Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary well known by the name of “Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka”, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a special picnic destination in Mandya district and near Mysore. It is the largest bird sanctuary in the Indian state of Karnataka and spreads a total area of 40 acres. This bird sanctuary is a home to around 170 species of avifauna that makes it a joyful for the birdwatchers and Ornithologists. This bird sanctuary is a great spot for spending a day’s journey.
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Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is around 150 KM from Bangalore, near Mysore. The main beauty is boating in the river kaveri. During boating you can get close to the small islands on which the birds make their habitat. Which will give you around 15-20 min of boat ride, There is a fee of 50 Rs per head for normal boating. You can hire a boat exclusively for your group for Rs 1000. We would say it is worth the money to hire the special boat. The special boat will get you around 70 minutes of boating. There are two kind of boats, one with a roof and one without. Even though the boat with terrace will protect you from the sun, the roofless boat will give you unrestrained view. Specifically ask for roofless boat if you choose to option for special boat.
If your visited during December which is the beginning of the season ( the peak season is February to March). The boatman was very pleasant and had very good knowledge about the different species of birds. During boating you will also come across crocodiles sun bathing on rocks. It was a great experience to see these great reptiles very close to their natural habitat. Apart from boating, there is a park around the sanctuary which is neatly maintained. There are watch towers in the park which will give you a ‘bird’s eye’ view of the river, the islands and the feathery friends which live on them. The place is well equipped with clean toilets and also has a canteen.
Best Time To Visit
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a best place for many to relish a day among different birds. It can be visited throughout the year, especially during winters as it is the right time to visit this place. when the relocating birds come up and stay here for 3-4 months.
Distance
- This sanctuary is 135 kms from bangalore on Bangalore- Mysore highway (NH275), Take a right turn after Srirangapatna.
- 18 kms from Mysore ( via NH- 150A and KRS Road )
- 31 kms from Mandya
Also see: Mysore Palace – Best Picnic Spot Near Mysore
Nearest Railway Station
- Mysore Railway Station
Opening Timings
- 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (Sunday to Saturday)
Entry fee for Indians
- Adult – Rs.75/-
- Child – Rs.25/-
Entry fee for Foreigners
- Adult – Rs.500/-
- Child – Rs.250/-
Battery Operated Vehicle
Indians
- Adult – Rs.75/-
- Child – Rs.35/-
Photography Fee
- Digital SLR – Below 200mm Lense: Rs.150/-
- Above 500mm Lense – Rs.600/-
Boating Charges
Indians
- Adult – Rs.100/-
- Child – Rs.35/-
Foreigners
- Adult – Rs.500/-
- Child – Rs.250/-
Read More – Talakadu Temples Near Mysore – Best Place for One-Day Outing From Bangalore
Special Boating Charges
- Indians – Rs.2000 per trip
- Foreigners – Rs.3500 per trip
Parking Fees
- Bus / Truck – Rs.150/-
- LCV / Van – Rs.125/-
- Car – Rs.30/-
- Motor Cycle – Rs.15/-
Conclusion
While one day is more than enough for the entire circumference, If you are an passionate birdwatcher or wildlife devotee, you might enjoy staying somewhere near the sanctuary and making multiple visits.
