Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
General Overview: Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small but incredibly vibrant avian haven located on a picturesque island in the Tunga River in Shimoga. Spanning a modest area of about 1.14 acres, this sanctuary is a crucial nesting ground for thousands of migratory birds that arrive here every year . It is part of the larger Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary ecosystem. The sanctuary becomes a hive of activity during the monsoon season when birds such as the Median Egret, Little Cormorant, Darter, and Open-billed Stork congregate on the branches of the trees that emerge from the river. The sight of thousands of birds nesting together on a single island is a spectacular display of nature's reproductive cycles. The river Tunga flows gracefully around the island, providing an abundant source of fish for the birds, making it an ideal nursery. A tall watchtower has been erected on the riverbank to allow tourists to observe the birds without disturbing their habitat. The sound of thousands of chirping birds creates a natural symphony that can be heard from a distance. The sanctuary is particularly beautiful in the early morning and late afternoon when the birds are most active, flying in and out of the island in large flocks. During the summer, the water levels recede, and the number of birds decreases, but the scenic beauty of the river and the surrounding lush greenery remains. The forest department occasionally organizes coracle rides during the summer months, offering a closer look at the island's perimeter. It is a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families looking for a quick getaway from Shimoga city. The sanctuary serves as an important reminder of the need for wetland conservation and the protection of riverine ecosystems. Despite its small size, Mandagadde punches way above its weight in terms of ecological significance and visual appeal, offering a peaceful retreat where one can truly connect with the rhythms of the natural world.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife & NatureEntry Fees:
Fee Details: The entry fee is nominal, approximately 5 to 10 INR per person. Camera charges may apply for professional gear (around 50 INR). It is one of the most affordable wildlife experiences in Karnataka, maintained by the Forest Department. ...Fee Details: The entry fee is nominal, approximately 5 to 10 INR per person. Camera charges may apply for professional gear (around 50 INR). It is one of the most affordable wildlife experiences in Karnataka, maintained by the Forest Department.Timing:
Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: 7:30 AM or 5:30 PM. This is when the birds are most active. During the heat of the day, birds often remain tucked away in the thick foliage. ...Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: 7:30 AM or 5:30 PM. This is when the birds are most active. During the heat of the day, birds often remain tucked away in the thick foliage.Special Events:
Nesting Season: The peak nesting period from July to September is the most significant "natural event" here.
World Migratory Bird Day: Celebrated in May and October, the forest department sometimes conducts awareness sessions for school chil...Nesting Season: The peak nesting period from July to September is the most significant "natural event" here.
World Migratory Bird Day: Celebrated in May and October, the forest department sometimes conducts awareness sessions for school children about avian conservation.Best Photo Spots:
The Watchtower View: A panoramic shot of the island filled with white birds.
Birds in Flight: Capturing the birds as they return to their nests during sunset.
Riverbank Reflections: The river Tunga mirroring...The Watchtower View: A panoramic shot of the island filled with white birds.
Birds in Flight: Capturing the birds as they return to their nests during sunset.
Riverbank Reflections: The river Tunga mirroring the lush green canopy of the sanctuary.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Birdwatching: Spend time on the watchtower with binoculars to identify different species like the Darter and Egret.
Photography: Capture the birds in flight or nesting on the island branches.
Coracle Ride: If visiting in summer, take a traditional round boat ride on the Tunga.
Picnicking: Use the shaded areas near the entrance for a family lunch.
Nature
Photography: The Tunga River and the surrounding greenery provide excellent landscapes.
Visit Gajanur Dam: Since it is nearby, combine your trip with a visit to the Gajanur Dam and the elephant camp.
Quiet Reflection: Sit by the riverbank and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the s...
Information
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Why Famous:
Massive Bird Nesting: Mandagadde is famous for the seasonal nesting of over 5,000 migratory birds. It is one of the few places where you can see several species like Egrets, Darters, and Cormorants nesting in high density on a small river island. The sanctuary is famous fo...Massive Bird Nesting: Mandagadde is famous for the seasonal nesting of over 5,000 migratory birds. It is one of the few places where you can see several species like Egrets, Darters, and Cormorants nesting in high density on a small river island. The sanctuary is famous for its proximity to the Shimoga-Thirthahalli highway, making it an easily accessible wildlife spot. It is a key highlight for bird photographers in South India. -
Architecture:
Island Ecosystem Structure: The "architecture" of Mandagadde is primarily organic, consisting of the river island's natural topography. The island is approx. 1. 14 acres in size. Human-made structures include a 30-foot high concrete watchtower and a paved pathway along th...Island Ecosystem Structure: The "architecture" of Mandagadde is primarily organic, consisting of the river island's natural topography. The island is approx. 1. 14 acres in size. Human-made structures include a 30-foot high concrete watchtower and a paved pathway along the riverbank for visitors. The nesting sites are naturally formed by the intertwined branches of Terminalia and other riverine trees, which provide a tiered structure for different bird species to nest at varying heights. -
How To Reach:
By Road: Situated on the Shimoga-Thirthahalli Highway (NH-169). It is a 45-minute drive from the city.
By Air: Shivamogga Airport is about 40 KMS away.
By Train: Shimoga is the closest station. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Sakrebyle Elephant Camp (12 km), 2. Gajanur Dam (14 km), 3. Shimoga City (30 km), 4. Thirthahalli (30 km), 5. Tunga Bridge (30 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be careful on the watchtower steps. Do not feed the birds or throw plastic in the river.
Cash & Connectivity: Decent mobile network. No ATMs at the site; nearest is in Gajanur or Shimoga.
Acc...
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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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