Dandeli, which is referred to as the adventure capital of South India, is a charming town in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district. Located in the Western Ghats and next to the Kali River, it is a great place to visit if you want to experience adventure, nature, and peace. Therefore, with our Dandeli tour packages, you can witness its wild beauty and daring spirit.
Adventure seekers can engage in ziplining, kayaking, and white water rafting over the swift-moving Kali River here. Additionally, in the rough terrain you can hike, camp, ride a mountain bike, and enjoy wildlife trips. Nature lovers can head to locations like Syntheri Rocks, Sathodi Falls, and Molangi Falls for beautiful walks and waterfall views.
Dandeli is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, especially within the famed Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. On thrilling jungle safaris, you can spot elusive creatures like black panthers, tigers, hornbills, Malabar civets, and sloth bears. Along with wildlife experiences, you can explore spiritual and historical sites like the Ulavi Temple in the Anshi Reserve Forest and the ancient Kavala Caves. Dandeli is often featured in curated South India tour packages, making it a perfect addition for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural heritage.
October to March is generally the best time to visit Dandeli, as the weather stays cool and there are plenty of adventurous things to do. Although the monsoon brings in a lot of rain, the scenery turns into a dense, green paradise.
Dandeli tourism provides every traveller with an outstanding mix of enjoyment, calm, and raw beauty by offering a complete escape into nature's untamed side.
1. Type of destination - adventure, wildlife, nature.
2. Prime season- October to March
3. Low Season- April to June
4. Languages spoken - Kannada, Konkani, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi
5. Local Modes of transport available –
1. By road- Dandeli can be reached by road from different parts of Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra. NH67 is the main highway that connects Dandeli to different parts of Karnataka via road and the journey can take anywhere between 2-3 hours. If you are coming from Goa, you can travel via NH748 and Mirjan - Ramnagar Rd which takes close to 2 hours 36 minutes to cover a distance of about 100.6 km. However, if you are coming via Pune then you can travel via NH48 which takes about 9 hours 24 minutes to cover a distance of around 442.5 kms.
2. By rail- Dandeli does not have a train station of its own, however, Londa (37.5 km), Alnavar (34.1 km), Hubli (73.4 km), and Dharwad (56.6 km) are the closest train stops. There are numerous trains that stop at these stations from places like Pune, Goa, Kerala, Hyderabad, and Ajmer. Upon reaching any of these stations, you can go to Dandeli by taking a local bus or hiring a cab. You can also take a train from Dharwad or Hubli to Alnavar and then drive the rest of the way.
3. By air- The fastest and most convenient way to reach Dandeli is by taking a flight to Hubli Airport Airport (HBX) which is around 66.2 kms away. Although this airport is a domestic one, it receives flights from all the major Indian cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore and Hyderabad.
1. Summer in Dandeli
2. Monsoon in Dandeli
3. Winter in Dandeli
These are the most popular places to visit in Dandeli, and are must-inclusions on your Dandeli tour!
A. Sathodi Falls - Sathodi Waterfall is a hidden gem near Yellapur that is often called the "Mini Niagara of Karnataka." It offers you a secret place to relax with its milky white plunge into a blue pool, compact forest trails, and beautiful picnic area. Here, in the cool water, surrounded by the beautiful Western Ghats, you can take a cool, refreshing dip.
B. Sykes ViewPoint - The beautiful cliff top spot in Dandeli is called Sykes View Point, after the British engineer William Robert Sykes spotted it. It is a peaceful place to get away with vast views of evergreen forests and where the Nagzari and Kali rivers meet. As you look out over this beautiful point, you can see giant hornbills, enjoy the sunset, and go on exciting hikes.
C. Shiroli Peak- Shiroli Peak, is the highest point in Uttara Kannada which is in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. It is 1934 feet high and offers you a 360-degree view of the Sahyadri mountains and sunsets. Nature enthusiasts come to find peace, while trekkers can come for a challenging walk.
D. Moulangi Eco Park- Moulangi Eco Park is a green forest getaway in Dandeli which is surrounded by tall bamboo trees and cliffs that are very steep. It's a popular destination for rock climbing, trekking, and camping, with peaceful jungle paths and animals like wild pigs and deer.
E. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary- In the middle of the Western Ghats, the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, offers you exciting encounters with wild animals like sloth bears, and wild dogs in the mountains and thick forests. You can go on safaris through river valleys, kayak through fast-moving water, or ride your bike along stunning tracks. You can also go on an unforgettable wildlife journey and spot black panthers, elephants, and rare birds like the Malabar pied hornbill.
As you travel around Dandeli, the following things to do in Dandeli are sure to leave you with lasting memories.
A. Take a Natural Jacuzzi Bath- The Kali River flows straight from the Supa Dam into the middle of Dandeli, making nature's own spa. In some places, the water from the river rushes over black volcanic rocks to make a natural Jacuzzi. You can thus pick a zone with a weak or strong stream, lie down on the warm rocks, and let the fast-moving water massage away your fatigue.
B. Visit the Dandelappa Temple- Dandeli's Dandelappa Temple is a well-known spiritual spot that is known for its quiet atmosphere and strong local beliefs. The god Dandelappa, after whom the town is named, is honoured at this holy temple.
C. Explore Anshi National Park- The Kali Tiger Reserve, which is situated in the Western Ghats, includes the breathtaking Anshi National Park. This place is a wildlife lover's dream, with black panthers, lots of birds like Red Spurfowl and Little Egret, and green jungles. You can go on safaris or hikes through the jungle, stay close to the forest or do exciting things like kayaking, biking, and birdwatching while taking in the sights.
D. Soak in the beauty of Magod Waterfalls- You can see the Bedti and Shalmala rivers falling 200 meters into a misty gorge at Magod Waterfall, which is one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka.
E. Seek Blessings at Ulavi Temple- Ulavi Temple is a holy spot for the Lingayat community, hidden away in the thick forests of the Western Ghats. Thousands of people come during the Ulavi Jatre to see the samadhi of the saint Channabasavanna, who lived in the 1200s. You can visit this temple to relax in its peaceful ambience and admire its Chalukyan style architecture
Here are the top adventure sports to try in Dandeli:
1. Coracle Ride: Take a traditional, light coracle boat out on the Kali River and glide along slowly. Made of woven rods and waterproof cloth, these round boats are a fun and relaxing way to explore the river with a guide.
2. Canyoning: You can have an exciting time in the Dandeli jungle rappelling, jumping, and sliding down waterfalls and mountain streams. This exciting journey, led by experts, pushes you to your limits in beautiful natural settings.
3. Kayaking: On the Supa Reservoir and the Kali River, people can go kayaking and learn how to paddle in both quiet and fast-moving water.
4. White-water rafting: The Kali River offers you exhilarating rapids that are suitable for both beginner and expert rafters, and this activity on the river lasts two to three hours.
Some of the top local dishes to try in Dandeli are listed here-
Note: You can also try Kesari Bath, Idli, Vada, Sambar, Mysore pak, Chiroti, and Jowar Roti with Ennegayi.
In addition to beautiful scenery, this location offers a number of unusual food options. Some of the best places to eat in Dandeli to try the food of the area are listed below:
1. Wooden Cottage, Stone Wood Premier: This in-house restaurant serves Indian, Chinese, and continental meals such as butter chicken and veg fried rice in a peaceful outdoor setting with forest views.
2. Al Barkat’s Cafe: This quick-serve restaurant is perfect for family dinners in a cozy environment or for quick bits of fried chicken, Indo-Arabic food, and momos.
3. D Cafe Family Restaurant : Known for its gobi Manchurian and chilli chicken, this cozy restaurant offers rapid delivery and plenty of parking while serving flavorful Indian-Chinese fusion.
4. The Golden Chef: This place has a nice atmosphere and is known for its fast service and juicy chicken biryani.
5. Shetty Lunch Home: Known for its paneer biryani and gobi 65, this laid-back South Indian restaurant is perfect for filling family dinners in a warm setting.
If you want a memorable and high-class stay while touring Dandeli, these lovely resorts in Dandeli offer the best in comfort and views.
1. Hornbill River Resort: The eco-resort is right next to the River Kali and has cabins and treehouses by the water, making it a great place for an intimate weekend in the forest.
2. Bison River Resort, Ganeshgudi: The eco-friendly riverside lodge has been open for more than 30 years and offers spacious lodging, dining by the water, and specially planned activities like stargazing, safaris, and bush dinners.
3. Dew Drops Jungle Resort: This resort, set in 14 acres of lush Acacia forest, offers you AC Deluxe Rooms, Commando Cottages, and Camping Tents at this resort, besides activities like jungle trekking.
4. Old Magazine House, Ganeshgudi: In this rustic jungle camp known for bird watching, bamboo huts, and dorm stays, you can do things like mountain biking, trekking, and rafting on the Kali River.
At night, Dandeli comes to life with its lively culture and offers a wide range of entertainment for tourists. Here are some ways to enjoy the area's busy nightlife:
Enjoy moonlight boating at Ganeshgudi near Supa Dam: Take a relaxing moonlit boat trip close to Supa Dam, which has calm waters and a romantic atmosphere that is ideal for taking in Dandeli's appeal at night.
Take a Night Safari in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary: Go on a guided night safari through thick forests to see leopards, civets, and flying squirrels in the otherworldly beauty of the wild.
Enjoy Riverside Camping at River Point: Camp beside the Kali River and enjoy thrilling activities like night kayaking, rain dancing, and bonfires before spending the night beneath the stars.
Indulge in Night Camping at Mountain Paradise: Stay in a warm tent in the jungle at Camp Exotica, which offers you great food and a perfect place to spend a quiet night under the stars.
In Dandeli, you can enjoy shopping for a wide range of one-of-a-kind crafts and local goods.
Note: You can also shop for traditional sarees, metal, and stone crafts
Dandeli is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts and is home to various markets and unique finds. Here are some of the must-visit spots for every shopper in the region:
1. Dandeli Market: At this busy marketplace that captures the flavours and daily life of Dandeli, you can purchase wild honey, bamboo crafts, regional spices, and snacks.
2. J.N. Road Market: At this market shop for unique souvenirs like handcrafted soaps, eco-friendly décor, beaded jewellery, and wooden keychains.
3. Ganesh Gudi Market: You can buy wild turmeric, homemade pickles, organic spices, and small items made by local artists in a calm village setting here.
4. Kulgi Nature Camp Souvenir Shop: In this shop within a nature camp you can purchase T-shirts with wildlife designs, handmade leaf art, guidebooks, and eco-friendly gifts for people who love nature.
Dandeli offers you a wealth of undiscovered treasures which include these following unusual places to go for a peaceful vacation:
1. Honey Park: You can learn how honey is made and why bees are important to nature in Dandeli's Honey Park. Families and curious tourists searching for something more than adventure can enjoy this educational experience.
2. Crocodile Park: The Crocodile Park located on the Kali River offers you a safe viewing ramp where you can see crocodiles in their native environment. There is also a play area for kids, walking paths, and statues of animals here which make it a great place for nature fans and photographers.
3. Nagoda Backwaters: These backwaters, which were created by the Nagoda Dam on the Kali River, provide you with peaceful views of the quiet waters and forested hills. Away from the busy tourist areas, you can sail, watch birds, or just spend a quiet morning here.
4. Ulavi Caves: Ulavi Caves are a group of natural rock shelters that you can reach after a short hike from the forested paths close to Dandeli. These caves are great for short wildlife walks, exploring caves, and people who want a low-key adventure in a peaceful area.
5. Syntheri Rocks: The Kaneri River sculpted this massive volcanic rock formation, which offers picturesque views and a riverbank trail. This is a good place to stop if you're interested in geology or just want to see a more natural but less crowded part of Dandeli.
Dandeli's culture festivals and events produce a lively and joyful atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. Therefore, prepare to enhance your trip by going to one of these:
Cultural festivals:
Events:
1. Wildlife spotting in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary – Take a jungle tour in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to spot Black panthers, elephants, and crocodiles. A wide variety of birds like golden-backed woodpeckers make this jungle a paradise for photographers, and birdwatchers as well.
2. Trek to Sathodi Waterfalls – Hike through the beautiful jungle of Yellarpur forests to get to Sathodi Falls, which are hidden there. Here, you can take pictures of nature and chill under the rectangular falls, which drop 15 metres into a turquoise pool.
3. Seek blessings at Dandelappa Temple – You can stop by the old Dandelappa Temple, which is dedicated to the god that the town is named after. Surrounded by abundant greenery, it is a quiet spiritual spot where tourists and travellers seek blessings and learn about Dandeli's history.
4. Jungle safari in Anshi National Park – Take a thrilling wildlife safari to spot creatures like Black Panther and go hiking in Anshi National Park, which is now part of the Kali Tiger Reserve. Here, in the dense rainforest, you can also witness trees of Jamba, Tamarind, Lantana and Eucalyptus.
5. Crawl through the prehistoric Kavala Caves – In Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, you can go on an exciting hike and rock crawl into the old Kavala Caves. You can crawl through small caves to see a Shivalinga that formed naturally while gazing at prehistoric limestone formations.
Dandeli is a natural habitat for wildlife, including tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur, deer, antelopes, and bears. It is the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka and was designated as a tiger reserve in 2007. Bangalore to Dandeli distance is 460 kms. One can reach Dandeli from by the following mentioned transport options:
1. By Road: If you prefer taking the road to reach Dandeli from Bangalore, you can either take your car or take a bus for the same. A lot of buses operate on this route at various price ranges making it very convenient for travelers.
2. By Train: Dandeli does not have a train station, and the nearest railway stations are Alnavar(32 km), Londa (48 km) and Dharwad (57km) away from Dandeli. From there you can catch a cab to the prime adventure spots.
3. By Flight: Dandeli does not have an airport, the closest airport being Hubli which is 75 kms away. You can catch a cab or a local bus from there to reach Dandeli.
Checkout: Dandeli Packages from Bangalore
The distance between Goa to Dandeli is approximately 115 km by road. Dandeli is situated in Uttar Kannada district in the Western Ghats region. The fastest and convenient way to reach Dandeli from Goa is to hail a taxi.
You can easily visit Goa after exploring Dandeli. After exploring the niceties of Dandeli, visitors usually extend their trip to Goa. Also, the availability of transportation is more convenient and easier at Goa.
Recommended Read: Activities to do in Dandeli
Some of the private homestays and resorts offer comfortable accommodations to its visitors in Dandeli are:
1. Riverside Homestay: For a comfortable stay while you are in Dandeli, choosing the Riverside Homestay resort would be a good idea. They provide luxury and super luxury cottages, with an in-house restaurant, so this could be also an ideal choice for honeymooners and luxury vacationers.
2. Bison River Resort: Located amidst the lush greenery of Dandeli forests, the Bison River resort is one of the most popular Dandeli stays among the visitors. With private balconies for most rooms to enjoy the view, the resort authority also has arrangements for jungle safari, kayaking, bird watching, river crossing, and other adventure activities.
3. Old Magazine House: One of the popular places to stay in Dandeli is the Old Magazine House. Revel in the sound of birds whistling and get glimpses of the Malabar Grey Hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbill, orioles, babblers while staying here. You can also take part in some adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and kayaking.
Must Read: Places to Visit in Dandeli
Dandeli is safe for visitors. The guides and instructors are friendly and helpful. Also, the people of Dandeli are welcoming in nature. They would warmly greet you and let you explore their locality. Although, in the night, certain areas can be deserted and should be completely avoided.
Adventurous travelers can add something more to their holiday with a stay in a tree house in Dandeli. You get a different perspective of your surroundings (literally!) and can appreciate the Dandeli landscape better. Two resorts that offer a great tree house experience are Dandeli Jungle Camp and Hornbill River Resort.
Situated 461.4 km away from Bangalore, Dandeli is the most preferred destination for weekend getaways. Explore Kavala caves and Shiroli peak, or look out for rare flora and fauna at Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Dandeli is a full package of wildlife, watersports, hiking, and much more. This place ensures a peaceful break from the daily hassles of Bangalore.
Yes, you can do rafting in Dandeli. River Kali which flows through Dandeli is the hubspot for river rafting. It is a safe activity as every raft has a skilled instructor to ensure the safety of passengers. You may explore river rafting in Dandeli to know about the prices and best packages available.
Dudhsagar Falls which is on the Goa-Karnataka border. You can take a train to Dudhsagar from Dandeli or even go by road which is about 15-20 kms away and half an hour train ride. One can go back to Dandeli the same day by taking the evening train.
Yes, consumption of intoxicants is allowed in Dandeli. But strongly not allowed during adventure activities.
There are only two national parks where you can go for a wildlife safari in Dandeli.
1. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Anshi National Park
The best time to visit Anshi National Park for tiger sighting is in summers, i.e., from April to June. Due to hot and dry weather of the surroundings, other animals and tigers can be easily spotted near water bodies. During day-time, tigers can be found under shady place to escape the baking rays of sun.
Anshi National park and the Dandeli Wildlife sanctuary are the best places for birdwatching in Dandeli.
Famed as the ‘Adventure Hub’ of South India, Dandeli is synonymous to enthralling expeditions. From exploring the Dandeli wildlife sanctuary to hiking around the trails, from thrilling watersports to savouring the historic Kavala caves, Dandeli has a lot to offer. Situated in the Western Ghats region of Karnataka, this place is home to a staggering range of flora and fauna too. With a full package of adventures and tranquil getaways, Dandeli is suitable for the tag of the adventure capital of the South.