Located among the green surroundings of Chikmagalur, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a Project Tiger Reserve of immense significance. This sanctuary is an area of great natural beauty along with the popular Hebbe Giri peak which is a trekker’s paradise.

This wildlife sanctuary is also regarded as a biodiversity hotspot. It has two villages namely Jagara and Sirivase in the sanctuary area. The sanctuary was declared a part of Project Tiger Reserve in 1998. Interestingly, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is the only one in India which has initiated the village relocation programme.

Location

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 38 km from Chikmagalur town in the state of Karnataka. A wide variation in flora and fauna is found in the sanctuary area and it lies at an elevation of 615 m to 1875 m above the mean sea level.

Flora and Fauna

Flora

This area falls in the tropical dry deciduous forest and has a rich variation of floral population. Over 120 plant species are found in the sanctuary area with members of the Combretaceae family being found in significant numbers. The common floral species found in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary include Teak, Rosewood, Fig, Ceylon Oak and Thorny Bamboo.

Several medicinal plant species are also found here and they are used popularly for medical purposes.

Fauna

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a part of Project Tiger in 1998. Earnest efforts on the part of forest and wildlife department in Karnataka have borne fruits and the wildlife sanctuary now has a population of 33 tigers. Besides Tigers, the wildlife sanctuary has a fair population of Elephant, Sloth Bear, Black Leopard, Jackal, Sambar, Mouse Deer, Porcupine and Flying Squirrel. +

Avian are found in good numbers with migratory and endemic bird species present in the wildlife sanctuary. Some of the important bird species in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary include Grey Jungle fowl, Painted Bush Quail, the Malabar Parakeet and four species of Hornbill among other bird species.

Reptiles and Butterflies are also found in the sanctuary area in large numbers. The sanctuary is a learning ground for those with interest in exploring the flora and fauna of the area.

Best Time to Visit

November to April is considered to be the best time to visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

Accommodation

River Tern Lodge is a perfect place for those with instinct for adventure. A jungle lodge within the sanctuary area is popular with visitors who seek the safari facilities for exploring the sanctuary area.

Alternatively, one can stay at Chikmagalur which has some luxury and budget hotels besides some nature camps facilities.

Visitor Information

• Private vehicles are not allowed in the sanctuary area. Wildlife safari tour is the only option for visitors.
• Safari tour is conducted from 6:30-8:30 in the morning hours and 4:30-6:30 during the evening hours.
• The sanctuary is open throughout the week.

How to Reach

Air

Mangalore airport located at a distance of 180 km from Chikmagalur is the nearest air link to the wildlife sanctuary. Taxis can be hired from the airport for a comfortable journey to the sanctuary.

Rail

Kadur railway station located at a distance of 40 km from the sanctuary is the nearest rail link to the wildlife sanctuary.

Road

Chikmagalur is 55 km from Hassan which lies midway between Bangalore and Mangalore on NH 48. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is 30 km from Chikmagalur and is well connected by the road route.