Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is located in Karnataka at a distance of 38 km from Chikmagalur town. It boasts of a substantially large number of tiger populations and was declared in 1998 as the 25th Project Tiger of India. The sanctuary has an elevation point of 750 m to 1875 m above the sea level. The lofty hill range and green vegetation surrounding it from all sides make it look absolutely stunning. The lush green vegetation mainly consists of dry deciduous and moist forests.

The mesmerizing Bhadra River passes through this sanctuary whistling soothingly, and hence it has given it the name Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread over the area of 490 sq km, it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and is home to diverse varieties of flora and fauna. You can spot some of the endangered species over here like Malabar giant squirrel and orangutan.

The two main reserves in this area are Lakkavali and Muthodi. More than 120 species of trees are grown over here. The highest peak in this sanctuary is Kallahathigiri located at the height of 1875 m. The sanctuary is also a habitat for reptiles like king cobra and Indian rock python. 

A giant teak tree known as Jagara is the main attraction of this sanctuary, which is sought to be around 300 years old. Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is one of the must-visit spots in Chikmagalur where you can enjoy various activities such as jeep safari, trekking, bird watching, rock climbing, and water sports at river Bhadra.

- Location: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Chikmagalur, about 242 km from Bangalore.

- Safari Price: The safari at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary costs INR 400 per person in a jeep, with accommodation for six passengers.

- Mobile Connectivity: Mobile connectivity at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is poor in some areas due to the dense forests. However, the surrounding area has several network towers with good connectivity across Chikmagalur.

- Medical Facility: The team at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is naturally well-trained in physical injuries, but the nearest hospital is about 15 km from the sanctuary.

Places to visit near Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

 The expansive land of lush green pastures, brooks, and unexplored niches around this sanctuary are a haven for wanderers. There are several places you can visit with beatific overviews.

1. Mullayanagiri Peak: The trek to Mullayanagiri Peak is of moderate difficulty. From atop the hillock, one can see hamlets interspersed amid thick forests with the Western Ghats adding all the more appeal to the site.

Location: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Pandaravalli, Chikamagalur, Karnataka 577130, India

2. Chamundeshwari Temple: Many families and devotees visit the Chamundeshwari temple to seek blessings of the local goddess enshrined here.

Location: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Chamundeshwari Temple, Chikamagalur, Karnataka 577130, India

3. Bhadra River: Bhadra River is one of the most visited places near the sanctuary. It originates from Gangamoola, near Kudremukh, and has become a haven for rafting and other water sport activities.

Location: Gangamoola, Chikmagalur district, Karnataka

4. Jhari Waterfalls: Also known as Buttermilk Falls, Jhari Waterfalls requires a 1 km trek downhill. Many visitors often take a bath under the fall. There is also a local lifeguard to ensure the safety of visitors.

Location: Near Mullayanagiri Bababudangiri, Chikmagalur, India

5. Belavadi: The small hamlet of Chikamagalur is flanked with two temples, one of them being Belavadi while the other one being a Ganapati Temple enshrined with a deity of Udhbhava Ganapati. The temple is 1000 years old, making it a rich heritage site. Belavadi attracts many tourists because of its architecture. There are mirrored pillars, and idols of Lord Vishnu are enshrined in the temple.

Location: Belvadi, Javagal Chikmagalur, Chikmagalur 577146, India

6. Coffee Plantations: Chikamagalur is well-acquainted with coffee plantations. Most of the panoramic views of these plantations are offered by homestays built within the peripherals. They not only are soothing and relaxing, but also provide trekking opportunities for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Places to stay in or near Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

There are several places one can stay near Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary with pristine surroundings and unfathomable luxury.

1. Trivik Hotels and Resorts: Trivik Hotel and Resorts has a gym, spa, bar, swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi to make your stay prolific, along with outlandish décor and quiet surroundings.

Location: Sy. Number 216 and 344, Chandagondannahalli, Mullayangiri, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka

Price: INR 1,200 per night

2. Ama Plantation Trail: Residing in a coffee estate, Ama Plantation Trail is surrounded by plantations across pastures and a serene environment.

Location: Arabidacool Division Tata Coffee Limited, Mylemoney Estate, Kaimara Post, Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Price: INR 800 per night

3. The Serai: The Serai is a private pool villa resort near Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary with excellent amenities, including a 24/7 bar, restaurant, and spa.

Location: Mugthihalli Post, K. M. Road, Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Price: INR 1,300 per night

4. Siri Nature Boost: Siri Nature Boost is an establishment including several amenities like 2 restaurants and a café, children’s pool, indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and spa services. There are also locker services available to keep your belongings safe, and the hotel offers guest tours/tickets for places to visit around.

Location: SH 57, Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Price: INR 1,350 per night

Tips for Visiting Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

1. There are certain things you should keep in mind on your sojourn to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

2. Carry mosquito repellent with you. Even during the daytime, being a forest, Bhadra may have certain insects and mosquitoes that might leave you vexed.

3. Carry a pair of binoculars to see the various birds and even animals. Most of them are hidden behind trees or further away from the trail of jeeps, thus making it difficult to spot them.

4. Wear caps or sunglasses to be able to spot the fauna despite the glare of the sun.

5. Carry cameras to capture animals in their natural habitat.

There are various ways by which you can reach this sanctuary:

By Rail: The nearest railway station to the sanctuary is Kadur, about 51 km away. It would take about an hour to reach the sanctuary from Kadur.

By Air: The nearest airport to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is the Mangalore Domestic Airport, located 185 km away. You can catch the local train or hire taxis from the airport to reach the sanctuary.

By Bus: There are various bus stops to and from the sanctuary for a convenient mode of commutation. Buses commute through this route throughout the day, almost every half an hour.