Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Details : The Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is a unique wildlife destination located just a short drive from the historical ruins of Hampi. Established in 1994, it is the first sanctuary in India specifically dedicated to the conservation of the Indian Sloth Bear. The landscape is a rugged terrain of boulders and scrub forest, spanning over 82 square kilometers, which provides a natural habitat for these shy and nocturnal creatures. The sanctuary was once a barren land, but through the efforts of the Karnataka Forest Department, it has been transformed into a lush ecosystem. Visitors can witness the bears from a dedicated Watchtower located on a hillock. Every evening, the forest guards spread jaggery and honey on the boulders to attract the bears, making it easier for tourists to spot them as they descend from their caves. Apart from sloth bears, the sanctuary is home to Leopards, Hyenas, Jackals, Wild Boars, and over 90 species of birds. It is a paradise for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts who want a break from the architectural tours of Hampi. The sanctuary plays a vital role in educating the public about the importance of protecting endangered species. The best way to experience the sanctuary is by taking a slow drive through the designated paths, keeping a sharp eye out for movements among the rocks. The silence of the forest, occasionally broken by the calls of the Peafowl or the growls of a bear, creates a thrilling atmosphere. It is a mandatory stop for families traveling with children, as it offers a practical lesson in wildlife conservation. The sanctuary is well-maintained, with information boards explaining the biology and behavior of the sloth bear. It provides a stark yet beautiful contrast to the nearby stone monuments of the Vijayanagara Empire, reminding us of the natural heritage that has coexisted with human history for millennia.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration : 2 to 3 Hours.Place Type:
Category : Wildlife & Nature.Entry Fees:
Entry Fees : The entry fee is 50 INR for Indian adults and 300 INR for foreign nationals. Parking for cars costs around 500 INR, which includes the entry for all passengers in some cases. ...Entry Fees : The entry fee is 50 INR for Indian adults and 300 INR for foreign nationals. Parking for cars costs around 500 INR, which includes the entry for all passengers in some cases.Timing:
Timings : Open daily from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Ideal Visit Time is 4:00 PM, as bears typically emerge from their caves during the cooler hours of the late afternoon. ...Timings : Open daily from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Ideal Visit Time is 4:00 PM, as bears typically emerge from their caves during the cooler hours of the late afternoon.Special Events:
Special Event : World Wildlife Week in the first week of October is marked by special awareness programs, trekking events, and photography workshops conducted by forest officials. ...Special Event : World Wildlife Week in the first week of October is marked by special awareness programs, trekking events, and photography workshops conducted by forest officials.Best Photo Spots:
Photo Spots : The Summit of the Watchtower provides the best wide-angle shots of the sanctuary. The Feeding Boulders are the prime spot for close-up shots of the sloth bears using a telephoto lens. ...Photo Spots : The Summit of the Watchtower provides the best wide-angle shots of the sanctuary. The Feeding Boulders are the prime spot for close-up shots of the sloth bears using a telephoto lens.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Things to Do :
Bear Spotting : Climb the main watchtower between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to see bears in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Photography : Use a long lens to capture the bears, leopards, and diverse birdlife against the golden boulders.
Bird Watching : Explore the scrub forest early in the afternoon to spot Painted Spurfowl and Stone Curlews.
Educational Visit : Visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the diet and lifestyle of the sloth bear.
Nature Safari : Take a slow jeep drive (if available) through the forest buffer zone.
Sunset Viewing : The watchtower offers a panoramic view of the forest as the sun sets behind the hills.
Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous : Famous as Asia’s First Sloth Bear Sanctuary, it holds a prestigious spot in wildlife conservation. It is also well-known for the Guaranteed Sightings of bears during the evening feeding hours, a rarity in many Indian wildlife parks. The sanctuary's Unique B...Why Famous : Famous as Asia’s First Sloth Bear Sanctuary, it holds a prestigious spot in wildlife conservation. It is also well-known for the Guaranteed Sightings of bears during the evening feeding hours, a rarity in many Indian wildlife parks. The sanctuary's Unique Boulder Terrain makes it one of the most picturesque wildlife spots in southern India. -
Architecture:
As a natural sanctuary, it doesn't have traditional buildings, but the Observation Watchtower is a sturdy stone and concrete structure designed to blend with the environment. It stands about 30 feet high and can accommodate around 50 people at a time. The sanctuary also features well-marked Natur...As a natural sanctuary, it doesn't have traditional buildings, but the Observation Watchtower is a sturdy stone and concrete structure designed to blend with the environment. It stands about 30 feet high and can accommodate around 50 people at a time. The sanctuary also features well-marked Nature Trails and a small Interpretation Center near the entrance that displays charts and maps of the area. -
How To Reach:
Reach :
By Air : Jindal Vijaynagar Airport is the nearest (30 KMS).
By Train : Hosapete Junction is the closest major station (22 KMS).
By Road : From Hampi, take a priva... -
Near Tourist Places:
Near Places : Kamalapura Museum (12 KM), Pattabhirama Temple (11 KM), Queen’s Bath (14 KM), Royal Enclosure (15 KM), Lotus Mahal (15 KM), Elephant Stables (15 KM), Malyavanta Hill (13 KM), Hampi Bazaar (16 KM), Tungabhadra Dam (25 KM), Anegundi (30 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Tourism Tips :
Health : Apply mosquito repellent and carry water.
Packing : Wear Dull-colored Clothing (khaki, olive) to blend in; avoid bright whites or reds.
Cash : Ca...
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