Bhadra Reservoir Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra situated in the midst of Western Ghat in Chikmagalur and Shimoga districts of Karnataka is surrounded by lofty hill ranges of Mullaianagiri, Hebbegiri, Gangegiri & Babaudangiri. A dam has been constructed across Bhadra river near Lakkavalli. The reserve consists of two main areas, Muthodi and Lakkavalli. Distance from Bengaluru to Bhadra Dam is 282.9 km and takes around 5 h 16 min via via NH 48 and SH 24. Distance from Shivamogga to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is 32.2 km and takes around 43 min via SH 57.



Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary which is also known as Muthodi WildLife Sanctuary is a well-known Project Tiger reserve. The wildlife sanctuary is called so after the Bhadra River which meanders through the lush forests. The area was declared the Jagara Valley Game Reserve in 1951 by the Government of Mysore. In 1974, after a census of the animal species in the adjoining areas, the sanctuary was reconstituted as the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.



The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of a substantial tiger population and as such the sanctuary was declared the 25th Project Tiger reserve of India in 1998. Besides being the perfect haven for tigers, the Bhadra sanctuary plays host to exotic animal species. The elephant, gaur, tiger, panther, sambar, spotted deer, mouse deer, barking deer, sloth bear, wild boar, wild dog, mongoose, porcupine, jackal, and the common langur are some of the mammals found here.

Birds in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers too with wide range of birds beautifying the area. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary houses more than 250 species of bird life. Among birds, you can spot the black winged kite, king vulture, great horned owl, great pied hornbill, Indian tree pie, black napped flycatcher and the open billed stork.

Trekking in bhadra wildlife sanctuary

The activities in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary include wildlife viewing on jeeps, water-based adventures, trekking, island camping, bird watching and rock climbing. The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary offers magnificent views of the hills and peaks like Kemmannugundi & Kallahathigiri are situated inside it. It is surrounded by steep slopes of Hebbe Giri, Baba Budan Giri hills and Mullayanagiri range. The best time for trekking is from October to March, when the forest is green and at its full glory.

Bird watching, trekking, Jeep Safari for spotting wild animals, water sports etc are some of the activities available for Tourists. There are many accommodations and dormitory are available within the sanctuary. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is about 275 KMs from Bangalore.

How to Reach Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

By Air: The nearest airports are Mangalore which is 180km away and Bangalore which is 265km away.

By Rail: The closest railhead is Kadur, which is 40km away.

By Road: The nearest town is Chikmagalur, 30km away. Bangalore is 265km away.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is from the months of November to March. The visiting time is from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm.

Bhadravathi
Bhadra Reservoir Muthodi
Tarikere

Top 10 Facts about Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Here are Top 10 facts about Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

  1. hadra Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 490 sq. km and is surrounded by the beautiful Western Ghats.
  2. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and is known for its diverse wildlife. Some of the animals found here include tigers, elephants, leopards, bison, deer, sambar, and wild boar.
  3. The sanctuary is also home to several species of birds like the Malabar whistling thrush, grey junglefowl, Indian peafowl, and emerald dove.
  4. The sanctuary is named after the Bhadra River, which flows through the sanctuary and provides water to the wildlife and vegetation.
  5. The sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can go on jungle safaris and spot animals in their natural habitats.
  6. The sanctuary also offers a range of adventure activities like trekking, camping, and water sports like kayaking and rafting.
  7. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between the months of October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
  8. The sanctuary is well-connected by road and is easily accessible from nearby cities like Bangalore and Mangalore.
  9. The sanctuary is also home to several tribal communities like the Jenu Kuruba and Soliga tribes. Visitors can learn about their traditional way of life and culture.
  10. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and nature and is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.