Kabini Forest in Karnataka is one of the top wildlife safaris near Bangalore. Though relatively lesser-known, it is a thriving sanctuary rich in diverse animal life. Nestled along the banks of a scenic river, Kabini offers an opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, tigers, and even the elusive black panther. If you haven’t explored this wildlife sanctuary yet, post-monsoons is the perfect time to plan your visit. Here, we bring you all the details about Kabini wildlife safari bookings, costs, and nearby accommodations.
Where is Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary Situated?
This is a wildlife safari near Bangalore, easily accessible from Mysore. Kabini forest surrounds the river and connects other wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka like Nagarhole, Bandipur and Madhumalai. So if you are a true wildlife enthusiast, you can plan an immersive trip along this Kerala-Karanataka belt to experience wildlife.
How to Reach Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary?
The nearest city to Kabini is Mysore, which is very well connected to Bangalore. It takes about 1 hour 20 mins to reach the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary safari point from Mysore (80 kms).
By rail: Mysore is the closest railway station to Kabini Forest.
By air: Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport is the nearest airport. You can book direct cabs from Bengaluru to Kabini. It is approximately a 4-hour drive.
By road: One can easily drive down to Kabini from Mysore if you’re travelling from the North. This wildlife safari near Bangalore is also under a 2-hour drive from Wayanad.
Kabini Wildlife Safari Cost and Time
Kabini Wildlife Safari Timings:
- 6 AM to 7:30 AM
- 6 AM to 9 AM (Jeep Safari)
- 7:30 AM to 9 AM
- 3 PM to 4:30 PM
- 3 PM to 6 PM (Jeep Safari)
- 4:30 PM to 6 PM
The Kabini Wildlife Safari cost depends on the type of vehicle you choose. There are jeep and bus safaris available.
Jeep Safari: INR 2800/person
Bus Safari: INR 850/person
There is an extra cost to be paid if you’re carrying a professional camera.
How to Book Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary?
For Kabini Wildlife Safari booking, head to the official website of Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. Check this out: https://tickets.nagaraholetigerreserve.com/safariDetails/3/Kakanakote%20(Kabini)
Safari tickets are also available on the window on the spot, but given the limited seats, it is better to have prior confirmation.
Where to Stay Near Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary?
The forest areas around Kabini and Nagarhole have several jungle resorts which provide accommodation within the surroundings. If you book a comprehensive package with them, the safari is also arranged by them.
However, while that limits your activities, we suggest exploring other spots around Kabini. Coorg and Coonoor are some popular tourist spots near Kabini that you could explore for a fulfilling getaway within nature.
We offer stunning private villas at both of these pristine locations. Unwind and explore the Madikeri culture at Whispering Waters, a private luxury villa in Coorg. This 4-bedroom holiday home is located within coffee plantations. Here you can indulge in other activities like hikes, coffee and spice plantation trails or watching sunset over the hills. If you wish to immerse in nature completely, this is one of the best luxury stays in Coorg.
Another option is to embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Coonoor after enjoying an early morning safari in Kabini. The journey offers breathtaking views, making it a perfect extension to your wildlife adventure. In Coonoor, you can choose to stay at Amani Villas, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot rare birds, catch glimpses of peacocks, and enjoy being immersed in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
FAQs
- When is the best time to visit Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary?
November to May is the best time to visit Kabini wildlife safari. The forest is closed for visits during the monsoon.
- Is Kabini worth visiting?
Yes, Kabini is one of the best wildlife safaris near Bangalore. If you’re lucky, you can spot the elusive black panther and leopards in their natural habitat.
- Is one day enough for Kabini?
If you are only looking to enjoy a wildlife safari in the natural forests, one day is enough for Kabini. Otherwise, experience activities like boating or camping, you can plan a 2-day visit and stay within the jungle resorts of Kabini.
- Which is the closest tourist spot to Kabini?
While Mysore is the closest for accessibility, Kabini is also a safari near Coorg.
