Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is a sprawling protected area nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Spanning over 370 sq km, it is named after the presiding deity of the famous Kollur Mookambika Temple, which lies within its boundaries. The sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot, characterized by th ick evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests. It serves as a vital corridor between the Someshwara and Sharavathi Valley wildlife sanctuaries. The terrain is rugged and hilly, featuring the magnificent Kodachadri peak, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, wild boars, and the rare lion-tailed macaque. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like the Malabar grey hornbill and various flycatchers. Several perennial rivers, including the Souparnika and Chakra, flow through the forest, creating beautiful waterfalls like Arashinagundi and Belkal Theertha. The atmosphere is mystical, especially during the monsoon when the entire forest is draped in mist. It is a haven for trekkers, pilgrims, and nature photographers seeking a deep connection with the wild.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Wildlife, Trekking, PilgrimageEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: Nominal entry fee of 25 INR to 50 INR for the sanctuary; trekking permits from the forest office cost around 200 INR.
Jeep Hire: For Kodachadri, jeeps cost roughly 3,500 INR to 4,500 INR for a round trip (shared or private).
...Entry Fee: Nominal entry fee of 25 INR to 50 INR for the sanctuary; trekking permits from the forest office cost around 200 INR.
Jeep Hire: For Kodachadri, jeeps cost roughly 3,500 INR to 4,500 INR for a round trip (shared or private).
Temple Entry: Free for general darshan; special sevas have specific ticket prices.Timing:
Sanctuary Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM for entry; trekking must start early in the morning for safety.
Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Ideal Visit: September to March for trekking....Sanctuary Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM for entry; trekking must start early in the morning for safety.
Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Ideal Visit: September to March for trekking.Special Events:
Navaratri Utsava: The biggest event at Kollur, where the forest and temple come alive with thousands of pilgrims and rituals.
Vana Mahotsava: A forest department event focusing on tree plantation and wildlife awareness during the monsoon. ...Navaratri Utsava: The biggest event at Kollur, where the forest and temple come alive with thousands of pilgrims and rituals.
Vana Mahotsava: A forest department event focusing on tree plantation and wildlife awareness during the monsoon.Best Photo Spots:
Kodachadri Peak: The panoramic view of the forest meeting the sea in the distance is the ultimate photo opportunity.
Temple Entrance: The grand entrance of the Kollur temple against the backdrop of the misty Ghats is very picturesque.Kodachadri Peak: The panoramic view of the forest meeting the sea in the distance is the ultimate photo opportunity.
Temple Entrance: The grand entrance of the Kollur temple against the backdrop of the misty Ghats is very picturesque.
Jungle Streams: The crystal-clear water of the Souparnika flowing over pebbles in the forest provides a serene nature shot.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trek to Kodachadri: Embark on a challenging trek to the peak to see the sunset and the ancient Sarvajna Peetha temple.
Wildlife Safari: Join a forest department-led jeep safari to spot deer, gaurs, and if lucky, a leopard or tiger.
Visit Mookambika Temple: Visit the 1,200-year-old temple at Kollur, located at the foothills, for its spiritual energy.
Birdwatching: Spend early mornings near the river banks to spot endemic birds of the Western Ghats like the Hornbill.
Photography at Waterfalls: Visit Belkal Theertha falls for long-exposure photography of the cascading water amidst green foliage.
Explore Souparnika River: Take a holy dip in the river, which is believed to have medicinal properties du...
Information
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Why Famous:
Biodiversity: Famous for housing endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque and various medicinal plants found only in the Ghats.
Kodachadri Peak: Famous as the mountain where Adi Shankaracharya meditated, offering a view of the Arabian...Biodiversity: Famous for housing endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque and various medicinal plants found only in the Ghats.
Kodachadri Peak: Famous as the mountain where Adi Shankaracharya meditated, offering a view of the Arabian Sea from the forest heights.
Spiritual Connection: Famous for being the home of Goddess Mookambika, blending nature with intense religious devotion. -
Architecture:
Natural Architecture: The "architecture" here is the forest canopy itself, layered with ancient trees like Dipterocarpus. The Kollur Mookambika Temple within the sanctuary showcases Keladi Nayaka architecture with stone walls and a gold-plated sanctum.
Read MoreNatural Architecture: The "architecture" here is the forest canopy itself, layered with ancient trees like Dipterocarpus. The Kollur Mookambika Temple within the sanctuary showcases Keladi Nayaka architecture with stone walls and a gold-plated sanctum.
Trekking Routes: The trails to Kodachadri are naturally carved paths spanning roughly 10-12 km, leading to the Sarvajna Peetha at the summit.How To Reach:
By Air: Mangalore Airport is 140 km away; pre-paid taxis take about 4 hours to reach Kollur.
By Train: Nearest station is Byndoor Mookambika Road (BYNR), 28 km away; buses and autos are available.
By Road:...Near Tourist Places:
1. Kollur Temple (1 km), 2. Kodachadri Peak (20 km), 3. Sigandur Chowdeshwari (45 km), 4. Maravanthe Beach (50 km), 5. Arashinagundi Falls (6 km), 6. Jog Falls (90 km), 7. Nagara Fort (40 km), 8. Byndoor Beach (30 km), 9. Anegudde Temple (55 km), 10. Kundapura (35 km).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Watch out for leeches during the monsoon; use salt or tobacco powder. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Packing: Sturdy trekking shoes, rain gear, and leech socks; carry personal medications and water bottles. ...
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