While you may have come across some of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in India, there are a number of smaller ones that offer unmatched experiences. Away from throngs of crowds and commercialisation, these destinations offer a unique experience to visit animals and wildlife in their own natural habitats where they are at ease. While India boasts of rich bio diversity, government help and non-profit organisations have made it possible for smaller sanctuaries to work with greater efficiency to reduce the harmful effects of urbanisation on the helpless.
These wildlife sanctuaries of south India are unexplored and hence able to sustain their untouched beauty. With unique species of fauna, here are the top five choices to visit when in south India:
Top Five Choices to Visit When in South India
Masinagudi
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| Mudumalai Forest Reserve |
Lying near the foothills of Ooty hiding between the Niligiri Hills, this wildlife retreat is a part of the Mudumalai Forest Reserve. With thickets of forests and a simple lifestyle, the resorts here are a wonderful location to spend a weekend at. While it is protected by the forest department, one can embark on an adventure with a jeep safari or a night safari. You can easily spot deer strolling on the roads to this reserve as well. Not only can you spot sambar deer and grey langurs like from the renowned jungle book but also view some majestic tigers and elephants when here.
Kabini
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| Kabini safari |
Lying along the banks of the river Kabini, this reserve offers some of the best access to wildlife in the South. While originally this spot was famous for serving as a hunting ground for the Royal Family of Mysore, it has now joined hands with the Rajiv Gandhi National Park and been declared as a tiger reserve. Not only do the forests boast of wonderful wildlife but aquatic species such as the massive Mahseer to can be spotted with ease here. With peacocks, four horned antelopes and herds of elephants, you never know what you may spot on a boating expedition here.
Bandipur National Park
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| Bandipur national park |
The bandipur National Park is another one of the royal family’s hunting grounds that have been turned into a sanctuary. While the tigers are still the main attraction for visitors here, it has also managed to make its mark as a bird sanctuary where over three hundred species of birds have been found as residents. From the Blue Winged Parakeet to the flying squirrel, there are unimaginable species of life co-existing in peace here.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
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| Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary |
If you find yourself in or around Kerala, the Kozhikode region that houses the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary should definitely be on your to visit list. With forested regions blending in with urban developments, it is a top centre for protection of elephants in the country. This wildlife reserve allows elephants to roam freely across their property which has even led to traffic jams inside due to a camera friendly calf. Besides the massive beasts, they are also home to a number of other wildlife such as panthers and the barking deer. Visitors can also indulge in elephant back rides here if you can brave the challenge!
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
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| Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary |
With luscious green valleys, gushing rivers and tall hills, the Dandeli Natural Reserve is a wonderful spot to visit. With heritage sights as well as a number of creatures such as the sloth bear and tigers, your experience here is bound to be an enriching one. A Long but scenic drive away from Goa, this reserve is a must visit for all kinds of tourists.
These destinations offer visitors additional experiences unique to the natural terrain such as trekking, white water rafting and elephant rides that can add an element of thrill to your holiday packages in India.
Summary
Are you a wildlife buff? Consider this exquisite sanctuaries in various parts of South India during your next holiday!
