Wildlife Sanctuaries Near Bangalore For A Refreshing Getaway

The lush green jungle of a forest in one of the wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore.

Wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore, Karnataka provide peaceful environments and an extensive range of wildlife for anyone seeking a quick escape from the rush of city life. These sanctuaries have plenty to offer everyone, irrespective of your preference for observing elephants, tigers, or any kind of birds. Every wildlife sanctuary offers something different, from the scenic splendour of Bhadra to the closeness of Bannerghatta to the city center. These are the most popular wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore, which offer thrilling encounters and an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Top 6 Wildlife Sanctuaries Near Bangalore

Here are 6 wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore that you need to visit when you want to step outside and explore the flora and fauna.

1. Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary (BRT)

A leopard in the wild in one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore.

Photo: Giles Laurent / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary (BRT) combines the beauty of nature with spirituality. The temple at the peak of a hill at BRT is famous for providing stunning views of the nearby landscape. Elephants, leopards, and many different kinds of birds can be spotted in the sanctuary, and it also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Trekking enthusiasts are going to enjoy the sanctuary’s difficult terrain, and people seeking a quiet holiday can relax in its peaceful setting.

Timings: 7 AM – 2 PM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: Free

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2. Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

Landscape at Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, popular in wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore.

Photo: Jagadish Katkar / Wikimedia Commons

Situated beside the Cauvery River, the park is famous for its wide variety of animals and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to spend time bird watching, as tourists regularly observe birds such as kingfishers and painted storks. The calming river waters are another popular spot for fishermen. The wildlife sanctuary is a perfect spot for a quick day trip from Bangalore because of its proximity and stunning surroundings.

Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹150 per adult

3. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, a favourite amongst wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore.

Photo: Uajith / Wikimedia Commons

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore, is famous for its pristine environments and trekking opportunities. This sanctuary is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. It is recognized for having a diverse range of rare birds and endangered animals, such as the Malabar giant squirrel. Trekkers and birdwatchers both are drawn by the challenging terrain and thick forests, giving them a thrilling adventure in one of Karnataka’s most breathtaking natural settings.

Timings: 5:30 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹75 per person

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4. Rangayyanadurga Wildlife Sanctuary

Four-horned antelope, one of the animals found in wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore.

Photo: Dr. Raju Kasambe / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A paradise for birdwatchers, Rangayyanadurga Wildlife Sanctuary offers a diversity of species amidst its picturesque scenery. The wildlife refuge is a perfect spot for nature lovers seeking a relaxing holiday because of its calm surroundings, consisting of hills, forests, and rivers. This lesser-known sanctuary offers hiking and animal photography, providing visitors with a peaceful and quiet escape from the busy life of the city.

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹75 (for adults), ₹25 (for children)

5. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

A wide angle of one of the most beautiful safaris at Muthanga wildlife reserve.

Photo: Abhinavsharmamr / Wikimedia Commons

Muthanga wildlife reserve, which is part of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Elephants inhabit the reserve in huge numbers, and on safaris, guests frequently come across herds of elephants. In addition to elephants, the deep forests are habitat to tigers, leopards, and deer, providing thrilling views of wildlife. The sanctuary is a popular spot for wildlife safaris and hiking trips because of its serene setting and diverse plant life.

Timing: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹110 (for adults), ₹40 (for children), ₹300 (for foreigners)

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6. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

A majestic Indian tiger resting in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by greenery.

Photo: Charles J. Sharp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

In addition to elephants, leopards, and a diversity of bird species, Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is home to tigers. Boat safari is one of the water-based activities that the sanctuary offers, which gives the wildlife experience an added uniqueness. Bhadra, which is surrounded by rivers and mountains, is a perfect getaway for those who love to combine adventure sports, peaceful scenery, and wildlife observation.

Timings: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹400 per person

National Parks And Camp Near Bangalore

There are some amazing national parks and nature camp near Bangalore that are also worth visiting. Some of them are :

1. Bannerghatta National Park

Two Dark Blue Tiger butterflies perched on leaves in Bannerghatta National Park, India.

Photo: Punya Sheel Sharma / Wikimedia Commons

It doesn’t get much closer to a wildlife experience near Bangalore than Bannerghatta National Park. It is popular for its safari, which brings visitors up close to lions, bears, and tigers. Along with the safari, the park offers families and wildlife lovers a comprehensive wildlife encounter through its zoo, butterfly garden, and hiking trails. For people living in cities looking for a quick and interesting nature escape, the park is a favourite because of its accessibility and variety of attractions.

Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹80 (for adults), ₹40 (for children), ₹400 (for foreigners)

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2. Nagarhole National Park

An elephant standing by the water in Kabini, Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka, India.

Photo: Sankara Subramanian / Wikimedia Commons

In addition to more than 250 species of birds, Nagarhole is home to a significant number of elephants, tigers, and leopards. The beauty of it is amplified by the Kabini River, which makes bird watching and boat trips popular activities. The park, which is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, offers a thorough experience in the natural world, including organized safaris that maximize the wildlife experience for both beginner and experienced visitors.

Timings: 6:45 AM – 8:45 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 (for Indians) and ₹150 (for foreign nationals)

3. Bandipur National Park

A bison grazing in Bandipur National Park, Karnataka, surrounded by lush greenery.

Photo: Abhijeet1011 / Wikimedia Commons

Boasting one of the highest tiger populations in southern India, Bandipur is a popular destination for safari enthusiasts. Elephants, Indian gaurs, as well as various species of birds can be found in the park’s moist evergreen forests, which make it an excellent spot to go bird watching and take pictures of animals. The natural environment of Bandipur, which is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it is well-preserved and gives visitors lots of opportunities for encountering animals throughout the year.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 AM and 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹250 per person

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4. Dubare Elephant Camp

Elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp, Karnataka, interacting with visitors in nature.

Photo: Shital 90 / Wikimedia Commons

Visitors can feed, wash, and study elephants in their natural habitat at Dubare Elephant Camp. Located along the Cauvery River, the camp offers possibilities for bird watching, natural treks, and water-based activities such as rafting. Dubare Elephant Camp is a unique place for individuals who want to learn about these gentle giants because of its primary focus on education and conservation.

Timings: 9 AM – 11 AM and 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹670 (for Indians), ₹1,447 (for foreign nationals)

Wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore offer both nature lovers and adventure seekers an enjoyable and refreshing getaway. These wildlife sanctuaries near Bangalore offer perfect chances for a range of wildlife interactions, whether you’re interested in bird watching, safaris, or simply relaxing in the countryside. After packing your bags, head out into the countryside to experience the natural beauty and richness that Karnataka has to offer. Book your trip with TripXL for the smoothest experience.

Cover Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

October to March is ideal, as the weather is cooler, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
It’s recommended to book safaris in advance, especially for popular sanctuaries like Bandipur and Nagarhole.
Yes, most sanctuaries offer eco-friendly resorts, lodges, and guest houses suitable for families.
Yes, most of the popular sanctuaries like Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Bannerghatta offer guided safaris. It's advisable to book safaris in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Photography is generally allowed, but there might be restrictions on the use of flash or drones. It's recommended to check with the sanctuary's guidelines before your visit.

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