Home | INFORMATION | Tiger Reserves | Other National Parks | Wildlife Sanctuaries | Bird Sanctuaries | Elephant Reserves | Endangered Species
Bhadra Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Bhadra Tiger Reserve, located in the central Western Ghats of Karnataka, is one of southern India’s finest protected landscapes. Originally notified as Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in 1951 and later renamed Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, it became a Tiger Reserve in 1998. The reserve is renowned for its evergreen and moist deciduous forests, the scenic Bhadra Reservoir, successful village relocation programme and healthy populations of tigers, leopards, elephants and gaur.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Karnataka |
| Districts | Chikkamagaluru and Shivamogga |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 1998 |
| Total Area | 1,064.29 sq km |
| Core Area | 492.46 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 571.83 sq km |
| Landscape | Central Western Ghats |
| Forest Types | Tropical Evergreen, Semi-evergreen, Moist & Dry Deciduous Forests |
| Elevation | Approximately 615–1,875 m |
| Major Rivers | Bhadra River, Tunga catchment streams |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
Location
Bhadra Tiger Reserve lies in the central Western Ghats of Karnataka and forms an important part of one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. It is well connected with Kudremukh National Park and other forest landscapes of the Western Ghats.
History
The area was first protected in 1951 as Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. It was later expanded and renamed Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Owing to its ecological importance, it was brought under Project Tiger in 1998. The voluntary relocation of villages from the core area is regarded as one of India’s most successful conservation initiatives, allowing natural habitats and wildlife populations to recover significantly.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering 1,064.29 sq km, the reserve comprises a core area of 492.46 sq km and a buffer area of 571.83 sq km. The landscape includes rugged hills, deep valleys, evergreen forests, shola patches, grasslands, plantations on the periphery and the Bhadra Reservoir. Heavy monsoon rainfall sustains perennial streams and dense vegetation, creating ideal habitat for large mammals and endemic Western Ghats fauna.
Flora
The reserve supports teak, rosewood, mathi, nandi, bamboo, Terminalia, ficus species, cane, medicinal plants and a rich diversity of orchids, ferns and evergreen tree species typical of the Western Ghats.
Fauna
Major mammals include Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel and Smooth-coated Otter. More than 300 bird species have been recorded, including Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon and several endemic laughingthrushes. King Cobra, Indian Rock Python, Monitor Lizard and numerous amphibians are also found.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Bhadra River originates in the Western Ghats and flows through the reserve before entering the Bhadra Reservoir. Numerous perennial streams provide year-round water for wildlife.
Other Attractions
Bhadra Reservoir boat safari, Muthodi and Lakkavalli safari zones, birdwatching, trekking (where permitted) and the scenic Western Ghats landscape are major attractions.
Weather & Climate
Summers are pleasant compared with much of peninsular India. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall from June to September, while winters are cool and ideal for wildlife tourism.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Mangaluru and Bengaluru. Nearest railway stations: Kadur, Birur and Shivamogga. The reserve is accessible by road from Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga and Bengaluru.
Best Time to Visit
October to May offers favourable weather, while the post-monsoon months provide lush scenery and excellent birdwatching.
Accommodation
Forest Department rest houses and Karnataka Tourism accommodation are available near the reserve, subject to advance booking and official regulations.
Conservation Highlights
Bhadra is recognised internationally for successful habitat restoration following village relocation. Camera-trap monitoring, anti-poaching camps, fire management and landscape connectivity continue to support viable tiger and elephant populations.
Visitor Tips
Book safaris in advance, wear neutral-coloured clothing, maintain silence, avoid littering and always follow Forest Department instructions.
Did You Know?
• Bhadra is known for one of India’s most successful voluntary village relocation programmes.
• It forms part of the globally important Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
• The reserve is famous for both jeep and boat safaris.
Last Updated
July 2026