Originating in the verdant forests of Wayanad, Kabini is one of the favorite wildlife destinations of tourists in and around Karnataka. Famous for its wildlife and bird life, this beautiful river originates in Wayanad district of Kerala by the conflux of the Panamaram River and Mananthavady River. It is the only eastward flowing river in Kerala and joins Kaveri River at Thirumakudal Narasipur in Karnataka.
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| Coracle ride with Elephants in Kabini [source] |
Kabini is also known as Kabani and Kapila- famed for its picturesque environs, awing beauty of the river and wonderful sights of large herds of Asian elephants. Kabini has always been a prominent wildlife destination in Karnataka as it flows through three major National parks viz., Nagarhole, Bandipur and Madhumathi. This wildlife reserve was once the favorite hunting spot of Indian royal line and the British. Kabini is also an ideal location for trekking and camping amidst the resplendent nature. The best view of the river can be seen in Perikkallur in Wayanad where it is very calm and peaceful.
Even though you have a wonderful tour in the royal city, Mysore, the shore of Kabini is a complete change from the bustling city and mundane life. Drive 80 km from Mysore towards Mananthavady through SH 17 and you reach the Kabini circle. After 5 km leftwards, you enter into the thick forest from where you can hear the burble of Kabini. Spread over 55 acres, Kabini is a home to various wild animals and birds. This wildlife sanctuary is situated on the banks of a large lake which is formed from the Kabini reservoir known as Mastigudi Lake. This lake submerged the Mastigudi temple which can be seen during summer when the water levels are low. Kabini Dam was built in 1974 and the most attractive factor of this destination is the large herds of Elephants seen during summer on the river banks. This beautiful natural splendor is just 205 km away from Bangalore and has been a popular weekend getaway for the Bangaloreans.
Adventure:
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| Adventure Kabini River Lodge [source] |
You can enjoy the wild life by riding an elephant and going through the jungle where you can spot wild animals, herds of Asian elephants and even leopards during evenings. Wildlife safaris are conducted twice in a day in jeeps and elephants along pre-designed routes. Boating is another popular activity in Kabini. They take you through the lake till the border of the forest for wildlife spotting. Sambar, tuskers, wild dogs, aquatic birds and crocodiles are the common ones spotted here. Motor boats, pedal boats, rowboats, bamboo rafts and kayaks are there for tourists to enjoy a cruise through the placid lake. Other important wild life adventures include bird watching-around 300 species spotted here, bicycle rides, trekking, nature walks and bonfires in the jungle. A visit to the tribal village nearby is also worth doing. Kabini is an ideal place for tourists for trekking and pitching their tents. They can trek to the nearby peaks called Kumara Parvata and Tadiandamol. An excellent view of the verdant lake, the lush green shores and a closer view of the wild animals can be obtained by viewing from the watch tower.
Season:
The best time to visit Kabini shores is between September and May. The dam is located near Beechanahalli and the nearby town is H.D Kote. The nearest airport is Bangalore and nearest railway station is Mysore. By road, lots of buses run from Kerala and Karnataka to Kabini through SH 17.
Attractions:
Nearby attractions include Nagarhole National Park, Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruva Islands and Chikkahole Dam. A visit to the greenery of Wayanad in Kerala will be another must do when you visit Kabini. After the rains, Wayanad is cool, foggy and greenly gifting an exquisite holiday destination.
Stay:
To enjoy and relax amidst nature, there are some good jungle resorts and hotels which offer absolute comfort near this verdant lake shore. They extend a grand view of the greenery and the lake. Some offer jungle safaris, coracle rides, campfire and tribal dance as part of their warm hospitality.
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