Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

Wildlife

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Shimoga): 32 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1-2 Hours

Place Location: At Mandagadde Village

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 32 km from Shimoga, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small picturesque sanctuary on an island located in the River Tunga at Mandagadde village near Shimoga. Located on Solapur - Mangalore Highway, it is one of the few bird sanctuaries in Karnataka, and among the best places to visit near Shimoga.

Spans an area of 1.14 acres, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is one of the 20 important bird sanctuaries in India, and among the few bird sanctuaries in the Malnad region of Karnataka. The sanctuary is visited by migrant birds as the roaring waters of the mighty Tunga River provide ideal conditions for nesting and breeding of the lovely birds. This spot is very much adjacent to the National highway between Shimoga to Thirthalli and easily reachable.

A part of Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, Mandagadde sanctuary is important for bird nesting with over 5,000 birds here from July to September. The three most important of these species are Darters, Median Egrets, and Cormorants. The quaint little island is also graced by the presence of various other varieties, such as the Maiden Egret, Pied Kingfisher, Wooly Neck Stalk, Night Herons, Open-billed storks, etc. The birds prefer the top branches of the trees for nesting as the island is partially submerged by the swollen river Tunga during the monsoon.

The best season to visit would be between July and October, with August being the peak. The migratory birds come to the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka mainly in August. If you stroll around the place or trek you will be amazed by the chirping of birds. During the summer months, the state forest department has made arrangements for coracle rides that give you a closer look at the avian species. The scenic landscape, with misty mornings and numerous chances to capture just the right moments, appeals not only to all the photographers out there but rather to anyone that can appreciate the true beauty of Mother Nature.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free