Dandeli is a small town in the western ghats of North-West Karnataka, India .Dandeli is a natural habitat for wildlife, including tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur, deer, antelopes, and bears. It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and was designated as a tiger reserve. Here are 10 things to do in Dandeli.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as the part of the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve. This is the second elephant reserve in Karnataka after Mysuru Elephant Reserve.Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a birdwatchers paradise, housing nearly 200 species of birds most famous for the great hornbill (great Indian hornbill or great pied hornbill) and the Malabar pied hornbill. It is also the only known tiger reserve in India to report frequent sightings of the elusive black panther.
Kali River
Located on the River Kali in the Western Ghats, Dandeli is one of the best places for white water rafting in the South. There are grade 2 and 3 rapids over a 12 kilometer stretch and are ideal for professionals as well as amateurs.
Kavala Caves
These limestone caves with their winding tunnels and 375 entrance steps were formed by volcanic activities.
Syntheri Rock
Located near River Kali in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Syntheri Rock is a gigantic limestone rock formed ages ago due to volcanic activities in the region. One has to climb about 400 steps to reach the top of this monolithic structure which is also a perfect spot to get a panoramic view of the Dandeli Valley.
Shiroli Peak
Located within the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, this is the highest point in the Uttara Kannada region. It provides a splendid view of the Sahyadri Range, and is a good spot for trekkers and nature lovers..
Anshi National Park
Anshi National Park is a part of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and covers about 500 square kilometres of the natural reserve. It is a famous Tiger Reserve and is now called the Kali Tiger Reserve. With a high biodiversity that is most specific to the Western Ghats of India, the attraction is a favourite amongst nature and animal lovers.
Kulgi Nature Camp
Situated at Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, this is popular for tourist accommodation providing a comfortable stay whilst exploring the wildlife sanctuary.
Sathodi Falls
The Sathodi falls, locally known as ‘mini- Niagra’ lies in the Uttara Kannada district of Yellapur, in Karnataka. Several unnamed streams near Kallaramane ghat unite together to form the Sathodi Falls. Until a few years back the non-locals were completely unaware of its existence until it started attracting tourists. The Sathodi waterfall is 15 metres tall and appears to be rectangular.
Sri Mallikarjuna Temple
Sri Mallikarjuna Temple is believed to be the oldest temple in the state. In fact, a stone inscription states that it was built in 1144 on land donated by King Jayakesha. The temple is of immense religious significance and the marvellous Kadamba style architecture also attracts tourists in large numbers.
Shivaji Fort
Built during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Shivaji Fort is one of the oldest forts in the state. Tourists visit this magnificent structure for its heritage value and the beautiful surroundings. The attraction is a favourite amongst trekkers, nature and history lovers.
