In 1974, this sanctuary was established on an area of 322.4 sq. km. Later, in the year 1987, it was extended to its present area of 539.52 sq. km. B.R Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled in the eastern most edge of the Western Ghats, and lies in the midst of Western and the Eastern Ghats, proving an important link between the two Ghats.
The wildlife sanctuary is a treasure house of both fauna and flora. It supports a large number of rare and endangered Indian Wildlife species. The undulating landscape contains around 800 species of plants that are typical of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is also famous for endemic species of plants, including plants with medical properties.
The idyllic habitat shelter around 270 species of birds. A total of 26 mammal species, about 22 species of reptiles and 116 species of butterflies have been recorded.
The sanctuary is situated at an elevation of around 3,375 ft above sea level, and is predominantly covered with shoals and deciduous forests. River Cauvery flows along the south-east and at Kollegal takes a sudden detour towards the north and again returns to its original course.
Flora: Scrub, deciduous, riparian, evergreen, sholas and grasslands, and more.
Fauna: Gaurs, chitals, sambars, bears, elephants, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, jungle cat, sloth bears, civet, mongoose, giant squirrel, porcupine, common langur, bonnet macaque, wild pig, spotted deer and four-horned antelope.
Avian-Fauna: Malabar whistling thrush, yellow throated bulbul, paradise flycatcher, racquet-tailed drongo and crested hawk eagle, and more.
Major Attractions:
Jeep Safaris: The jeep ride is the best way to explore, discover and observe the wildlife beauties in their most pristine habitation.
Elephant rides: Watching the splendour of BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary sitting on a trained elephant is a thrilling and an unforgettable experience.
Other Places to Visit:
Parsons Valley: This valley is located in the Nilgiris district in Mukkurthi Peak. The valley is a popular destination for nature lovers, trekkers and also wildlife enthusiasts. For trekkers, Parsons Valley is the base from where they can follow the trekking trails leading to various spots in Western Ghats.
Location: BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kemmannagundi Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka.
Area: 540 sq. km
Route: The sanctuary is well-connected with Bangalore and Mysore. Buses and taxis are available from these major cities of Karnataka to reach the Sanctuary. From Bangalore, one can reach the sancatury via Kanakapura / Halagur. And, from Mysore, the sanctuary can be reached via Malavalli. Both the nearest airport and the closest rail junction are in Bangalore.
Best Time to Visit: September to May.
Things to keep in mind:
• Prior permission is required from the forest department at Chamrajnagar.
