Mysore is surrounded by several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a great base for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. These parks offer rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and opportunities to witness some of India’s most iconic wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and exotic birds. Here are the top national parks and wildlife reserves near Mysore:
1. Bandipur National Park
- Distance from Mysore: Approximately 80 km
- Highlight: Bandipur is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is one of the premier tiger reserves in India. The park is known for its population of Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, and a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, dholes (wild dogs), and deer.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (post-monsoon and winter seasons) when the weather is pleasant, and animals are easier to spot.
- Safari: Jeep and bus safaris are available, offering a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Nagarhole National Park (Rajiv Gandhi National Park)
- Distance from Mysore: Around 90 km
- Highlight: Nagarhole is known for its thick forests, water bodies, and a rich array of wildlife. It’s one of the best places in South India to spot tigers and leopards. The park is also home to elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sloth bears, and a variety of birds.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May, with the summer months (March to May) being ideal for wildlife sightings, as animals gather near water sources.
- Safari: Jeep and boat safaris along the Kabini River are popular, offering a chance to see animals along the riverbanks.
3. Mudumalai National Park
- Distance from Mysore: About 90 km
- Highlight: Mudumalai is located at the tri-junction of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It’s part of the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and shares borders with Bandipur and Wayanad wildlife sanctuaries. The park is known for its rich wildlife, especially tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
- Best Time to Visit: December to June, when the forest is lush and animal sightings are frequent.
- Safari: Jeep safaris and elephant rides are offered, allowing you to explore different parts of the park.
4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- Distance from Mysore: 18 km
- Highlight: This small but scenic sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. Ranganathittu is situated on the banks of the Cauvery River and is home to several migratory birds, including painted storks, pelicans, herons, and ibises. Crocodiles can also be spotted in the river.
- Best Time to Visit: June to November, when migratory birds flock to the sanctuary.
- Boat Ride: Take a boat ride on the Cauvery River for close-up views of the birds and the surrounding wetland ecosystem.
5. BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary (Biligiriranga Hills)
- Distance from Mysore: Around 85 km
- Highlight: The Biligiriranga Hills are a unique blend of the Western and Eastern Ghats. The sanctuary is known for its rich flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, gaurs, and a variety of bird species. The BR Hills also offer trekking opportunities with scenic views of the hills and forests.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March, during the cooler months.
- Safari: Jeep safaris are available, and trekking enthusiasts can explore several trails in the region.
6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Distance from Mysore: Approximately 100 km
- Highlight: Located in Kerala, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and shares borders with both Bandipur and Mudumalai. It is known for its elephant population, in addition to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and a wide range of bird species.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May, especially after the monsoon when the forest is green and wildlife is more visible.
- Safari: Jeep safaris offer a chance to explore the lush forests and spot wildlife.
7. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Distance from Mysore: About 200 km
- Highlight: Located in the Western Ghats, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of Project Tiger and is known for its dense forests and hilly terrain. It’s home to tigers, black panthers, gaurs, and over 200 species of birds.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and animals are more active.
- Safari: Jeep safaris and boat rides on the Bhadra River are popular ways to explore the sanctuary.
8. Dubare Elephant Camp
- Distance from Mysore: Around 100 km
- Highlight: Though not a national park, Dubare Elephant Camp is a popular spot to interact with elephants. Visitors can participate in elephant bathing, feeding, and learning about their habits. It’s located on the banks of the Cauvery River, surrounded by scenic forests.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
9. Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
- Distance from Mysore: 60 km
- Highlight: Located on the banks of the Kabini River, this sanctuary is part of the Nagarhole National Park and is renowned for its wildlife sightings, especially during the dry season when elephants gather in large numbers. The region is also known for its leopard sightings and birdwatching.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, when animals frequent the water bodies.
- Safari: Jeep and boat safaris along the Kabini River are the best way to explore the sanctuary.
Tips for Wildlife Enthusiasts:
- Safari Bookings: It’s best to book safaris in advance, especially during peak seasons (winter and summer). Government-run safaris are more affordable, while private safaris offer more flexibility and comfort.
- Respect Wildlife: Always follow the guidelines provided by the park authorities. Do not disturb or try to feed the animals.
- Photography: For wildlife photography, bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture animals from a distance without disturbing them.
- Carry Essentials: While exploring national parks, carry water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and binoculars for birdwatching.
The national parks and wildlife sanctuaries around Mysore offer a rich diversity of wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy nature, these parks provide unforgettable experiences of South India’s natural beauty.
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