Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries of Karnataka. Situated in the Shimoga (Shivamogga) district of Karnataka, this wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary covers an area of 395.6 sq. km. The sanctuary is divided into three zones, namely- core zone, buffer zone and tourism zone. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary on 23rd November, 1974.
The Tunga Anicut Dam is situated within the sanctuary and provides shelter for otters and water birds. The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is also a part of the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a popular bird nesting site situated on an island in the midst of Tunga River. The Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary attracts tourists and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Quick Facts
- Timing of Sanctuary: Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week except Tuesday
- Timing of Safari: Open from 10:00 AM to 01:30 PM, and from 2:00 PM to 05:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Required
- Photography: Allowed
- Video Camera: Allowed against extra charge
- Visit duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Best time to visit: From November to January
Diverse flora of Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimoga
Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is mainly covered by tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. The eastern and central parts are mostly covered by dry and moist deciduous forests while the western parts have semi-evergreen forests.
Among the common variety of flora found here are Cassia fistula, Kydia calycina and Wrightia tinctoria.
Varied fauna and avifauna of Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimoga
Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous species of wild animals. Mammals such as the Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Jackal, Spotted Dear, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Giant Flying Squirrel, Pangolin, Porcupine, Common Mongoose, Bonnet Macaque, Sloth Bear, Common Langur, Wild Pig, and various others can be found inside the sanctuary.
The reptile population of the sanctuary includes King Cobra, Crocodile, Marsh Crocodile, Python, etc.
The avifauna of the sanctuary includes several species of exotic birds. Bulbuls, Parakeets, Woodpeckers, Doves, Munias, Hornbills, Kingfishers, Pigeons, Babblers, Flycatchers, Swallows, Peafowl, Jungle fowl and Partridges are some of the species that can be spotted within the sanctuary.
Attractions of Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimoga
The Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary offers some very interesting activities for adventure enthusiasts. Such activities include:
- Jungle safari that allows visitors to have a look at the wild animals from close quarters
- Watching rare species of birds that flock to their nesting site
How to reach the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary
The Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is a major tourist attraction near Shimoga. The place is accessible by various means of transport. The sanctuary lies at a distance of about 326 km from Bangalore.
By Air
The nearest airport to reach Shimoga is located in Mangalore that lies at a distance of around 165 kilometres. Private vehicles are available to reach the wildlife sanctuary from the airport.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is located in Shimoga. Visitors can take trains from major cities of Karnataka to reach Shimoga. Taxis and local buses are available from the railway station to reach the sanctuary.
By Road
The Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is well connected by the road network. Several buses connect Shimoga to various parts of Karnataka. From Shivamogga visitors can easily take a local bus or taxi to reach the sanctuary. Private vehicles can also be hired by visitors to reach the sanctuary from nearby cities and towns.
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