Dandeli Jungle Safari

The Dandeli Jungle Safari in Karnataka is one of the best jungle safaris in India. The sheer scale and size of the animal kingdom here and the number of animal and bird species that you can observe make it a crucial stop for any animal lover.

Early on, the government of India recognised Dandeli as a unique haven for wildlife and took action to conserve the ecosystem. The result is a virtually unspoiled and untouched natural wonderland where animals roam free and rare species of birds uplift the surroundings.

There are a number of other places in India and abroad where one can observe the natural world, but Dandeli has a charm that is hard to beat. The Kali Tiger Reserve is located in the fertile Kali River basin and spans a large area. It is home to some of the most amazing creatures in the world, including the Black Panther, the Bengal Tiger, the Indian Elephant, the Sloth Bear, the Wild Boar, the Barking Deer, and hundreds of other birds and reptiles.

Where can we stay in Dandeli?

One of the best resorts in Dandeli is the Starling River Resort. Strategically located on the banks of the Kali River, the resort provides easy access to many of Dandeli’s famous tourist hot spots and also to the sanctuary, where one can go on a Dandeli Wildlife Safari.

The hotel helps the guests plan and organise their trip to the wildlife safari and also organises other excursions and activities for them, both within the resort and outside it. Besides going on a Dandeli Forest safari, guests can also participate in river rafting, canoeing, camping, trekking, zorbing, and a host of other exciting adventure sports and activities.

How should we prepare for the Jungle Safari?

Usually, jungle safari excursions are planned in the morning or in the evening. In the morning, the jeep will come to collect you from your resort, or your resort will drop you off close to the entrance of the sanctuary where you can meet your guide.

The guide normally takes small groups of up to 8 people in an open jeep deep into the forest. To see far into the thicket of the forest, the guides will sometimes provide binoculars. However, if you own a pair, it’s good timing to finally make use of them.

Depending on the weather, it is also a good idea to bring a jacket and warm clothes with you because the jeep is open and it can get chilly during the long drive in the interior of the jungle. One can also bring water and a small snack, although food items are generally discouraged during your time inside the sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.  How can I book the jungle safari in Dandeli?

Ans. Dandeli safari booking can be done though authorized guides and safari companies or you get your permit at the gate from the relevant authorities. The cost of entry is approximately Rs. 450 while a guided tour in a jeep for about 30-45 minutes can cost around Rs. 2,500 to 3,000

Q2. Which animals are found in Dandeli?

Ans. The animals found in Dandeli include: Crocodiles, Bison, Black Panthers, Sloth Bear, Elephants, Leopards, Tigers, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Wild Boar, Indian Pangolin, Barking Deer, Woodpeckers, Parakeets, Kingfishers etc.

Q3. How many tigers are there in the Dandeli forest?

Ans. At present, there are an estimated 11 tigers in Dandeli. These tigers are usually visible in the summer months when they come out to hunt and seeing a tiger depends on many factors including sheer luck.

Q4. What is the best time for Dandeli jungle safari?

Ans. The best time to visit is in October to March, when the weather is good and animals often venture out of their habitats. It is also advisable to go for safari early in the morning or late in the evening, just before dusk. This increases the chances of spotting big game.