Nagarahole combines the word “Naga,” meaning snake, and “Hole,” referring to streams. This park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is in the Kodagu and Mysore Districts. Notably, Nagarahole Park has been designated as the thirty-seventh Tiger Reserve in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This protected area sustains significant populations of both carnivores and herbivores, encompassing species such as tigers, leopards, Asiatic wild dogs, sloth bears, Asiatic elephants, gaurs, sambars, chitals, muntjacs, four-horned antelopes, wild pigs, mouse deer, and South-western langurs.
See also: Bannerghatta National Park: Main Attractions, Fee, Timing
Key factsÂ
- Area: 643 sq km
- Established: in 1988 as a national park
- State: Karnataka
- Terrain: deciduous forests
- Average elevation: 960 m
- Major rivers: Lakshmmantirtha, Nagar Hole, Sarati Hole, Kabini River, Balle Halla
- Wildlife: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Indian jackal, Indian elephant, four-horned antelope, wild boar, jungle cat, and many more.
- Birdlife: osprey, herons, ducks, white-rumped vultures, Nilgiri wood pigeons, greater spotted eagles, and many more.
- Best season to visit: Throughout the year
- Safari timings: 6:30 am and 3:30 pm
- Entry fee: ₹250 for Indians and ₹1,500 for foreign nationals
- Nearest railway station: Mysore Junction (89 km)
- Nearest airport: Mysuru Airport (95 km)
Location of Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park is located 60 km from Mysuru, Karnataka, and it provides residents and businesses with the unique advantage of a thriving wildlife habitat. It is found near the Western Ghats’ foothills that spread over the Brahmagiri hills and south towards Kerala state. The park is home to different wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of deer, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The presence of Nagarhole National Park contributes to the tourism of the surrounding areas thus leading to the development of hospitality and recreational facilities, which creates opportunities for businesses such as resorts, eco-lodges, and adventure tourism services.
Address: Nagarhole National Park Kodagu (Coorg) District, Karnataka.
How to reach Nagarhole National Park?
By train
The nearest station to Nagarhole National Park is Mysore Junction which is located at a distance of 89 km and is connected through all the major cities in the country. From there choose public transport to the national park.
By air
The closest airport to the park is Mysuru Airport which is 95 km away and is connected to most of the major cities in India, from there there is public transport like a bus, auto, or taxi available connecting to the park.
By road
The city is connected with all the major highways and is located on the Nagarhole Road of Mysore, there is the KSRTC bus available from the bus depot which takes to the HD Kote Bus station located 30 km away from the park and then takes a taxi to reach the park.
Things to explore in Nagarhole National Park
Boat safari
Best season: October to March
Timings: 6:30 am and 3:30 pm
Taking a boat safari in Nagarhole is an excellent experience during your trip. The Kabini reservoir, formed by a dam on the Kabini River, presents a unique sight with woody tree stumps emerging from the lake, serving as perches for various bird species.Â
Jeep safari
Best season: August to February
Entry Fees: ₹250 for Indians and ₹1,500 for foreign nationals (Additional charges for safari and camera usage depend on your chosen itinerary).
For those who choose the Jeep Safari is managed by the Kabini River Lodge under the Government of Karnataka. Staying at the lodge includes a Jeep Safari in the tariff. Ticket bookings within the Park are facilitated by the Forest Department, opening 30 minutes before the safari begins.
Rameshwara Temple
Address: West Car Street, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
The ancient Rameshwara Temple, nestled at the foothills of Brahmagiri near Iruppu Falls, holds historical significance. Legend has it that Lord Ram, along with Lakshman and Sita, installed the Shiva Linga in the temple during their return from Lanka. Devotees go to the temple, particularly during Shivratri, and also engage in bathing rituals at Iruppu Falls. The temple, featuring shrines for Ganapathi, Parvathi, and the Gandharvas, is approximately 1 km southeast of Iruppu Falls.
Wildlife activities
Best Season: Throughout the year
Numerous resorts surrounding the park offer a range of activities beyond safari, including boating on Kabini, rafting, banana boat rides, rappelling, archery, nature walks, and nighttime campfires amidst the jungle’s nocturnal sounds.
Kabini Dam
Address: Kabini Dam, Karnataka 571114
Another attraction is the Kabini Dam, situated near Beechanahally village. Surrounded by lakes, valleys, and forests, the dam is a preferred spot for tourists, especially during the monsoons. The forest around the dam, once a Maharaja’s hunting ground, is home to various avian species. The Kabini Dam is approximately 66 km from Nagarhole National Park.
Where to stay around Nagarhole National Park?
JLR Kings Sanctuary- Jungle Lodges
Location – Nalkeri Forest, Nagarhole
Avg Price – 16,063
This is a well-known hotel to spend the night near the national park, it has all kinds of facilities like Food, 24*7 electricity and water supply, Wifi facility and all requirements.Â
Devi Villa – Plantation Retreat and Forest Getaway
Location – Kakanakote Forest, Nagarhole
Avg Price – ₹7,328
It is located in the Kakanakote forest part of Nagarhole with close to famous attractions. This place has a multitude of services, which include housekeeping, a Wi-Fi facility, parking, and many more necessities, it also allows pets inside the hotel.
Vpk Border Stay Cottages
Location – Kakanakote Forest, Nagarhole
Avg Price – ₹3,977
This place is located in Wayanad which is near to the Thirunelly Temple. This place offers a free private parking facility, along with a garden, rooms with a balcony, and many more facilities.Â
Junglebliss Homestay
Location – Kakanakote Forest,Nagarhole
Avg Price – ₹5906
This homestay is located in the Nalkeri forest area of Nagarhole and is one of the top valued homestays present near the park with a free parking facility. Its facility includes a 24-hour check-in facility, 24*7 Wifi electricity and water facility, and many more facilities at an affordable price range.Â
Real estate around Nagarhole National Park
Residential property around Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park is a wildlife sanctuary primarily, and the surrounding area experiences limited urban development compared to the more urbanised regions; its main focus is on wildlife conservation, and it follows strict regulations to protect the natural habitat.
Commercial property around Nagarhole National Park
Commercial places near Nagarhole National Park include eco-friendly resorts, lodges, cafes, restaurants, and local shops. These accommodations focus on providing a comfortable stay for tourists while minimising their environmental impact on society.Â
Price range of properties near Nagarhole National Park
| Location | Size | Type | Price |
| Vidayaranya Puram | 5000 sqft | 7BHK | ₹5 Cr |
| Kuvempunagar | 7000 sqft | 5BHK | ₹6.5 |
| Yadavagiri | 1140 sqft | 2BHK | ₹68 Lakhs |
Source: https://housing.com/price-trends/property-rates-for-buy-in-mysuru_karnataka-P73itnd4i57h4o32kÂ
FAQs
Why is Nagarhole Park also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park?
It earned the moniker Rajiv Gandhi National Park and is considered India's thirty-seventh Tiger Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
How many bird species inhabit Nagarhole, making it a haven for birdwatchers?
More than 270 bird species reside in the park, making it a paradise for avid birdwatchers.
Which airport is closest to Nagarhole National Park, and how far is it?
Mysuru Airport, 95 km away, is the nearest airport, facilitating easy access via public transport like buses, autos, or taxis.
What are the recommended activities for visitors in Nagarhole National Park?
Activities include boat safaris, jeep safaris, and a range of wildlife experiences surrounding resorts offer.
Are there additional charges for jeep safaris in Nagarhole National Park?
Yes, entry fees are ₹250 for Indians and ₹1,500 for foreign nationals, with extra charges for safari and camera usage based on the chosen itinerary.
What are the available options for accommodation near Nagarhole National Park?
Recommended stays include JLR Kings Sanctuary, Devi Villa, Vpk Border Stay Cottages, and Junglebliss homestay, offering various facilities and price ranges.
Does the presence of Nagarhole impact property values in the surrounding areas?
Yes, properties near Nagarhole National Park experience increased demand, potentially leading to an appreciation in real estate values.
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