If spotting exquisite birds and spending time amid nature is what you want to do on your next vacation, a trip to the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka should be on your wish list. The rich biodiversity of the state has always been a crowd-puller and this sanctuary is no exception. Nestled on the banks of the Kaveri River, it is indeed a paradise for birds and bird lovers. Also, it is one of the largest sanctuaries in the state with an area of over 40 acres.
Plan a trip here and get ready to spot colorful and rare migratory and endemic bird species, along with diverse flora and fauna. To help you plan a perfect trip, we have prepared a comprehensive travel guide. Take notes and start preparing!
The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary location is well-connected to major cities like Mysore and Bangalore, making it convenient for tourists to frequent this bird’s paradise. Here’s how you can reach here via different modes of transport.
If you are planning to travel by air, you will have to take a flight to Mysore. From there, you can book a taxi or cab to cover the distance to the sanctuary (33 km) by road.
Another hassle-free way to approach the bird sanctuary is through railways. You will have to get down at the Srirangapatna Railway station which is located at a distance of 5 km. Once you have deboarded the train, you can easily get cabs or public transport to reach your destination.
If you wish to hit the roads and enjoy the blissful surroundings on your way, you can book a cab from Mysore or Bangalore to reach here. Also, you can hop on one of the several government-run and private buses from these cities.
Wondering about the Ranganathittu best time to visit? While any time of the year is a great time to visit Ranganathittu, the winter months are the best. This is because several migratory birds arrive here during the winters (November - March). So, if you are curious to witness different bird species, we suggest planning a trip during this period.
Also, the monsoon (September-June) is ideal for your visit as the weather remains pleasant. But boating facilities are not available during these months due to the evident water level rise in the Kaveri River.
When you have reached the sanctuary, there is plenty to explore for you!
Experience serenity and religious aura at this iconic temple. Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), this temple is considered one of the five most sacred shrines of Lord Vishnu. The architectural grandeur, the religious chants and the Kaveri River surrounding the temple will allure your senses.
Also known as Mysore Zoo, this 157-acre wildlife retreat is one of the most popular zoos in the state. With a wide variety of flora and fauna, the zoo attracts tourists from different parts of the world. The best part - it offers a clean and safe environment for the animals, making it a treasure trove of wildlife and nature.
The official residence of the royal family of Mysore, this palace is the epitome of royalty and architectural brilliance. You can visit the palace to take a glimpse of the glorious past of the city. What's more? Incredible light and sound show that takes place every evening (except Sundays and public holidays). To witness the true glory of this palace, we suggest planning your visit around the grand Mysore Dasara festivities during Navratri.
Karnataka's well-kept secret, Melkote is a temple town, waiting to be explored. This town is home to some of the most exquisite ancient shrines, dating back to the 10th and 14th centuries. Yoga Narasimha Temple and Cheluva Narayana Swamy Temple are among the most popular temples that you shouldn't miss. If you happen to be near Melkote during March-April, make sure to attend the annual 10-day Vairamudi festival which is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm.
Besides enjoying an exciting bird-watching experience, there are plenty of other things to enjoy here as well. Let’s have a look at some of them!
A boating tour amid natural surroundings is indeed one of the best things to do in the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. As the boat rocks gently in the swelling waters of the Kaveri River, you will have incredible opportunities to catch a glimpse of various birds and faunal species. Watch out for flocks of migratory birds, otters, bats and crocodiles. There are options for both mass rides and private boat tours to cater to the needs of different tourists.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is famous for colorful birds and picturesque surroundings and that means this captivating bird haven will delight every photography enthusiast. With a diverse population of both endemic and migratory birds, the place is perfect to fill your camera with some amazing pictures. A friendly tip - go early in the morning for the best photography experience.
Imagine yourself being surrounded by the sounds of birds chirping, cool breeze and lush greenery. That’s exactly what you can experience here. Take a stroll around the region and soak in the pristine natural beauty away from the bustling cities.
For a perfect vacation, you need comfortable accommodation! There are a few houses run by the Forest Department of Karnataka in the vicinity of the sanctuary. Mayura Riverview is one of the best options for an overnight stay. Here, you can enjoy a comfortable stay in the middle of lush greenery. However, you will have to do advance booking to avoid last-minute crowds.
If you are not lucky enough to reserve a spot at these forest homes, you can easily find plenty of hotels at Srirangapatna or Mysore. Royal Orchid Brindavan Gardens and The Atrium Boutique Hotel are some of the places that offer best-in-class amenities, great comfort and top-notch hospitality.
Already excited about Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary tour? So, book your flight, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
