Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wilderness of Bhimgad: The Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is a pristine protected area nestled in the Western Ghats of Khanapur Taluk, Belagavi. Spanning approximately 190 sq. km, it was officially declared a sanctuary in 2011 to protect its unique ecological features. The sanctuary is named after the h istoric Bhimgad Fort, which sits atop a hill within the dense forest, offering a blend of history and nature. This forest is part of a crucial tiger corridor connecting Anshi-Dandeli and Sahyadri tiger reserves. It is world-renowned for the Barapede Caves, the only known breeding ground for the critically endangered Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat. The terrain is a mix of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests, creating a lush canopy that remains green almost year-round. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot tigers, leopards, Indian gaurs, sloth bears, and various species of deer. The sanctuary is also a haven for birdwatchers, housing rare species like the Malabar Trogon and the Velvet-fronted Nuthatch. The Mahadayi River originates within these forests, adding to the hydrological importance of the region. Trekking through the rugged trails leads visitors to hidden waterfalls like Jalavane Falls and the ruins of the 17th-century fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The atmosphere is characterized by misty mornings, cool breezes, and the constant symphony of forest insects and birds. It offers a raw, untouched experience of the Western Ghats, far away from the commercial noise of typical tourist destinations. Conservation efforts here are intense, focusing on protecting the fragile habitat of the endemic bats and the vital watershed. For anyone seeking solitude and a deep connection with the wild, Bhimgad provides a sanctuary in the truest sense of the word.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
5 to 6 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife Sanctuary / NatureEntry Fees:
Sanctuary Permit: Entry requires a permit from the Forest Department, usually costing around Rs.50-100.
Safari Charges: Guided safaris or treks involve additional costs, typically Rs.300-500 per person. ...Sanctuary Permit: Entry requires a permit from the Forest Department, usually costing around Rs.50-100.
Safari Charges: Guided safaris or treks involve additional costs, typically Rs.300-500 per person.Special Events:
Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October with awareness programs and guided tours.
Shivaji Jayanti: Local celebrations at the Bhimgad Fort to honor the Maratha king in February. ...Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October with awareness programs and guided tours.
Shivaji Jayanti: Local celebrations at the Bhimgad Fort to honor the Maratha king in February.Best Photo Spots:
Fort Bastions: High-angle shots of the forest canopy from the ruins of Bhimgad Fort.
Mahadayi River Bed: Crystal clear water reflecting the dense green trees.
Birding Hideouts: Close-up shots of the Malabar ...Fort Bastions: High-angle shots of the forest canopy from the ruins of Bhimgad Fort.
Mahadayi River Bed: Crystal clear water reflecting the dense green trees.
Birding Hideouts: Close-up shots of the Malabar Trogon on moss-covered branches.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Wildlife Safari: Embark on a forest department-authorized safari to spot leopards and gaurs.
Trekking to Bhimgad Fort: A moderate hike through the forest to explore the 17th-century ruins.
Bird Watching: Spend hours with binoculars spotting the Malabar Grey Hornbill.
Nature Photography: Capture the misty landscapes and rare butterflies of the Western Ghats.
Camping: Stay overnight at the Bhimgad Adventure Camp for a true wilderness experience.
Visit Barapede Caves: Observe the unique limestone formations (subject to forest permissions).
River Exploration: Walk along the banks of the Mahadayi River within the sanctuary.
Monsoon Drive:...
Information
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Why Famous:
Rare Bat Species: It is the only place in the world where the Wroughton's Free-tailed Bat is known to breed, making it a site of global conservation importance.
Shivaji’s Legacy: The historic Bhimgad Fort within the forest is a significant...Rare Bat Species: It is the only place in the world where the Wroughton's Free-tailed Bat is known to breed, making it a site of global conservation importance.
Shivaji’s Legacy: The historic Bhimgad Fort within the forest is a significant site for history buffs interested in the Maratha Empire. -
Architecture:
Military and Natural Design: The sanctuary’s architectural highlight is the Bhimgad Fort, a 17th-century structure built using local laterite stone. The walls are thick and reasonably intact, featuring circular bastions and strategic watchpoints.
Read MoreMilitary and Natural Design: The sanctuary’s architectural highlight is the Bhimgad Fort, a 17th-century structure built using local laterite stone. The walls are thick and reasonably intact, featuring circular bastions and strategic watchpoints.
Barapede Caves: The natural architecture of the limestone Barapede Caves is crucial, providing a unique micro-climate with specific temperature and humidity levels required for the breeding of the Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat.How To Reach:
By Air: Belagavi Airport is the nearest at 65 KMS from the sanctuary entrance.
By Train: Khanapur Railway Station (20 KMS) is the nearest railhead on the Belagavi-Londa line.
By Road: Take the Belagavi-Panaj...Near Tourist Places:
Chorla Ghat (30 KMS), Vajrapoha Falls (25 KMS), Belagavi Fort (55 KMS), Sada Falls (20 KMS), Jamboti Hills (35 KMS), Dandeli (80 KMS), Londa Junction (25 KMS), Amboli Ghat (90 KMS), Tillari Dam (65 KMS), Suraipal Falls (15 KMS).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Carry leech repellent in Monsoon; do not venture off the marked trails alone.
Packing: Wear camouflage or earth-toned clothes; carry binoculars and a good pair of hiking boots.
Accommodation:<...
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