About Nagarahole

Nagarahole :

Nagarahole National Park is one of India's premier wildlife destinations and a key part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Located between Karnataka's Kodagu and Mysuru districts, the park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, dense forests, river systems, and thriving wildlife populations. Along with Bandipur, Mudumalai, and Wayanad, Nagarahole forms one of the largest protected wildlife landscapes in South India.

The park is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer species, and over 250 species of birds. Wildlife safaris remain the biggest attraction, allowing visitors to explore the forest while observing animals in their natural habitat.

The Kabini region, located along the park's edge, is particularly famous for its high concentration of elephants and occasional sightings of black panthers and tigers. Boat safaris on the Kabini backwaters offer unique opportunities for wildlife photography and birdwatching.

With its mix of forests, rivers, wildlife, and luxury jungle lodges, Nagarahole attracts nature enthusiasts, photographers, birdwatchers, and adventure travellers from across the world.

What to See in Nagarahole | Popular Sightseeing Places Around Nagarahole

1. Nagarahole National Park (0 km)
One of India's finest wildlife reserves, famous for tiger sightings, elephants, leopards, gaurs, deer, and rich biodiversity. It forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

2. Nagarahole Safari (0 km)
The most popular activity in the region, offering jeep and bus safaris through dense forests and grasslands to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

3. Kabini Backwaters (25 km)
A scenic reservoir formed by the Kabini River, known for boat safaris, birdwatching, and exceptional wildlife sightings along the shoreline.

4. Kabini Dam (28 km)
A picturesque dam surrounded by forests and water bodies, attracting nature lovers and photographers.

5. Kabini River Lodge (25 km)
One of Karnataka's most renowned wildlife lodges, offering nature experiences, boat rides, and safari activities.

6. Irpu (Iruppu) Falls (35 km)
A beautiful waterfall nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills, surrounded by forests and often visited by both pilgrims and tourists.

7. Brahmagiri Hills (45 km)
A scenic mountain range known for trekking trails, wildlife, and panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

8. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (45 km)
A biodiversity-rich sanctuary home to elephants, deer, leopards, birds, and diverse plant species.

9. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (40 km)
Located across the Karnataka–Kerala border, this protected area is famous for wildlife sightings and lush forest landscapes.

10. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (45 km)
A popular safari destination within Wayanad, known for elephants, deer, wild boars, and occasional tiger sightings.

11. Rameshwara Temple, Irpu (35 km)
An ancient temple located near Iruppu Falls, attracting pilgrims visiting the sacred site.

12. Kutta (15 km)
A small town serving as the main gateway to Nagarahole and nearby wildlife destinations.

13. Antharasanthe (12 km)
A scenic forest-side village known for its peaceful atmosphere and access to safari zones.

14. Nugu Dam (40 km)
A serene reservoir surrounded by forests and hills, offering beautiful views and a tranquil environment.

15. Nugu Wildlife Region (40 km)
A lesser-known wildlife area frequented by elephants, deer, and various bird species.

16. Taraka Dam (30 km)
A scenic dam and reservoir surrounded by forests, ideal for photography and nature enthusiasts.

17. Balele Elephant Camp (25 km)
A forest camp area known for elephant conservation activities and occasional visitor programs.

18. Mysore Forest Belt Viewpoints (55 km)
Several scenic viewpoints around the park offer beautiful vistas of forests, hills, and wildlife habitats.

19. Birdwatching Zones of Kabini (25 km)
The Kabini region is a paradise for birdwatchers, with species such as kingfishers, eagles, storks, herons, and hornbills.

20. Kabini Boat Safari Point (25 km)

A highly recommended experience where visitors can observe crocodiles, elephants, birds, and other wildlife from the water.

How to reach Nagarahole:

By Air : Nearest airport: Kannur International Airport (~90 km) . Alternative - Kempegowda International Airport (~220 km) . From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.

By Train : Nearest railway station: Mysuru Junction (~90 km) .Well connected to major cities like Bengaluru and Mangaluru.

By Road : Easily accessible by road from: Mysuru (2–3 hours) , Bengaluru (5–6 hours), Madikeri (1.5–2 hours). You can travel via: Private car , Taxi/cab , KSRTC buses to nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

How to Reach

Weather

Month-wise Temperature (Average)

January: 14°C – 29°C (Cool mornings and excellent safari weather)
February: 16°C – 32°C (Pleasant wildlife viewing season)
March: 19°C – 34°C (Warm afternoons and good animal sightings)
April: 21°C – 36°C (Best wildlife spotting season)
May: 22°C – 35°C (Dry conditions attract wildlife to water sources)
June: 20°C – 30°C (Monsoon arrives and forests become lush green)
July: 19°C – 28°C (Cool, rainy and scenic jungle landscapes)
August: 19°C – 28°C (Peak monsoon season)
September: 19°C – 29°C (Refreshing post-monsoon greenery)
October: 18°C – 30°C (Ideal safari and sightseeing weather)
November: 16°C – 30°C (Comfortable climate and active wildlife)
December: 15°C – 29°C (Cool winter mornings and pleasant days)

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Nagarahole, officially known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, lies within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and forms part of one of India's most important wildlife conservation regions. The park experiences pleasant winters, warm summers, and heavy monsoon rainfall. Summer months from February to May are particularly rewarding for wildlife sightings as animals gather near rivers and water bodies.

Available Views

Forest View