Kabini

Once a favourite hunting ground of the British Viceroys and Mysore royals, Kabini is now best known for its wildlife sanctuary and adventure activities. Located in the heart of Karnataka on the banks of the Kabini river, this place abounds in spectacular natural beauty, from stunning topography, cascading waterfalls to exquisite flora and fauna. Kabini is popular for its tiger territories and connects Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks. It is a perfect getaway for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Kabini places to visit include Nagarhole National Park, Kutta Village, Kabini Dam and Kabini Backwater Viewpoint among others.

Kabini Overview

When to Visit Kabini

Kabini is a year-round destination, and you can enjoy the jungle safari and other Kabini places to visit any time of the year. Kabini weather throughout the year is moderate. However, Kabini temperatures can soar during the summer months of March, April and May, making the area hot and dry. The chances of animal sightings go up during these days as they all head to the river for a drink. The best time to visit Kabini is post-monsoon when you can witness the forest, river, reservoir and backwaters in full grandeur. The monsoon months of June, July, August and September receive heavy rainfall, so be ready with your rain gear if you are visiting Kabini during these months. October-February is very charming here, with unique opportunities for birdwatching. So, plan your trip during the best time to visit Kabini and have an enjoyable vacation.

How to Reach Kabini?

Kabini is well connected with Bengaluru, Mysuru and Coimbatore by road. While Bengaluru is a little over 200km away, Mysuru is about 60km, and Coimbatore is about 240km from Kabini. While all three cities have airports of their own, Mysuru has limited connectivity. Bengaluru and Coimbatore are better connected and cater to both domestic as well as international flights. For those who prefer to travel by train, Mysuru has the nearest railway station, which connects most major cities in India. You can hire a cab from the railway station or airport to reach Kabini places to visit.

What are the things to see & do in Kabini ?

If you are a nature enthusiast, you will be enthralled with Kabini places to visit. The river, forest and hills form a perfect retreat for wildlife, and provide people with a rare opportunity to witness them in their natural surroundings. The picturesque landscapes provide ample options for photography, while the serene environment is perfect for those who wish to get away from the crowds. The National Park, Kabini river, and dam are among the top attractions of Kabini places to visit.

Places to visit in Kabini

Nagarhole National Park

Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole National Park is one of the most popular wildlife reserves in Karnataka. Home to several species of mammals like Elephants, Tigers, Spotted Deer, Panthers, Jackals, Hyenas, Porcupines, Gaurs, Sambars, Civet cats, and Sloth Bears, this national park is one of the prime Kabini places to visit. It is also home to over 250 species of birds, and a variety of reptiles including the King Cobra and the Monitor Lizard. The best way to explore this place is via jungle safaris. You can opt for an elephant safari, a boat safari, or a jeep safari as per your choice. Each experience is equally unique and is sure to leave you with memorable moments and Instagram worthy photographs.

Kabini Dam

A favourite picnic spot in the lap of nature, Kabini Dam and reservoir is frequented by locals and tourists alike. It is an ideal place for birdwatching, and is both rejuvenating and calming. Built in 1974, this dam on river Kabini is a significant source of water for several villages and hamlets in the district. The tranquil waters and serene environment make this spot one of the favourite Kabini places to visit.

Kutta Village

A scenic village bordering the Nagarhole National Park, Kutta is one of the offbeat Kabini places to visit. It is a beautiful little village which offers a number of homestays and allows you to try some awesome local food and coffee. The Iruppu waterfalls is one of the main attractions here and must be included in your list of Kabini places to visit.

Kabini River

A boat ride down the Kabini river is an experience you will never forget. It offers you glimpses of rustic life as it crosses the villages on its banks. As you move into the forest, you will get a chance to see rare wildlife, marsh crocodiles and otters. You will even find birds dipping into the water and flitting around as they try to catch a fish. The river safari is one of the best things to do in Kabini and counts among the top Kabini places to visit.

Kabini Backwater Viewpoint

Among the many Kabini places to visit, the Kabini Backwater Viewpoint offers fantastic views of the sunrise and sunset. If you are lucky, you may even spot an elephant or a tiger having a drink! All you need is a camera or binoculars and patience to spot wildlife which frequent the area. Providing beautiful vistas, this place is one of the compelling Kabini places to visit.

Trekking and Cycling

Those looking for an adventure can go trekking or cycling in Kabini to experience nature at its best. With a number of trekking trails in the area, you can opt for a guide to take you to the places best suited to your mood and abilities. You can also cycle along the river and reach the dam. If you wish, you can hike to most Kabini places to visit.

Food to try in Kabini

You can try the local Kabini food which includes the famous dishes of Karnataka like Jolada rotti, Akki roti, Bisi bele bath, Vangi bath, Uppittu, Ragi mudde, Maddur vada, Mysore masala dosa and Masala dosa. If you have a sweet tooth, do try the famous Mysore Pak. You can also relish other Kabini food like Obbattu, Dharwad Peda and Chiroti to satisfy your craving for sweets. You will find all these along with other cuisines in eateries and restaurants around most Kabini places to visit.

Things to Shop in Kabini

Kabini places to visit are not just about wildlife and adventure. You can also visit the local market and shop for souvenirs like wooden cutlery, beautiful wall hangings, eye-catching handicraft, aromatic coffee and flavourful spices.

Here are a few quick facts to make your travel safe and easy to Kabini. Kabini is a Wildlife destination. The best time to visit Kabini is October, November, December, January and February. Since this is the peak season expect a little crowd during this time. March, April and May period experiences moderate weather. So, you can easily avoid facing a large gathering.

In peak season the weather is pleasant weather with very diverse temperatures ranging from 20C to 32C, whereas in off-season the weather is heavy rainfalls along with high humidity levels. Weather in moderate season is hot weather during days followed by comfy evenings. During Pattadakal Dance Festival, Makar Sankranti, a large number of tourists flock together. The festivals are celebrated in the month of January, January,... consecutively. So, if you are fond of bustling streets and localities, choose this time of the year to travel.

If your travel seems incomplete without getting into some fun activities then you will love to get indulged in birdwatching and elephant safaris. In moderate season you will love to get indulged in spotting tigers near the water bodies and coracle rides on Kabini River.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for that weekend getaway, planning a family vacation, or considering a soul-searching solo trip, Kabini is the perfect destination for you. A treasure trove of wildlife and nature, Kabini places to visit can engage people of all age groups. You will find many beautiful resorts in Kabini to fit every budget and taste. Ensure that you are carrying comfortable clothing and a pair of good walking shoes when you set out for Kabini places to visit. When going on a safari, remember to wear clothes that help you to merge with the surroundings like shades of green, khaki, or brown. It helps draw the least attention to you and doesn’t distract the animals, taking up the chances of a wildlife encounter. Kabini places to visit offer a unique experience, which will leave you with long-lasting memories to cherish. Book your trip to Kabini now and get set for an unforgettable time!