famous for its adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting on the Kali River, kayaking, and zip-lining, Dandeli combines adventure with wildlife. The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its black panthers, Malabar giant squirrels, and hornbills, is a key attraction for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. In addition to thrilling river adventures, Dandeli offers a range of nature-based activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking through the dense forests. Whether it’s spotting rare wildlife or feeling the rush of adventure, Dandeli offers an experience like no other in Karnataka’s wilderness.
By Air
Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has connectivity with all major Indian cities and several international locations.
By Train
Bengaluru has its own station that is well connected to all major cities of India.
Arrival in Bengaluru, transit to Bandipur, jeep safari, wildlife spotting.
Early morning jeep safari, Bandipur Tiger Reserve Museum, Mudumalai National Park, nature-walk
Transit to Kabini, boat safari, wildlife documentary screening.
Jeep safari through Nagarhole National Park, coracle ride, kayaking (optional), night safari.
Transit to Dandeli, stroll around the resort, campfire, evening at leisure.
White water rafting on Kali river, kayaking (optional), Jeep safari at Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, bird-watching.
Syntheri Rocks, Cavala caves, zip-lining (optional), depart back for Bengaluru.
What wildlife can I expect to see in Bandipur, Kabini, and Dandeli?
Bandipur is known for tigers, leopards, Indian elephants, sloth bears, sambar deer, and numerous birds such as peacocks, owls, and hornbills. Kabini is known for its elephant herds, leopards, tigers, gaur, and diverse bird species including ospreys, kingfishers, and serpent eagles. Dandeli is know for black panthers, Malabar giant squirrels, hornbills, and bison. The Kali River also hosts a variety of aquatic species and is great for spotting crocodiles and otters.
What activities are available in these wildlife reserves?
Bandipur has options of Jeep safari, nature treks and bird-watching. Kabini offers Jeep safari, boat safari, bird-watching and coracle rides. Dandeli offers white water rafting, kayaking, zip-lining and trekking in addition to Jungle safaris and bird-watching.
Are there any entry fees for the parks?
Entry fees for safaris and park access vary across the various places. Generally Jeep safaris costs between Rs.1500 – Rs.2000 per person; boat safaris costs between Rs.1500 – Rs.2500 per person; jungle safaris costs between Rs.500 – Rs.1000 per person and rafting costs between Rs.1500 – Rs.2000 per person.
Are these destinations safe for solo travelers and families?
Yes, all three destinations are safe for both solo travelers and families. Resorts and tour operators ensure safety during safaris and adventure activities, with well-trained guides and drivers.
Are children allowed on safaris and rafting adventures?
Yes, children are generally allowed on safaris with age limits of 5-6 years and above for Jeep Safaris. However, for rafting in Dandeli, children below 12 may not be allowed or may be limited to moderate rapids.
