Nagarhole

Nagarhole, also called as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is one of India’s largest protected forests. It is surrounded  by Bandipur, Madhumalai, Muthunga wild life sanctuaries. It is situated on the north of River Kabini. In fact, the name ‘Nagarhole’ is due to River Kabini that flows like a snake in this region. Nagarhole in Kannada translates to ‘a stream like a snake’. It always amazes me how our ancestors realized certain things about the place even when any of the modern technology was unheard of! I mean, can you figure out the shape of a river flow spread across few kilometers just by walking by it??!! Don’t believe? You can check in Google Maps to verify if this is true!

Spotted Deer

Indian Guar / Bison

This national park is spread across 600+ sq km and houses various wild life species including tigers, sloth bears, sambar  deers, cheetals, spotted deers, nilgiri langoors, nilgiri tahrs, leopards, Indian gaurs (also called Indian bison), elephants, wild dogs (also called dholes), wild boars and so on. There are numerous species of birds that reside in this park.

Mongoose

Spotted Deer

You can take jeep safari which is available in early mornings (6-8am) and evenings (4-6pm). The chances of wildlife sightings, although depends on luck, are greater in summer, when wild life come to artificial water holes and salt pits in search of water.

Giant Malabar Squirrel

Macaque

Nagarhole is around 100km from Mysore and 90 km from Madikeri. There is a nominal entry fee to enter the national park. Entry to National Park is closed between 6 pm to 6 am.

And Finally… A sincere request to all travelers. Please please please do not litter!

Location

Nagarhole National Park

Where to stay?

  • Nagarhole Forest Guest House
  • Homestays near Nagarhole / Kutta

Distance Chart

From Distance (in km)
Kalpetta 55
Madikeri 80
Mysore 120
Calicut 130
Mangalore 210
Bangalore 260