Nagarhole

Nagarhole City Tour Guide

  • Area: 644 sq. km
  • Altitude: 600-900 m above sea level
  • Best Time to Visit: February-June
  • STD Code: 08228

Introduction to Nagarhole - In Karnataka

If you are planning a getaway, Nagarhole is the perfect destination. Apart from witnessing the vast variety of wildlife, the sanctuary offers a much-needed break amidst lush and rich flora and fauna. Nagarhole is considered to be one of the finest tiger reserves in India. The name "Nagarhole" is derived from two Kannada words: "Nagar" meaning snake and "hole" meaning stream. As the name suggests, there are several serpentine streams that flow through the rich tropical forests of the park.

Established as a National Park in 1955, its area was expanded in 1975. The park is also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, named in memory of the former Prime Minister of India.

Sightseeing: Places to Visit in Nagarhole

The major attractions in Nagarhole are its wide variety of flora and fauna and the abundance of natural beauty. The park is home to a large population of elephants and bison, along with a variety of other animal species and approximately 250 species of birds. The park is easily accessible from nearby major towns, offering good accommodation options like forest bungalows and inspection bungalows. Prior booking of accommodation is advisable. The park is bordered to the north by the Kabini River and to the south by Bandipur National Park. A dam on the Kabini River and its picturesque reservoir demarcate the two national parks. Moreover, a Coracle ride is a must to complete your experience of visiting Nagarhole.

Excursions: Places Nearby Nagarhole

Green is the keyword for any of the sites you visit in and around Nagarhole National Park. The experience of being close to Mother Nature is thrilling. While there are many sites to visit around Nagarhole, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Bandipur National Park are must-visit destinations. The different species of birds in the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and the natural habitat of some of the rare species of flora and fauna, along with the Asiatic Elephant in Bandipur National Park, make them ideal destinations for nature lovers.