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A weekend trip from Bangalore that involves driving through thriving paddy fields, rows of coconut trees and abundant water canals. And reaching a destination that offers much more than it promises, the abode of over 170 bird varieties. If all this sounds like a dream trip then rest-assured Ranganthittu is as real as it gets.
Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary is just 3 km from Sringapatna and 19 km from Mysore. This unique set of six isles on the river Kaveri's banks, is small in size but large in offering and provides an ideal weekend getaway from Bangalore city. Spanning an area of 40 acres, this sanctuary is smaller than most. However, it is loved by all nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers for the rich fauna and flora it offers.
Painted Stork (Photo Courtesy: Navaneeth KN)
The riverbank is covered with thick reed beds and green forests comprising of Arjun trees, Pandanus trees and plenty of Bamboo groves. It provides an excellent backdrop for the number of birds, small animals and reptiles found here.
On this one-day trip from Bangalore, birdwatchers can feast their eyes on the many kinds of birds both resident and migratory. Birds that come to the sanctuary to breed include the black Headed Ibis, Painted Stork, Eurasian Spoonbill, Wolly Necked Stork, Stork-Billed Kingfisher and Indian Shag among others. While many of them nest here, and leave after their offsprings are ready to fly, few others have made this their permanent home such as a flock of Pelicans.
Spot Billed Pelican (Photo Courtesy: Ritesh Nayak)
Ranganthittu bird sanctuary has a special status for being a breeding ground for more than 30 bird species. The winter months starting from December see flocks of birds coming in large numbers to the sanctuary.
The sanctuary with its park-like landscaping at the entrance and clean pathways is a delight to walk through. The main attraction however is the memorable experience of the boat-ride. The ticket costs Rs 50 per head and covers about 200 mt. During the ride you can not only catch a glimpse of the many birds here, but also the thrilling sight of crocodiles lazing on the riverbanks and rocks! If you are willing to pay a little more, you can go for 40 min ride across the river with family or friends and enjoy more of the interior parts the river has to offer.
Pied Kingfisher (Photo Courtesy: shrikant rao)
The boatmen who are well-versed on the topic of birds provide an additional benefit for those wanting to learn more about the birds. The other animals you might see include Bonnet Macaque, Flying Fox, Common Plain Civet, Indian Grey Mongoose and the Monitor Lizard. This is apart from the Mugger or Marsh Crocodile that you can see on rocks and river beds of the sanctuary. A fun fact about Ranganthittu is that it is famed to have the largest fresh water crocodile population in Karnataka, so beware about putting your hands in the water!
River Tern (Photo Courtesy: Hari Prasad Nadig)
How to Reach Ranganthittu
By Road: Situated at just 130 km from Bangalore, this is an ideal weekend getaway. You can take the Bangalore-Mysore road for a pleasant and scenic drive to Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary in Mandya District. Being a one-day travel destination, you can head back or opt for a stay in Mysore or Srirangapatna.
If you opt to travel by bus, you can head to Mysore (144 km) or Srirangapatna (125 km) and proceed from there by taxi.
Openbill Stork (Photo Courtesy: Hari Prasad Nadig)
By Rail: Trains are available from Bangalore city to Mysore and Srirangapatna.
By Air: Nearest airport is Mysore, 19 km from Ranganthittu.
Best Time to Visit Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary
The sanctuary timings are 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. Entry fee is Rs 50 for Indians and Rs 300 for non-Indians. The best time to see migratory birds is December. However, the ideal time for water nesting birds is between June - November.
