Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Moulangi Eco Park, Shiroli Peak, Sykes View Point, Sathodi Falls, Kali River, Dandelappa Temple, Anshi National Park, Magod Falls, and numerous others beckon visitors to the western part of Karnataka. These attractions entice travelers seeking an untamed exploration. With its mountains, rivers, caves, and lush landscapes, Dandeli proves to be an ideal weekend retreat for those hailing from Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru.
Vantage points abound, offering tourists breathtaking views of stunning sunsets. Amidst the natural splendor, visitors can also explore man-made wonders such as dams and temples. What sets Dandeli apart is the thrilling encounter with wild animals in the wildlife sanctuary and national park. Furthermore, the region stands as an adventure haven, featuring a plethora of exhilarating activities to try out. For an unforgettable experience, come to Dandeli and let the beauty of its diverse attractions captivate you.
Dandeli River Rafting
Nestled along the River Kali in the Western Ghats, Dandeli emerges as a top destination for white water rafting in the southern region. The 12-kilometer stretch features grade 2 and 3 rapids, appealing to both skilled professionals and enthusiastic beginners.
Numerous setups and tour providers in the area cater to the sport, offering diverse rapids of varying classes, such as Snuggler's Trove, Adi's Beard, The Stitch, Stanley's Squeeze, and more. Positioned at the northern tip of Karnataka, Dandeli captivates adventure enthusiasts with its extensive array of water sports. Situated at an elevation of 1,800 feet above sea level, it is surrounded by lush tropical forests teeming with diverse fauna, including hornbills, giant squirrels, sambar deer, and wild boars.
The unpredictable nature of the River Kali provides a perfect mix of tranquil waters for novices and stretches of turbulent rapids to challenge and engage professionals.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, Kali Tiger Reserve is situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, covering an expansive area of 834.16 sq km. Acknowledged as the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in the state, it earned the designation of National Wildlife Sanctuary in 1956. This reserve is rich in biodiversity, hosting a myriad of flora and fauna, including tigers, woodpeckers, hornbills, kingfishers, leopards, elephants, and more. In 2015, it underwent a name change from Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to Kali Tiger Reserve.
Teaming up with the neighboring Anshi National Park, Kali Tiger Reserve is home to approximately 40 tigers. The landscape is a blend of dense deciduous and evergreen vegetation, interspersed with bamboo and teak plants. Embark on a jungle safari, available in the early morning and during sunset, to delve into the captivating wildlife. Beyond that, the sanctuary offers a range of adventures, including fishing, trekking, crocodile sighting, and white water rafting in the Kali River flowing through the reserve.
Sathodi Falls Dandeli
Nestled in the Uttara Kannada district of Yellapur, Karnataka, Sathodi Falls, locally dubbed as 'mini-Niagara,' is a hidden gem. Born from the convergence of several unnamed streams near Kallaramane Ghat, this 15-meter-tall rectangular waterfall remained undiscovered by non-locals until recent years when it began to draw tourists.
These picturesque falls gracefully weave through the forest, with a delightful half-kilometer walk taking approximately 20 minutes from the entrance and parking area to the actual falls. Well-placed signboards ease navigation along the way. An entrance fee of INR 5 per person is required.
As you stroll for about 10 minutes, the unmistakable sound of cascading water intensifies. The path to the waterfall, though narrow, offers a serene journey. Sathodi Falls flows consistently throughout the year, boasting a natural pool suitable for swimming.
The captivating beauty of the falls is complemented by the scenic jungle route leading from Yellapur. Note that only vehicles with high ground clearance can navigate this enjoyable jungle ride. Upon descent, the water from Sathodi Falls eventually merges with the backwaters of the Kodasalli Dam.
Magod Falls Dandeli
Situated approximately 17 km away from Yellapur in Karnataka, Magod Falls, also referred to as Magodu Falls, constitutes a series of waterfalls cascading from a height of 200 m. Formed as the River Bedti descends from rocky cliffs, these falls serve as a captivating sight. Renowned as a favored picnic destination, the area also draws photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Situated in the Uttar Kannada district near Sathodi Falls, Magod Falls experiences a dry spell during summers and takes on a misty allure in the monsoon season. Nestled amid dense forest cover, this spot imposes no entry fee and remains accessible every day of the week.
Syntheric Rocks Dandeli
Syntheric Rocks stands out as one of Delhi's most picturesque tourist attractions, providing visitors with a delightful experience amidst its stunning landscape. Nestled at the heart of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Syntheri Rocks showcases breathtaking natural beauty characterized by volcanic rocks, complemented by the flowing River Kaneri.
Named in honor of Ms. Cinthera, an English lady who discovered these caves, Syntheri Rocks have become renowned for their magnificent topography. This destination is ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture scenic beauty and individuals desiring a retreat in the midst of nature's abundance. It ranks among the top tourist spots in Dandeli, offering a splendid adventure amid the beauty of nature.
Supa Dam Dandeli
Spanning the river Kali in Karnataka, Supa Dam stands as a captivating destination for tourists in Dandeli. Renowned for its role in hydroelectric power generation, the dam also presents a picturesque landscape, providing a serene retreat for all.
In addition to its power generation function, Supa Dam plays a crucial role in supplying irrigation waters to farmers and has emerged as a popular sightseeing spot in Dandeli. Named after the God of Forests, Suparulu, the dam is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, featuring dense jungles and the spectacular rush of river waters.
A sought-after picnic spot in Dandeli, Supa Dam invites visitors to enjoy quality time with friends and family. It also offers an array of thrilling water sports, including boating and water scooting, enhancing the overall experience for those exploring Dandeli.
Molangi Falls Dandeli
Prepare for a scenic getaway at Molangi Falls, promising a refreshing excursion with friends and family in Dandeli. Enveloped by the sweeping panorama of lush green forests, Molangi Falls stands out as one of the most favored picnic spots in the region.
A visual delight for nature enthusiasts, this popular waterfall in Dandeli is situated amidst dense bamboo trees and steep rocks, creating an unforgettable setting for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. Immerse yourself in the revitalizing waters of Molangi Falls for a refreshing plunge, and for the more adventurous, experience an adrenaline rush through white water rafting.
As the sun sets, Molangi Falls transforms into an idyllic romantic spot, with the cool breeze caressing your face and the landscape unfolding into a spectacular view.
Kavala Caves Dandeli
A captivating destination in Dandeli, Kavala Caves ranks among the most popular places to explore. Thought to date back to prehistoric times and formed from volcanic origins, these caves are nestled within the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.
Accessed by descending 375 steps, visitors enter the captivating world of stalagmite formations within Kavala Caves. These limestone caves offer an exhilarating adventure, featuring narrow climbs and trekking through a picturesque setting.
Kavala Caves provide a thrilling experience, with their pitch-dark interiors inhabited by snakes and bats. The entrance is marked by a temple, and a fascinating aspect of these caves is the naturally formed Shivalinga, drawing devotees. The Shivalinga, resembling raw nuts known as "Kavala" in the local language, lends its name to this renowned tourist spot in Dandeli.
Anshi National Park Dandeli
Prepare for an exhilarating wildlife adventure at Anshi National Park to elevate your Dandeli vacation into a truly memorable experience. As an integral part of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, this park unfolds a captivating topography, inviting exploration of the scenic outdoors within the Western Ghats. A distinctive feature of Anshi National Park is that it stands as the sole location in all of Asia where the elusive black panther can be spotted.
Located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, Anshi National Park stands out as one of India's most exquisite parks. Nestled amidst the majestic Western Ghats, the park boasts renowned flora and fauna. It encompasses an area of 340 square kilometers and is positioned along the Kanwar-Londa highway, overlooking the Kali River.
Situated at an elevation ranging from 200 meters to 925 meters above sea level, the park experiences heavy rainfall averaging 2500 meters annually. Temperatures fluctuate between 10 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius. Recognizing its ecological significance, the government of India has designated the park as a protected reserve forest, renaming it the Kali Tiger Reserve. The rare black panther is a major highlight, thriving in the park's dense deciduous and evergreen rainforests.
Anshi National Park unfolds against a backdrop of meandering rivers, deep valleys, and pristine mountains. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking and camping within the park, experiencing the tranquility of village life. Adjacent resorts and lodges offer a spectrum of energetic activities, including kayaking, rock climbing, safaris, trekking, biking, and bird watching. The World Wide Fund for Nature has recognized the park as endangered, emphasizing the need to preserve its rich biodiversity.
Shivaji Fort Dandeli
Shivaji Fort, situated in Dandeli, stands as a prominent tourist destination where you can immerse yourself in the art and heritage of this captivating region. This ancient fort offers insights into the cunning war tactics employed during historical times, allowing exploration of the strategies executed when facing imminent threats.
Attributed to the construction by the Maratha Chief, Shivaji, this magnificent tourist attraction in Dandeli beckons those interested in nature walks, trekking, and a deeper understanding of Maharashtra's heritage. Located approximately 25 km from Dandeli town, Shivaji Fort holds a prominent place among the region's top tourist attractions.
Constructed during the reign of the renowned Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji, the fort is believed to have been occupied by the warrior king Sangoli Rayanna during his relentless fight against the British. Offering a glimpse into historical war strategies, this structure provides an immersive experience of the techniques employed when facing adversaries.
With its rich history and strategic significance during the Maratha rule, Shivaji Fort becomes a magnificent destination for history enthusiasts. It unveils the war ideologies of that era and showcases the mesmerizing architectural style of the period.
Surrounded by lush green forests, the fort serves as a tranquil escape for those seeking respite from the daily grind. For trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers, Shivaji Fort stands as a haven, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the calm and serene beauty of natural surroundings.
Sri Mallikarjuna Temple Dandeli
Considered to predate the Shivaji Fort in Dandeli, the Sri Mallikarjuna Temple stands among the noteworthy temples in Karnataka, making it a must-visit for tourists. An inscription within the temple indicates that the land on which it stands was donated by the Kadamba King Jayakeshi in the year 1144.
What captivates tourists about the Sri Mallikarjuna Temple is its astonishing architecture, setting it apart from other temples in Karnataka. The temple attracts pilgrims year-round, not only for its spiritual significance but also for its architectural brilliance.
Highlighting the temple's unique features are the 'Navarang Mantap' inside the sanctum sanctorum and the dome, crafted in the distinctive Kadamba style, adding to the allure of Sri Mallikarjuna Temple.
Mini Tibet Dandeli
True to its name, Mini Tibet authentically captures the essence of Tibet. Much like Dharamshala is a small-scale Lhasa, Mundgod can be considered Mini Tibet. Founded in 1996, Mini Tibet serves as a testament to the resilient Tibetan culture of refugees, offering a glimpse into their aspirations and mindset. A must-visit is the Tibetan Monastery, a truly enchanting destination in Dandeli that embodies the rich cultural heritage. Exploring such insightful places adds depth to the list of attractions in Dandeli.