Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary sits in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district and is a part of the Western Ghats. It hosts the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka called the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary that forms the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve along with the nearby Anshi National Park. Dandeli is a natural wildlife sanctuary such as lions, leopards, black panthers, elephants, bison, lion, various species of deer, monkeys and reptiles, including rare snakes and crocodiles on the river. For a birdwatcher with nearly 300 species of birds making the forests their home, it is a dream come true. Check out the places to visit in Dandeli when you plan for getaways in Karnataka!

Places To Visit In Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Syntheri Rocks

Named after an English girl named Cynthia, who found it more than a century ago, the Syntheri rock is a massive granite monolith, over 300 feet high. Ideal place for someone interested in geology and bird watching. The Kaneri river flows at its foundation, the water forming numerous rock caves and a high, terraced waterfall. Ideal place for someone interested in geology and bird watching.

Kavala Caves

Kavala caves are located about 25 km from Dandeli. These limestone caves date back to the prehistoric era and have an interesting formation of stalagmite. The caves are very small at points one has to crawl through. A good spot in heart for explorers.

Molangi

Located 11 km from Dandeli, Molangi is surrounded by thick forests with the Kali river passing between large rocky cliffs and hillsides. It is a perfect place for hikers, and is an ideal forest camping area.

Syke’s Point

Syke ‘s Point near the Kavala Caves provides a breathtaking view of green hills, deep valley, and the flowing Nagajhari River into the Kali River. It also offers an outstanding sunset view as the birds come back to their nests flying over the valley.

Supa Dam

This is one of the top places to visit in Dandeli! The Supa Dam lies 25 km from Dandeli. The dam generates electricity and the lake formed in the catchment area provides a scenic view.

Shiroli Peak

Situated on the sides of an abandoned mine in the mountains, you can reach Shiroli peak by jeeps from the forest department. The highest point in the area of Uttara Kannada, it gives a beautiful view of the Sahyadris from sunset. It is generally a part of the Jungle safari and requires the forest department’s permission to travel.

Activities To Do In Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Bird Watching

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to more than 300 bird species and is a heaven for bird watchers. So if you have a little Salim Ali in you, take your binoculars out and set out early in the morning on a walk. Several species of Robin, Hornbills, Pigeons, Kingfisher, Woodpecker, Cuckoo, Eagle and other birds greet all the tourists.

Hiking/Trekking

Trekking in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary — Image Credits: Google Images

Dandeli is a perfect place to go on a mountain forest hike/trek. One would expect to come across various wildlife species and have a quick encounter with mother nature. You require permission from the Forest Department for treks and take these only with the company of experienced guides.

Jungle Safari

Forest Department conducts Jungle Safari tours. An open jeep includes a driver and a guide. The duration of the trip is about 3-4 hours and timings are early morning and late afternoon. While the dense forest limits the likelihood of wildlife seeing, one can still see various birds, deer, bison, boar, etc, and even a tiger if lucky. The cost turns out to be INR 500 per person.

White Water Rafting

White Water Rafting is a challenging activity which is conducted in the rapids of the Kali river. It is done mainly at the river’s upper reaches, where the water is wild and white as it froths and foams, roaring against narrow gorges and rocky outcrops. It can be very thrilling but also slightly risky if one does not listen to the commands of the instructor. A must-do for the adrenaline junkies. The long course of rafting is 9 KM long with 8 rapids. Total cost per person comes to INR 1450.

Kayaking

Kayaking is conducted in the Supa dam reservoir, which is is so huge that it looks more like a sea. In between, there are small islands where you can drop anchor and relax for some time. For this task, an earlier practice is not needed and while beginning, it may seem difficult to control the narrow kayak, well, you will get used to it in a few minutes. Do not forget the life-jacket though!

Canyoning and Rappelling

Canyoning includes rock climbing, alongside waterfalls. Rappelling on the other hand is coming down the rocks rapidly with the help of the safety-rope. Both the activities are quite exciting and great for those who seek fun-filled adventure and are not shy of sweating it out in the open.

Best Time To Visit

Dandeli has moderate elevation and good forest cover, which gives it a pleasant all-year-round weather. However, the region receives heavy rainfall during the monsoons (from July to September). October to April is the proper time to visit and the best months are December to February. October and November the best months for bird watching and activities like trekking as the hills look very pristine after the recent rains.

How To Reach?

The nearest railway station to Dandeli is Alnavar Jn which is 35 km away. You can connect to Dandeli from major cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune etc. You can find a complete list of trains that go via Alnavar here. Another important railway station nearby, Hubli, links Dandeli from most parts of India. Or you can take direct buses to Dandeli which is available from Bangalore. Dharwad and Hubli are the other two major towns for inter-state buses. You can reach Dandeli from Alnavar, Dharwad and Hubli by Karnataka State Transport buses. One can also book cabs or ask the resorts for a pickup.

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