One of the well known protected areas in India, Nagarhole Reserve is located at a distance of 94 kms from Mysore. Situated in the northwest of the adjoining Bandipur National Park, both the parks are separated by the Kabini reservoir. An ideal habitat for wild animals, Nagarhole Reserve serves as the perfect hub for adventure activities. As a wildlife paradise, the reserve is a treat to the nature lovers, wildlife lovers, and adventure lovers, offering the best sights of wild animals and birds at its natural habitat.
Wildlife Viewing - Rich in wildlife, with four horned antelope, sloth bear, civet, spotted deer, elephant, flying fox, tiger, panther, gaur (Indian bison), sambhar, wild boar, black-naped hare, bonnet macaque, and pangolin, Nagarhole offers finest experience of Wildlife Viewing. Cobras, crocodiles, kraits, pythons, vipers and various species of lizards are also found in the forests, making it an ideal destination for the wildlife enthusiasts.
Wildlife Camping - While you enjoy the magnificent wilderness of Nagarhole Reserve, you can also enjoy a camping experience amidst the wilds. Although a camp, you can still have a lavish experience and stay with big tents equipped with all the facilities to make your stay comfortable. So, you can rejoice your camping dream amidst the nature as you comfortably relax in your tents.
Jeep Safaris – This is one of the favourite and popular excursions among the tourists. The forest department in Nagarhole offers minibus safari to enjoy in the reserve. Jeep Safaris inside the park are allowed if you have brought your own jeep. However, a prior permission is required from the forest department, after which you will be accompanied by a guide to steer you through the park.
Water activities - Nagarhole destination offers wide range of water activities like boating, white water rafting which is an exciting sport that thrills you as you cruise through the gushing waters in inflatable rubber raft.
You can also enjoy a relaxed boat ride through the Kabini River's backwater, and if luck favours, you can sight crocodiles, birds and various other animals. You can also stay overnight in the river lodge for a complete experience of this natural habitat.
Best time to Visit Nagarhole
Due to its tropical climate throughout the year, Nagarhole can be visited at any time of the year. However, October to May is considered to be the most favourable months. Below is a season wise breakdown of the climatic condition of Nagarhole -
Summers start in March and ends in May, and the temperature can go higher than 30 degree C. During summer, the artificial lake tends to dry into puddles of water. Summers are also an excellent time for bird-watching.
June to September marks the Monsoon season here. Due to heavy rainfall, leeches are common in this season.
The winter season starts in November and ends in January. The temperature can go as low as 14 degree C.
How to reach Nagarhole National Park
By Air – The nearest airport to Nagarhole National Park is Mandakalli Airport, Mysore. The airport has regular flight connected to Bengaluru. The nearest international airport is in Bangalore, around 268 km from here.
By Train - Mysore Railway Station is the nearest railway station. Regular trains connect this station to major cities in India.
By Road – The National Park is well connected to several towns and cities of Karnataka, along with the neighbouring states. State run as well as private buses run on a daily basis from Bengaluru and Mysore. You can also chose to drive down yourself.