Places to Visit near Nagarhole National Park

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Nagarhole National Park is one of the best places to visit wilderness and increase your chances of spotting tigers in the South of India. Here you can not only enjoy nature and relax yourself, but it is also one of the best places for spotting wildlife. Nagar means snake, and hole means water. The serpentine streams and water around the area are best. Apart from exploring the wildlife, places to visit near Nagarhole National Park are many, including waterfalls, temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and more.

Nagarhole Wildlife Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, was unveiled in 1955 and expanded in the same year. It is one of the best places to head to in Nagarhole. Other nearby Nagarhole National Park places include trekking spots or heading for a picnic or for a nature walk. If you are planning a trip to Nagarhole National Park, combining these other natural adventures is a must.

Wildlife and Nature

Nagarhole Safari

Nagarhole offers three types of safari: boat safari, jeep safari, and elephant safari. Nagarhole National Park, spanning over 643 sq km, is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its rich biodiversity. That includes sloth bears, leopards, tigers, elephants, and almost 270 bird species. The safaris are done in two slots—morning and afternoon—offering photographers a chance to experience the wildlife sighting and click incredible photos. The guided safaris and treks are ideal for adventure and wildlife exploring.

How to Reach Here: Take a flight to Mysore Airport or Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore, and take a cab from there. Take a train to Mysore Junction and a cab from there. Nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and more are well-connected through private and state-run buses to Nagarhole safari.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, June to September
Operational hours: 6 am to 9 am, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
Popular For: Wildlife safaris, spotting tigers, birds, and elephants; nature treks; and wildlife photography.
Entry fee: INR 2242 (Adults); INR 1174 (Children)—These are safari prices.
What to carry: comfortable shoes, binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, water, snacks, and mosquito repellent.

Kabini Backwaters

The Kabini Backwaters near Nagarhole National Park is a beautiful destination perfect for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is formed by Kabini River and offers stunning views, bird watching opportunities and unique wildlife opportunities. You will see many mammals and a variety of bird species like migratory birds, deer, elephants ideal for safaris and wildlife photography. Apart from the wildlife here, tourists can enjoy the coracle rides, guided wildlife safaris and boat rides. Not only exploration but Kabini backwaters offers an opportunity to relax as well.

How to Reach Here: Take a flight to the nearest Mysore airport or Kempegowda International Airport. From there, take a cab to Kabini. A train to Mysore junction is also possible, and then taking a cab from there. Drive or take a bus from Mysore (80) and Bangalore (220) to reach Kabini.
Best Time to Visit: October-March; June-September (Monsoon season many cancel some activities)
Operational hours: 6 am to 6 pm
Popular For: Birdwatching, boating & coracle rides, tigers, reptiles and more.
Entry Fee: INR 200-INR 500 (It can vary according to the season or activities you book)
What to Carry: Comfortable and sturdy footwear, binoculars, camera, sunscreen. Sunglasses, hat, water, snacks, and mosquito repellent.

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts is the Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary; the best one is Coorg. It provides a beautiful weekend retreat for anyone looking to be amidst nature while having a chance of spotting diverse animals here. It spans over 181 sq km and is engulfed by cardamom and coffee plantations. The best fauna here includes mouse deer, jungle cat, sloth bear, tiger, lion-tailed macaque, spotted deer, giant flying squirrel, python, cobra, and more. One of the best wildlife sanctuaries and places to visit near Nagarhole National Park is this and also ideal for bird lovers. You can witness birds like the Emerald Dove, Malabar Trogon, and Black Bulbul.

How to Reach Here: Take a flight to Mysore Airport, 120 km away, or Mangalore and Bangalore International Airport is also a good choice. Take a cab to the sanctuary from the airport. Take a train to Bangalore or Mysore railway station and a cab from here to the wildlife sanctuary. Self-drive or take a bus to Coorg directly to reach the wildlife sanctuary in the hills.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Operational hours: 6 am to 6 pm
Popular For: Elephants, gaurs, reptiles, wild dogs, sloth bears, and more.
Entry Fee: INR 50 (adults), INR 25 (children)
What to Carry: Binoculars, camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, and more.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is the 2nd largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is home to rare and endangered flora and fauna. Also known as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, it is one of the most bio-rich areas in peninsular India, known for semi-evergreen forests and deciduous trees. Sightings here depend on luck, so staying here for 3-4 days is a good idea. One-third of the sanctuary is engulfed in tea, rosewood, silver oak, and eucalyptus. From tigers, panthers, deer, elephants, and various bird species, the wildlife here is incredible. You will also find crocodiles, sambar, bison, and many reptiles like cobras or monitor lizards here.

How to Reach Here: Take a flight to Kozhikode International Airport, which serves many cities and Middle Eastern countries. From here, take a cab to reach the sanctuary in 3-4 hours. Take a train to Kozhikode railway station. From here, a cab will take you to the park. An overnight bus ride to Sulthan Bathery is ideal, and from here you can take a cab.
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Operational hours: 7 am-10 am; 3:00-5:00 pm
Popular For: Tigers and Asian Elephants; elephant ride.
Entry Fee: INR 20 (Indians), INR 10 (children); INR 110 (international tourists), INR 300 (jeep safari).
What to Carry: Mosquito repellent, a scarf or sunscreen or hat, a permit, and a camera.

Bandipur National Park

Situated in the picturesque hills of the Western Ghats, there is a quaint town by the name of Bandipur. It is a hidden gem ideal for nature and adventure lovers. Places near Nagarhole National Park include Bandipur National Park, which is engulfed by meandering streams, serene landscapes, and lush green forests, making for an ideal getaway away from the city chaos.

Spanning over 874 sq km, the park is home to endangered species of wildlife like sloth bears, elephants, tigers, and Indian gaurs. Explore the park using a wildlife safari, like a jeep or boat safari. Apart from this, you can also go trekking, rock climbing, river rafting, and zip-lining.

How to Reach Here: Take a train to Mysore Junction, 80 km from Bandipur, and then take a cab or bus to the national park. Take a KSRTC private bus from nearby cities and head to Bandipur directly. Take a plane to Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore and take a cab from there.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Operational hours: 6-8 am; 2:30-4:30 pm
Popular For: Reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Entry Fee: INR 250, INR 3000 (jeep safari), and INR 350 per person (bus safari)
What to Carry: Binoculars, camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, and goggles.

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the best places to visit near Nagarhole National Park is the beautiful Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, known for the glorious Indian elephant. Spotting them roaming freely through the dense jungle is a beautiful sight. The other wildlife creatures you will see here include tigers, bison, leopards, gaurs, Malabar giant squirrels, macaques, and sambar deer. You will also see reptiles like monitor lizards, Indian rock pythons, and king cobras. Here you will also see insects and butterflies with amphibians, including the Malabar gliding frog and tree frogs, under one roof only. Here you will also find over 200 species of birds gracing the sky; the diverse bird varieties here simply make the place worth visiting.

The flora here also includes dense and diverse tropical rainforests. The variety of trees here includes rosewood, mahogany, eucalyptus, and teak. The lush greenery is the best environment appealing to people and the reason behind the sanctuary’s thriving wildlife.

How to Reach Here: Fly into the nearest airport, Kozhikode International Airport, Calicut, 100 km away from Wayanad. Take a taxi or bus to Wayanad. Take a train to Kozhikode Railway Station and take local transport to your destination. From nearby cities like Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Kozhikode, taking a bus to Wayanad is possible, a budget-friendly option.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Operational hours: 7 am-10 am; 3 pm-5 pm
Popular For: Spotting elephant herds, langurs, panthers, Indian bison, rare slender lorises, tigers, and deer.
Entry Fee: INR 115 (Adults), INR 40 (Children); INR 300 (International tourist), INR 720 (Jeep Safari).
What to Carry: Valid ID card, binoculars, emergency contact lists, camera, adequate supply of water, and snacks.

Waterfalls

Iruppu Falls

On Wayanad borders a stunning waterfall, Iruppu falls is one of the best places to visit near Nagarhole National Park. It lies in Brahmagiri Hills ranging between Srimangala and Kutta. It originates from Lakshmana Tirtha Falls and is considered a holy waterfall because of the legend that Lord Lakshma send an arrow to Brahmagiri hills to start this fall to quench the thirst of Lord Rama. There is also a temple of Lord Shiva here and devotees flock to the falls especially during shivratri. The fall is 170 ft high and makes a thunderous sound, so it is a memorable sight.

How to Reach Here: Take a train to Mysore Junction or Mangalore and Hassan railway station. Take a taxi, rental car and buses to reach the falls. Take a bus to Kutta, nearby bus station and hire a taxi from there.
Best Time to Visit: August to January; September-December
Operational hours: 6 am to 6 pm
Popular For: Reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Entry Fee: INR 50
What to Carry: Raincoat, camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, and goggles.

Abbey falls

It is one of the best waterfalls near Nagarhole National Park. The scenic charm it offers along with the aroma of coffee and spices makes the environment peaceful and soothing. Abbey or Abbi falls is ideal for nature lovers and people who love clicking photographs of nature. The water cascades down from a height of 70 ft and is surrounded by lush greenery, a stunning sight to behold. The falls is a combination of many streams merging and falling into a pool of water. The best time to witness the Abbey falls is during the monsoon season when the water stream is thicker and provides a louder roar. The waterfall is opposite the beautiful hanging bridge and the view appeals to people who come here to have a picnic or just to see the sights. Abbey falls is near to many other attractions like Brahmagiri hills, Madikeri fort, Omkareshwar temple and more. You will also find a trekking trail and a small temple of Goddess Kali, located on a private property.

How to Reach Here: Take a train to Mysore railway station and a cab or taxi from there to reach Abbey Falls or take a bus to Madikeri and then a local transport for reaching Abbey Falls. Self-drive from Madikeri and reach the Galibeedu road and walk for some time to reach the falls. Many KSRTC buses also run from nearby cities to Madikeri, nearest to Abbey Falls.

Best Time to Visit: July to October
Operational hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Popular For: Finding serenity amidst nature and adventure, Goddess Kali temple and more.
Entry Fee: INR 15
What to Carry: Raincoat, camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, and goggles.

Mallalli Falls

Mallalli Falls, nestled in the Pushpagiri hills, Coorg is a beautiful Nagarhole national park nearby places to visit. Originating from River Kumaradhara, it flows down over 200 ft, a scene you need to witness for sure. The falls are at a distance of 25 km from Somwaprewt and 42 km from Kushalnagar. Hiking here is possible and the best way to reach the falls. Be careful of leeches, found in abundance here especially during the monsoon season.

How to Reach Here: Take a bus from Somwarpet to Bidali, 2.5 km from Mallalli falls, after that, it is a simple walk towards the fall. Drive from Somwarpet or a private taxi to reach your destination. Mysore junction is the nearest bus station, 134 km away from the falls, take a private vehicle or taxi to reach the location.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Operational hours: 10 am to 5:30 pm. Monday-closed
Popular For: Jaw-dropping scenery of waterfall and lush greenery, Madikeri fort and more.
Entry Fee: None
What to Carry: Raincoat, camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, and goggles.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Rameshwara Temple

One of the most famous temples of Rameshwaram is Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, a small island connecting via Pamban Bridge to the mainland. The temple is known for its majestic towers, corridors, intricate works and the excellent architecture is simply marvelous. The temple is one of the 12 jyotirlingas and every Hindu devotee must visit here once. The temple is known for 22 theerthams and bathing even in one of them is said to relieve you of your sins. The temple is also known for the successful rescuing of Goddess Sita and Lord Rama worshipping Lord Shiva on his way back to Ayodhya. Also, it is said that if you visit Kashi and not Rameshwaram, your pilgrimage will be incomplete.

How to Reach Here: Take a state or privately owned bus from nearby cities in Tamil Naidu and other states to reach Rameshwaram. Hiring a local cab or taxi works too. Take a train to Rameshwaram railway station and take a cab from there to the temple. Madurai Airport is the nearest one, connected to major cities.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Operational hours: 5 am to 1 pm, 3 pm-9 pm
Popular For: Being one of the 12 jyotirlinga.
Entry Fee: None

Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)

The Golden Temple or Namdroling Monastery is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Coorg, Karnataka. It was established in 1963 and is the largest one in South India. For Tibetan Buddhism, it is a major cultural and spiritual center. It is known for its magnificent architecture, golden statues, and intricate murals. The main attraction is Buddha, Guru Avlokiteshvara and Padmasambhava’s golden statues. The vibrant murals depict the life and teachings of Buddha and Tibetan Buddhist. The Golden Temple is a must visit for anyone with cultural preservation, spiritual seekers and more.

How to Reach Here: Take a bus from Bangalore and get off at the nearest bus stop in Namdroling Monastery. A taxi or bus is also a great way to reach the monastery. Lastly, the nearest train station is Namdroling Monastery and taking a train from KSR Bangalore to Krishnarajanagar is ideal. Take a cab from here to reach the temple.
Best Time to Visit: Forenoon
Operational hour: 7 am to 6 pm.
Popular For: Teachings of Buddha and Golden statues.
Entry Fee: None

Madikeri Fort

The Madikeri Fort in Madikeri, Coorg, is a beautiful historic landmark showcasing the rich architectural and heritage brilliance of the region. It was built in the 17th century by the Mysore Wadiyars. The fort has witnessed multiple historical changes and was also ruled by different dynasties over time. The fort merges the European and Islamic architectural styles, making it a beautiful structure for everyone. The fort has a museum inside featuring artifacts, cultural exhibits, and historical items related to the region. It also offers stunning views of Madikeri and nearby hills.

How to Reach Here: Take a train to the nearest station—Kannur, 113 km from the district of Madikeri. From Bangalore, you can reach Kannur in 5-8 hours; from here, take a state-run bus to reach Madikeri Fort. Self-drive to Madikeri from Karnataka state highway 88 to reach the fort.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Operational hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm (Monday closed)
Popular For: Impressive style of design and construction.
Entry Fee: None
What to Carry: ID card, water, and snacks.

Unique Experiences and Activities

Dubare Elephant Camp

Dubare Elephant Camp is one of the best places to visit near Nagarhole National Park. It is a forest camp on River Kaveri’s bank in the Kodagu district, Karnataka. It is a refugee camp for elephants, and here you can stay and trek amidst the elephant camp. Moreover, you can also interact with, feed, or bathe the animals. Apart from having an elephant training camp, there are other animals to explore, like wild dogs, gaurs, tigers, leopards, crocodiles, and spotted deer. You will also find many venomous snakes and crocodiles here in the nearby lake.

How to Reach Here: Take a flight to the nearest airport, Dubare Elephant Camp, Mangalore Airport. From here, take a bus or taxi to reach your camp. Or you can take a train to Mysore railway station, 100 km away, and from there, take a cab. You can also book a state- or privately-run bus from the nearby cities & towns for the camp.
Best Time to Visit: October-March
Operational hours: 9-11 am; 4:30-5:30 pm
Popular For: Interaction with elephants, feeding and bathing them.
Entry Fee: INR 100 (Everyone above 3 years), INR 50 (Boat riding), INR 400 (Camera)
What to Carry: Binoculars, a camera, sturdy shoes, and more.

Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island, or Kuruva Dweep, in Wayanad is one of the best spots for photographers and experience-seekers. It is known for its natural beauty and serenity. The island uninhabited by humans is home to many varieties of flora and fauna. With protection from River Delta, it is populated by rich fauna and flora formed by clusters of islets in the Kabini River. It is replete with fresh air and green surroundings appealing to tourists all over the globe. There is no pollution or disturbances, and trekking here amidst deep forest is one of the best things to do here. The forest also hosts many species of medicinal herbs and orchids amongst other plants. You will also find several migratory birds with rare animal sightings.

How to Reach Here: 30 km from Wayanad, you can reach here via a bus ride to Kattikulam; get down at Puzhakkara Durgadevi Temple; from the temple, it is a simple walk towards the island. Take a cab or taxi to reach Kuruva Island.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Operational hours: 9 am to 3:30 pm
Popular For: Wildlife, evergreen & serene ambiance.
Entry Fee: INR 110 (Indians), INR 200 (foreign tourists), INR 59 (camera)
What to Carry: Drinking water and light snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some temples near Nagarhole National Park?

Iruppu Temple: It is located near Iruppu waterfall, and the ancient Shiva temple is known for seeking blessings and washing away your sin amidst the beautiful Western Ghats.
Namdroling Monastery: It is nestled just 30 km away from Nagarhole, and the Tibetan Buddhist monastery is known for its serene ambiance and vibrant architecture.
Rameshwara Temple: It is nestled in the Periyapatna region. A historic temple, it honors Lord Shiva, offering a peaceful spiritual experience amidst nature.
Kaveri Temple: It is situated in Srimangala and is one of the most beautiful and significant spiritual spots. The South Indian temple architecture is simply beautiful and one of a kind.

What are some historical sites near Nagarhole National Park?

Namdroling Monastery, or Golden Temple: It is situated 30 km away from the park and is known as one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in South India. The beautiful architecture, golden statues of deities, vibrant murals, and more reflect Tibetan history and culture.
Iruppu Temple: The ancient Shiva temple near the waterfall by the same name is historically significant and attracts history enthusiasts along with devotees.
Shravanabelagola: It is 80-100 km away, a bit far, but it is an important historical & religious site, the towering Gomateshwara statue, known for its Jain architecture and art and their history.
Kaveri Temple, or Srimangala: It is a significant historical and cultural site, and the ancient temple showcases the marvelous South Indian architecture, ideal for understanding the spiritual history of the place.
Madikeri Fort: It is a 17th-century fort showing ancient history, a museum, and stunning scenic views.

What are some markets near Nagarhole National Park?

Madikeri Market: It is situated in Coorg, and this bustling market is known for its local produce variety, spices, handcrafted items, and coffee.
Srimangala Market: It is a local hub for fresh spices, produce, and traditional goods.
Coorg Spice Markets: It is known for premium coffee, pepper, cardamom, and other aromatic spices from this region.
Bylakuppe Tibetan Market: It offers traditional Tibetan woolens, handicrafts, cultural artifacts, and more, reflecting the influence of Tibetan culture in the area.

What are some amusement and adventure options near Nagarhole National Park?

Wildlife safaris: Exploring the national parks, like Kabini, a nearby place to Nagarhole National Park, is a must. You can spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Boating at Kabini: Do enjoy a beautiful, serene boat ride on the Kabini River for wildlife spotting and birdwatching.
Coracle rides: Experience traditional coracle rides near Kabini, a unique cultural adventure awaiting you to enjoy.
Camping: Want to camp under the stars? Then, there are places in and around the river for you to enjoy a thrilling outdoor experience.

What are some memorials near Nagarhole National Park?

Gandhi Memorial (Madikeri): It is situated in Coorg, and the monument commemorates Mahatma Gandhi and is a symbol of his visit to the region.
Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa Memorial: It is located in Madikeri and honors the first Indian commander-in-chief of the Indian army.
Tibetan Monastery Memorials: One of the best places to visit near Nagarhole National Park is the many monasteries in Bylakuppe linked to the history and culture of Tibet.
Raja’s Tomb: It is a historic royal burial site showing the local architectural history and style of Coorg’s rulers.