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Wildlife sanctuaries near Mysore, Karnataka, are paradise for environment enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Hidden in the beautiful landscapes of Karnataka and its surrounding regions, these sanctuaries offer a look into the diverse species of plants and animals that live in the Western Ghats region and beyond. So, whether you want to see beautiful tigers, herds of elephants, or a variety of bird species, these national parks are the perfect escape from urban life. From the famous Bandipur and Nagarhole to the peaceful Ranganathittu, every single wildlife sanctuary in proximity to Mysore offers a unique and spectacular wildlife experience.
10 Wildlife Sanctuaries Near Mysore
Here’s a list of the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries near Mysore that are a must visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
1. Bandipur National Park
Photo: Abhijeet1011 / Wikimedia Commons
Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is among India’s top tiger reserves. It spans 874 square kilometres and is home to many different kinds of animals, such as elephants, leopards, deer, and more than 200 bird species. The park’s blend of hardwood forests, evergreen trees, and pastures creates breathtaking views, making it a paradise for animal lovers and photographers looking to capture the magnificence of the natural world.
Distance From Mysore: Around 72 km
Timings: 6:15 AM – 8 AM and 4:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹250
2. Nagarhole National Park
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Nagarhole National Park is an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and one of India’s finest wildlife destinations. The park, which covers over 640 square kilometres, is known for its deep forests, abundant wildlife, and beautiful majesty. Inhabited by tigers, elephants, and leopards, it also has more than 270 species of birds. The Kabini River adds to its appeal, delivering gorgeous scenery and excellent opportunity for wildlife encounters during boat and jeep safaris.
Distance From Mysore: Around 60.7 km
Timings: 6:45 AM – 8:45 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹150 for Indians, ₹1500 for foreigners
3. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Samarth V Dangre / Wikimedia Commons
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is one of Karnataka’s most well-known bird sanctuaries and a bird watcher’s paradise. The sanctuary comprises six tiny islets on the banks of the Cauvery River and covers an area roughly 0.67 square kilometres. Despite its tiny size, it contributes significantly to the protection of migrating birds. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of bird species, such as painted storks, open-billed storks, egrets, herons, and pelicans, a lot of which migrate from Siberia, North America, and Australia.
Distance From Mysore: Around 18 km
Timings: 6 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹75 for adults, ₹25 for children, and ₹500 for foreigners
4. Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Shyamal / Wikimedia Commons
Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary (BRT), which covers an area of 574 square kilometres, is famous for its diverse wildlife. It houses tigers, leopards, elephants, and many kinds of bird species. The sanctuary also has the ancient Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, which sits on a hill offering incredible views of the surrounding forests. BRT is not just a wildlife refuge, but also an important cultural and religious location.
Distance From Mysore: 85 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹250
5. Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary
Photo: SWE-Yaatrik / Wikimedia Commons
Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary is a small but important bird sanctuary known for its annual breeding of painted storks and spot-billed pelicans. The sanctuary covers around 1.5 square kilometres and is located in a community where local conservation efforts are crucial. The sanctuary’s rare blend of human and wildlife interaction allows visitors a rare opportunity to watch these migratory birds up close, especially between December and April, when nesting activity is at its greatest. The sanctuary’s appeal and importance are made stronger by the community’s active participation in habitat preservation.
Distance From Mysore: Around 77 km
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
6. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a thriving biodiversity hub located in the Western Ghats. The wildlife sanctuary, which covers 490 square kilometres, is famous for its dense forests, diverse animals, and picturesque scenery. The region is inhabited by tigers, elephants, leopards, and many kinds of birds, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy safaris, hiking, and birdwatching, making Bhadra an essential stop for nature lovers.
Distance From Mysore: Around 200 km
Timings: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM and 4 PM – 6PM
Entry Fee: ₹400 for adults, ₹200 for children, and ₹1,200 for foreigners
7. Mukurthi National Park
Photo: Hans Veth / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mukurthi National Park is part of the broader Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This 78.46-square-kilometer park is notable for its distinct shola-grassland environment, which supports a diverse range of flora and wildlife. The park is habitat to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, leopards, barking deer, and many kinds of birds. The park’s rocky landscape, with undulating hills and deep valleys, makes it an ideal spot for trekkers and nature lovers. Mukurthi also contributes greatly to the conservation of montane grasslands and shola forests, which makes it a must-see site for anyone visiting the Western Ghats.
Distance From Mysore: Around 200 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹15 for adults, ₹10 for children
8. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Harshil Gudka / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful, verdant sanctuary that is an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary covers 344 square kilometres and is divided into two portions, Tholpetty and Muthanga, each featuring a distinct rich biodiversity. It is home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and plenty of bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary’s blend of moist deciduous woods and semi-evergreen grasslands provide a spectacular backdrop for safaris and trekking, giving tourists a thrilling time in one of India’s most scenic wildlife sanctuaries.
Distance From Mysore: Around 100 km
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children, and ₹110 for foreigners
9. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Brahmagiri Wildlife sanctuary is a scenic shelter located in the Western Ghats. The sanctuary, which covers an area of 181 square kilometres, is named after Brahmagiri Peak, which provides amazing views of the surrounding terrain. Elephants, gaurs, tigers, and the endangered lion-tailed macaque are among the animals who call the sanctuary home. The rich evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, mixed with grasslands, create a perfect setting for a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Distance From Mysore: Around 150 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
10. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Mike Holford / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is an ecological haven in the Western Ghats, known for its diverse wildlife and difficult terrain. The sanctuary, which covers 102 square kilometres, is home to endangered and rare species like the lion-tailed macaque, and it is a popular bird watching location due to its rich bird population. The sanctuary’s thick forests and strenuous trails, including the famous trek to Pushpagiri Peak, provide a thrilling vacation into nature’s pristine grandeur, making it a must-see destination for trekkers and nature lovers.
Distance From Mysore: Around 140 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹75
Wildlife sanctuaries provide a rare chance to witness nature’s beauties firsthand. From the spectacular tigers of Bandipur to the calm bird watching at Ranganathittu, these wildlife sanctuaries near Mysore showcase the region’s diverse ecosystem. So, whether you’re an adventurer, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply searching for a calm retreat, these sanctuaries provide remarkable experiences. So, book your trip with TripXL now to witness the majesty of nature in its full glory.
Cover Photo: Nick Karvounis / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
