Game drives in converted open top government-owned vehicles are the only form of wildlife viewing, so ensure you book early and enlist a good guide to get the most from a visit. The Mule-hole River and the banks of the Kabini River are all excellent spots to look out for elephants in summer. A coracle or a boat ride down the Kabini River usually results in good sightings of large and small mammals that have come to the banks for a drink and the birds that flock around the shores. A tour can also be arranged to one of the tribal villages within the reserve to experience the life of the Kurubas.

These forests consist of three major predators - tiger, leopard and dhole, all three co-existing in high densities thanks to high densities of prey like spotted, mouse and barking deer. Other animals that have made their habitat in Nagarhole are Indian bison, porcupines, jackals, hyenas, and sloth bears. Several species of venomous snakes, a cornucopia of reptiles including a ying frog and raptors like the changeable hawk eagle, rufous-bellied hawk eagle and grey-headed fish eagle are also found here. More recently there have been sightings of a black panther.

Nature walking trail on the shores of Kabini river take you a step closer to things you might have missed in a hurry. Small critters, colourful flowers and birds are just some of the things you can spot here. Still water rafting and rappelling can be arranged by private lodges for those looking for adventures. Visit the Irrupu Falls or, on your way home, the historic fort of Seringapatnam or the city of Mysore

Well protected and one of India’s best studied Protected Areas, threats to the park come from illegal cutting of sandalwood and teak trees and poor planning and development. Forest fires and seasonal droughts leading to water shortage have caused many wild animals to migrate to other greener spaces. There are also many cases of human-wildlife conflict due to raids by wild animals and elephants on nearby villages along with the consequent retaliation by villagers. Investment in elephant proof trenches and PARK INFORMATIONHow to Book:Safaris can be booked through resorts and tour operators.Park Timings: Morning : 06:00 am to 09:30 amEvening : 03:30 pm to 06:30 pmGetting Around the Park:Jeeps, elephant and boats can be hired for safaris from the lodge or your tour operator.Entry Fees:Prices for safaris are R 1,720 for Indian Nationals and R 2,720 for Foreign Nationals By Air: Mysore (96 km), Bengaluru (236 km) By Rail / Road: The nearest railway station is in Mysore. Transport can be hired on arrival or you may drive your own vehicle here. The nearest town is Kutta (7 km).solar fencing around the park helps but is not fool proof for these intelligent creatures. Your visit is crucial to support the local economy, but please also report abuse or poor practice at admin@toftindia.org. Consider support for: Wildlife First Wildlife Conservation Society