Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is a protected tiger reserve in the midst of Western Ghats located 80 km away from Chikmagalur. Of which its periphery Muthodi forest is closer to Chikmagalur. It was declared as a Project tiger reserve in 1998 and covers an area of 492.46 km. The real beauty of this sanctuary is in its diverse and abundant flora and fauna. More than 120 species of trees and 250 species of birds inhabit this place. Reptiles too roam about in this place freely and you may come across snakes, lizards and crocodiles while in a safari here.

At the gates of Muthodi tiger reserve

We headed for Muthodi forest which was a 38 km ride from the place we stayed. Here too they organize jungle safaris and forest camping. Our plan was to go on the jungle safari which usually starts by 6 am. We reached the security check point and waited for almost an hour for the safari as it had already left with the first set of visitors. Once the jeep arrived we were little apprehensive to get on it as it was an open jeep and didn’t offer much protection. The safari was for an hour and we embarked on our journey with a lot of expectations. Our driver kept telling stories of his wildlife sightings and he was constantly getting reports on his walkie talkie. Like in any other jungle safari, animal sighting is a matter of chance. And we were unlucky so we couldn’t spot any big cats or elephants and just spotted some galloping deers, peacocks and eagles. The safari jeep passed through a water stream and it was a delightful experience.

An encounter with a majestic peacock

Herd of grazing deers

The activities in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary include wildlife viewing on jeeps, water-based adventures, trekking, island camping, bird watching and rock climbing.The safari is in jeeps or open vans and timings are from 6 am - 9 am in the morning and 3.30 pm - 6 pm. They charge 400 rupees per person for the safari but for children it’s free. Prices may vary for International tourists. Animals prefer peace and quiet so it’s better not to talk or shout during the safari. We are actually encroaching their property and watching their activities so we better behave.

400 years old Teak tree

Beautiful stream in the forest

When to Visit

Best time to visit this place is from October to March.

Where to Stay

Tourists can choose to participate in the nature camp that is organized here by the Forest Department. Tents and wooden cottages are available for tourists who wish to stay overnight. The Muthodi Nature Camp (Tel: 08262-234904; Tariff: ₹ 1,000, dorm ₹ 600), located in the forest. Adventurers can live in the River Tern Lodge which also arranges for the safaris inside the forest

Activity pricing

Cost is INR 400 for Indians and INR 1200 for foreigners.

Timings

Timings are 6 AM - 9 AM and 3.30 PM - 6 PM.