Surrounded by the concrete jungle, stress is almost inevitable nowadays. Step outside your house only to face pollution and radicals that affect your health. Fresh and clean air in cosmopolitan cities is almost a dream. This is the time when we truly miss natural habitats.
If you are a nature lover living in Bangalore, there are several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that you have easy access to. Here is a list of some of the must-visit wildlife sanctuaries and national parks for you.
1. Bandipur National Park
This National park is about 215 km in distance from Bangalore. It is one of the most well preserved National Parks in India. The park covers a vast area of about 874 sq.km and is rich in its wildlife. It is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna and hosts the highest number of wild elephants in the whole of South Asia. It is considered as one of the most preferred heritage sites in the region. The Bandipur National Park is great for photography, adventure and simply to unwind in the purity of nature.
2. Nagarhole National Park
Also known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park, the Nagarhole national park is located 218 km from Bangalore. It is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit for wildlife in South India. The park has its nature preserved in the best possible way lush greenery, small streams and waterfalls, and several hills and valleys. Some of the animals that you can easily spot here are the tigers, gaur, elephants, Indian leopards, and deer. It is a paradise for nature lovers. You can make a pitstop at the Kabini resort Mysore or even stay there when visiting this park.
3. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in Dandeli in Karnataka, this wildlife sanctuary is the second largest sanctuary of the state. As this sanctuary sits at the bank of river Kali, not only is it rich in fauna but is also a great place to witness some rare species of birds. Don’t forget to grab your binoculars to spot them closer, when you go there. Some other unusual mammals that you can look out for when in Dandeli are the sloth bears, barking deers, Indian pangolin and more.
4. Dubare Elephant camp
Are you in love with the gigantic magnificent creatures, elephants? There is no better place to experience spending time with them than the Dubare elephant camp. This place is an elephant training center that sits on the banks of river Cauvery. It is a project that is undertaken by the forest department and jungle lodges and resorts of Karnataka. There are skilled naturalists that are specialized at training these elephants. You can learn all about elephant history, ecology and biology while you are at this camp. If you are concerned about the treatment of these elephants, do not worry, they are in absolutely safe hands. You can indulge in activities like bathing elephants while you are there.
5. Bannerghatta National Park
Looking for some safari trip amidst the wildlife? The Bannerghatta national park is one of the best for a wildlife safari around the Bangalore area. Get a close look at wild mammals such as lions, tigers, and bears at this park. Don’t worry, your vehicle is secured and you are at a safe distance from them. On your way there, you can also visit the Ragihalli reserve forest. This forest reserve is rich for its flora and scenic and picturesque view. Ensure you pre-book your safari. The timings of the safari are from 10 am to 4:30 pm and is safe for all age groups.
Escape the ordinary and unwind in the goodness of fresh air, lush greenery and magnificent animals of these wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. You are sure to be refreshed within the span of the weekend during these trips. If you are looking for a place to stay with such a naturistic environment, the Kabini resorts Mysore is one good option for you.