Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary
Kokkare Bellur is a unique conservation success story where birds and humans live in perfect harmony. The name itself translates to "village of storks" in the local Kannada language. This is not a typical fenced sanctuary; rather, the entire village is a habitat for migratory birds. The Painted Stor ks and Spot-billed Pelicans build their nests on the trees located in the backyards of the villagers. This relationship dates back centuries, with the locals believing that the birds bring good luck and prosperity. The villagers even protect the birds from predators and hunters, creating a safe haven for breeding. The sight of hundreds of large birds perched on tamarind and peepal trees is breathtaking. The air is filled with the calls of the chicks and the flapping of large wings. This sanctuary is globally recognized for its conservation model where community participation is the key. During the nesting season, the village becomes a hub for ornithologists and nature photographers. The birds feed in the nearby Shimsha River and return to the village to care for their young. The guano (bird droppings) is collected by the villagers to be used as a natural, phosphorus-rich fertilizer for their crops. This symbiotic relationship is a beautiful example of ecological balance. Visitors can walk through the narrow lanes of the village and see the nests at eye level from the terraces of local houses. It is a humble yet powerful reminder of how nature can thrive alongside human settlements. The quiet dignity of the village combined with the majestic presence of the birds makes it a must-visit destination.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Bird Sanctuary / Wildlife / VillageEntry Fees:
Entry Charges: No official entry fee, but donations for bird welfare are welcome.
Parking Fees: Rs. 50 for four-wheelers and Rs. 20 for two-wheelers. ...Entry Charges: No official entry fee, but donations for bird welfare are welcome.
Parking Fees: Rs. 50 for four-wheelers and Rs. 20 for two-wheelers.Special Events:
Nesting Peak: The grand arrival of birds in November is a seasonal highlight for the village.
World Environment Day: Local celebrations in June focusing on bird conservation and tree planting. ...Nesting Peak: The grand arrival of birds in November is a seasonal highlight for the village.
World Environment Day: Local celebrations in June focusing on bird conservation and tree planting.Best Photo Spots:
Nesting Trees: Frame the birds against the green canopy for a natural look.
Village Lanes: Capture the birds perched on trees right next to traditional village homes.
Action Shots: Take photos of the birds i...Nesting Trees: Frame the birds against the green canopy for a natural look.
Village Lanes: Capture the birds perched on trees right next to traditional village homes.
Action Shots: Take photos of the birds in flight against the blue sky.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Bird Watching: Spend time identifying various species like the Little Cormorant and Black-headed Ibis.
Photography: Use long lenses to capture the intricate details of the Painted Storks feeding their young.
Village Walk: Interact with the locals to learn about their folklore and conservation stories.
Educational Tours: Visit the local information center to understand the migratory patterns of the birds.
Nature Journaling: Find a quiet spot to sketch or write about the avian behavior.
River Foraging Watch: Follow the birds to the Shimsha river to see them dive for fish.
Local Cuisine: Try the famous Maddur Vada from the nearby town as part of your trip. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Community Conservation: Famous for the unique bond between the villagers and the migratory birds.
Pelicanry: One of the few nesting sites in India for the endangered Spot-billed Pelicans.
Rural Tourism: Reno...Community Conservation: Famous for the unique bond between the villagers and the migratory birds.
Pelicanry: One of the few nesting sites in India for the endangered Spot-billed Pelicans.
Rural Tourism: Renowned for its authentic village atmosphere and nature education. -
Architecture:
Nesting Infrastructure: The architecture of this sanctuary is purely biological, consisting of tall Ficus and Tamarind trees.
Observation Towers: Small wooden and concrete watchtowers have been erected by the forest department for viewing. <...Nesting Infrastructure: The architecture of this sanctuary is purely biological, consisting of tall Ficus and Tamarind trees.
Observation Towers: Small wooden and concrete watchtowers have been erected by the forest department for viewing.
Dimensions: The sanctuary covers the entire village area of approximately 2 square kilometers. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Bengaluru International Airport (105 km) is the nearest.
By Train: Reach Maddur Railway Station (12 km) and take an auto.
By Road: Take a deviation from the Bangalore-Mysore highway at Maddur. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Maddur Vada Stalls (12km), 2. Shivanasamudra Falls (35km), 3. Somnathpur Temple (40km), 4. Talakadu (35km), 5. Mandya (25km), 6. Channapatna (20km), 7. Shimsha River (1km), 8. Janapada Loka (35km), 9. Srirangapatna (50km), 10. Mysore (70km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Avoid standing directly under nesting trees to prevent bird droppings; wear a hat.
Packing: Binoculars, sunblock, and a good camera are essential.
Accommodation: Homestays are available in ...
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Information about New and Updated Locations(702+) of Karnataka Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Kudli Kunchikal FallsKundadri HillsKuvempu Kavi Mane Mandagadde Bird SanctuaryNagara FortSakrebyle Elephant CampShivappa Nayaka PalaceTyavarekoppa Lion SafariDarga Hazrath Mardane GaibGaganachukki FallsGaganachukki Falls View PointGanalu FallsHarekada Small FallsIgloor DamKaveri River View Point, SathyagalaKokkare Bellur Bird SanctuaryMalavalli Lake View PointMore PlacesNote:-
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