Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole Overview

Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a vibrant and diverse wildlife sanctuary nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and later designated as a national park in 1988, Nagarhole covers an expansive area of approximately 643 square kilometers (about 248 square miles). The park forms a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is situated between the Mysore and Kodagu (Coorg) districts, lying adjacent to the Bandipur National Park, with which it shares its southern boundary.

The name ‘Nagarhole’ is derived from the Kannada words ‘Naga,’ meaning snake, and ‘Hole,’ meaning streams. True to its name, the park is crisscrossed by serpentine rivers and streams, alongside several waterfalls, which enrich the landscape and provide vital water sources for the park’s flora and fauna. The Kabini River, in particular, forms a natural boundary between Nagarhole and Bandipur, creating a large reservoir that attracts a plethora of wildlife, especially during the summer months.

Nagarhole National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including a healthy population of Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, and leopards. The park’s varied topography, from gentle slopes and shallow valleys to dense forests and open grasslands, supports an impressive array of other wildlife, including the endangered Indian wild dog (dhole), sloth bear, various species of deer, and over 250 species of birds.

Visitors to Nagarhole National Park can explore its natural beauty and wildlife through jeep safaris, which offer the chance to witness the park’s majestic animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers boat safaris on the Kabini River, providing a unique perspective on the aquatic and bird life.

With its rich tapestry of habitats, abundant wildlife, and serene natural beauty, Nagarhole National Park is a crucial conservation area and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Southern India.