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Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

About:

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is a scenic and biodiverse sanctuary located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Named after the Brahmagiri Hills, the sanctuary is known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Covering an area of around 181 sq. km, it is home to animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and several species of birds, making it a popular spot for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

The sanctuary derives its name from the highest point, the Brahmagiri peak, which is 1607 m in height. The temperature here ranges from 5° to 32°C, and mean annual rainfall varies from 2500 to 6000 mm.

FAUNA: Mammals in the Sanctuary include elephant, gaur, tiger, jungle cat, leopard cat, wild dog, sloth bear, wild pig, sambar, spotted deer, lion-tailed macaque, NilgiriBlack bulbuls are found in the upper reaches of the Western Ghats langur, slender loris, bonnet macaque, common langur, barking deer, mouse deer, Malabar giant squirrel, giant flying squirrel, Nilgiri marten, common otter, brown mongoose, civets, porcupine and pangolin. Python, cobra and king cobra are some of the snakes found in the Sanctuary. Interesting birds in the Sanctuary include emerald dove, black bulbul and Malabar trogon.

Location info:
The sanctuary is situated in the Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka, near the border of Kerala. It’s about 60 km from Madikeri and around 120 km from Mysore, with its boundaries extending into the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary of Kerala.

Climate/Weather:
Summer (March-May): Warm but pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rainfall due to the Western Ghats’ influence, causing the sanctuary to come alive with greenery, though travel can be challenging. Winter (October-February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 10°C and 25°C, making it the best time to visit for wildlife sightings and trekking..

History:
The sanctuary, established in 1974, is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its high biodiversity. Brahmagiri Hills hold mythological significance, and local legends say it was a favorite meditation spot for sages. The sanctuary was designated to protect the rich flora and fauna of the area, which also contributes to preserving the water sources that originate from the Western Ghats.

Interesting things to do:
Wildlife Safari: Explore the sanctuary on a jeep safari or on foot, with chances to spot elephants, deer, and even the elusive tiger. Trekking in Brahmagiri Hills: The sanctuary offers a popular trekking route to Brahmagiri Peak, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of the forested hills and valleys. Bird Watching: The sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers, with species such as Malabar trogon, black bulbul, and emerald dove. Visit Waterfalls: The Iruppu Falls, located within the sanctuary, is a breathtaking spot and a popular pilgrimage site.

Interesting things to Visit:

Iruppu Falls: This famous waterfall is a beautiful spot to relax and also has religious significance, with a nearby temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nagarhole National Park: Located nearby, this national park is renowned for its tiger population and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Brahmagiri Peak: The trek to Brahmagiri Peak offers stunning views and is a highlight for adventure enthusiasts visiting the sanctuary. Thirunelli Temple: Located in the nearby Kerala border, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is set amidst lush green hills.

Mobile range info:
Mobile network coverage within the sanctuary can be limited due to its dense forests and hilly terrain. Coverage may be better around the sanctuary’s boundaries or nearby towns but can be intermittent within the forested areas.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is in Mysore, about 120 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the sanctuary.
Nearest Airport:The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport in Kerala, around 90 km away. Mysore Airport (120 km) and Mangalore Airport (160 km) are also options.
Road Transport:Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from Madikeri, Mysore, and nearby towns. Private taxis and Karnataka state buses are available for travel.

Nearest Visiting places:
Trekking paths:
➔ The Srimangala range sports an exquisite 4.5 km trekking path from the Iruppu Falls (800 m. above sea level) to Narimale (1,340 m. ASL). After reaching Narimale, trekkers usually climb to the Brahmagiri peak and Pakshipatalam caves across the border in Kerala's Wayanad district.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala): Just across the state border, this sanctuary offers additional opportunities for wildlife viewing and adventure activities. Madikeri: A popular hill station in Coorg, known for Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, and coffee plantations. Nagarhole National Park: A well-known national park nearby, popular for wildlife safaris and bird-watching.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
There are petrol pumps available in nearby towns like Srimangala and Kutta, as well as in Madikeri and Gonikoppal. It is advisable to refuel before entering the sanctuary or remote areas.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Forest Department Guesthouses: Basic accommodations are available within the sanctuary, managed by the Karnataka Forest Department (prior booking required). Homestays in Coorg: Several homestays and resorts are available in Madikeri, Srimangala, and Kutta, catering to various budget ranges. Resorts in Wayanad: For those looking to explore both Brahmagiri and Wayanad, staying in a Wayanad resort can also be a good option.

Things to carry:
Comfortable trekking shoes for hiking and exploring forested areas. Rain gear, including a raincoat or umbrella, as the area can experience sudden showers. Binoculars and a camera for wildlife and bird sightings. Insect repellent to avoid insect bites in the forest. Water bottle and light snacks, as food options within the sanctuary are limited.

Tips & Suggestions:
Visit during the winter for the best weather and wildlife viewing, as the monsoon season can make travel challenging. Seek permission from the Karnataka Forest Department for trekking and stay options within the sanctuary. Follow local guidelines, avoid littering, and respect wildlife by keeping noise levels low. Wear neutral or earth-toned clothing, which blends well with the environment and is less likely to disturb animals. Avoid feeding or approaching wildlife, and keep a safe distance from animals.

Help Line/Phone Number:
Karnataka Forest Department Helpline:+91-80-2235-2828
Local Police Station (Srimangala): +91-8274-279-444
Society/Community Phone Number
Contact details of Forest Range Office, Srimangala.
+91-9448813835. Try calling them up 2 days prior you leave for trek.

Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Division. Hunsur- 571105,
Mysore District. Phone: 0821 - 652 041

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Attraction
Cauvery Nisargadama
This place is located in the Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka very close to Kushal Nagar. Nisargadhama is around 120 kms from Mysore and around 260 kms from Bangalore. Located 4 kms before Kushal Nagar (when driving from Mysore), it is a small and circular island formed by the branching of river Cauvery....more
Kabini WildLIfe Sanctuary
Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants. It is 80 km away from Mysore and 205 km from Bangalore, and comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarole National Park....more
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is one of 21 Wildlife Sanctuaries of India's Karnataka state. This sanctuary is located near Mandalpatty in Somwarpet taluk of Kodagu district and has some attractive scenery. Spread over 102 sq km, the sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats and has thick evergreen and semi-evergreen forests....more
Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary
Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary in Southern Karnataka state of South India. It is located in Kodagu district and is spread over 105 km2 and lies in the Western Ghats. This sanctuary is named after Talakaveri, the origin of the Cauvery River which lies on the eastern edge of the sanctuary....more
Rajiv Gandhi National Park
Nagarhole National Park, also known as 'Rajiv Gandhi National Park,' is located 94 km from Mysore in Karnataka in Southern India. It is spread between Kodagu and Mysore districts. Located to the northwest of Bandipur National Park, Kabini reservoir separates the two....more
Abbey Waterfall
Karnataka boasts of some scenic and exotic hill stations that are frequented by those seeking the green and serene. Among them one such location would be the Abbey falls. This waterfalls also known as the Abbi falls....more
Irpu / Iruppu Waterfall
Irpu falls (or Iruppu falls) is situated at outskirts of Brahmagiri mountain range of Kodagu district. The falls is formed by Lakshmana theertha river when it jumps down in two tiers from a height of 52 mtrs (approximately 170 ft). The Irpu Falls, also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls....more
Mallalli Waterfall
Mallalli falls is situated in the foots of pushpagiri hills. It in about 18 kms from somwarpet, the falls is 2 kms inside the main road. Mallalli Falls is situated in Coorg and is around 25 kms from Somwarpet and 260 kms from Bangalore....more
Nisargadhama Falls
Nisargadhama Falls in Karnataka is about 25km on the way to Madikeri from Bangalore. 2 kilometers from Kushalnagar, Nisargadhama is a beautiful island carved by the Cauvery. Karnataka's geographical topography is dominated by the Western Ghats that is the source of many rivers flowing though out the land....more
Lakshmana Tirtha River
The Lakshmana Tirtha is a river of India that has its origin in Kodagu district and flows eastward. It joins the Kaveri River in the Krishna Raja Sagara lake. Kodagu is a district of Karnataka State in Southern India. It is also known by its anglicised name of Coorg. It occupies about 4,100 square kilometers (1,580 mi2) of land in the Western Ghats of Southwestern Karnataka....more
Kaveri River
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Harangi Dam