Anshi National Park

Anshi Overview

Anshi National Park, officially known as Kali Tiger Reserve, is a stunning natural sanctuary located in the Western Ghats in Karnataka, India. Spanning an area of approximately 130 square miles (339 square kilometers), the park is a vital part of the larger Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve and is situated near the town of Dandeli. This biodiverse haven lies at an elevation ranging from 100 to 900 meters (330 to 2,950 feet), with dense evergreen and semi-evergreen forests that create a lush, verdant landscape.

The terrain of Anshi National Park is diverse and captivating, featuring undulating hills, dense forest canopies, and meandering rivers like the Kali River that enhance its scenic beauty. Its dense vegetation includes towering teak, silver oak, and eucalyptus trees, interspersed with bamboo groves and undergrowth rich with shrubs and climbers. This vibrant flora supports a variety of ecosystems, making the park a crucial habitat for numerous species.

Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Anshi National Park are in for a treat. The park is renowned for its elusive big cats, including leopards and the occasional tiger, which find shelter in its thick forests. Other mammals include Indian bison (gaur), sloth bears, wild boars, and sambar deer. Smaller mammals like civets, mongoose, and pangolins add to the biodiversity. Birdwatchers will revel in spotting over 200 avian species, such as the Malabar pied hornbill, great hornbill, kingfisher, and the striking paradise flycatcher. Reptiles, including king cobras and monitor lizards, and an array of colorful butterflies also inhabit this ecological treasure.

Among the park’s most notable highlights is the Kali River, which offers opportunities for white-water rafting and kayaking. Trekkers are drawn to its rugged trails that wind through dense forests and lead to picturesque spots like the Kavala Caves, known for their natural formations and mythological significance. The Sykes Point viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the Western Ghats and the river below, making it a favorite spot for photography and sunset views.

Visitors can explore the park through guided jeep safaris, trekking expeditions, or birdwatching tours led by experienced naturalists. Night safaris offer a unique chance to witness nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat. Adventure seekers often combine their visit with rafting trips on the Kali River or explore nearby attractions like Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.

Despite its natural richness, Anshi National Park faces conservation challenges, including human encroachment, deforestation, and poaching. However, significant strides have been made in recent years, such as its designation as part of the Kali Tiger Reserve, which has increased protection efforts for its flagship species like tigers and leopards. Local community engagement and eco-tourism initiatives further aid in preserving this precious ecosystem, highlighting its value not only as a biodiversity hotspot but also as a source of sustainable livelihoods.

Park Map

Anshi National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Anshi National Park is equally celebrated for its diverse birdlife, making it a paradise for bird watchers and ornithologists. The park’s varied habitats support an incredible array of avian species, many of which are rare or endemic to the Western Ghats.

Malabar Pied Hornbill
This striking bird, with its large yellow bill and black-and-white plumage, is commonly seen feeding on fruits and small animals in the park’s forests.

Crested Serpent Eagle
A majestic raptor with a distinctive call, the Crested Serpent Eagle is often seen soaring high or perched on treetops scanning for prey like snakes and lizards.

Indian Pitta
Known for its colorful plumage and unique whistle, the Indian Pitta is a ground-dwelling bird found in the dense undergrowth of Anshi.

Great Hornbill
A massive and iconic bird, the Great Hornbill is famous for its vibrant yellow casque and loud calls. It plays a significant role in seed dispersal in the forest.

Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
This endemic pigeon is recognized by its soft cooing and ash-grey plumage. It primarily feeds on fruits and seeds found in the forest.

Malabar Trogon
With its vibrant red and black coloration, the Malabar Trogon is a shy and elusive bird often spotted in the dense forest canopy.

Grey-headed Bulbul
An endemic bulbul of the Western Ghats, this bird is recognized by its olive-green body and contrasting grey head. It is commonly found in forest edges.

White-bellied Woodpecker
One of the largest woodpeckers in India, this bird is identified by its striking black body and white belly. Its loud drumming can often be heard echoing through the forest.

Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
A small and brilliantly colored bird, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is commonly seen near streams and rivers in the park, feeding on fish and insects.

Black-naped Monarch
This small and elegant flycatcher, with its striking blue plumage and black nape, is a delightful sight as it flits through the forest in search of insects.

Anshi National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India, is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its lush greenery, dense forests, and incredible variety of flora and fauna. The park, also part of the Kali Tiger Reserve, is home to numerous species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Indian Leopard
The Indian Leopard is a solitary and elusive predator found within the dense forests of Anshi. Known for its agility and striking rosette-patterned coat, this big cat plays a crucial role as a top predator in the park’s ecosystem.

Indian Giant Squirrel
A vibrant and arboreal rodent, the Indian Giant Squirrel is easily recognizable by its reddish-maroon fur and long, bushy tail. These squirrels are often spotted leaping gracefully across tree canopies.

Sloth Bear
This shaggy-furred bear with a distinctive white chest patch is often found foraging for insects and fruits. Known for its nocturnal habits, the sloth bear is an integral part of Anshi’s wildlife.

Malabar Civet
An elusive and nocturnal species, the Malabar Civet is a carnivorous mammal characterized by its sleek body and striped back. It primarily hunts small animals and birds.

King Cobra
The world’s longest venomous snake, the King Cobra, is found slithering through the park’s undergrowth. This apex predator is both feared and revered for its impressive size and potent venom.

Indian Pangolin
Covered in protective keratin scales, the Indian Pangolin is a shy and nocturnal species that feeds on ants and termites. Its unique rolling defense mechanism helps it evade predators.

Black Panther
An incredibly rare melanistic variant of the leopard, the Black Panther can be spotted in Anshi’s dense foliage. Its dark coat provides excellent camouflage in the forest.

Dhole (Indian Wild Dog)
Known for its social behavior and hunting skills, the Dhole is a reddish-colored carnivore that lives in packs. These intelligent predators are vital for maintaining ecological balance.

Malabar Pit Viper
A vibrant and venomous snake, the Malabar Pit Viper is often seen camouflaged among the park’s foliage. It preys on small mammals, frogs, and birds.

Smooth-coated Otter
Found in the rivers and streams of Anshi, this playful aquatic mammal has a sleek body and webbed feet. It is a crucial part of the park’s freshwater ecosystem.