What if we tell you that South India has a significant portion of India’s forest cover? This is why we at Discover Tours Travels bring you to shed some known and unknown Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in South India.South India has plenty of unexpected things to offer if you are here to explore, such as old forts and traditional cuisine. However, what you get attracted to as a tourist is the dense huge forests that cover the flora and fauna there and make you fall in love with nature all over again.
A little knowledge by Discover Tours Travels – According to the forest department in India, the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana collectively contribute to about 20-25% of India’s total forest area.
Now, let us dive into some of the best Wildlife sanctuaries in South India. You can easily visit them as part of your next vacation.
Also read: Discovering the Architectural Marvels of Gujarat
7 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in South India you should not miss,
Nagarahole National Park, Karnataka
The first on the list of the top 7 best wildlife sanctuaries in South India is Nagarahole National Park, located in Kodagu district and Mysore district in Karnataka, India. This absolute park is backed by the foothills of the western Ghats followed down the Brahmagiri hills towards Kerala state. Covered with the fragrance of Sandalwood and teak trees, innumerable bamboo and majestic wild animals. This park also has over 250 species of birds living with big predators like Bengal Tiger, Indian Panther, and Sloth Bear. To best way to enjoy is to ride on a jeep safari with a small round boat on the Kabini River adding to the beauty of this unbelievable National Park.
- KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The park is open every day however can close due to flooding in July and August during monsoon season.
- BEST TIME TO VISIT: October to February
Fun fact – This National Park is also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park.
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is located along the Western Ghats Chalakudy taluk of Thrissur District of Kerala. Sharing the area with the beautiful mountains along with its neighbors like Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife and Parambikulam Sanctuaries. If you are a trek lover this place offers trekking aisles for the adventure traveller with a stay at the inspection bungalow near the Chimmini Dam. This National park stands out with the beautiful large and big elephants. Pointing to the rare ones, this sanctuary is famous for Malabar grey hornbills and Malabar giant squirrels.
- KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: It’s important to note that Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary remains open throughout the year. However, the monsoon season (June to August) can be challenging due to heavy rainfall and potential road closures.
- BEST TIME TO VISIT: September and March
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
The next one of the best wildlife sanctuaries is located in Dandeli, known for Black Panthers. The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its exotic wildlife and nature reserves. there are various other activities to take part in here such as trekking, fishing, crocodile sighting, and white water rafting. It is said to be the oldest reserve in India and the largest Wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. Having a bird species of more than 250, this place is the best for bird watching. From here, you can also visit the Kavala Caves.
- BEST TIME TO VISIT – October to February
March to May: For better chances of spotting animals near water sources and enjoying summer activities. - KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak season (October to May).
Options range from jungle lodges and resorts to eco-friendly campsites.
Also read: The Best Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala: Where Tradition Meets Luxury
Nagarjuna Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Having on the lap of Nallamala Hills, Nagarjuna Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is to be one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries you can find in India because of its breathtaking beauty. Mainly known for its diverse wildlife like Bengal Tigers, Indian leopards, and sloth bears room hidden trailers, while one can catch deer, and wild boars graze with your eyes. Some refer to this place as Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Sanctuary, which is the largest tiger reserve in India. This is also famous for its one of the twelve sacred Shaiva Jyotirlingas and one of the eighteen Maha Shakthi peethas in India. It is also home to more than 150 species of birds like pea fouls, and grey hornbill.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – Book your stay in advance, especially during the peak season (November to March).
Accommodation options include forest lodges, guest houses, and eco-friendly resorts.
Silent Valley National Park
The next on the list of 7 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in South India is the Silent Valley National Park which is covered in the rainforest of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in the Kundali Hills of Kerala. This sanctuary is home to some of the rare flora and fauna that are available here than the rest of India. The Sanctuary offers biodiversity in wildlife. Species like Tigers and elephants roam the hidden trails. Also, it is home to the largest population of lion-tailed macaques, an endangered species. There is a buzzing of exotic birds in the air, such as the crimson-winged wood pigeon and the Malabar grey hornbill. This wildlife sanctuary is perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of city life due to its lack of tourist influx
- Best Time to Visit: December to February
- KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – A permit is mandatory to enter the park. You can obtain one online or at the park entrance.
Bannerghatta National Park
This national wildlife sanctuary is located in Bangalore and offers a unique sight view. The park, which covers 104.27 square kilometres, has distinctive flora and fauna. Here, lions and tigers, including majestic white tigers, seek enclosed areas, while giraffes and zebras graze in the open grasslands. There is a Butterfly Park where you may get a wide variety of butterflies. Bannerghatta National Park is beautiful and full of excitement for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. Jungle safaris allow you to witness wild animals up close.
- Best Time to Visit: October and June.
- KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – The park is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are looking for one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in South India, you must visit the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary, located on the banks of the Kabini River, is one of the country’s most picturesque. When compared to other wildlife sanctuaries in South India, this one has unparalleled biodiversity. The Black Panther is one of the most rare animals you’ll encounter here. Apart from the panther, you can see a variety of animals and birds here. You may also do boating, jungle safari, and trekking here. This wildlife sanctuary is filled with a vast collection of flora and species, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from the world.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May.
- KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – Kabini is a popular destination, so it’s important to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak season.
Here at Discovery Prime Tours, we are passionate about showcasing India’s superior regions, which are still highly sought-after tourist destinations. We welcome you to experience the incredible with the list of the best wildlife sanctuaries in South India.