Kabini National Park is nestled in Karnataka and has become a popular wildlife sanctuary in India. It is nestled in the Kabini River’s bank and is known for its rich biodiversity. The flora here include elephants, leopards, tigers, and many varieties of bird species. If you are from Bangalore, go on a weekend getaway to Kabini. It will be an adventurous trip but at the same time, you will also be able to find peace amidst the tranquil setting of Kabini National Park.

Are you planning to head here? Then, this is a guide to planning your entire trip to Kabini.

Planning the transport: distance and traveling time needed

Kabini National Park is almost 220-230 km from Bangalore, and for most people, it makes for an easy and accessible weekend trip. The journey from Kabini to Bangalore takes almost 5-6 hours, and it depends on the condition of the road and the transport mode you choose. Here are the best ways to get from Kabini to Bangalore.

By car:

• Distance: 220-230 km

• Time: 5-6 hours

• Route: The best route you can take is from Mysore Road via NH275. The route typically takes you through towns like Mysore and Mandya before you reach the park. The roads are well-maintained, and the drive is scenic.

By bus:

• Distance: 220-230 km

• Time: 6-7 hours (depending on traffic)

• Route: Many private and state buses run between Bangalore and Kabini. There is no direct bus to the park. Reach the nearest town first, Hunsur or Mysore, via NH275. From there, you can head to the park using a bus or taxi.

By Train:

• Distance: 137 80 km

• Time: 3-4 hours to Mysore and 1 hour to Kabini National Park

• Route: There are no direct trains to Kabini. But you can take a train to Mysore and then take a taxi. The trains start from Bangalore and take you through Mandya and more to Mysore. From Mysore, you can take a cab to reach the park.

What is the best time to visit Kabini National Park?

It is a year-round destination, and the best time will definitely depend on your preferences.

November to April

It is the best time for wildlife sightings, and the weather is cool, so animals tend to gather round the water sources. The park runs safaris during these months, giving you a chance to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.

June to September

The monsoon season does make the park green and lush. But it is not the best time if you want to enjoy a safari. Due to heavy rainfall, the atmosphere is serene and the surroundings are beautiful, so the time is ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Where to stay in Kabini?

A perfect trip to Kabini will take more than a day. So, staying here for a few days is necessary. Kabini has a few accommodation options for their tourists. From luxury to budget resorts, there are a few popular choices for you to stay. These resorts include:

Luxury resorts:

The Serai Kabini: It is a luxury resort offering cottages, spacious rooms, and an excellent wildlife experience. There is also a jeep safari, birdwatching activities, and nature walks for you to try.

Kabini River Lodge: It is under the management of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation and is a popular accommodation in Kabini. It is situated on the riverbanks, offering an authentic wilderness experience with guided safaris and tented accommodation.

Budget stays

Jungle Lodges & Resorts: It offers a comfortable but budget-friendly stay and has all the basic amenities, perfect for nature lovers.

Orange County Kabini: It is a mix of comfort and luxury, offering well-appointed cottages and impressive opportunities for spotting wildlife.

Homestays

You will also find a few homestay and guesthouse options nearby Kabini offering a home-like and personalized experience. It is the perfect way to get an authentic rural experience as you stay with local families.

Planning your Itinerary

The only thing to do in Kabini is not wildlife spotting. There are many other activities to try too. These include:

Safari Tours

The major attraction in Kabini includes a wildlife safari. You can choose from a boat and jeep safari on the Kabini River. Both options are a perfect opportunity to see wild animals up close.

• Jeep safari happens twice, once in the morning and once during the evening. These timings are such because it is the time when the animals are highly active as they go for a hunt or to sunbathe. Just wear something warm, as it can be chilly.

• Boat safari is a unique experience as you spot the wildlife frequenting the riverbanks, like crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of avian species.

Birdwatching and nature walks

Nature walks are one of the best ways to enjoy Kabini’s wilderness beyond the usual safari. These are guided walks letting you get better insights into the local ecosystem. Kabini is ideal for birdwatching, as there are over 300 bird species, a paradise for bird lovers.

Head to Nagarhole National Park.

You can also head to Nagarhole National Park, home to many wildlife species, including the tiger. Here go on treks or safaris to enjoy the beautiful wilderness experience.

Coracle rides and fishing

Here at Kabini, you can relax near the river by engaging in fishing or even taking a beautiful coracle ride. For these activities, choose a resort that is close to the river banks.

Details about the safari

To ensure your safari experience at Kabini is optimal. It is necessary to know the right time to book the safari and book it in advance. You can book from the Karnataka Forest Department site, or you can book using kabininationalpark.org (with reputable tour operators providing many discounts and offers).

• Safari timings: 6-9 am, 4-6 pm.

• Cost: INR 2,000-INR 5,000 (jeep safari); INR 1,000-2,000 (boat safari)

The right things to pack

• Pack light and breathable clothes for the day. However, also carry a sweater or jacket for early mornings and evenings, particularly when going in the winter months. Do not wear bright colors, as it makes you stand out, not a good thing in the wilderness.

• Pack comfortable and sturdy shoes ideal for walking, especially if you choose nature walks.

• Pack a camera with a strong zoom lens (no flash allowed) and also carry binoculars for spotting the animals clearly.

• Insect repellent is necessary because the park attracts many mosquitoes, so having a repellent is necessary.

• Do carry sunscreen and prescription and general medicines to ensure you are comfortable during your safari.

Safety and Guidelines

Kabini is safe for tourists, but you still need to follow a few guidelines. These include:

• Respect the wildlife, so maintain silence while avoiding disturbing the animals when going on safaris.

• Do not litter. Always carry the trash with yourself unless you find a better way to dispose of it.

• Do not light a cigarette in the forest, as it can lead to fire if thrown away half-lit.

• Whatever your guide says, ensure you listen and follow it closely. This is necessary for responsible wildlife sightings.

Conclusion

Kabini National Park offers a beautiful and exceptional opportunity for experiencing the natural beauty of India. As you plan carefully, you make the most of the weekend getaway. Moreover, you do not have to live in Bangalore to enjoy this beauty. You can come to Bangalore from any part of the world and head to Kabini via car or taxi and watch the apex predators or beautiful bird species. Do try the thrilling activities here, including the most unique boat safari on the Kabini River.