Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park, officially known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is one of India's premier tiger reserves and a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Located about 90 KM from Mysore, it spans across the districts of Kodagu and Mysuru. The park gets its name from the river "Nagarhole" (Nag- snake, Hole-river) that snakes through its dense forests. It was once the exclusive hunting ground for the Wadiyar kings of Mysore. The park is famous for its high density of tigers and is one of the best places in the world to see the Asiatic Elephant. The landscape is a mix of deciduous forests, small streams, hills, and valleys. Apart from tigers and elephants, the park is home to leopards, wild dogs (dholes), sloth bears, and gaurs (Indian bison). It also hosts a variety of deer, including sambar and spotted deer. For birdwatchers, Nagarhole is a paradise with over 270 species of birds, including the rare Malabar Trogon and the Crested Serpent Eagle. The park is bordered by the Kabini River, which separates it from Bandipur National Park. The backwaters of the Kabini Dam are a major attraction, especially in summer when large herds of elephants gather on the banks. The park offers various safari options, including jeep safaris and bus safaris conducted by the Forest Department. There are also boat safaris on the Kabini River, which provide a unique perspective of the wildlife. Conservation efforts here are robust, aimed at protecting the habitat and preventing human-animal conflict. Staying in one of the forest lodges or nearby resorts provides an immersive jungle experience. The tranquility of the forest, broken only by the calls of birds and monkeys, makes it a perfect escape from city life. Visitors are expected to follow strict rules to maintain the ecological balance of this protected area.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
National Park / Wildlife SanctuaryEntry Fees:
Indians: Safari charges are approximately Rs.300 to Rs.500 for the bus and Rs.1,500+ for jeep safaris.
Foreigners: Entry and safari fees can go up to Rs.2,000 to Rs.3,000 per person.
Vehicle Entry: There is a separat...Indians: Safari charges are approximately Rs.300 to Rs.500 for the bus and Rs.1,500+ for jeep safaris.
Foreigners: Entry and safari fees can go up to Rs.2,000 to Rs.3,000 per person.
Vehicle Entry: There is a separate nominal fee for private vehicles entering the main road transit zones.Timing:
Safari Hours: Morning safari from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM; Evening safari from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Park Road Timings: The main road through the forest is closed from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM for animal safety.
Best Time ...Safari Hours: Morning safari from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM; Evening safari from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Park Road Timings: The main road through the forest is closed from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM for animal safety.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for predators; late afternoon for elephants.Special Events:
World Wildlife Day: Celebrated in March with awareness programs and special forest tours.
Bird Census: Annual events where volunteers help the forest department count and identify bird species.
Monsoon Rejuvena...World Wildlife Day: Celebrated in March with awareness programs and special forest tours.
Bird Census: Annual events where volunteers help the forest department count and identify bird species.
Monsoon Rejuvenation: The park looks its best after the first rains, though some paths may be closed for safety.Best Photo Spots:
Kabini River Bank: The sight of a herd of elephants against the water at sunset is an iconic Nagarhole shot.
The Jungle Canopy: Looking up at the massive rosewood trees provides a sense of the scale of the forest.
Read MoreKabini River Bank: The sight of a herd of elephants against the water at sunset is an iconic Nagarhole shot.
The Jungle Canopy: Looking up at the massive rosewood trees provides a sense of the scale of the forest.
Safari Gate Entrance: The traditional wooden gates of the forest department are a great spot for a group photo.
Iruppu Falls Base: The cascading white water against the dark rocks is a favorite for nature photographers.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Morning Jeep Safari: Take a 4x4 vehicle into the deep jungle for the best chance to spot tigers and leopards.
Boat Safari: Glide on the Kabini River to see crocodiles, water birds, and elephants drinking at the water's edge.
Bird Watching: Hire a guide to identify some of the 270+ species found in the park's diverse canopy.
Visit Kabini Dam: Admire the engineering and the vast expanse of water that supports the park's ecosystem.
Nature Photography: Capture the misty mornings, the massive teak trees, and the candid moments of wildlife.
Trekking: With permission, explore the nearby Brahmagiri hills for a panoramic view of the forest.
Stay at a Jungle Resort: Exper...
Information
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Why Famous:
Tiger Reserve: It has one of the highest densities of Royal Bengal Tigers in India, making sightings relatively frequent.
Elephant Congregation: During dry months, the Kabini backwaters host the largest gathering of Asiatic Elephants in the...Tiger Reserve: It has one of the highest densities of Royal Bengal Tigers in India, making sightings relatively frequent.
Elephant Congregation: During dry months, the Kabini backwaters host the largest gathering of Asiatic Elephants in the world.
Black Panther: The park gained global fame for being the home of a rare melanistic leopard (Black Panther) named Saaya. -
Architecture:
Forest Lodge Design: Most buildings within the park, like the Kabini River Lodge, follow a rustic, colonial, or ethnic style that blends with nature.
Dam Infrastructure: The Kabini Dam nearby is a significant engineering feat that created t...Forest Lodge Design: Most buildings within the park, like the Kabini River Lodge, follow a rustic, colonial, or ethnic style that blends with nature.
Dam Infrastructure: The Kabini Dam nearby is a significant engineering feat that created the massive reservoir bordering the park.
Dimensions: The park covers an area of approximately 643 square kilometers (248 sq miles).
Natural Features: The "architecture" of the park is defined by its massive Teak and Rosewood trees, some of which are centuries old. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Kannur Airport (CNN) is about 80 KM away; Mysore Airport is 90 KM; Bangalore is 220 KM.
By Train: Mysore Junction is the nearest major railhead (90 KM away).
By Road: Well connected from Mysore vi... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Kabini Dam (15 KM), 2. Iruppu Falls (20 KM), 3. Bylakuppe Golden Temple (50 KM), 4. Bandipur National Park (Adjacent), 5. Kuruva Island (30 KM), 6. Mananthavady (40 KM), 7. Hunsur (45 KM), 8. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (20 KM), 9. Dubare Elephant Camp (55 KM), 10. Cauvery Nisargadhama (60 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Do not get out of the vehicle during safari. Carry insect repellent and wear neutral-colored clothing (khaki/green).
Packing: Binoculars are a must. Carry warm layers for early morning safaris as it can be quite cold.
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