Here's Why Kabini Should Be On Every Wildlife Lover's Bucket List

OT Staff

Abundant Wildlife Diversity

Kabini is part of Nagarhole National Park, home to over 250 bird species and large populations of tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian gaurs, dholes, and crocodiles.

Indian Wild Tusker from Nagarhole National Park And Tiger Reserve | Shutterstock

One of India’s Best Tiger Reserves

Kabini lies in the heart of the Nilgiri Biosphere, one of India’s key tiger reserves. It offers high chances of spotting these majestic big cats in their natural habitat.

An Indian Peacock at Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve | Shutterstock

Leopard and Black Panther Sightings

Kabini is renowned for its sightings of leopards and the rare melanistic black panther, famously called “Saya”.

Black panther from the woods of South India | Shutterstock

Spectacular Elephant Congregation

The Kabini backwaters witness one of Asia’s largest elephant congregations. Hundreds of Asiatic elephants gather here during summer (April–May).

Elephants pose for a picture | Shutterstock

Pristine Kabini River Backwaters

The Kabini River enhances the region’s beauty and provides a vital water source for wildlife. The backwaters are an excellent spot for birdwatching, crocodile sightings, and boat safaris.

Bridge over the River Kabini at the Nagarhole National Park

Thrilling Boat and Jeep Safaris

Kabini offers both boat and jeep safaris, ensuring diverse perspectives of the park’s wildlife. While jeep safaris focus on big cat sightings, boat safaris provide close encounters with aquatic birds.

A solitary jeep on a safari in a jungle | Shutterstock

Rich Avian Population

Kabini is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to species like the Malabar trogon, crested serpent eagle, and Osprey.

A male Malabar trogon clicked from Sakleshpur, Karnataka | Shutterstock

Part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

As part of the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Kabini is a UNESCO-listed hotspot for biodiversity, boasting lush forests, rich flora, and endangered species.

A beautiful sunrise in the western ghats, Charmadi Ghat

Stunning Seasonal Landscapes

Kabini’s landscape changes with the seasons—from verdant greenery during the monsoon to golden-brown grasslands in summer.

Monsoons are a great time to travel to Karnataka | Shutterstock

Accessibility and Excellent Accommodation

Unlike many wildlife destinations, Kabini is well-connected to major cities like Mysuru and Bengaluru. It offers a range of accommodations, from eco-lodges to luxury resorts.

A colonial era building in Mysuru with vintage architecture

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An aerial view of a quaint hill station in Munnar | Shutterstock
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