Nagarahole (check spelling please) is derived from the combination of two
Kannada words-'nagar' meaning snake and 'hole' meaning streams and true to
its name a number of streams snake through its rich tropical forests.
Once an exclusive hunting preserve of the erstwhile rulers of Mysore, the
terrain of this Park is gently undulating with lush green vegetation, swamps
and numerous water resources, rendering it an ideal habitat for a wide
variety of wildlife.
Nagarahole is situated in the picturesque districts of Kodagu and Mysore in
southern Karnataka. The Nagarahole National Park was first set up in 1955.
In 1975 its area was increased to include a greater expanse of forest
reserve.
The Wild Population of Nagarhole National Park
The forest is home to animals like the four-horned antelope, sloth bear,
jungle cat, civet, spotted deer, elephant, wild dog, flying fox, tiger,
panther, gaur (Indian bison), sambhar, wild boar, black-naped hare, bonnet
macaque, and pangolin.
Cobras, crocodiles, kraits, pythons, vipers, and several species of lizards
are also found here. Among the 250 bird species found here, the prominent
ones are the common babbler, bee-eater, bulbul, dove, crested serpent,
hornbill, Malabar pied, alexandrine, peacock, woodpecker, warbler, great
Indian reed, eagle, crested hawk, golden-back parakeet, and the southern
tree pie.
Nagarhole is worth visiting at the height of the dry season, when wild
animals can be spotted in large numbers near sources of water.
Viewing The Wild
At Nagarhole, there are excellent facilities for viewing wildlife and large
groups of gaur, elephant, sambar, chital and even the occasional tiger or
leopard are seen. Vehicles and guides are available to take you around the
Nagarhole National Park.
If this natural heaven awakens the 'spirit of adventure' in you then
consider heading for the Brahmagiri Mountains-an inviting destination for
those who wish to go trekking. Prior permission is required from the
authorities before embarking on a trekking trail.
