If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Nagarhole Tour is the perfect destination for you! Nestled in the Kodagu and Mysore districts of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is one of India’s best tiger reserves and a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. The park is home to majestic tigers, elusive leopards, Asiatic elephants, and a variety of exotic bird species.
Nagarhole, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, offers thrilling jungle safaris, picturesque river landscapes, and luxurious jungle resorts. Whether you want to experience a thrilling wildlife safari, cruise along the Kabini River, or enjoy a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature, Nagarhole is the place to be.
This Nagarhole Tour Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, accommodations, must-visit places, adventure activities, travel routes from Bangalore and Mysore, distances from major cities, and local cuisines.
How To Reach Nagarhole? 🚗🚆✈️
Nagarhole is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible from Bangalore, Mysore, and other major cities.
By Road 🛣️
Nagarhole is easily reachable via NH 766, offering a scenic drive through coffee plantations and dense forests.
- From Mysore (80 km) – A 2-hour drive via HD Kote.
- From Bangalore (220 km) – A 5-hour drive via Mysore Road.
- From Coorg (90 km) – A 3-hour drive via Gonikoppal.
Regular buses and taxis operate from Mysore, Bangalore, and Coorg to Nagarhole.
By Train 🚆
The nearest railway stations to Nagarhole are:
- Mysore Junction (80 km) – Well-connected to Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
- Nanjangud Railway Station (90 km) – A smaller station, closest to the park.
From Mysore, take a taxi or bus to Nagarhole.
By Air ✈️
The nearest airports are:
- Mysore Airport (90 km) – Limited flights from major cities.
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (250 km) – The most convenient option with multiple flights.
From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Mysore, then continue to Nagarhole.
Best Time to Visit Nagarhole ☀️🌧️
Nagarhole is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different wildlife experience.
| Season | Months | Weather | Best Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | October – February | Cool & Pleasant (15°C – 25°C) | Wildlife Safari, Birdwatching, Photography |
| Summer | March – May | Warm & Dry (25°C – 35°C) | Best for spotting animals near waterholes |
| Monsoon | June – September | Heavy Rainfall (20°C – 30°C) | Lush Greenery, Waterfalls, Fewer Safari Sightings |
Best Time to Visit: October to May for wildlife spotting and November to February for pleasant weather.
Nagarhole Activities 🎒🌳
Nagarhole is one of India’s best wildlife destinations, offering thrilling adventures and serene nature escapes.
1. Jungle Safari in Nagarhole National Park
- Go on a morning or evening jeep safari to spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and wild dogs.
- The Kabini backwaters offer excellent sightings of migratory birds and marsh crocodiles.
2. Boat Safari on the Kabini River
- Experience a serene boat ride, spotting elephants, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
- A paradise for wildlife photographers and birdwatchers.
3. Birdwatching in Nagarhole Forest
- Spot hornbills, kingfishers, fish eagles, and over 270 bird species.
- The best birding spots are Kabini River, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, and forest trails.
4. Nature Walks & Tribal Village Visits
- Take guided nature walks through dense forests, learning about local flora and fauna.
- Visit tribal villages near Nagarhole, experiencing their unique culture and crafts.
5. Camping & Night Safaris
- Spend a night under a star-lit sky in a jungle camp.
- Enjoy bonfires, storytelling sessions, and night forest walks.
Nagarhole Hotels & Resorts 🏨🌿
Nagarhole offers luxury jungle lodges, riverside resorts, and budget eco-stays, ensuring a comfortable and nature-filled retreat.
Luxury & Boutique Resorts 🌳
- Evolve Back Kabini – A 5-star riverside retreat with private villas and safaris.
- The Serai Kabini – A boutique jungle resort with beautiful backwater views.
- Kaav Safari Lodge – An eco-luxury lodge offering guided wildlife tours.
Budget Stays & Homestays 🏡
- Kabini River Lodge (Jungle Lodges & Resorts) – A budget-friendly government-run lodge with excellent safaris.
- Waterwoods Lodge – A mid-range eco-resort with wooden cabins and jungle views.
- Red Earth Kabini – A rustic eco-stay with traditional-style cottages.
For an authentic experience, opt for a riverside luxury resort or a jungle eco-lodge.
Best Places to Visit in Nagarhole 🌄🏞️
1. Nagarhole National Park
- One of India’s best tiger reserves, home to wild elephants, leopards, and bears.
2. Kabini Backwaters
- Famous for elephant herds and stunning sunset views.
3. Kabini Dam
- A great spot for birdwatching and photography.
4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- A birdwatcher’s paradise, home to pelicans, storks, and egrets.
5. Iruppu Falls
- A picturesque waterfall, perfect for a short trek and picnic.
Nagarhole Tour from Bangalore 🚗
Nagarhole is just 5 hours from Bangalore, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
- Distance: 220 km
- Travel Time: 5 hours
- Route: Bangalore → Mysore → Hunsur → Nagarhole
Nagarhole Tour from Mysore 🚗
Nagarhole is just 2 hours from Mysore, making it an easy day trip or weekend retreat.
- Distance: 80 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours
- Route: Mysore → Hunsur → Nagarhole
Nagarhole Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | 220 km | 5 hrs |
| Mysore | 80 km | 2 hrs |
| Coorg | 90 km | 3 hrs |
| Chennai | 570 km | 10 hrs |
Nagarhole Local Cuisines 🍛🌶️
Must-Try Dishes 🍽️
- Ragi Mudde & Bassaru – A traditional Karnataka staple.
- Mysore Masala Dosa – A classic South Indian dish.
- Koli Saaru (Chicken Curry) – A flavorful, spicy dish.
Final Thoughts 🌿🏕️
Nagarhole is a wildlife lover’s dream, offering unforgettable safaris, river adventures, and luxurious eco-stays. Whether you want to explore Nagarhole’s jungles, relax by the Kabini River, or photograph exotic wildlife, Nagarhole is one of the best wildlife getaways in South India.
So pack your bags and embark on an exciting jungle adventure in Nagarhole!
