Nagarhole National Park

Spread over Mysore and Kodagu districts, Nagarhole is bounded by the Kabini River to the south, the Wayanad Sanctuary to its southwest and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve to its southwest.Nagarhole National Park is one of the oldest parks in India being established in 1955. It was once exclusive hunting preserve of the Mysore royal family. After independence Nagarhole was declared National Park and managed by Indian Forest Department. The park was increased to it present day area of 645 sq km in 1974.

Nagarhole National Park has animals like the elephants, gaur, sambar, cheetal, barking deer, chousingha and wild pig. It is also an excellent place to spot dhole, leopard, sloth bear and tiger. The park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is close to Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary. It forms the catchment area for three rivers: Nagarhole, Lakshmana Teertha and Kabini.The altitude is between 600 and 900 m;the highest elevation here is Masal Betta Peak. Most of the tourists enter the park from Hunsur north of the park. The forest dept facilitate hiring of guides and jeeps and offer minibus safaris and elephant rides. While the park is well known for elephant habitat the excitement lies in spotting a tiger.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nagarhole is between October and April; It is usually closed in the hot season. The most comfortable time to visit in terms of climate is between November and March.

Getting there:

By Air: The nearest airport Bangalore is connected by daily flights to all Indian Metros. Most resorts have pick-ups facilities. There are also buses that run from Bangalore to Hunsur.

By Rail:

The nearest railhead is at Mysore from where one can take either taxi or bus.

By Road:

Mysore Highway Bypass via Ranganathittu onto SH88 to Hunsur.From Hunsur bus-stand to Heggadadevankote and further Nellorepala Junction.From there right turn to Veeranahosahalli gate of Nagarhole.

Where to stay

Nagarhole is a popular tourist destination so it offers plenty of options to suit all type of travelers. Visitors can stay in simple accommodation inside the forest or private hotels close to the park.