Bhadra Tiger Reserve (Timings, Entry Fee, Safari Online Booking & How to Reach)
Located in the Western Ghat in Chikmagalur and Shimoga districts in the state of Karnataka, Bhadra Tiger Reserve covers an approximate area of 493.46 sq. km. The area presents amazing scenic beauty along with rich flora and fauna. It is surrounded by various hill ranges namely Mullaianagiri, Hebbegiri, Gangegiri & Babaudangiri. River Bhadra and its tributaries such as Somavahini, Thadabehalla and Odirayanahalla also adore the area. There is a dam on the River Bhadra.
Along with experiencing rich wildlife, tourists can go for sightseeing to various places such as two temples at Bhadra namely Bhakta Markandeya Temple of Khandya, Bhavani Shankar Temple of Hebbe, Kemmanagundi, Bababudana Hill, Bhadra Reservoir, Sri Dattatraya Peeth and Mullayanagiri.
Flora @ Bhadra Tiger Reserve
The kinds of forests present at the reserve are Southern tropical dry deciduous dry teak, Northern tropical dry deciduous mixed forest, Dry deciduous scrub forest, Boswellia forest, Dry bamboo brakes and Anogeissus pendula forest. Trees like teak, rosewood, mathi, hone, nandi and kindal can also be found.
Fauna @ Bhadra Tiger Reserve
The main species of mammals that can be seen here are elephants, spotted deer, Sambar, cheetah, wild boar, gaur, chital, sloth bear, muntjac, leopards, tigers, macaques, etc. Marsh crocodiles, monitor lizards and many other reptiles can be seen as well.
Some of the birds that can be spotted in the reserve are Grey Junglefowl, Red Spurfowl, Emerald Dove, Southern Green imperial pigeon, Great Black Woodpecker, Malabar Parakeet and Hill Myna.
Best time to visit Bhadra Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Bhadra Tiger Reserve is during the months of March to July. This is the time when many animals can be spotted in huge herds in search of water. The time between September and October is also quite good to visit.
Reaching Bhadra Tiger Reserve
- By air: The nearest airport is Mangalore which is at a distance of 190 km. Another nearby major airport is the Bangalore international Airport which is well connected to rest of the country and major international cities. It is 285 km away from Bhadra Tiger Reserve.
- By rail: The nearest railway station to Bhadra is Hassan. One can hire a taxi or take a bus to the reserve from here.
- By road: The most convenient way to reach Bhadra is via NH 48 which runs from Bangalore to Hassan. Visitors can also take another route which is via NH 4. There are many buses running from nearby cities to the reserve.
Accommodation @ Bhadra Tiger Reserve
Some of the accommodation facilities available for tourists are Forest Rest House, PWD Bungalow, Circuit house, etc. Tex Woods Resorts and River Tern Lodge are two of the lodges offering decent and comfortable stay.