The Dandeli forest is every adventurous nature lover’s dream come true! Sprawling over 834.16 sq. km., it is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in the state. The marshy riverbanks and dense forests make for the perfect environment for many animal and bird species to thrive, inviting throngs of visitors each year. There are multiple activities within the sanctuary that are sure to keep your adrenaline pumping, like wildlife safaris, treks, rafting, rappelling, camping and much more!
What you’ll see
When you visit Dandeli Karnataka, you enter the home of thousands of species of flora and fauna. Densely wooded with bamboo and teak trees, these forests are a safe haven of more than 200 bird species including great pied hornbill, the Malabar hornbill, blue-throated barbet, Peregrine falcon and many more.
Dandeli is also widely known for being one of the few natural habitats of both the elusive black panther and beastly Bengal tiger. Both wild cats are frequently spotted prowling the forest floor and you will be lucky if you spot them while on your safari. Along with these beasts, you will find the peculiar sloth bears, Indian pangolin, giant Malabar squirrel and others.
By the banks of River Kali, it is common to spot some vicious crocodiles and the King Cobra. Commonly spotted water birds include, kingfishers, waterhens, teals, and grebes.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
The Dandeli forest is brimming with thousands of species of flora and fauna that are simply waiting to be explored. This exploration is made exciting by the different ways of discovering the wildlife sanctuary.
The most common choice of visitors is the jeep safari. Since jeeps are compact, they can easily take you deep into the forests to come face-to-face with the big mammals and wild cats of Dandeli. It’s also a great option for wildlife photographers as there are plenty of pitstops for photography.
For exploring the marshy lands of the forest, a peaceful coracle ride down River Kali is the best option. On your ride, you will find water birds perched atop tall trees by the riverbanks and ferocious crocodiles submerged in the shallow waters.
An on-foot birding tour or hike is the favourite of avid birdwatchers and trek-lovers. A guide will take you through the dense forests and show you its true beauty up close. With bated breath and a sharp eye, you will find scores of bird species hidden in the verdant canopies and hear their melodious calls pierce the silence surrounding you.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of options in and around the Dandeli forest for when you visit. There are accommodations suitable for every budget and traveller, like camps, homestays, villas, lodges and hotels.
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