Nagarhole National park derives its name from the combination of two Kannada words. 'Nagar,' meaning snake, and 'hole,' meaning streams. The park is located 94 km away from Mysore. It is spread between Kodagu and Mysore districts. The national park has rich forest cover, little streams, valleys and waterfalls. The park has been recently renamed as Rajiv Gandhi NationalPark after the late Prime Minister of India.
The lush greenery and the picturesque surrounding of Nagarhole are the features that make it a mesmerizing experience. Be it a traveler who looks for a quiet holiday or someone who wants to scale up the hills and the mountains to explore a new meaning of trekking, this place has something for everyone.
History:
In the earlier centuries, Nagarhole used to be an exclusive hunting area of the Maharajas of Mysore. Because of its greenery and vast reserves of forest and sanctuaries, it was a hunting ground for the royal family of Mysore.
The weather is pleasant for most part of the year and the temperature is mild but the rainy weather could be very stormy and erratic. Open year round, the best period being Nagarhole National Park October-May, especially April-May.
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the acceptable form of currency here.
Make sure you carry adequate cash while traveling to Nagarhole. There are no facilities for exchanging traveler’s cheques or cash.
A tourist visa applicable for the entire country (India) will be sufficient.
A flight to Bangalore followed by a nice drive to Mysore is the best option to reach Nagarhole. The driveway to Nagarhole itself is filled with scenic natural water falls and lovely terrain.
Domestic Flights
The nearest domestic Airport is located at Bangalore (234 Kms approx.).
International Flight:
There are no direct flights to Nagarhole. The nearest international Airport is at Bangalore (234 Kms approx.). One has to drive to Mysore and further south to reach Nagarhole.
Road Travel
One can get a flight to Bangalore and then drive to Mysore which is around 140 kms of away. From Mysore a diversion till Hunsur is advisable.
Train Travel
There are no direct trains to Nagarhole. However, the nearest railway station to Nagarhole is located at Mysore.
Getting Around - Trekking
The National Park here has a vast reserve of flora and fauna that makes it a delight for trekkers and hikers. All one needs to explore this place is a good pair of sport shoes! Those interested in trekking should avoid visiting the park during monsoons as floods wash out most of its dirt tracks and leeches render trekking impossible.
The national park has a large elephant and bison population. It also hosts a variety of animal species along with approximately 250 species of birds. On its northern confines is the Kabini River and on its southern fringes is the Bandipur national park. A dam on the Kabini River and its picturesque reservoir demarcates the two national parks. During the dry season (February. June), this artificial lake attracts a large number of animals, making it an ideal spot for sighting wildlife.
Reptiles: King Cobra, Krait, Python, Viper, Tortoise, Monitor Lizard ,Toads etc.
The main trees found are Rosewood, Teak, Sandalwood and Silver oak.
Opening Hours And Days:
The National Park is open throughout the year except for the time when it rains heavily and certain areas of the Park are closed down to ensure safety of the visitors.
Entry Fees:
The admission rates for the National Park is Rs 50 for Indians and Rs 150 for Foreigners. Taking a camera will cost you Rs 50 more. (Subject to change)
No private lodging or accommodation is available. However, you can stay in Nagarhole Forest Guest house with prior booking from Wildlife department either in Bangalore or Mysore. A number of private resorts & Guest houses are available at Kutta just outside the park on the way to Irrupu Falls.
Mysore [80 kms]: The town of Mysore serves as a major railway junction in order to reach Nagarhole. It is a peaceful town that has the mélange of the native flavor of South India and the urban landscape as well.
Bandipur: The sanctuary located at Bandipur National Park is a connecting spot for the trekkers and people who love safari and wild life. It is advisable to visit the sanctuary here as well, if one is in Nagarhole.
Bangalore and Hunsur[45 kms] are the other places close by.
The place promises to be a memorable experience. Nagarhole is blessed with breath taking natural beauty that makes it a must see for nature lovers, and photographers. Since it is a sanctuary, a jeep safari is the best way to explore the park.
