South India is one of the most beautiful
places in India, blessed with scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere.
Under this amiable atmosphere the flora and fauna of South India has flourished
and undeniably is worth a visit. Let us checkout some of the remarkable
wildlife retreats of South India.
Masinagudi
The thick forests of Masinagudi makes
it a safe shelter for tigers, elephants, red giant squirrels, grey langurs,
sambar and gaur deer species, pythons, wild boars and cobras. Located at the
foothills of Nilgiri, the place has an inviting atmosphere. You can choose
between day and night safari rides or both and stay at the resorts located
within the forests.
How to
reach?
Mysore is the nearest railway station, which is just 85 kms from the forest.
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 125 km from the retreat.
When to
visit?
October to May.
Tip for travel: You may also visit the nearby hill stations of Ooty and
Coonoor; known for the natural bliss or enjoy a thrilling ride along the
Kalhatty Ghats challenging the 36-hairpin bends.
Masinagudi Wildlife Resort
Kabini
The Nagarhole Forests with the River
Kabini flowing by its side it a natural abode for tigers. Part of the Rajiv
Gandhi National Park, this tiger reserve is also the terrain of large Asiatic elephants
and the crystalline waters of Kabini is filled with Mahseer fish. You may also
come across leopards, spotted deer, four horned antelopes, peacocks,
crocodiles, pythons and cobras.
How to
reach? The
nearest railway station to Kabini is Mysore, just 80 kms from the retreat while
the nearest airport is just at 200 kms at Bengaluru.
When to
visit? October
to May
Tip for travel: Enjoy a pleasant boat ride over River Kabini, witnessing
animals and birds in their own mood.
Nagarhole Forests near Kabini River
Bandipur
National Park
Bandipur National Park is another popular tiger reserve
of the country. While the wild cats are treat to the eyes, the twitters of 300
bird species creates a melodious environment. Malabar Grey Hornbill and Blue
Winged Parakeet are some of the rare avian species available here.
How to
reach? The
closest railway station is Mysore, just 80 kms from the place. Bengaluru
International Airport is just 260 kms from the place.
When to
visit? November
to June.
Tip for travel: You may also checkout the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, the
highest mountain peak of this region. The place is also known for its tuskers.
Bandipur National Park
Suggested Tour :
Muthanga
Wildlife Sanctuary
This is the kingdom of the Asiatic
Elephant, who can be seen strolling through the forests, also sometimes
creating jam on the roads. The colorful birds are another attraction of this
forest; hornbills, woodpeckers and beeeaters are the popular avian species
available here. The bison, tigers and panthers are the other species.
How to
reach?
Kozhikode, 100 kms, is the nearest railway station and airport to the forest.
When to
visit? October
to February.
Tip for travel: Go for an elephant safari to get the real feel of the
jungles.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Dandeli
Wildlife Sanctuary
This is another beautiful park known
for its sprawling valleys, wild rivers and mystic mountains. The Kavala Caves
and Syntheri Rocks are the natural attractions here. Among wildlife, the place
is known for the endangered species of black panthers, flying squirrels, sloth
bears, tigers, great hornbills, deer and crocodiles.
How to
reach?
Hubli is the closest airport, just at 75 kms. Londaat 48 kms and Alnavar at 32
kms are the closest railway stations to the park. Moreover, Goa one of the
exotic sea beaches of India is just 150 kms from Dandeli.
When to
visit? October
to May
Tip for
travel: Dandeli
is also a paradise for adventure sports lovers. White river rafting in dandeli,
rappelling, nature treks and rock climbing can act as great stress busters.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the hills of the Western Ghats,
the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or the Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the
most popular tourism hot spots in Kerala. Spread over an area of 675 sq km, this wildlife sanctuary is a reservoir of several endemic, rare and endangered species of animals. Named after the Periyar Lake, which is located within the sanctuary, this wildlife reservoir is home to 1800 flowering plants, 171 grass species, 143 species of orchids, 35 species of mammals and 265 species of birds.
How to Reach? Madurai Airport at a
distance of 140 km is the closest airport to the protected forests and Kottayam
Railway Station, located at a distance of 114 km from Periyar National Park, is
closest in proximity.
When to
visit? November
to April
Tip for travel: You can indulge in trekking and boating at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or take an elephant ride into the jungle.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Vacations are ideal for rejuvenating
yourselves and wildlife
tours are known to be one of the best rejuvenators of recent times. So pack
your bags and get ready for a South India thrilling holiday.
South India Tours
