Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Kali Tiger Reserve, located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, is one of the most important protected forests of the Western Ghats. Formerly known as Dandeli–Anshi Tiger Reserve, it was renamed Kali Tiger Reserve in 2015 after the Kali River, which flows through the landscape. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2007, it protects extensive evergreen forests, river valleys and rugged hills that support tigers, elephants, black panthers and a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Karnataka
District	Uttara Kannada
Tiger Reserve Notification	2007
Total Area	1,097.51 sq km
Core Area	814.88 sq km
Buffer Area	282.63 sq km
Landscape	Central Western Ghats
Forest Types	Tropical Evergreen, Semi-evergreen, Moist Deciduous
Major Rivers	Kali River, Kaneri River and perennial streams
Best Time to Visit	October to May

Location

The reserve lies in the Western Ghats of Karnataka close to the Goa border and connects with other protected forests, creating an important wildlife corridor.

History

Anshi National Park and Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary were brought together under Project Tiger in 2007. In 2015 the reserve was officially renamed Kali Tiger Reserve, reflecting the ecological importance of the Kali River.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve covers 1,097.51 sq km, including 814.88 sq km of core area and 282.63 sq km of buffer. The terrain consists of steep forested hills, deep valleys, reservoirs and dense evergreen forests receiving heavy monsoon rainfall.

Flora

The vegetation includes dipterocarps, teak, rosewood, bamboo, cane, Terminalia, jamun, ficus, orchids, ferns and numerous medicinal plants typical of the Western Ghats.

Fauna

Major mammals include Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Black Panther, Asian Elephant, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel and Smooth-coated Otter. Birds include Great Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar Trogon and numerous endemic Western Ghats species. King Cobra, Indian Rock Python and Monitor Lizard are also found.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Kali River, Supa Reservoir and numerous perennial streams provide dependable water and sustain the reserve’s rich biodiversity.

Other Attractions

Dandeli, Syntheri Rocks, Kavala Caves, river rafting (outside protected tourism zones) and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Weather & Climate

The reserve experiences a humid tropical climate with heavy southwest monsoon rainfall, pleasant winters and moderate summers.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Hubballi, Belagavi and Goa (Manohar International). Nearest railway stations: Alnavar, Londa and Dharwad. Good road connectivity is available from Dandeli, Karwar and Hubballi.

Best Time to Visit

October to May is generally considered the best period for wildlife viewing and nature tourism.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Karnataka Tourism accommodation are available in and around the reserve, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Kali Tiger Reserve conserves one of the largest contiguous evergreen forests in southern India and is vital for the long-term survival of tigers, elephants and endemic Western Ghats wildlife.

Visitor Tips

Wear muted colours, avoid littering, maintain silence during safaris and follow all Forest Department regulations.

Did You Know?

• Kali Tiger Reserve was formerly known as Dandeli–Anshi Tiger Reserve.
• It is famous for sightings of melanistic (black) leopards.
• The reserve lies within the globally recognised Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

Last Updated

July 2026