Kabini: Places to Visit and Things to Do Guide for 2024
Want to experience a true escape into the wildlife? Then, head to Kabini National Park. In the past, it was a hunting ground for Maharajas and British rulers. But today, the government of Karnataka has made a lot of efforts to create a wildlife sanctuary, preserving the rich biodiversity here. Apart from the wildlife, there are many places to see in Kabini. Kabini is located on the Kabini river bank in the Kodagu region. Heading here exposes you to an adventurous weekend enjoying wildlife safaris like boat safaris, jungle safaris, and even riding an elephant into the jungle.
The wildlife sanctuary in Kabini shares the ecosystem with Nagarhole Tiger Reserve in the Nilgiris. Once you reach Kabini, you can indulge in so many things to do in Kabini, like trekking, safaris, cycling, and nature walks. Kabini sightseeing places include Kabini Dam, Kutta, the small village near Kabini, Nagarhole National Park, and more.
The best time to visit Kabini is between November and June, when the season and the climate ensure spotting of wildlife. Ready to learn more about things and places to see in Kabini? Let’s go.
Places to visit in Kabini
Kabini Dam
One of the best places to visit in Kabini is the Kabini Dam. It is built on the Kabini River, a tributary of the Cauvery. The dam will form a reservoir known as Kabini Reservoir near Sargur town. Visitors come to experience tranquility, and the reserve is a preferred picnic spot. If you are an engineering enthusiast, then too, you should come to explore the Kabini Dam and its reservoir.
It was built in 1974 on the river, and exploring the dam and the flora and fauna surrounding the valley to immerse in it is perfect. It used to be a hunting place for British officers and Maharajas, but today it is the source of water for people of Karnataka.
How to Reach here:
- Take a flight to the nearest airport—Bangalore or Mangalore—and take a private cab to Kabini Dam. (3-4 hours of reach time).
- Kutta and Mysore railway stations are connected to many cities. Mysore is connected to many cities and is 80 km from Kabini. From the station, take a cab to the dam.
- Bangalore and Mysore both run bus services to nearby places to Kabini, like Kutta. From there, taking a taxi or local transport is easy. Driving your private car to Kabini is also an option.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
What to Carry: Sunscreen, snacks, water and a camera.
Entry Fee: Free
Popular For: Picnic
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Kabini Waterfalls
Kabini waterfall is a hidden gem in Karnataka, unexplored and awaiting the adventurous. Kabini waterfall is breathtaking and an ideal place for nature lovers to head to. Here are the main waterfalls of the region.
Iruppu Falls
This cascading waterfall is near Nagarhole National Park at a distance of 48 km, offering beautiful experiences. Trekking through the dense forests takes you to the stunning waterfall, falling several tiers to create a crystal-clear pool. Taking a dip here is allowed.
Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is in Coorg, but if in Kabini, do head to this gorgeous place. The spice and coffee plantations nearby simply offer the best of nature and agriculture. There is a hanging bridge near the falls, ideal for photography.
Gaganachukki Falls
It is located 130 km from Kabini and is a spectacular waterfall that you cannot miss. A twin waterfall, it is formed when the Cauvery River splits. The water cascaded at a height of 90 m, and the view was breathtaking. If you head here during the monsoon, the experience is more immersive.
Kabini Backwater
One of the most fantastic things to do in Kabini is to head to Kabini Backwater. There is a viewpoint here in Kittu where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Kabini River. The sunset and sunrise here are memorable views too. Camping here is possible too and lets you spot animals like a tiger. It is one of the best places to indulge in wildlife photography. It is also the starting point for many hikes or treks into the nearby jungle.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Popular for: sunset, sunrise, camping, and wildlife photography
Entry Fee: Free
What to Carry: sunscreen, camera, camping gear, and comfortable trekking shoes.
Nagarhole National Park
In the Mysore district of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is known for its impressive biodiversity. The flora and fauna here are of various kinds. It is located near Bandipur National Park and has the best raw beauty ever.
The varied topography and forest cover offer gentle slopes, shallow valleys, and streams, making it a haven for anyone looking for solitude and nature. The Kabini River flows on the north!
Moreover, you can also see many reptiles here, like tortoises, monitor lizards, toads, and vine snakes.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Popular for: sunset, sunrise, camping, and wildlife photography
Entry Fee: INR 50 (Indian); INR 1500 (foreigner).
You can Book Nagarhole Safari Package from Here:
Banasura Sagar Dam
Some few km away from Kabini, there is one of the best places to see near Kabini in Wayanad—Bannasura Sagar Dam. It has a clean water reservoir surrounded by beautiful green hills dotted with tiny islands. If you are into photography, this is the best place to be. It is quite famous for being the largest Indian earthen dam. The dam uses mounds of boulders and stones to create a strong embankment. You will find this dam across the River Karamanathodu, which is a tributary of the River Kabini. It is one of the best places to enjoy a picnic, as the small islands, reservoir, and dam make it a beautiful space. You can also indulge in many adventurous activities here, like ziplining, trekking, camel riding, speed boating, and horseback riding.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Popular for: camel riding, ziplining, trekking, speed boating, and more.
Cost: INR 40 (adults); INR 20 (children)
Mastigudi Temple
Another one of the best places to visit in Kabini is the Mastigudi temple. It is nestled on the Kabini river dam in Balle Shibira. It honors Goddess Mastamma, another name of Goddess Parvati. It stands tall near Malabar and the old Mysore road and is submerged after the construction of Kabini Dam. The main idol here is Lord Ganesha, and it is a simple idol carved on a massive rock. During the summers, when the water is released for irrigation purposes from the reservoir, the idol is seeing a magical moment. Only the idol remains, but it is known for its spirituality, and anyone who passes the forests seeks its blessings.
Best time to visit: in the summers
Price: None
Mastigudi Temple
Another one of the best places to visit in Kabini is the Mastigudi temple. It is nestled on the Kabini river dam in Balle Shibira. It honors Goddess Mastamma, another name of Goddess Parvati. It stands tall near Malabar and the old Mysore road and is submerged after the construction of Kabini Dam. The main idol here is Lord Ganesha, and it is a simple idol carved on a massive rock. During the summers, when the water is released for irrigation purposes from the reservoir, the idol is seeing a magical moment. Only the idol remains, but it is known for its spirituality, and anyone who passes the forests seeks its blessings.
Best time to visit: in the summers
Price: None
Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island, or Dweep, is in Wayanad and is ideal for photographers or experience seekers alike. It is not inhabited by humans, but you will find many other living species here. In the middle of the Kabini River, you will find this island protected by the River Delta and known for its diverse and rich flora and fauna. If you want to experience solitude and peace, this is the place to go, as it is unpopulated.
Best time to visit: year round except monsoon
Timings: 9 am to 3:30 pm
Popular for:
Cost: INR 110 (Indians); INR 200 (foreigners). Camera requires extra charges of INR 50.
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
20 minutes from Manathavad on the Kodagu road is Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a beautiful destination that should be on your list for Kabini sightseeing places. The wildlife sanctuary offers a jeep ride, offering you a chance to see many bird and animal species in their natural habitats. Here you will witness many gaurs, deer, monkeys, leopards, bears, and other species of fish and reptiles.
Timings: 7 am–10 am; 2 pm–5 pm.
Popular for: rich species of reptiles, fish, and other exotic animals.
Cost: INR 115 (adults); INR 40 (kids).
Brahmagiri Hills
Brahmagiri Hills near Kabini is one of the best places to trek. In Wayanad, it is a popular trek with impressive views and is also beginner-friendly. Trekking to the Brahmagiri Hills requires an intense 3-hour climb as you reach the peak at a height of 1608 meters. The trek to Brahmagiri will start from the Forest Department camp at Thirunelli and is a long walk of 10 km. There is a watchtower up above the hills, which is ideal for finding gaurs or elephants.
Rameshwara Temple
Ramanathaswamy Temple is known for its beautiful imposing structure, intricate sculptures, architectural marvel, and more. The deity here is worshiped in the lingam form. You will also find an idol of Nandi, which is a huge statue. Moreover, there are many other deities here, like Goddess Vishalakshi, Lord Vinayaka, Utsava idol, Perumal, and Lord Subrahmanya.
You will also find 22 holy water bodies or theerthams inside this temple. It is said that bathing here atones devotees of their sins. The temple is located on the banks of the Lakshmana Tirtha River, Nagarhole.
Best time to visit: October to March
Entry fee: None
How to reach: Rameswaram Bus Station, about 2 km away; Madurai International Airport, about 179 km away; Rameswaram Railway Station.
Things to Do in Kabini
Go on Safaris
There are three safari options in Kabini, these are:
Elephant Safari
An elephant safari is one of the most thrilling things in Kabini. In this, you venture inside the jungle on an elephant’s back, making for an unforgettable experience. The elephants will calmly help you explore the surroundings of the jungles. The guides will take you to the best parts of the jungle, allowing you to observe the different birds and animals.
- Timings: 6:30 am to 3:30 pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Skill Level Required: Easy
- Cost: INR 900/person
Jungle Safari
One of the best ways of exploring the Kabini region in the Nagarhole National Park is through jungle safari. The jungle safari takes you to the heart of the jungle, where you can spot many animals like herds of elephants, Indian gaur, spotted deer, wild boar, tigers, sambar deer, and black leopards—”Saya. ”Even the landscape and fauna here will appeal to you a lot. There are many streams here allowing you to take impressive photographs.
- Timings: 5:30 am to 7 pm
- Duration: 1.5 hours to 2 hours
- Skill Level Required: Easy
- Cost: INR 1,500/person
Boat safari
One of the most unique things to do in Kabini is to take a boat safari. It lets you bask in the natural green surroundings deeper into the jungle. The boat safari exposes you to the river wildlife, like the crocodiles lying around in their natural habitat or the smooth-coated otter playing in the water. You also see the beautiful water birds here. Another beautiful thing about the boat safari is that it allows you to see a beautiful sunset and interact with the local village people, observing their everyday lives. The dense forest cover makes the boat safari a must-do experience.
- Timings: 6:30 am to 6:30 pm
- Duration: 3 hours
- Skill Level Required: Easy
- Cost: INR 2000/person
Stays in the Resorts near Kabini
Kabini is surrounded by beautiful and picturesque nature, making it a hub for wildlife lodges and resorts. There are many resorts here in the heart of the forests. These include:
Kabini River Lodge:
The lodge promises sightings of elephants, deer, gaurs, leopards, and tigers. It used to be a hunting lodge, but now it is one of the top lodges in Kabini. Here you are not just a tourist but also an explorer, enjoying the best of Kabini. The lodge also gives you unique safari experiences to explore the jungles.
- Best time to visit: March, April, and May
- Price: INR 8,775 (including safaris)
Evolve Back, Kabini:
Want to have a beautiful experience living in the wood area? Then, evoking Kabini is the best experience that your heart will desire. An exotic resort, it gives you the chance to rejuvenate away from the chaos of the city. The interiors are of ethnic style, giving you a luxurious feel. There are many luxurious activities like safaris or bathing in the ocean, making your stay more adventurous.
- Best time to visit: May to April
- Price: INR 29,999
The Red Earth Resort:
The Red Earth resort in Kabini is nestled on Kabini Dam backwaters. One of the most beautiful Kabini resorts, it guarantees a tranquil and serene atmosphere to the guests. It is luxurious but offers a homely atmosphere with the best amenities ever. If you want a fine dining experience, this is the best place to be. There are many activities to do, like going on wildlife safaris, fishing trips in coracles, bird-watching, and more. Also, the resort lets you try to explore the two Tibetan monasteries nearby.
- Best time to visit: September to May.
- Price: INR 24,449 (start price)
Go for Trekking
A great thing to do in Kabini is trekking. All adventure lovers can choose one of the many trekking courses to visit Kabini. As you trek the mountainous path here, the experience is simply amazing, and trekking and exploring Kabini means exploring the western ghats. The greenery and nature make trekking here to the famous hillocks like Brahmagiri Hills impressive. You can trek to the highest peak of Tadiandamol at 1770 meters. Ensure to carry enough water and snacks to stay hydrated. If you are new to trekking, make sure to book a guide for yourself.
- Timings: 6.30 AM to 10.00 AM
- Duration: Depend on the trekking route you take.
- Skill Level Required: Easy to moderate
- Cost: Free
Bike Riding in Kabini
A great activity that is loved by all is bike riding in Kabini. As you ride along with the beautiful breeze, you will have the pleasure of uncovering the greenery of Kabini. If you are looking for thrill, bike riding in Kabini is ideal for you. For a bicycling enthusiast, there are a few great trails at Nagarhole National Park.
- Timings: 6.30 AM to 5.00 PM
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Skill Level Required: Easy to moderate
- Cost: INR 200-300 per person
Bird Watching
Are you an avid bird watcher? Then, head to Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy watching birds of multiple shapes and sizes. There are so many bird species here that it is a haven for bird watchers. The resorts and lodges here can help you guide where to watch the birds and what time. So, be sure to choose the top lodges or resorts in Kabini.
- Best time: December and February
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Cost: Free
Photography Expeditions
Kabini and Nagarhole provide a beautiful, lush landscape for photography enthusiasts. As you immerse yourself in the wildlife of Kabini, do not forget to take photographs of everything you see here. The serene Kabini River also adds a layer of charm, which makes the photography expedition a must-do for all. There are many agencies or even lodges providing you the option to go on a photography expedition here.
- Cost: Starts at INR 42,000 (including safaris and photography assistance).
- Best time: February and October
Nature Walks
As you start your day in Kabini, start it with a nature walk to get a glimpse of the sun rising from the Kabini River. The best nature walk is this only, as you are exposed to the chirping of many species of birds here, from Asian Koel to Grey Heron. On your nature walk, you will also spot many animals, like tigers or even a herd of elephants. On your nature walk, you can certainly carry a camera to capture the wildlife and fora here. Many lodges and resorts here also provide guided nature walks included usually in the room package.
Cycling Tours
When in Kabini and want to enjoy anything other than wildlife safaris, you should go cycling. It is a thrilling activity, allowing you to enjoy different things and learn new things too. If you are daring and are looking for adventures, cycling here is impressive. There are many unbeaten paths you can head to.
Camping, bonfire, and barbecue
Piyush Nirban
Piyush Nirban is a dedicated wildlife enthusiast and the author of KabiniNationalPark.org, a premier resource for booking Kabini safaris and discovering the wonders of Kabini. With extensive experience exploring Kabini's rich biodiversity, Piyush combines a deep passion for nature with professional expertise to provide insightful and accurate information about the park's wildlife, rivers, and attractions. Piyush has spent countless hours in the Kabini region, gaining firsthand knowledge of its unique ecosystems. His commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism drives the content on this site, aimed at educating and inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect this remarkable destination.
Camping, barbecues, and bonfires are limited in Kabini, but you can still take part in them depending on the lodge or resort you are staying in. Also, many lodges and organized tour operators offer organized wildlife camping experiences in predefined areas. This ensures minimal impact on the environment and can help you enjoy all these activities too.
FAQs: Kabini Places to Visit & Things to Do
What is the best time to visit Kabini?
Between the months of November to June, visiting Kabini is perfect. During these months, you can experience all the best things Kabini offers. At the same time, the winters are ideal for exploring the flora and fauna here.
Which are the best resorts/hotels near Kabini Dam?
Waterwork Resorts, Kabini:
In the heart of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, there are Waterwork resorts a few steps away from the Kabini River. The backwaters and wildlife of Kabini make the perfect background for this place. The resort has many rooms with modern amenities, wood flooring, a swimming pool, a recreation room, and more.
The Seria resorts
One of the most premium resorts in Kabini is the Seria resort, offering peace and a relaxed holiday. It is set amidst the Nilgiri Reserve, sprawling over 70 acres of land. The resort exposes you to beautiful wildlife and offers the finest dining, recreational, and accommodation facilities.
The Bison Resort
At the confluence of Nagarhole and Bandipur National Park is the Bison resort. The resort is a mix of British and East African architecture. The view of forests and wild animals enjoying their natural habitats is simply blissful.
Is one day enough for Kabini?
To fully explore Kabini and its beauty, including the safaris and more, it is better to allocate at least 2-3 days. That will allow you to enjoy the place better.
Which hill stations are near Kabini?
There are a few hill stations near Kabini. The famous include:
Ooty: 122 km away from Kabini, this hill station is one of the best in Nilgiris Hills, attracting a large number of tourists.
Wayanad: Another place to see near Kabini is Wayand, 100 km from Kabini, another beautiful town to visit. Home to many animals and birds like lions, tigers, Asian elephants, and more, it is the perfect getaway.
Coorg: 119 km from Kabini is Coorg, a hill station known for its evergreen coffee plants and forests.