WILDLIFE SAFARI

"Keep your sense of proportion by regularly, preferably daily, visiting the natural world." - Catlin Matthews

Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most prominent wildlife parks in the country. It was set up in 1955 by the Maharaja of Mysore in order to provide the wildlife of the area with a protective habitat.

The Indian Elephant and the Indian Bison are the major wildlife attractions. Over 250 species of birds also adorn the park, which is separated from the Bandipur National Park by the river Kabini flowing along its southern fringes. The swamps, the lush tropical forests and other water bodies that are found in this enclose make it an ideal place for fauna and flora to thrive. Mini-bus safaris, jeep safaris with an experienced guide is offered by the forest department and organized elephant rides lasting up to 30 minutes is also an offer on the plate.

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary falls under the Nilgiri biosphere reserve in Kerala and also is part of the Project Elephant established in 1991. Since the sanctuary is built in a relatively unhabitated area in Kerala, the reserve has an extremely tranquil charm about it.

Animals like elephants, tigers, gaur, sloth, cheetal, leopards, dholes, jackals and otters are found in the reserve. It also houses a large number of avifaunal species such as the crested serpent eagle, red-wattled lapwings, crested hawk eagle, king vulture, Malabar grey hornbill and nightjars. Certain species of butterfly can also be spotted including the common leopard butterfly.

The forest department offers no organized safari as of yet. But with prior permission, one can drive in with their own vehicles along with a guide. The early mornings and evenings are the best time to spot the array of animals that the reserve has to offer.

So for a day of thrills and excitement at spotting a majestic tiger or a powerful elephant, for some colourful bird watching or just a day of taking in a plethora of vibrant and unique flowers and plants, these two reserves are the place to be at. And what better way to enjoy it other than a home-stay base at Coorg to come back to after a truly splendid day of feasting your eyes on all this natural splendour!