Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. It covers an area of approximately 834 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is named after the town of Dandeli, which is located nearby.


 

The sanctuary is a magical place, where trees provide food for birds and plants are revered for their healing properties. Before planning your trip, there are a few things to know about this enchanting place located in Karnataka. It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in the state and boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, deers, antelopes, reptiles, and birds, with over 300 species of birds nesting in the forest. For adventure seekers, the sanctuary offers experiences like white water rafting, bird watching, and wildlife photography, while also providing a tranquil escape in nature. Accessing the sanctuary is easy, as it is well-connected by rail and road networks. Unique mammals like sloth bears, barking deer, and Malabar giant squirrels can be spotted here. With numerous accommodation options available, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the forest.

The sanctuary was established in 1956 and is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, as it offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat.

Some of the major attractions of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary include:

1. Wildlife Safari: Visitors can go on a jeep safari or a trekking tour through the sanctuary to see animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.

2. Bird Watching: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, including the great hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbill, and the Indian pitta.

3. White Water Rafting: The Kali River, which flows through the sanctuary, offers some of the best white water rafting experiences in India.

4. Camping: Visitors can camp out in the sanctuary and enjoy the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.

5. Trekking: There are several trekking trails in the sanctuary that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.


 

What Makes it Special as a Tourist Destination

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique and special tourist destination due to its abundant biodiversity and the various activities that it offers. Here are some reasons why it is a popular tourist destination:

1. Diverse Flora and Fauna: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and several species of birds and reptiles. This makes it a great place to experience the natural beauty of the Western Ghats and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

2. Adventure Activities: The sanctuary offers several adventure activities like white water rafting, kayaking, trekking, and camping. The Kali River that flows through the sanctuary provides excellent opportunities for rafting and kayaking.

3. Scenic Beauty: The Western Ghats offer stunning scenic beauty with its dense forests, hills, and waterfalls. The sanctuary provides ample opportunities for nature lovers and photographers to capture the beauty of the landscape.

4. Cultural Experience: The sanctuary is located near the town of Dandeli, which is home to several indigenous tribes like the Siddhis and the Kunbis. Visitors can experience the local culture and traditions of these tribes.

Experiences for Tourists

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary offers a range of experiences for tourists, including the following:

1. Wildlife Safari: Visitors can go on a jeep safari or a trekking tour through the sanctuary to see animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.

2. Bird Watching: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, including the great hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbill, and the Indian pitta. Visitors can enjoy bird watching in the early morning and evening.

3. White Water Rafting: The Kali River, which flows through the sanctuary, offers some of the best white water rafting experiences in India. Rafting can be enjoyed by beginners as well as experienced rafters.

4. Kayaking and Canoeing: Visitors can also enjoy kayaking and canoeing in the Kali River.

5. Trekking: There are several trekking trails in the sanctuary that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. Trekking is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.

6. Camping: Visitors can camp out in the sanctuary and enjoy the natural beauty of the Western Ghats. Camping is a popular activity, and visitors can choose from a range of campsites.

7. Visit Indigenous Tribes: The sanctuary is located near the town of Dandeli, which is home to several indigenous tribes like the Siddhis and the Kunbis. Visitors can experience the local culture and traditions of these tribes.


 

Top Attractions and Must Visit Places

There are several top attractions and must-visit places in and around Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Here are some of them:

1. Syntheri Rock: Located on the banks of the Kaneri River, Syntheri Rock is a beautiful monolithic granite structure that is over 300 feet tall. It is a popular spot for trekking and photography.

2. Kavala Caves: The Kavala Caves are a series of limestone caves located near the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can explore the caves, which are home to several species of bats.

3. Supa Dam: The Supa Dam is located near the sanctuary and is built on the Kali River. It is a popular spot for boating and fishing.

4. Ulavi Temple: The Ulavi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the middle of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.

5. Anshi National Park: Anshi National Park is located near the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and is home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.

6. Kulgi Nature Camp: The Kulgi Nature Camp is located within the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and offers visitors the chance to stay in tents or cottages and enjoy the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.

7. Sathodi Falls: The Sathodi Falls are located near the sanctuary and are a popular spot for trekking and picnicking. The falls are surrounded by lush green forests and offer a beautiful view.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to February, which is the winter season in the region. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures range from 10°C to 32°C. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris.

It is important to note that the sanctuary is closed during the monsoon season from July to September due to heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding. Visitors should check the official website of the sanctuary for the latest information before planning their trip.


 

How to Reach

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Karnataka in India and is easily accessible by air, rail, and road.

By Air: The nearest airport to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is the Hubli Airport, which is approximately 55 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or hire a private vehicle to reach the sanctuary.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is the Alnavar Junction, which is approximately 32 km away. From the railway station, visitors can take a taxi or hire a private vehicle to reach the sanctuary.

By Road: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road, and visitors can easily reach the sanctuary by taking a bus or driving. The sanctuary is located approximately 120 km from the city of Hubli, and the drive takes approximately 3 hours. Taxis and private vehicles are also available for hire from Hubli.