Sightings

Kabini National Park is known for its rich and diverse wildlife. Visitors to the park can expect to see a wide range of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boars, sloth bears, and more. The park is also home to over 250 species of birds, including the black eagle, crested serpent eagle, Malabar grey hornbill, and the yellow-browed bulbul.

One of the main attractions of Kabini National Park is the opportunity to see tigers in their natural habitat. While sightings of these majestic creatures are not guaranteed, visitors have a good chance of spotting them during their safari drives. Leopards are also frequently sighted in the park, particularly around the Kabini River area.

Elephants are a common sight in Kabini National Park and can often be seen grazing or bathing in the river. The park is home to a large population of gaurs, which are the largest wild cattle species in the world. Visitors can also spot various species of deer, including the sambar deer and the spotted deer.

Kabini National Park is also home to a variety of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. Visitors may be able to spot crocodiles and otters near the riverbanks.

Overall, Kabini National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of India's natural habitats.

Safari

Kabini National Park offers a range of safari options to explore the park's wildlife and natural beauty. Visitors can choose from jeep safaris, boat safaris, and elephant safaris.

Jeep safaris are the most popular and convenient way to explore the park. The safaris are conducted in open-top jeeps and can accommodate up to six passengers. The park is divided into several zones, and visitors can choose to explore the zone that interests them the most. The safaris are conducted by experienced guides who have a good knowledge of the park's flora and fauna. Visitors can choose from two safari timings - early morning and late afternoon.

Boat safaris are another unique way to explore Kabini National Park. The safaris are conducted on the Kabini River, which is a popular spot for wildlife sightings. Visitors can spot animals such as elephants, gaurs, deer, and various bird species during the boat ride. The boat safaris are conducted by experienced guides and are a great way to explore the park's aquatic wildlife and vegetation.

Elephant safaris are a unique and memorable way to explore Kabini National Park. The safaris are conducted on elephant back and offer visitors a chance to get up close and personal with the park's wildlife. The elephants are accompanied by experienced mahouts who have a good knowledge of the park and its inhabitants.

It is advisable to book safari rides in advance as they tend to get booked out quickly, especially during peak season. The park also has a limited number of vehicles allowed inside at a given time, so it is important to plan accordingly.

Things To Do Around

There are several activities that visitors can indulge in around Kabini National Park, including birdwatching, nature walks, and boat rides on the Kabini River. The park is also located close to several historical sites, including the Nagarhole Fort and the Iruppu Falls.

Apart from exploring the wildlife at Kabini National Park, there are plenty of other things to do in and around the area. Here are some of the popular activities:

• Visit the Kabini Dam: The Kabini Dam is a popular tourist spot and a great place to spend an evening. The dam is surrounded by lush greenery and offers scenic views of the backwaters.
• Go on a Coracle Ride: A coracle is a traditional circular boat used by fishermen in South India. Visitors can go on a coracle ride on the Kabini River and explore the tranquil waters while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
• Visit the Nagarhole National Park: Nagarhole National Park is located just a few kilometers away from Kabini National Park and is home to a variety of wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
• Explore the local villages: The villages surrounding Kabini National Park are a great place to experience the local culture and way of life. Visitors can interact with the locals, taste the local cuisine, and learn about their traditions and customs.
• Visit the Iruppu Falls: The Iruppu Falls are located around 40 km from Kabini National Park and are a popular tourist destination. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
• Experience the tribal culture: The tribal communities around Kabini National Park have a unique culture and way of life. Visitors can interact with the tribes, learn about their customs and traditions, and even purchase local handicrafts made by them.

These are some of the popular things to do around Kabini National Park, and visitors can choose from a variety of activities based on their interests and preferences.

How to Reach?

The nearest airport to Kabini National Park is the Mysore Airport, located around 70 kilometers away. The park is also well-connected by road and can be reached by buses and taxis from major cities like Bangalore and Mysore

Kabini National Park is located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka and is easily accessible by road, air, and rail.

By Air: The nearest airport to Kabini National Park is the Mysore Airport, which is located around 90 km away. Another nearby airport is the Bangalore International Airport, which is around 250 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kabini National Park

By Road: Kabini National Park is well-connected by road, and visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Coimbatore. The park is located around 220 km from Bangalore, 80 km from Mysore, and 165 km from Coimbatore.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kabini National Park is Mysore Railway Station, which is around 80 km away. Visitors can take a train from nearby cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore to reach Mysore and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

Once visitors reach Kabini National Park, they can hire a jeep or take a safari bus to explore the park and its wildlife.

Weather

Kabini National Park is situated in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, which has a tropical climate. The park experiences three distinct seasons - summer, monsoon, and winter.

Summer in Kabini National Park starts in March and lasts until May. During this time, the temperature can soar up to 40 degrees Celsius, and the weather is hot and dry. Wildlife sightings during this time can be challenging as the animals tend to stay in the shade during the day to escape the heat.

The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until September. The park receives heavy rainfall during this time, and the vegetation is lush and green. The weather is pleasant, but the park remains closed during the monsoon season due to safety concerns.

Winter in Kabini National Park starts in October and lasts until February. The weather during this time is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to visit the park as the weather is comfortable, and wildlife sightings are also relatively easy.

It is important to note that the weather in Kabini National Park can be unpredictable, and visitors are advised to carry appropriate clothing and gear based on the season of their visit.

Best Season

The best time to visit Kabini National Park is from November to May, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are high as the animals tend to congregate near water sources. The temperature during this time ranges from 15째C to 30째C, making it comfortable for visitors to go on safaris and explore the park.

The park remains closed during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to October, as the heavy rains make it difficult to explore the park. The park reopens in November after the monsoon season is over, and the park is rejuvenated with lush greenery, making it a beautiful time to visit.

It is always advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to Kabini National Park, as the weather conditions can vary. Additionally, visitors should plan their trip well in advance and book their accommodations and safaris in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Who Can Travel?

Kabini National Park is open to all visitors, including tourists, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Children below the age of six are not allowed on the safari tours.

Kabini National Park is open to all visitors who love wildlife and nature. The park welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds, including families, groups, solo travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Visitors who want to explore the park can take a jeep safari or a boat safari, accompanied by a trained naturalist. However, visitors need to follow the rules and regulations of the park, such as not disturbing the wildlife, not littering, and maintaining silence during safaris to ensure that the park's natural habitat is not disturbed.

It is also important to note that the park is located in a forest area, and visitors need to be physically fit and prepared to undertake activities such as walking, hiking, and climbing stairs. Some of the accommodations in the park may not be accessible to people with disabilities, so visitors need to check with the resort or hotel before making a booking

When to Do the Bookings?

It is recommended to book in advance if you are planning to visit Kabini National Park, especially during peak season, which is between December and January. The forest department conducts a mandatory orientation program for visitors before the safari tour, which includes safety guidelines, rules and regulations, and general information about the park.

Stay Facility

Kabini National Park offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly lodges, to cater to the diverse needs of visitors. Some of the popular stay options in and around Kabini National Park are:

• Kabini River Lodge: This is the only forest lodge inside the park, run by the Jungle Lodges and Resorts. The lodge offers luxurious rooms and cottages, along with various activities such as safaris, bird watching, and nature walks.
• The Serai Kabini: This is a luxury resort located on the banks of the Kabini River, offering private villas with stunning views of the river and surrounding forest. The resort also has a swimming pool, spa, and various activities such as safaris and bird watching.
• Red Earth Kabini: This is a boutique resort located near the park, offering spacious villas with private gardens and plunge pools. The resort also has a restaurant, spa, and various activities such as safaris, fishing, and kayaking.
• Waterwoods Lodge Kabini: This is a rustic resort located on the banks of the Kabini River, offering cozy cottages and tents with modern amenities. The resort also has a restaurant, bar, and various activities such as safaris, bird watching, and fishing.
• Bison Kabini: This is a budget-friendly lodge located near the park, offering comfortable rooms and tents with basic amenities. The lodge also has a restaurant and various activities such as safaris and bird watching.

Visitors can choose the accommodation that suits their preferences and budget. It is advisable to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.

How to Do the Bookings?

• Through the resort/hotel: Most resorts and hotels in Kabini offer safari packages as part of their stay packages. You can book a safari when you book your accommodation by contacting the resort/hotel directly.
• Online booking: Some safari operators in Kabini offer online booking facilities through their official websites or third-party travel websites. You can visit their website, select the date and time of your preferred safari, and make a reservation online.
• On-site booking: If you prefer to book your safari after you arrive in Kabini, you can do so at the safari booking counters located at the park entrance. However, it is important to note that on-site bookings are subject to availability, and there may be long queues during peak season.

Regardless of the method you choose, it is advisable to book your safari well in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid disappointment. Also, make sure to check the safari operator's credentials and ensure that they are authorized to operate in the national park.