List of National Parks in Karnataka

Karnataka, a state in southern India, boasts a rich tapestry of natural wonders, from verdant forests to sprawling plains. Among its prized possessions are its national parks, each a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural beauty. These protected areas serve as havens for diverse flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to witness the untamed wilderness in its purest form. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the captivating national parks that grace the landscapes of Karnataka.

How many National Parks are there in Karnataka?

Karnataka, a state in southern India, boasts five national parks. These parks are Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Anshi National Park, Bannerghatta National Park, and Kudremukh National Park. Each park is known for its unique biodiversity, ranging from lush forests to diverse wildlife habitats, contributing significantly to the conservation efforts and ecological diversity of the region.

List of National Parks in Karnataka

Karnataka is home to five stunning national parks, each offering a unique wilderness experience. Here is the list of national parks in Karnataka:

Bandipur National Park

Establishment: 1974

Area: 912.04 square kilometers

Bandipur National Park boasts a diverse array of timber trees, including teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and Indian laurel. Additionally, the park is home to various flowering and fruiting trees and shrubs such as the kadam tree, Indian gooseberry, flame of the forest, and golden shower tree. These lush vegetations provide essential habitat for the park’s wildlife inhabitants.

Nagarhole National Park

Establishment: 1988

Area: 642.39 square kilometers

Nagarhole National Park, nestled in Karnataka’s Kodagu and Mysore districts, holds the distinction of being India’s 37th Tiger Reserve since 1999. As part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it’s under UNESCO consideration for World Heritage Site status. The park’s diverse landscape, encompassing forests, streams, hills, and waterfalls, shelters a variety of wildlife including Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, Indian leopards, and various deer species.

Anshi National Park

Establishment: 1987

Established in 1987 following the conversion of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Anshi National Park now forms part of the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve, later renamed Kali Tiger Reserve in 2015. Located in Uttara Kannada district, it sprawls over 1300 square miles and houses a diverse array of wildlife including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and the rare black panther. The reserve offers various recreational activities like hiking, safaris, and eco-tours.

Bannerghatta National Park

Establishment: 1974

Area: 260.51 square kilometers

Bannerghatta National Park, situated near Bangalore in Karnataka, India, has been a cherished natural reserve since its establishment in 1970. Initially founded as a national park and later augmented with a zoological garden in 2002, it stands as a testament to biodiversity conservation efforts. Despite challenges such as forest depletion, the park continues to allure visitors with its ancient temples, trekking trails, and diverse wildlife.

Kudremukh National Park

Establishment: 1987

Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka is celebrated for its diverse wildlife, including lion-tailed macaques, tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. Offering captivating hiking and trekking trails, visitors can immerse themselves in the park’s natural splendor while witnessing animals in their native environment. The park’s scenic tea and coffee plantations provide additional opportunities for exploration and photography, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.