The Ultimate Tourist Guide to Kabini and Nagarhole National Parks

Overview 

Nagarhole and Kabini are the two most famous national parks in Karnataka, in southern India. These National Parks are famous for their rich biodiversity, dense forests, serene backwaters, gentle hills, streams, valleys, and the most beautiful Kabini River. Declared a national park in 1988, Nagarhole National Park is also famous as Rajiv Gandi National Park and it covers a total area of 643 square kilometres. On the other hand, Kabini has a great history, in earlier times this place used to be the private hunting ground for Mysore’s maharajas and today it has been transformed into a beautiful wildlife haven. Both these parks have one thing in common, the safaris. Here you can enjoy several kinds of safaris like Jeep Safari, Boat Safari, Elephant Back Safari, and coracle boat safari. Here is a perfect tourist guide for both National Parks to help you explore in the best possible way. 

About Nagarhole National Park 

1. Safari in Nagarhole 

Nagarhole National Park offers a very exciting and thrilling jeep safari experience for visitors to help them explore the wildlife. Jeep safaris are one of the most common and easiest ways to explore the park’s off-beaten areas and spot wildlife. These safaris are usually conducted during the morning or late afternoon shift because the animals of the park are more active during these time slots. Visitors can also enjoy elephant back safaris, which allows you to have a closer look at the wildlife, specifically tigers. The booking process for Nagarhole Jeep Safari is very easy and you can book it online. 

2. Best Time to Visit Nagarhole 

Nagarhole National Park is open to visitors throughout the year, but the most suitable time to visit the park is winter or early summer, Between October and May. During this season the weather is cool and pleasant and animals are more active. There are limited water sources so it is easier to spot animals near limited rivers and valleys. Summer season can be hot and dry, making the experience uncomfortable for some visitors but it is manageable and you can enjoy morning or evening safaris. 

3. How to Reach Nagarhole 

Located in Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is easily accessible from the prime states and cities in the country. Situated around 96 km away Mysore Airport is the closest to Nagarhole National Park. visitors can also get here from Bangalore which is around 220 km away. After reaching these cities you can hire a taxi or public bus to get to the location. 

4. Stay Options Near The Park 

There are many stay options near the Nagarhole National Park ranging from luxury to budget-friendly resorts and lodges. Some popular stay options include wildlife lodges, jungle resorts, and government-run guesthouses. It is advised to book your hotels, lodges, or resorts in advance so that you don’t have to face a last-minute rush. 

5. Birdwatching in Nagarhole

Nagarhole National Park is an ideal place for all birdwatchers, this National Park has more than 270 bird species including migratory birds. Don’t forget to carry your camera and binoculars to capture the most perfect pictures of these colorful birds. Some of the popular birds that can be seen here are the Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar trogon, and Oriental white-backed vulture. 

About Kabini National Park 

1. Kabini National Park Safari 

Kabini National Park is well-known for its jeep and boat safaris. These safaris take visitors deep into the forests of this region. The jeeps take you to the remote areas of the national park where you can get to spot endangered species. If you are willing to have a more unique experience then you can go on a boat safari and spot water birds and crocodiles on the banks of Kabini River. If you are a nature lover who loves serene getaways and wildlife the Kabini National Park is one of the ideal places to visit. 

2. Kabini National Park Wildlife 

Kabini National Park is also famous for being a wildlife lover’s paradise. Here you can enjoy sightings of tigers and elephants strolling around the park in herds. Some of the lucky visitors might get a chance to spot leopards in their natural habitat. Other animals that can be seen at the park are deer, sloth bears, and monkeys. If you are fond of birds this place is perfect for you. Here you can see kingfishers, ospreys, and Peacocks. 

3. Kabini National Park Zones 

To make it easier for visitors to explore, the park has been divided into 2 main zones. First is Zone A and second is Zone B. The first Zone takes you through the dense forest trails giving you a chance to have closer encounters with nature and spot elusive and endangered species present at the Kabini National Park. The second Zone of the Park takes you to the backwaters of the Kabini River showcasing its beauty. There are three gates allowing visitors to have different perspectives of the park. These gates are Nanachi Gate, Kakanakote Gate, and Veeranahosahalli Gate. 

4. Best Time to Visit 

The most suitable time to visit Kabini National Park is from October to February. The weather during this time is pleasant which makes wildlife spotting easier. These months have clear skies and offer clear visibility. Increased crowds and high rates of hotels are the only drawbacks of visiting during this time. If you are looking for a less crowded experience then visit between June and September, these are monsoon months. Safaris and wildlife sightings are closed during these months but this time is perfect for nature lovers who want to soak in the beauty of natural surroundings. 

5. Popular attractions Near Kabini 

There are many other places to visit near Kabini. A few popular places are Nagarhole National Park, a beautiful city in Mysore, known for its historic palaces, and Coorg, an ideal destination for adventure junkies looking for treks or want to explore the coffee plantations. These popular attractions near Kabini will make your trip even more memorable. 

Conclusion 

Both these National Parks in Karnataka are ideal for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Indulge in thrilling safaris, witness majestic animals in the natural Habitat and soak in the beauty of nature. These parks are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of busy city life and reconnect with nature. So, book your safari tickets now and embark on this unforgettable journey.