Cauvery Nisargadhama

Cauvery Nisargadhama is located near Kushalnagar (around 30 km from Madikeri on the State Highway towards Mysore/Bangalore). This is a small island that is surrounded by diverting River Cauvery. The access to this island is through a hanging bridge that is built over the river. Much of the landscape of the island is maintained as is, while a lot of eco-friendly things are developed in this island that can keep the visitors busy. This island is a perfect destination if you are interested in eco-tourism related destinations.

Entrance to Cauvery Nisargadhama

Hanging Bridge

As the island is surrounded by the river on all the sides, the main attraction of the island is to go for boating on the serene and calm river. During the non-monsoon time, visitors can go for boating, or just get into the water and play. The shallow water, and the low hanging branches of trees provide a good entertainment to the visitors! However, during monsoon, the water level in the river may rise to dangerous levels. If the water level is too high, then entry the river is closed by the authorities. Visitors can neither go for boating, nor can get into an play in the water (as the water will be deep enough to drown people).

Boating on the river

River during monsoon season

This island is abundant with thick bamboo, teak and rosewood groves. Visitors have abundant choices here to make this place a perfect picnic destination. You have a choice of taking an elephant ride, visit a deer park, go through a rabbit enclosure, enjoy the nature by sitting on one of several tree-top watch towers, swing along the way and so on. When the water levels are high, the elephant rides may not be available as the elephants are brought to the island from Dubbare after making them cross the river. If the water levels are too high, the elephants cannot cross the river!

Elephant Rides

Deer Park

Rabbit Enclosure

If you are around Kushalnagar, Cauvery Nisargadhama is a good two hour stop to relax and spend time with nature. During weekends, the island has a high inflow of visitors, while during weekdays, there are hardly anyone. Occasionally, some schools organize outing to this island, and it may become too crowded and noisy with kids running around.

Location

Cauvery Nisargadhama

Where to stay?

  • Kushalnagar
  • Madikeri

Distance Chart

From Distance (in km)
Madikeri 28
Mysore 90
Mangalore 165
Calicut 190
Bangalore 230