Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari is a popular destination for safari enthusiasts looking to explore India’s wild side. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The most effective way to experience Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary’s beauty is through a safari. A trained guide with extensive knowledge of the different species leads safaris in this sanctuary. The most common sightings on these safaris include tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and various bird species.
Table of Contents
Overview of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
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- Location: Chikmagalur district, Karnataka, India.
- Weather: 21- 38°C
- Tags: Wildlife
- Timings:
- Morning safaris: 6:30 AM to 8:30 a.m.
- Evening safaris: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Entry Fee:
- Jeep Safari:
- ₹ 400 per person for Indian adults
- ₹ 200 for children below 10 years of age for Indian Nationals
- ₹ 1200 per person for Foreign Nationals
- Canter safari: ₹ 300 per person
- Total Budget per person: ₹2900
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History of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
As the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is now called, it was previously known as the Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. At that time, the sanctuary covered an area of 77.45 square kilometers. As a result of a systematic survey of the flora and fauna of the sanctuary and the surrounding area, the area was extended to its current extent of 492 square kilometers. In 1974, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was renamed after the river Bhadra.
The sanctuary was declared India’s 25th tiger project in 1998. India’s first tiger reserve, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, completed a successful village relocation program by 2002. Even though the original plan for relocating the 26 villages was introduced in 1974, all of them were only relocated to M.C. Halli in 2002, around 50 kilometers away from the sanctuary.
Entry Fee and Budget of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
The entry fees for Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari depend on your nationality and the type of safari you choose.
Jeep Safari:
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- INR 400 per person for adults (Indians)
- INR 200 per child (6-12 years old) (Indians)
- INR 1200 per person for foreign nationals
Canter Safari: INR 300 per person
Aside from the entry fees, here are other things to consider when budgeting for your Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari:
Here’s a sample budget for a 2-day 1-night trip to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary for two people (Indian nationals):
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- Transportation: INR 2,000 (round trip)
- Accommodation: INR 3,000 (guesthouse)
- Food: INR 2,000
- Safari: INR 800 (jeep safari for two)
- Other expenses: INR 1,000
Total Budget: INR 8,800 (Two people)
Attractions at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Wildlife: The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, dholes, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boars, and many species of birds. Jeep safaris are a great way to see wildlife in its natural habitat.
Birdwatching: With over 250 species of birds, Bhadra is a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the birds that can be seen here include the Malabar crested hawk-eagle, the Indian pitta, the Malabar grey hornbill, and the flameback woodpecker.
Trekking: The sanctuary has several trekking trails that wind through the forests. These trails offer stunning views of the landscape and are a great way to explore the sanctuary on foot.
River Rafting and Boat Rides: The Bhadra River flows through the sanctuary and provides opportunities for exciting river rafting adventures or serene boat rides.
Jagara, the giant teak tree: This 300-year-old tree is a popular attraction for visitors. It is one of the largest trees in the sanctuary and is a truly impressive sight.
Bhadra Dam: The Bhadra Dam is located on the Bhadra River and offers stunning views, especially when water is being released.
Best Time to Visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
The best time to visit Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip.
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- For the best weather: October to March is the post-monsoon season, when the forest is lush green and the water bodies are brimming. The temperature in these months is pleasantly cooler and more comfortable, ranging between 20°C and 30°C, enhancing the enjoyment of wildlife safaris.
- For the best chance of spotting wildlife: March to May is the summer season. During this time, you might notice animals gathering around water sources, which makes spotting them easier. Just be aware that it can get quite hot and muggy at times.
How to Reach Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
There are a few ways to reach Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India. The nearest airport is Mangalore Domestic Airport, located 185 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is Kadur, about 51 kilometers from the sanctuary.
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- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore Domestic Airport (IXE), located 185 kilometers from the sanctuary. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Bhadra. Taking a taxi would be the most convenient option but also the most expensive. You can expect to pay around ₹3,500 to ₹4,000 for the ride. Buses are a more economical option, costing around ₹200 to ₹300 but will take longer.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kadur Junction (KDUR), about 51 kilometers from the sanctuary. Trains run regularly between Kadur and major cities in India. From Kadur, you can take a taxi or bus to the sanctuary. A taxi ride will cost around ₹1,000 to₹1,200, while a bus ride would be around ₹100 – ₹150.
- By Road: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 242 kilometers from Bangalore. You can drive or take a bus to the sanctuary. If you are driving, the journey will take about 5-6 hours. Several private bus companies operate between Bangalore and Bhadra. The bus journey will take about 6-7 hours and cost around ₹300 to ₹500.
2 Days Itinerary Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
Day – 1:
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- Morning: Wake up early and head out on a jeep safari into the forest. Keep an eye out for animals such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and gaurs.
- Afternoon: After the morning safari, return to the lodge for breakfast and relaxation. In the afternoon, you can go for a nature walk or visit a nearby village.
- Evening: Enjoy an evening jeep safari, where you might spot nocturnal animals like tigers, leopards, and hyenas. After dinner, relax by the bonfire and listen to the sounds of the forest.
Day – 2:
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- Morning: Go on another morning jeep safari to explore different parts of the sanctuary.
- Afternoon: After breakfast, check out of your lodge and head back to civilization. You can stop at a local market to pick up some souvenirs before your departure.
Know Before You Go for Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
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- Ensure that the other members are treated with respect.
- Keep litter out of the environment.
- You shouldn’t get out of your safari jeep.
- Animals should not be fed.
- Animals should not be approached too closely.
- Don’t use the flashlight on your camera or mobile phone.
- Keep calm during an encounter with an animal.
- The package price covers all entry fees.
FAQs Of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
Is Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary home to any wildlife animals?
On a Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary jeep safari booking, you’ll see not just elephants and tigers but also panthers, sloths, wild dogs, flying squirrels, bears, bison, and wild boars. The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary also has over 120 species of flora, such as Honne, Nandi, Tabasalu, teak, rosewood, Mathi, and Kindal.
Can I bring my camera on the Jeep safari to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary?
For Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Jeep Safaris, you are allowed to carry your camera.
Can I get a guide for the Jeep safari at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary?
A guide will accompany you on the Jeep safari in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
What is the starting point?
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located 78 km from Chikmagalur, so you can reach it easily either by public transportation or by private transportation. The closest airport is Bajpe Airport, which is 212 km away and takes 4 hours, and 32 minutes to travel. To reach the destination, you can hire a taxi or a cab. A 25-kilometre distance separates Bhadravati railway station from the nearest railhead.
How many people can fit in a Jeep?
Not including the driver and guide, a maximum of 6 people are allowed in a jeep.
Do I need to book a Jeep safari in advance?
While booking in advance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can book jeep safaris online or by contacting the forest department at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
What should I bring on a Jeep safari?
A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars, and a camera are all essential items to bring on a Jeep safari. You may also want to bring a bottle of water and some snacks, as the safaris can last for up to 2.5 hours