South India has three recognized biogeographic zones – ‘The Western Ghats’ which run parallel to the west coast from Mumbai to Kerala; ‘The Deccan Plateau’ and the ‘Islands’ (Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep). All these biogeographic zones are home to exotic wildlife indigenous to this region, which is preserved in South India’s many National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Here is an itinerary that takes you on a journey through some of the best wildlife preserves of 3 states in South India namely Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The tour also includes visits to some of the cities nearby which are rich in cultural traditions that South India is so famous for.
Routing: Bengaluru – Mysuru – Kabini – Bandipur – Coimbatore – Valparai – Kochi
Highlights
- Explore the cosmopolitan city of Bengaluru where you can visit a vineyard, walk around the hip down town area lined with pubs and hip places, make a stop at a temple that houses a monolithic bull, get lost in the bustle of the old town, and taste the lip-smacking street food.
- At Mysuru experience the slow-paced life, enjoy a walking tour which is a great introduction to the city and its people, meet some artisans or learn how to drape a traditional sari.
- Enjoy safaris in the Kabini region that sits within the enchanting Nagarhole National Park which was once a private hunting reserve for the Mysuru Maharajas. Today this lush and enchanting wildlife reserve is one of the important centres of tiger and Asiatic elephant conservation.
- Stay at Bandipur National Park, one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves situated within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The National Park is home to more than 100 species of mammals and 350 avian species.
- At Ooty, a popular hill station, visit the 19th century St. Stephen’s Church and the attached cemetery housing the grave of many British residents, the Government Botanical Gardens, and the shimmering artificial Ooty Lake that is a popular picnic spot.
- Next, drive to Valparai in Anamalai Hills, host to a lot of interesting wildlife; both endemic and highly endangered species. Spend two nights at a comfortable Tea Bungalow enjoying Nature walks in the wilderness to search for the critically endangered lion-tailed macaque. You could also encounter the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered native of the region.
- End the tour at Kochi to explore the quaint alleyways of the old town and Fort Kochi. The walk includes a Community visit, walking through the interior lanes of Mattancherry, visiting the Dutch Palace & Jewish Synagogue, watching the Chinese fishing nets and having tea at a local tea shop.
Owing to its overwhelming natural beauty and abundant wildlife wealth, South India is blessed with a countless number of Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks which are earmarked to conserve and preserve the natural heritage of the country. Wildlife sanctuaries refer to a natural habitat which provides protection and favorable living conditions to the wild animals and birds and are often owned by the government or private agency. On the other hand, National Parks are protected areas, established by the government to safeguard the entire ecosystem, including the landscape, flora, fauna, etc.
The next time you plan a trip to South India, visit these national parks for amazing guided safaris, treks through dense forests or to just relax to the sounds of birds and the rustling of trees.
Are you ready to explore the wild side of South India ?
