Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is located in the district of Kodagu in the state of Karnataka, India. It was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and later declared a national park in 1988. The park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is spread over an area of 643 square kilometers.
Nagarhole National Park is located in the Western Ghats region of the country, close to the Kabini River. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, with dense forests, rivers, streams, and waterfalls. It is home to a variety of wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species.
The park is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM in the morning and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the evening.
The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 300 per person, and for foreign nationals, it is INR 1,000 per person. Children under the age of 5 can enter for free.
Nagarhole National Park is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 250 species of birds, as well as elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, and various species of deer. The vegetation in the park includes tropical forests, grasslands, and bamboo thickets.
Visitors to Nagarhole National Park can enjoy activities such as wildlife safaris, bird watching, nature walks, and boat rides along the Kabini River. The park also offers opportunities for camping and trekking.
The charges for a jeep safari in Nagarhole National Park vary depending on the duration and route chosen. On average, the cost ranges from INR 1,500 to INR 3,000 per person.
The entry fee for adults (male and female) is as mentioned above. For children between the ages of 6 and 12, the entry fee is INR 150 per person.
Senior citizens above the age of 65 can avail of a discount on the entry fee. They are charged INR 150 per person.
The best time to visit Nagarhole National Park is between October and May when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more common. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from June to September.
Some of the nearby attractions to Nagarhole National Park include the Irupu Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and the Kabini River. Visitors can also explore the town of Gonikoppal and the historic Talakaveri Temple.
Nagarhole National Park provides ample parking space for visitors who wish to drive to the park. There are designated parking areas near the entry gates where visitors can safely park their vehicles.
Visitors to Nagarhole National Park are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and visitors. Some of the key rules include maintaining silence inside the park, not feeding the animals, and not littering the surroundings. It is also advised to follow the instructions of the park guides and authorities at all times.
Nagarhole National Park is well-connected by road and can be reached from major cities like Bangalore and Mysore. The nearest airport is in Mysore, approximately 96 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is in Mysore as well. Visitors can also hire cabs or take public transportation to reach the park entrance. Accommodation options are available in and around the park for those looking to stay overnight.
Overall, Nagarhole National Park offers a unique and enriching wildlife experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. With its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of India.