Nagarahole National Park – It Is One Of The Well Preserved Park In India

NAGARAHOLE NATIONAL PARK

AT

KODAGU

Nagarahole National Park is a beautiful place, located in the Kodagu and Mysore districts of the state of Karnataka. Nagarahole National Park also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park.Nagarahole National Park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park ranges the foothills of the Western Ghats spreading down the Brahmagiri hill. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which consists of a contiguous complex of Protected Areas.

Nagarahole was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955, and the Nagarahole wildlife sanctuary was declared as a National park in 1983. The total area of the park is about 643.39 Km2. This park was declared the 37th Project Tiger Reserve in 1999.The Nagarahole National Park derives its name from two Kannada words ‘Naga’ meaning ‘snake’ and ‘Hole’ meaning ‘stream’. Naga meaning Snake and Hole referring to streams, rightfully means the place with snake.

Nagarhole National Park is counted among the well maintained national parks in India. Nagarahole is one of the best places to see Asiatic Elephants.Nagarahole is truly a delightful spot, bubbling with the activity of some of the most magnificent animals and trees. The park is dotted with enchanting greenery and forest cover, coupled with waterfalls and a wide array of wildlife.

The Western Ghats Nilgiri Sub-Cluster of about 6000 Km2, including all of Nagarahole (Rajiv Gandhi) National Park, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a Word Heritage Site.Wildlife varieties are numerous in number. Some of the common predators that can be seen include tigers, leopards, sloth bears and wild dogs. Spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, four-horned antelopes, wild boars and elephants constitute the herbivores.

Elephants and bison are other prime attractions. One can also spot animal species like jackals, striped hyena, sloth bears, mouse deer, black naped hare etc. The park also has a wide variety of birds and amphibians.The Park is open throughout the year, the monsoon period is best avoided. The ideal time to visit the Park is between October and May.

Vehicle Safari – Timing

Morning – 05:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Evening – 03:00 PM to 07:00 PM

Boat Safari – Timing

Morning – 06:30 AM to 09:15 AM

Evening – 03:30 PM to 06:15 PM

Fee

Domestic Adult: 50

Foreigner: 150

Still Camera Fee: 50

By Air

Nearest airport is Mysore airport, about 96 Km from the Nagarhole National Park. Mysore airport is well connected by road to Nagarhole National Park. Bengaluru is the closest international airport from the park at a distance of about 268 km. Flights to major Indian and International cities operate from Bengaluru.

By Rail

Nearest railway station is Mysore railway station. Mysore railway station is well connected by road to Nagarhole National Park.

By Road

Nagarhole National Park is well connected to Major Cities and Places by road network. There are a number of government and privately operated vehicles that go to Nagarhole National Park at frequent intervals.