Ranganathittu, a must visit haven of migratory birds in Karnataka

Ranganathittu, near Srirangapatna, and Kokkare Bellur, is a small hamlet on the banks of Cauvery. 

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is haven for migratory birds to roost and breed.

Birds migrate from as far as Russia, Siberia, North America making this largest bird sanctuary in Karnataka a very popular tourist destination.

The six islets along with its crocodile-infested backwaters is a breeding ground for many exotic and migratory birds.

You should take a guided tour boat at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary to watch birds, crocodiles, otters and bats.

This is a place where you should spend time with family and friends to your heart’s content. If you are on a tight scheduled quick 2 days trip to Mysore and in and around places, then do not include Ranganathittu in your itinerary. You are not doing any justice to your visit to Ranganathittu.

Who, When, Why this place was declared a protected area

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located at a distance of about 20 km from Mysore city.

When a dam across river Cauvery was built back in 1600, it gave way to the formation of Ranganathittu. 

Famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali observed that the area had wide variety of birds visiting for nesting and breeding. 

It was his ability to highlight the importance of this area and his efforts to convince the then Maharaja of Mysore to declare the area as protected and give it a status of Bird Sanctuary in 1940.

What to do at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Walk along the path with lots of sign boards.

Sit by the water staring at the crocodiles who stare back at you without blinking. You might also witness crocodile crawling back into the water or swallowing a bird. 

Watch the birds flying from one end to the other playfully aiming to catch fishes from within the water.

Understanding nature’s food cycle is easy here!

Take a boat ride to see marsh crocodiles and exotic birds from close.

Spend time chatting and giggling under the huge spread of bamboo trees.

 

Climb the watch tower and enjoy the beautiful picturesque setting

Meet people who share a great passion for bird photography. One gets to capture birds in real action and other dramas of the nature.

When is the best time to visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

The place welcomes nature lovers throughout the year.

But, if you are specifically looking for the time when the migratory birds flock here, then you should plan to visit Ranganathittu between the months of June and November

The sanctuary is open from 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM. The place has very nominal entry fee (per adult/child) and vehicle parking fees.

Distance from major nearby cities to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu is easily accessible via road. One can hire a taxi/auto rickshaw or self-drive by own vehicle or can even make use of government buses that ply frequently.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is well connected to many of the nearby major places. Approximate distance below –

Bangalore – 129 km

Mysore – 20 km

Srirngapatna – 5 km.

Thus, finding good food and accommodation should not be a problem while you are on a trip to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.

Your visit to this bird sanctuary is sure to make you think about some incredible things - live and let live, respect nature and observe the balance in the ecosystem.

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