Nagarhole-the feral wild (Photo Gallery)

The enchanting 247 square-mile park was originally designated as a game sanctuary. Nagarhole, in the Coffee land of Coorg was declared a National park in 1974. It has recently been renamed 'Rajiv Gandhi National Park.' Gentle slopes and shallow valleys surround it on all sides. Huge herds of Asian Elephants flock here together and it is blessed with wildlife abundance. You find a variety of trees and shrubs often making it a sanctuary for illegal timber traders. Among reptiles, the marsh crocodile, monitor lizard, rock python and several other species can be found. Aquatic and terrestrial tortoises, frogs, toads and tree frogs and a myriad insects, including some very colourful butterflies, adorn this lovely southern jungle of India.

Getting there:

Air: Nearest Airport is Bangalore.

Rail: Nearest rail junction is Mysore.

Road: 5hrs from Bangalore.

Accommodation:
The King's Sanctuary, Jungle Inn

Nearest Destination : Kabini

Weather and Best Time To Visit:
Nagarahole National Park has a moderate climate, with 3 seasons;
Summer - March to May (33°C maximum)
Monsoon - June to September (1300mm - 1800 mm rainfall)
Winter - November to February (14° C minimum)

Best season to visit November- February