Nagarhole National Park, or Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is also known as a prime tiger reserve in India. Along with Bandipur Tiger Reserve, it makes up a large part of Nilgiri Bio Reserve. Situated between the borders of Mysore and Kodagu, the park is named after the Nagarhole River, meaning ‘Cobra River’ in Kannada. It is a winding river running through the center of Nagarhole National Park. The jungle is home to various species like barking deer, leopards, birds, sloth bears, and especially tigers. It is spread over 847.98 square km and draws water from Lakshman Tirtha River, Nagarhole, Sarati Hole, Ballehalla, and Kabini River. Also, the annual rainfall here makes for a lush species of multiple flora.

About Nagarhole National Park

History

Nagarhole Park was originally a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Mysore. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1995, and it was later upgraded to the status of National Park in 1988. In the year 1999, it became a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a known ecological hotspot in South India. In the year 2003, there was an addition of 71.84 sq km to the existing land, declaring it as an independent ‘Tiger Reserve’ and ensuring keeping some areas as critical/core tiger habitats.

Flora and Fauna

Nagarhole is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The flora here is a mix of moist deciduous forests, grassy swamps, and dry tropical forests. It makes it an ideal habitat for a wide variety of animals.

The wildlife you will spot here includes:

  • Big cats like Indian leopards and Bengal tigers.
  • Asiatic elephants in large herds.
  • Antelope and deer like sambar, barking deer, four-horned antelope, and more.
  • Other mammals like Indian wild dogs, Indian Gaur, wild boars, sloth bears, and more.
  • Reptiles like cobras, crocodiles, and Indian rock pythons.

Birdlife

Nagarhole National Park is also known for being home to 250 species of birds, including crested serpent eagles, Malabar pied hornbills, grey junglefowl, and more. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, and you must head here to enjoy some peace and quiet.

Reaching Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park has good connectivity with most Indian cities through road, rail, and air. Thus, accessing it from major places in South India is possible.

By Air

You can fly to Mysore airport, which is 98 km from Nagarhole and is the nearest airport. However, since it has limited flight options, people prefer to fly to Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore. It is 236 km away and is well-connected to many Indian cities and even internationally too. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to head to the park.

By Train

Take a train to Mysore Junction is 94 km from the park and one of the nearest railway stations here. Other railway stations where you can head to include Kannur (120 km) and Kozhikode (135 km). From the station, you can take buses and taxis to reach Nagarhole.

By Road

From major cities, heading to Nagarhole is quite easy. The roads are well-marked and connected, making the drive easy. If you are self-driving from Bangalore, you will be reaching Nagarhole via Mysore in 5-6 hours. From Mysore and Coorg, the drive is 1-2 hours depending on the traffic. Also, most South Indian cities have KSRTC buses running to Nagarhole Park.

Things to Do in Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park will engulf you in fun and adventure with safaris and camping in nature along with the wild animals.

Jeep Safari

To experience the best of wildlife, take a jeep safari into Nagarhole National Park. The jeep safari is conducted twice a day. One in the early hours of the morning, as this is the best time to see animals when they leave for hunting. The safari takes a predefined route. The guides will take you to the best spots to sight tigers, elephants, and more. The afternoon safari starts around 3 pm and is comfortable for sighting wild animals near the waterholes.

Quick Facts About Nagarhole Jeep Safari:

  • Timings: 5:30 am to 8 pm; 3 pm to 5:30 pm.
  • Starting Point: Nanchi Gate and Kutta Post.
  • Price: INR 2242 (adults) and INR 1711 (children)

Boat Safari in Kabini River

Go for a boat safari in the Kabini River for a beautiful and unique experience. The morning and evening safari exposes you to many wild animals, especially aquatic birds and crocodiles.

Quick facts about Nagarhole boat safari:

  • Timings: 9 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 6 pm.
  • Price: INR 2,000-3,000

Trekking and Nature Walks

In Nagarhole National Park, you can also head for nature walks and treks in the buffer areas. You will have to go with a guide, but the experience is unique as you get great insight into the diverse flora of the park and the smaller wildlife here.

What is the Best Time to Visit Nagarhole National Park?

The park is open throughout the year. However, to make the most of your visit, head to the park in the season that has something you want to see.

  • Winters: The months from October to February are pleasant and ideal for safaris. So, if you plan to take safari rides in Nagarhole, you should head here during the winter months.
  • Summers: From March to May, it is quite hot and humid. You will also spot many animals, and the chances of spotting a tiger are high as animals are gathered near the waterholes.
  • Monsoon: From June to September, you will see Nagarhole transform into a green paradise. But the rainfalls also limit the safaris.

Key Takeaways

If you are an adventure or wildlife enthusiast, heading to Nagarhole National Park should be on your list. It is a delight for nature and photography lovers. The thriving tiger population surely attracts many visitors. But apart from tigers, you will see elephants, crocodiles, and multiple bird species as you take a boat or jeep safari in Nagarhole. Book your safari tickets in advance to have the most smooth and memorable experience here.

Resource: Nagarhole National Park