Karnataka is blessed with a vast green patch which is home to numerous wildlife reserves that showcase the state’s rich biodiversity. These reserves are meticulously maintained, providing a safe place for diverse flora and fauna to thrive. With its lush forests, grasslands, and wetlands, Karnataka’s national reserve forests are a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. From tiger reserves to wildlife sanctuaries, Karnataka’s protected areas show the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Here is a complete guide to various national reserve forests in Karnataka.
National Reserve Forests In Karnataka
National reserve forests in Karnataka include a variety of protected areas focused on conserving the state’s rich biodiversity. They consist mainly of areas forming part of the Western Ghats and adjacent regions, recognized as biodiversity hotspots. Some notable ones among Karnataka’s national parks and reserve forests are:
- Anshi (Kali) Tiger Reserve
- Bandipur National Park
- Nagarhole (Rajiv Gandhi) National Park
- Bhadra Tiger Reserve
- Bannerghatta National Park
- Kudremukh National Park
History of Karnataka Forest Reserves
The history of national reserve forests in Karnataka is closely tied to the establishment and evolution of the Mysore Forest Department, which was created on January 11, 1864. Before this, forest matters were managed by revenue officials.
The department was initially led by Major Hunter, an army officer, and later by trained foresters like Mr. M. Muthanna, who greatly contributed to organizing and managing the forests scientifically. During his tenure (early 1900s), many areas were declared Reserved Forests, and plans for sustainable forest management were prepared.
Many parks and reserves, such as Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Bhadra, were established in the mid to late 20th century under Project Tiger and Project Elephant to protect endangered species like Bengal tigers and Indian elephants. These forests preserve tropical moist and dry deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, and shola grasslands. Several rivers, such as Tunga, Bhadra, and Kabini, originate or flow through these forests, supporting local agriculture and communities.
National Reserve Forests In Karnataka
Anshi (Kali) Tiger Reserve
Located in the Uttara Kannada district, Kali Tiger Reserve comprises Anshi National Park and Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. It features moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests with rich biodiversity. Wildlife includes Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian bison (gaur), wild dogs (dholes), sambar deer, spotted deer, sloth bears, wild boars, bonnet macaques, and all four species of hornbills. The reserve is also home to rare black panthers and a variety of reptiles. Entry fees: Free for Indian nationals, but jungle safari costs around INR 400-450 per person.
Bandipur National Park
Established as a tiger reserve in 1973 in the Chamarajanagar district, Bandipur protects dry and moist deciduous forests. It hosts Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, gaurs, leopards, sloth bears, deer species, and a rich bird population, including peafowl and hornbills. Bandipur is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, offering an important corridor for wildlife in the Western Ghats. Entry Fees: INR 45-50 per person. Safari jeeps cost approximately INR 1400-1500 per vehicle.
Nagarhole (Rajiv Gandhi) National Park
Situated in Kodagu and Mysore districts, Nagarhole features moist and dry deciduous forests. Wildlife here includes Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, leopards, gaurs, dhole (wild dogs), sloth bears, deer species, and marsh crocodiles. It’s a key area for tiger conservation linked with Bandipur and Wayanad forests. Entry Fees: INR 50-100 per person. Safari jeep charges range around INR 1500 per vehicle.
Bhadra Tiger Reserve
Located in Chikkamagaluru, Bhadra hosts semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests along with shola grasslands. Fauna includes Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian elephants, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, sambar and barking deer, sloth bears, and Malabar civets. This reserve is important for the conservation of the Western Ghats’ biodiversity. Entry Fees: INR 50. Safari fees depend on the vehicle and the number of passengers.
Bannerghatta National Park
Near Bangalore, this park encompasses moist deciduous forests and a biological park facility. It shelters Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, various deer, and a variety of bird species. The park is a popular wildlife tourism spot and offers safaris, trekking, and a zoo. Entry Fees: INR 80. Safari fees depend on the vehicle and the number of passengers.
Kudremukh National Park
Known for its lush wet evergreen forests in the Western Ghats, Kudremukh is a haven for the endangered lion-tailed macaque, tigers, elephants, gaur, and spectacled cobra. The park’s name comes from a peak resembling a horse’s face (“Kudremukh”). It is vital for preserving rich flora and fauna and scenic hill landscapes. Entry Fees: Entry fee for Indian nationals is approximately INR 200. The park offers several trekking trails with mandatory guides
Best Time To Visit National Reserve Forests In Karnataka
The best time to visit the national reserve forests and wildlife parks in Karnataka is during the cooler and drier months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather with temperatures typically ranging between 10°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for both visitors and wildlife activity. Winter months, especially from December to February, are ideal for wildlife safaris as animals are more active and easier to spot near water sources.
Tips To Keep In Mind Before Visiting These Reserves
- Follow the specified entry timings strictly; entries outside these hours are prohibited.
- Drive at slow speeds and stick to designated routes to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Use dustbins and avoid littering to keep the environment clean.
- Maintain silence or speak in low voices to avoid scaring animals.
- Do not feed, harass, or disturb any wildlife. Avoid throwing stones or making loud noises.
- Avoid carrying pets as they can disturb the wildlife and are usually not allowed.
- Always follow instructions from forest officials and guides for safety.
- Do not collect souvenir plants, flowers, or insects from the forests.
- Respect local traditions and tribal communities living near forest areas.
- Carry essentials like water, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera.
- Book safaris and guided tours in advance as visitor numbers may be limited.
- Avoid consuming alcohol or using any intoxicants inside the reserve.
Summing Up
With its rich wildlife and natural beauty, Karnataka’s protected areas are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state’s natural heritage. From tiger reserves to wildlife sanctuaries, Karnataka’s national reserve forests offer a unique experience for visitors that must not be missed!
