Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary
The Dandeli-side stretch of the joint Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve, a swathe of Western Ghats forest reached via jeep safaris out of Dandeli town. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Anshi National Park were merged in 2007 into the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve, and the Dandeli side, entered through forest checkposts close to town, is the more accessible half for organised safaris, offering sightings of gaur, sloth bear, giant squirrel and the occasional black panther among its moist deciduous and semi-evergreen cover.
Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary at a Glance
Essential information about Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary.
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Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Anshi National Park were merged in 2007 into the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve, and the Dandeli side, entered through forest checkposts close to town, is the more accessible half for organised safaris, offering sightings of gaur, sloth bear, giant squirrel and the occasional black panther among its moist deciduous and semi-evergreen cover. The reserve is also noted for its hornbill population, with all four South Indian hornbill species recorded within its forests, making early-morning jeep drives a draw for birdwatchers. Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary sits at an elevation of 466 m and is typically explored in about half day. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, November, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Sathodi Falls, Dandeli Wildlife Range Interpretive Center, and Sykes Point. Other notable highlights include black panther pugmarks on morning safari trail, kali River rafting past dense teak groves, and hornbill calls near Sathodi Falls viewpoint. It falls within Uttara Kannada district and Karnataka.
Highlights
- Black panther pugmarks on morning safari trail
- Kali River rafting past dense teak groves
- Hornbill calls near Sathodi Falls viewpoint
- Malabar giant squirrel spotted on fig trees
- Sunset elephant herd at open grassland clearing
- Night drive for civet and mouse deer
Places That Define Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover the iconic attractions that make this destination unforgettable
Dandeli Wildlife Range Interpretive Center (at Kulgi)
A small educational hub with exhibits on local flora, fauna, and tribal history, including maps and wildlife sightings log. Guides here provide orientation for first-time visitors to the sanctuary.
Kali River Viewpoint (near Dandeli side)
A scenic overlook where the Kali River cuts through the lush green valley, offering panoramic views of the sanctuary’s western ghats. A calm spot for birdwatching and photography, especially at sunrise.
Getting There
Things To Do
Trek to Kavala Caves
A short but steep trek through moist deciduous forest leads to the Kavala Caves, a natural limestone cave formation that is a known resting spot for bats and a favourite of wildlife photographers. The trail offers views of the Kali River valley and opportunities to hear hornbills and Malabar pied barbets.
2.5 hours (including return)
Coracle Ride on the Kali River at the Sanctuary Boundary
Glide in a traditional round coracle along the calm stretch of the Kali River that forms the sanctuary’s northern boundary, watching for crocodiles basking on rocks and kingfishers diving for fish. The ride is led by a local boatman who shares stories of the forest’s history and the black panther sightings.
1 hour
Visit the Anshi Watchtower and Viewpoint
Climb the forest department’s watchtower near the sanctuary entrance, which offers a panoramic view over the dense green canopy and the distant peaks of the Western Ghats. It’s a quiet spot to observe elephants or wild boar moving along the forest edges, especially at dusk.
45 minutes
Birdwatching at the Anshi Interpretation Centre Trails
Walk the marked nature trails around the forest department’s interpretation centre, where you can spot Malabar trogons, great hornbills, and racket-tailed drongos in the early morning. The centre also has informative boards about the sanctuary’s flora and fauna, ideal for seniors who prefer a relaxed pace.
1.5 hours
Guided Jungle Safari on the Anshi Core Route
Take a forest department jeep safari along the designated trails inside Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot gaurs, sambar deer, and occasionally the elusive black panther in the dense canopy. The route passes through evergreen and semi-evergreen forests typical of the Western Ghats.
3 hours
Night Walk with Forest Guards (Permit Required)
Join a guided night walk on the sanctuary’s service roads with a forest guard, using torchlight to spot nocturnal life like civets, mouse deer, and possibly a leopard or black panther crossing the path. This is a rare, immersive experience that requires prior permission from the Anshi range office and is limited to small groups.
2 hours
Top Attractions
Dandeli Wildlife Range Interpretive Center (at Kulgi)
A small educational hub with exhibits on local flora, fauna, and tribal history, including maps and wildlife sightings log. Guides here provide orientation for first-time visitors to the sanctuary.
Kali River Viewpoint (near Dandeli side)
A scenic overlook where the Kali River cuts through the lush green valley, offering panoramic views of the sanctuary’s western ghats. A calm spot for birdwatching and photography, especially at sunrise.
Travel Tips
Book the safari and entry permits in advance online
Permits for Anshi are limited and often sold out on weekends, so reserve them via the Karnataka forest department website at least a week ahead. This avoids last-minute disappointment and long queues, which is especially helpful for senior travellers.
Hire an official naturalist or guide for your group
A trained guide not only enhances your experience but also ensures the group stays on safe, designated paths and avoids risky encounters. For senior travellers, guides can adjust the pace and point out resting spots, making the trip far more comfortable.
Carry a light rain jacket and wear sturdy, non-slip footwear
The sanctuary is lush and can get sudden drizzles even in dry months, making trails slippery. Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip, and keep a foldable rain poncho in your daypack for comfort during short walks.
Plan your visit between 6:30 am and 9:30 am for best wildlife sighting
Early mornings are cooler and animals are most active, so start your safari right at gate opening. For group travellers, this also means less heat and easier walking for seniors during the first half of the trip.
Carry your own water bottles and light snacks, but avoid plastic bags
There are no shops inside the sanctuary, and dehydration can hit quickly in the forest humidity. Use refillable steel bottles and pack dry snacks like biscuits or fruits; remember that plastic carry bags are banned, so bring a cloth bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal time is between November and March, when the weather is dry and pleasant, and animals like bison, deer, and elephants are more likely to gather near waterholes. Avoid the heavy monsoon months (June to September) as trails become slippery and many forest roads close.
Common sightings include Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, wild boar, macaques, and a variety of birds like hornbills and kingfishers. Tigers and leopards are present but extremely rare to spot; you are more likely to see their pugmarks or hear alarm calls from deer.
Yes, but with planning. Most safaris are done in 4x4 gypsies or shared jeeps on bumpy forest tracks, so you should be comfortable with moderate jostling. For easier viewing, book a boat safari on the Kali River (which borders the sanctuary) or request a slower, shorter safari route in advance with your lodge.
Yes, an entry permit is required for all visitors, which is usually arranged by your resort or a local tour operator in Dandeli. You can also get a day pass at the forest checkpost near the sanctuary entrance, but it is safer to book through a registered agency to avoid delays and ensure you have a guide.
Carry light, long-sleeved clothing in neutral colours (olive, beige) to blend in with the forest, plus a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Bring your own water bottle and light snacks, but avoid strong perfumes; also pack a small cushion or folded jacket to soften the jeep seats for the bumpy ride.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 1
Arrive at Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning, settling into your lodge near the Kali River. Spend the first day acclimatizing to the dense Western Ghats forest, with a focus on easy walks and a gentle boat ride. The afternoon is perfect for spotting birds and langurs near the water, while the evening offers a chance to hear the jungle come alive.
- Morning nature walk along the sanctuary’s forest edge, looking for Malabar giant squirrels and hornbills.
- Afternoon boat ride on the Kali River, watching for crocodiles, otters, and kingfishers along the banks.
- Evening jeep safari on the main forest road (permit required), hoping for early sightings of sambar deer or wild boar.
Day 2
Rise before dawn for an intensive safari into the core zone of the Dandeli side of the tiger reserve, where black panther sightings are rare but possible. After a mid-morning break, continue with a slower drive through bamboo and evergreen patches, learning about the forest’s ecology from a local naturalist. The day ends with a short sunset trek to a viewpoint overlooking the canopy.
- Early morning 4x4 safari (6:00 AM start) through the moist deciduous forest, with guides tracking pugmarks and listening for alarm calls.
- Mid-morning visit to the Ulavi temple area (if open), a peaceful spot surrounded by thick forest, good for birdwatching.
- Late afternoon guided trek to a ridge viewpoint (about 2 km), offering panoramic views of the Kali River valley and a chance to spot flying eagles.
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Tour Packages for Anshi Wildlife Sanctuary
Dandeli
Karnataka
4 place(s) covered within Dandeli
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