TOURISM

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary Dandeli, India

To experience all the sights and sounds of the lush forests of Dandeli, go for a wildlife safari. Travel by jeep with experienced guides who will take you on the adventure of a lifetime and delve deep into the natural habitat of wild animals, exotic birds and unusual reptiles. As you travel through beautiful wooded trails, you will come to enjoy and appreciate the rich diversity and extensive variety of plants and animals, as well as the colours, scents and sights! Some of the unusual animals to look out for while in Dandeli are the Sloth Bears, Barking Deer, The Indian Pangolin and the Malabar Giant Squirrel; some of the birds that inhabit the area are the Great Pied Hornbill, Blue-Throated Barbet, Peregrine falcon and the curious-looking Malabar Pied Hornbill. This bird is quite large and has a yellow beak with a hard, helmet-like bump on top, called a casque. For adults and children who enjoy thrills and adventure, there is white water rafting at the Virnoli Rapids on the Kali River, while, for those looking merely to relax, there are other activities like nature walks, bird watching, boating and fishing, and crocodile spotting trips. The best time to enjoy the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is between March and October and the centre is open between 6am and 6pm. The forestry department provides minibus tours to the sanctuary and there are rest houses within its grounds. Camping facilities are at the nearby Kulgi Nature Camp, and large groups on educational visits can be easily accommodated.