Nagarhole National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and when to go in Nagarhole National Park. Plan your ultimate adventure with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the southern part of India, in the state of Karnataka. The park covers an area of 643 square kilometers, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and many species of birds. The park is situated in the Cauvery Basin, and is surrounded by lush forests and hills.

List of Places to Visit in Nagarhole National Park

If you’re planning a trip to Nagarhole National Park, make sure to visit these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kabini Dam - Built over the Kabini River, the dam offers scenic views and is a popular spot among tourists.

Natural Attractions of Nagarhole National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Safari Rides - Safari rides are the best way to explore the park and see wildlife up close.
  • Jungle Trekking - Trekking through the forests is a unique experience and can allow you to see rare species of animals in their natural habitats.
  • Boat Rides - Take a boat ride to see animals like crocodiles and hippos.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nagarhole National Park

  • Kadana Kere Trek - A popular trek with a beautiful lake that is perfect for swimming.
  • Iruppu Waterfalls Trek - A 4-hour trek that leads you through dense forests to a stunning waterfall.
  • Thirunelli Trek - A moderate hike that takes you through coffee plantations and up to a hilltop temple.

Best Things to Do in Nagarhole National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Go on a Safari - Experience the thrill of seeing tigers, leopards, elephants and other wildlife up close on a jeep safari.
  • Stay in a Treehouse - immerse yourself in nature by staying in a treehouse in the middle of the forest.
  • Take a Boat Ride - Explore the gentle waters of the Kabini River and spot some wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nagarhole National Park

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Nagarhole National Park, you can try the following itinerary:

Day 1 - Arrive in Mysore and take a taxi to Nagarhole National Park. Check-in at your accommodation and go for a leisurely stroll around the park.

Day 2 - Take an early morning jeep safari and look for tigers and leopards. Head back to your accommodation for breakfast and relax. In the afternoon, go on a bicycle tour of the park.

Day 3 - Take a full-day tour of the park and visit the highlights of the park, like the Kabini Dam and the boat ride along the Kabini River.

Day 4 - Explore the local village and learn about the culture and lifestyle of the people in the Cauvery Basin.

Day 5 - Take a trek to Iruppu Waterfalls and spend the day swimming and picnicking in nature.

Day 6 - Go on a morning safari and try to spot some wildlife you haven’t seen before. In the afternoon, visit the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary and see more animals.

Day 7 - Enjoy a day of relaxation at your accommodation before departing Nagarhole National Park and heading back to Mysore.

Food and Drink Scene of Nagarhole National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bajji - A popular snack made with gram flour, onions, and chilies.
  • Masala Dosa - A thin, crispy rice pancake filled with a spicy potato filling
  • Ragi Mudde - A healthy dish made of ragi flour and water.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee - The region is famous for its coffee plantations and produces some of the best coffee in India.

Where to Stay in Nagarhole National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Budget Accommodations

  • Nature Treasures Homestay - A family-run homestay that offers comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals.
  • Jungle Inn - A budget-friendly lodge located close to the park entrance.

Mid-Range Accommodations

  • The Serai Kabini - A luxurious resort that overlooks the Kabini River.
  • Orange County Kabini - A boutique resort with treehouses and villas.

What to Buy in Nagarhole National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coffee - The region produces some of the best coffee in India, so it’s a must-try while you’re here.
  • Spices - Bring home some locally grown spices like pepper, cardamom, and cloves.

Local Culture and Customs of Nagarhole National Park

  • Dressing - While it’s not mandatory to dress conservatively, it is recommended to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture.
  • Language - Kannada is the most widely spoken language in the region, but English is also spoken widely.

Best Time to Visit Nagarhole National Park

The best time to visit Nagarhole National Park is from October to May when the weather is dry and less humid. The park is open all year round, but the monsoon season from June to September can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nagarhole National Park

Do:

  • Follow safety guidelines - It’s important to follow the safety guidelines set up by the park authorities to ensure your safety as well as to protect the wildlife.
  • Carry sunscreen and insect repellent - The sun can get harsh during the day, and there are mosquitoes and other insects around.

Don’t:

  • Feed the animals - Feeding the animals can be hazardous to both you as well as to the animals. It can also disrupt their natural habitat.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nagarhole National Park

  • Wildlife - While the park authorities ensure safety measures, it’s important to follow them to avoid any accidents with wild animals.
  • Weather - Be aware of the weather conditions, and plan your activities accordingly.

Health in Nagarhole National Park

  • Malaria and Dengue Fever - The risk for these diseases exists, so it is advisable to take precautions like using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Nagarhole National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nagarhole National Park

  • Mysore Airport - 100 kms away from Nagarhole National Park.
  • Bangalore International Airport - 240 kms away from Nagarhole National Park.

Bus Stations Near Nagarhole National Park

  • Hunsur Bus Station - 30 kms away from Nagarhole National Park.
  • Mysore Bus Station - 90 kms away from Nagarhole National Park.

Other Options

  • Private Taxis - You can hire a private taxi from Mysore or Bangalore to reach Nagarhole National Park.

How to Get Around in Nagarhole National Park

  • Jeep Safari - Jeep safaris are the best way to explore the park and see wildlife up close.
  • Boat rides - Boat rides are also available to explore the Nagaveni and Kabini river in Nagarhole National Park.
  • Walking Tours - You can explore the park’s hiking and biking trails by foot or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Nagarhole National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mysore - Located 90 kms away from Nagarhole National Park, Mysore is known for its rich history and culture.
  • Coorg - Coorg is a nearby hill station located 85 km from Nagarhole National Park, with beautiful views and a pleasant climate.

Conclusion

Nagarhole National Park is a wildlife paradise with a plethora of opportunities to explore nature’s beauty. Follow this comprehensive guide to plan the ultimate getaway, including the best places to visit, food to try, and where to stay. Make sure to carry protective gear and follow safety guidelines to ensure a worry-free experience.

Chital (''Axis axis'') stag attempting to browse Chital (''Axis axis'') stag attempting to browse