Dandeli has recently become a popular destination for adventure lovers. It is spread over 834.16 sq km. It’s beautiful, colorful and diverse wildlife with falling streams, lush green forests around make it an awesome getaway. The soothing sounds of Kali river of Western Ghats that flows through the park makes this place look very scenic. Dandeli offers many adventurous activities for tourists. This sanctuary is decorated with steep slopes, picturesque deep river valley and rich hilly forest terrain. The breathtaking valleys make it an awesome experience.

This sanctuary offers a beautiful habitat to many rare species. Many adventurous activities like white water rafting, kayaking on the Kali river, treks, cycling, biking and much more can be done here and enjoyed. It is said that this area got its name from a servant named Dandelappa of Mirashi landlords. Dandelappa was known for his loyalty and even sacrificed his life for them. Hence, the name Dandeli. Even the tribes of Gowlies and Siddhis lived in this region.

Location

Dandeli is located about 125 km from Goa in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka. The wildlife sanctuary shares its border with Mahaveer Sanctuary in Goa. It is 485 km from Bangalore.

Fauna

Fauna like black panthers, bison, Malabar giant squirrels, giant iguana, king cobra, tiger, gaur, deer, bears, antelopes etc. can be seen. Dandeli is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. It was declared as a tiger reserve in 2007. Dandeli is also a home for more than 300 varieties of birds. Magpie Robin, Blue Headed Ground Thrush, Cuckoo, Bulbuls, Jungle Babblers are few birds that can be spotted.

Flora

Dandeli is covered with deciduous and semi-evergreen forests. The main forest of this sanctuary is the southern evergreen forest. Magical herbs, shrubs, mango, hirda, jamun, bamboo, climber can be found in abundance here.

Visitor Information

The entry fee for this sanctuary is Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 80 for foreigners. There are extra charges if you want to take along a camera. A trekking guide can also be booked who helps you complete the trek comfortably. Also safari jeep/van can be booked for the tour inside the wildlife sanctuary. The safari guides are trained to make sure that they follow the safest possible route and offer the best sightings of animals, birds and reptiles. The entrance to the sanctuary is 12 km from the town, at the Kulgi Nature Camp.

Activities to do

White Water Rafting

There is a run of 9 km that lasts for 4 hours and a short one that is half of the other. One can go upstream by a jeep and then enjoy the ride in an inflatable boat that runs through the gushing water.

Rappelling

It’s the sport of climbing down the cliff with the help of a rope. This is also done under supervision.

Adventure Trek

The sanctuary is vast and has a thick forestation cover so one can also trek by a bicycle to spot Malabar giant squirrels and other beautiful and rare birds.

Natural Jacuzzi

The rapids of river Kali are known for natural Jacuzzi that gives natural rejuvenating therapy experience.

Canyoning

Sathkonda canyon is famous for canyoning in Dandeli region. This thrilling activity involves climbing down the waterfall and is fun filled. River side fishing, night camping, crocodile trekking and long nature walks can also be done in Dandeli.

Syntheri Rocks

These are 300 feet tall granite rocks on the banks of Kalindi River. It has a small waterfall that gushes into a deep rocky ravine. Pigeons can be seen in numbers near these rocks.

Kavala Caves

These caves lie very deep inside the earth and one has to step down in order to reach the cave temple at the end. These are very adventurous caves. They are located at about 25 km from Dandeli village. These limestone caves are said to be the abode of Lord Shiva in the form of Shiva lingam found here.

Tribal Experience

Gowlis are semi tribal whereas Siddis are slaves that escaped from Portuguese custody 400 years ago and took refuge in these forests. One can also have a closer look at their lives here.

Sykes Point

It was named after the person who discovered it and is the highest point in Upper Kannada district and has some of the best views of river Kali.

Ulavi Channabasappa and Dandelappa Templ

Ulavi Channabasappa temple holds the annual fair and is located 50km from Dandeli. Dandelappa temple is the oldest temple in Dandeli which is highly followed by locals.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is between March -October and timings are from 6 am-6 pm.

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airport is Goa.

Rail

The nearest railway station is Londa at a distance of 25 km. Dharwad station is 60 km away, Hubli is 75 km and Madgao railway station in Goa is 150 km away from Dandeli.

Road

Dandeli can be reached by public transport that is easily available. Driving distance from Dharwad is 60 km, Belgaum is 110 km, Goa is 150 km. Roads are well connected and are in good condition.

Accommodation

The forest department has a guest house inside the sanctuary but one can find plenty of hotels outside the sanctuary. Kali adventure camp, Bison resort, Dandeli jungle camps are few of the places to stay. One can find many other resorts nearby places.