Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, used to be known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a significant tiger reserve in the state of Karnataka. It is nestled between Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri mountains and Karnataka’s Mysore plateau. Spread over 640 sq km, it is known for its abundant wildlife, including tigers.

Collectively, with Bandipur Tiger Reserve in the southeastern parts and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala, in the south, it boosts massive tourism. Nagrahole Forest is named after the ‘Nagarhole River’ meaning the serpent river. It is also home to many rivers, especially the famous Kabini River.  

The wildlife includes Asian elephant herds, tigers, Asian wild dogs, sloth bears, sambar, chital, four-horned antelope, mouse deer, and more. In addition, you can spot a wide variety of birds and rosewood and teak forests.

Jeep Safari

Morning: 5:30 AM- 10:00 AM; evening: 3:00 PM-7:00 PM

Coracle Safari

Morning: 9:00 AM-11:00 AM; evening: 5:00 PM-6:00 PM

Boat Safari

Morning: From 6:30 AM to 9:15 AM; Evening: From 3:30 PM to 6:15 PM

Bus Safari

Morning: 6:00 AM- 9:00 AM; evening: 3:00 PM-5:00 PM

Nagarhole Tiger Reserve’s history is an amazing story of perseverance. In 1955, the land spread over 285 sq km of forest, and the government declared it a wildlife sanctuary in 1983 by extending the forest to 571.55 sq km.  

Along with Bandipur Tiger Reserve, in 1986, it became a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The national park is also recognized for its Asiatic elephant population. Thus, it was included with ‘Project Elephant’ in the year 2000 and became part of ‘Mysore Elephant Reserve.’ The expansion does not end here, as in 2003, another 71.84 sq km was added to the national park area.  

In the same year, the Nagarhole National Park got the status of Tiger Reserve as it became part of ‘Project Tiger.’ In 2007, the park became an independent Tiger Reserve as around 643.392 Sq Km became the critical/core Tiger habitat. In 2012, the total area of Tiger Reserve expanded to 847.981 sq km.

Nagarhole National Park boasts a massive and diverse wildlife range, with the prime attraction being the Bengal Tiger. Amongst all the Nagarhole National Park animals, tigers are the major attractions, alluring wildlife, and nature enthusiasts from all over the world.

Apart from the tiger, the animal species famous here include the carnivore species of leopards, monkeys, jungle cats, sloth bears, and striped hyenas. And more. The animal diversity does not end with species of carnivores, as you will find many herbivore animals like Chital. Antelope, Wild Boar, Grey Langur, Indian Elephant, Barking Deer, and Sambar Deer. If you are going for a rare sighting, the Indian giant flying squirrel and the Golden Jackal are the rarest of mammals to observe here. 

Nagarhole National Forest is also widely known as a haven for bird-watchers. The diverse bird species you will see here include Nilgiri wood pigeon, Indian Robin, Indian Peafowl, painted Bush Quail, Darters, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and more. Lastly, the forest is also known for being home to lizards, endangered snakes, ants, mugger crocodiles, dung beetles, and more.

Core Zone 

A strictly protected area meant primarily for wildlife conservation, you will find minimal human activities here for preserving the natural habitat of the various animals of Nagarhole. 

Buffer Zone 

Near the Core Zone, the Buffer Zone has limited human activity, serving as transportation between the Core Zone and other lands. 

Tourism zone

It is a designated area for tourists to enjoy wildlife safaris and nature walks. You will also find multiple viewing points and accommodations here.

Community zone

This zone is designated for the local community or tribe here that inhabits the area and creates sustainable handicrafts and other things for livelihood.

Nagarhole National Park is ideal for a year-round visit as the temperature is ideal throughout and the wildlife is available in abundance here. To make the most of your trip here, the best time to visit Nagarhole National Park is the dry season of the summer months. From April to May, the months are ideal as the animals leave their space to head to the lake to satisfy their thirst, so exploring the wildlife is easier. 

Another season considered the ideal time to head to Nagarhole Forest is the winter season from November to February. The city has pleasant weather, and the temperature even drops to 10- degrees Celsius. The weather, the wildlife, and the views of the Nilgiris make it the perfect destination for tourists of all ages. Also, remember that between June and September, the national park is closed due to heavy rainfall.

Winters

The temperature varies between 10 and 14 degrees Celsius. It gives you a great chance to experience the untamed wildlife here. Nagarhole weather in winter is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures during the day and nights being cold. October is the official winter month ideal for sightseeing and fun outings.

Summers 

The maximum temperature does not exceed 33 degrees Celsius. The months of March to May mean dry waterholes, and the animals seek water and food outside of their shelter.  The comfortable weather and temperature, along with bright sunny days and peaceful evenings, make your summer holidays a beautiful experience here. 

Monsoon 

Nagarhole is closed in the monsoon season due to high rainfall of approximately 1,500 mm between June and September. Most of the areas are closed, yet if you want, you can head here to enjoy waterfalls, but wildlife safaris are not possible during this season.