Wildlife Safaris and National Parks in Karnataka: Where to See Tigers and Elephants

Karnataka national parks and reserves at a glance

Nagarhole and Kabini

Nagarhole, officially the Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is dense deciduous forest with a high wildlife density. Kabini is the backwater of the Kabini reservoir on its edge, where elephants gather on the banks during the dry months, and sightings of leopards, tigers, gaur and wild dogs are possible. Safaris are done by jeep or bus, and boat safaris run on the reservoir. Kabini is one of the best places in India to see large elephant herds in summer. Most lodges are on the Kabini side, near Mysuru.

Bandipur

Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is among India’s best-known tiger reserves. The forest is more open than Nagarhole, which helps spotting. Safaris run twice a day, and sightings of elephants, gaur, deer and, with luck, tigers or leopards are possible. A long-standing night-traffic restriction applies on the highway through the park, so plan crossings in daylight. Check current rules before travelling.

BR Hills (Biligiriranga Hills)

BR Hills is where the Eastern and Western Ghats meet. The forest includes dry and moist deciduous zones and sholas, and visitors can see elephants, gaur, leopards and various birds. The Biligiriranga Swamy temple draws pilgrims, so the area mixes spirituality and forest travel. Stays are limited, and activity is regulated.

Bhadra

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, near Chikkamagaluru, is a quieter tiger reserve with river valleys, bamboo forests and excellent birding. It is easy to combine with coffee country and the Hebbe Falls region. See the Chikkamagaluru guide.

Dandeli-Anshi

Dandeli lies in a belt of tall forest near the Kali river and is known for the black panther, hornbills and rich birdlife. It is also an adventure base, with river rafting, kayaking and boat rides. Combine it with Gokarna and the Uttara Kannada coast. Read the Uttara Kannada guide.

Kudremukh and the Western Ghats

Kudremukh is more about landscapes and trekking than classic safaris. Shola forests and grasslands support the lion-tailed macaque, sambar and many endemic species. A permit is needed for trekking, and some areas restrict entry. See treks in Karnataka.

Other places to see wildlife

• Bannerghatta National Park: A short drive from Bengaluru with a safari, a zoo and a butterfly park.
• Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary: Near Hampi, known for sloth bears at dusk. See Hampi 2-day itinerary.
• Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary: A forest on the Cauvery with the Mekedatu gorge.
• Dubare: An elephant camp in Kodagu on the Cauvery river.
• Sharavathi Valley: Rainforest with lion-tailed macaques near Jog Falls.

How to book a safari

The Karnataka Forest Department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts, a state-run enterprise, operate most safaris. Some private lodges also arrange safaris through the forest department. Book in advance for weekends and holidays from December to May. Confirm the safari timings, the vehicle type and the entry fee at the time of booking, and carry your ID.

Safari tips for better sightings

• Choose the early morning safari. Animals are most active at dawn.
• Wear neutral colours. Avoid bright shades and perfumes.
• Stay silent and seated. Loud noise scares animals away.
• Carry binoculars. They help with birds and distant animals.
• Be patient. Wildlife viewing is never guaranteed.
• Follow the guide. Do not leave the vehicle.

Best time for wildlife in Karnataka

The dry months from February to May are the most reliable, because animals gather near water. November to January are cooler and greener. The monsoon months are quieter, with some zones closed. See the best time to visit Karnataka and bird sanctuaries in Karnataka for related plans.

Sample wildlife itinerary

• Day 1: Bengaluru to Kabini, evening safari.
• Day 2: Morning boat safari, afternoon jeep safari.
• Day 3: Bandipur on the way back, or drive to Mysuru. See the Chamarajanagar guide.

Frequently asked questions