Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Overview
A quiet, uncrowded Western Ghats tiger reserve
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a lush Western Ghats tiger reserve near Chikkamagaluru — much quieter than Bandipur or Nagarhole, yet home to a thriving population of tigers, leopards, gaur, elephants and dhole.
This 2-day trip combines a jeep safari inside the reserve with a scenic boat safari on the Bhadra reservoir — all wrapped in the aroma of Chikkamagaluru's coffee estates.
Route
Bengaluru (Trip start) → Chikkamagaluru (En-route coffee country) → Bhadra Reservoir (Day 1 – Boat safari & stay) → Bhadra Tiger Reserve (Day 2 – Morning jeep safari)
Highlights
- Bhadra Tiger Reserve jeep safari
- Bhadra reservoir boat safari
- Coffee estate drives & stops
- Elephant & tiger territory
- Naturalist-led forest walks
- Peaceful reservoir-side resort stay
- Jeep Safari
- Boat Safari
- Tiger Reserve
- Western Ghats
- Coffee Country
- Bird Watching
- Reservoir Stay
- Nature Walks
Day-wise Itinerary
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Day 1 Arrival, Coffee Country & Boat Safari
Drive from Bengaluru or Chikkamagaluru to Bhadra through scenic coffee estates and Western Ghats greenery. Check in to your resort near the sanctuary and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, head to the Bhadra reservoir for a boat safari — sightings often include elephants at the shoreline, otters and rich birdlife. Bonfire dinner and overnight.
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Day 2 Morning Jeep Safari & Departure
Rise early for a golden-hour jeep safari inside the Bhadra Tiger Reserve — dense forest, sunlit clearings and excellent chances of tiger, leopard and gaur sightings. Return for a leisurely breakfast, check out and drive back with an optional coffee-estate stop en route.
Inclusions
- 1 night stay at reservoir-side resort
- All meals — breakfast, lunch and dinner
- 1 jeep safari with certified naturalist
- 1 boat safari on the Bhadra reservoir
- Sanctuary entry and permit fees
- Bonfire and lodge activities
- Phone and WhatsApp assistance during your journey
Exclusions
- Transportation between cities (can be arranged)
- Camera / video fees inside reserve
- Personal expenses, tips and laundry
- Additional safaris beyond those listed
- Anything not listed under inclusions
Important Notes
- Per person, based on 3 travellers sharing (1 room + 1 extra bed) in a 4-seater vehicle. Final quote may vary with travel dates, hotel category and group size.
- 2 Days / 1 Night • Wildlife + Coffee Country
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Bhadra?
October to May is ideal, with the highest wildlife sightings between March and May as animals gather around water sources.
Is Bhadra a good place to see tigers?
Yes — Bhadra has a healthy tiger population and lower visitor traffic than Bandipur or Nagarhole, which often means calmer, better-quality sightings when they happen.
How is the boat safari different from the jeep safari?
The boat safari on the Bhadra reservoir focuses on elephants, otters, crocodiles and waterbirds along the shoreline. The jeep safari takes you deep into the tiger reserve for big cats, gaur and dhole.
Is it family-friendly?
Very much so. Resorts are safe and comfortable, and both safaris are suitable for children aged 5+.
How do I confirm the booking?
Share your travel dates and group size — we'll send a quote and confirm the trip with a small advance.