Looking for a place with unmatched beauty, exotic wildlife, adventure and historic landmarks? You need to explore Dandeli on your next trip. It is a serene holiday destination located on the Western Ghats of North Karnataka. Covered in dense tropical forests, the places to visit in Dandeli have plenty to offer for every traveller. Whether you are a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast or an adventure seeker, Dandeli will leave a memorable mark.
So, why should we wait further? Let’s embark on a journey to this paradise filled with breathtaking views and learn about the places to visit in Dandeli, the best time to visit and how to reach the destination.
Nature is at its bountiful best at Dandeli (North Karnataka), making it an ideal holiday destination. This destination, located on the banks of the Kali River, offers unparalleled scenic beauty complemented by exotic wildlife in its tropical forests.
6 Best Places to Visit in Dandeli
1. Kali Tiger Reserve:
Formerly known as Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve, Kali Tiger Reserve is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Dandeli. Spread over an area of 1300 sq. kms, the park is home to Bengal tigers, black panthers and Indian elephants. The Kali River flowing through the tiger reserve is the lifeline of its ecosystem, and is hence named so.
Furthermore, the park also has an economic significance as it has various hydroelectric dams and a nuclear power station.
2. Kavala Caves:
If you are looking for historic places to visit in Dandeli, Kavala Cave has to be at the top of your list. These limestone caves, formed due to volcanic activity ages ago, are located 25 km away from the city centre. You need permission from the Forest Department of Karnataka to visit these caves and they are worth all the efforts. Once you have the permission and reach the base for Kavala Caves, you will have to climb around 400 steps to reach the cave entrance. These caves are very tiny, so one has to crawl 40 ft. deep through the winding and stalagmite formations.
There is one significantly huge stalagmite which people worship as a Shivling. The Shivlinga is around 4 ft. high and 3 ft. in diameter. The Kavala in Kannada means raw nut and betel nut, which resembles the structure of the idol. Therefore, you must visit this miraculous place at least once in a lifetime.
3. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary:
For adventure seekers, Dandeli is one of the best wildlife sanctuary in India for an offbeat safari experience. Spread over an area of 866.41 sq. kms, the sanctuary is home to nearly 270 bird species and is the only tiger reserve in India where you can see the black panther frequently.
It is a perfect place for bird-watchers and wildlife photographers to spot birds and animals like the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Indian sloth bear, Indian pangolin and Indian elephant and Indian peafowl.
4. Supa Dam:
Built over the Kali River in Joida Taluk of Dandeli, the Supa Dam is the tallest in Karnataka and one of the significant power generation plants in Dandeli. It is one of the favourite spots among tourists for its scenic beauty and adventure activities.
The name Supa has a mythological reference as it is named after Suparulu, who was considered the God of Forests by the locals staying nearby. To reach the dam, one has to trespass through thick jungles while listening to the gushing sound of the water of the Kali River. You can enjoy water scooting, boat rides and picnics while visiting the dam.
5. Sathodi Falls:
A mesmerising rectangular-shaped waterfall in the Western Ghats, Sathodi Falls is among the best places to visit in Dandeli. The 49.2 ft. tall fall flows into the backwaters of the Kodasalli Dam and then into the Kali River.
You have to trek through the bushes and rocky terrain to reach the waterfall, which is open mostly throughout the year. Moreover, the water pool created by the fall is a perfect place to relax and enjoy with friends and family.
6. Shivaji Fort:
Located around 20 km from Dandeli, Shivaji Fort is one of the historic places to visit in Dandeli. The fort has a beautiful garden, an ancient temple and a lake which attracts both locals and tourists. The structure of the fort is believed to have been constructed by the Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji or the warrior king, Sangoli Rayanna, who fought the British during the freedom struggle.
The fort offers a glimpse of techniques and strategies put into practice when the enemy army would storm the gates of the fort. Its architecture and war ideologies attract history enthusiasts and the lush green forests around the fort offer a serene surroundings for relaxation. Moreover, the area around fort is also an ideal spot for leisure walking, trekking and hiking.
Best Time to Visit Dandeli
Dandeli is one of the best holiday destinations in India throughout the year. The best time to visit Dandeli depends on personal preference. If you are a birdwatcher, the summer season from March to June is the perfect time to spot the migratory birds. The monsoon season from July to September is suitable for those who are looking for a relaxing getaway, as tropical rains can hamper sightseeing and adventure activities. In case you are travelling in the monsoon season, don’t forget to check out the travel guide to the south India for the monsoon season.
If you want to experience the best of everything, then the winter season, from October to February, is the best time to visit Dandeli. Post monsoon greenery and pleasant weather offer a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. Furthermore, during the season, Dandeli is one of the best destinations to enjoy the most fascinating water adventure sports in India.
How to Reach Dandeli
Dandeli, one of the awesome places to visit in Karnataka, is well-connected with its neighbouring cities and states, including Hubli, Goa, Belgaum and Bangalore. You can reach the city via road, rail and air.
By Road:
If you are a fan of road trips, then a road trip to Dandeli can be a great choice. It takes 9-10 hours from Bangalore to reach Dandeli by car. You can also hire a taxi or book an overnight bus to reach your destination.
You can also take a break and book one of the affordable hotels in Bangalore before beginning your journey towards Dandeli.
By Rail:
Travelling to Dandeli by Train is a budget-friendly option. You can take a train to the nearby railway stations, which include Londa Junction, at 24 kms, Alnavar Junction, at 23 kms and Dharwad Junction, at 60 kms away from Dandeli.
By Air:
The fastest route to reach Dandeli is by taking a flight to the nearest airport, the Hubli Airport, located 56 kms away from Dandeli. From there, you can either hire a taxi or book a bus for an exciting journey to Dandeli.
Thus, Dandeli is one of the best holiday destinations in India. The places to visit in Dandeli are ideal for connecting with nature and enjoying a memorable time with your friends and family. From adventure lovers to wildlife and history enthusiasts, these tourist attractions offer a unique experience and an insight into the rich geographical and cultural heritage of the state of Karnataka. Choose from a range of budget-friendly hotels in Bengaluru if you plan to stay in the city before heading out to Dandeli.
So, if you are planning a trip soon, consider Dandeli and its nearby places for a soothing and relaxing trip away from the city chaos.
