Dandeli is a picturesque town situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is famed as one of the top white-water rafting destinations in India, and among the must include places in Karnataka Tour Packages. Dandeli is a perfect place for adventure lovers, bird watchers, photographers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts as it boasts a wide range of natural places, thick wildlife, and the undisturbed landscape is perfect to give you immense reasons for coming here again and again. The melodious sound of birds, fresh air, and surrounding greenery will fill visitors’ hearts with glory and joy.
Here are the top reasons why you should backpack to this ideal getaway with your loved one and get wild and adventurous!
Adventure Water Sports
If you are an adventure buff and want an ultimate dose of adrenaline rush then, Dandeli is the great spot in Karnataka which gives you an immense range of activities. White water rafting is one of the most exciting things to do here as part of Dandeli Tour Packages as t provides seamless chances to both beginners as well as professional rafting lovers. Done in the rubber boats with 7 to 8 people, the rafting starts from Ganeshgudi and ends up in Moulangi, covering a stretch starting from 4 km to 9 km, and is accompanied by the experts. A grueling four-hour ride on vulnerable-looking inflatable boats across the meandering length of Kali conquering rumbling rapids on the way is the real challenge for adventure junkies. The taste of victory when you complete the journey is exhilarating and makes you forget the overwhelming fatigue in a blink. Apart from rafting, one can also enjoy kayaking, zorbing, river crossing, and coracle boat ride here. Rafting is open from October to May and closed during the monsoon. However, white water rafting is entirely dependent on the release of water from the Supa Dam.
Fascinating Wildlife
Besides white water rafting in the Kali River, Dandeli is well-known for its exotic wildlife as it is home to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, the second largest sanctuary in Karnataka. Among the best places to visit in Dandeli, the sanctuary is a natural habitat for several wildlife animals including big cats such as tigers, leopards, and even black panthers, elephants, gaur, deer, antelopes, many kinds of reptiles, and a rich variety of birds. This sanctuary is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, housing nearly 200 species of birds. The star attraction of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is different types of hornbills include grey hornbill, great pied hornbill, and Malabar pied hornbill. The wildlife lovers can enjoy the jungle safaris and boat safaris in the area of Dandeli. Safaris in open jeeps into the sanctuary accompanied by trained naturalists are the best way to view wildlife at Dandeli.
Also Read : Top Wildlife Sanctuaries in Karnataka
Trekker’s Delight
Jungle trekking is an adventurous journey in the thick Dandeli forest where visitors can explore nature, wildlife & birds. This is really an adventurous activity in Dandeli Forest, usually undertaken by young tourists. The thick evergreen jungles and colorful birds will give you an unforgettable experience. There are numerous trekking routes available in the area that includes Kavala Caves trek, Kulgi-Nagzari Valley trek, and Potoli-Shiroli trek, and also there are some activities run by the forest department. Kulgi-Nagzari Valley trek is hard and is about a 15 km long trek which takes about 8 hours. Potoli-Shiroli is a 13 km medium difficulty trek and takes 5-6 hours. Boarding facilities are available and these treks begin from Kulgi Nature Camp.
Also Read : Best Trekking Destinations in Karnataka
Natural Jacuzzi Bath
A traditional Jacuzzi Bath is made in an artificial setting of a hot water bathtub. But, one can get a natural Jacuzzi because of the flow of water through the rocks at Dandeli, top places to visit in Karnataka. If you are in Dandeli, then don’t miss this place as the water is believed to have medicinal and healing properties that attract a number of tourists as part of Dandeli Packages. The water that flows down from Supa Dam takes the shape of the river known as Kali and splashes the water on the black stones. It is a great place to rejuvenate and relax with the springs of water, the aroma of flowers and woods around, the chirping of birds, and the lush green surroundings under the open-wide sky. Also, the panoramic landscapes are truly spectacular that is formed by these marvels of mother nature. Besides, people of all age groups can take part in this activity as the trained guide will take you to this spot in a boat.
Explore Kavala Caves
Surrounded by lush greenery from all sides, Kavala caves are natural caves located deep inside the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Also known as Limestone Caves or Sidda, it is believed that these caves have been in existence since prehistoric times due to volcanic eruptions and are counted among the most iconic tourist attractions in Dandeli. The caves consist of stalagmites and have a network of narrow passages, some of which can only be accessed by crawling. Tourists need to climb down 375 steps to reach the entrance where one can spot the temple. From there, one has to crawl down 40 feet through winding, narrow tunnels to see the naturally formed Shivalinga which is about 4 feet high and has a diameter of approximately 3-4 feet. Also, there is an udder-shaped stone formed over the Linga from which water trickles all the time. At present, the caves are inhabited by numerous snakes and bats. Besides, the trek back from the caves in the other way is even more beautiful with a view of the Kali River flowing down the valley of Dandeli, one of the best places to experience Karnataka Tourism.