The Kabini, also called Kabani and Kapila, is a river of southern India. It originates in Wayanad District of Kerala state, from the confluence of the Panamaram River and Mananthavady River, and flows eastward to join the Kaveri River at Tirumakudal Narasipur in Karnataka, which empties into the Bay of Bengal. Kabini River is is 80 km from Mysore and 220 Km from Bangalore.
Close to the town of H D Kote it forms the huge Kabini Reservoir. The backwaters of the Kabini reservoir are very rich in wildlife especially in summer when the water level recedes to form rich grassy meadows.
The Kabini dam is 2,284 feet (696 m) in height with a gross storage of 19.52tmcft but has reduced considerably due to silt accumulation.Kabini Dam is situated between villages Beechanahalli and Bidarahalli having distance of 14KM from H.D.Kote town,Mysore district.
Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants. It is 80 km away from Mysore and 205 km from Bangalore, and comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarole National Park. Situated on the banks of River Kabini, this forest reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland, steep valleys, and water bodies. Once a private hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Mysore, Kabini was a popular shikar hotspot for British Viceroys and Indian royalty. Now it is considered to be one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka, famous for its spectacular wildlife and bird life.
This wildlife sanctuary, situated on the banks of River Kabini, features a large quaint lake surrounded by verdant landscape. This forest reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland and water bodies. Tourist can spot herd of elephants roaming in the area. Kabini wildlife sanctuary consists of the south-eastern part of Nagarhole National Park.
Kabini is an ideal place for tourists to pitch their camps and plan out a trek to Kumara Parvatha or Tadiyadamol nearby. Kabini back waters are an ideal camping site that allows tourists to let down their hair and enjoy the pristine surroundings.
Kabini River offers tourists a great vacation amid nature all through the year. During the summer season, most of the elephants of the surrounding forests converge at Kabini exhibiting one of the worlds largest congregations of Asiatic wild elephants. The rainy season is the ideal time to enjoy lush greenery there.
Tourists must go for the wildlife safari at the Kabini River Lodge. They should take the jeep safari through the Nagarhole National Park where they are bound to see herds of elephants grazing, wild dogs, bisons, deer, peacocks, wild boars a variety of birds and those elusive big cats: the tiger and the panther. A safari on elephant back is another experience altogether. Tousrists feel as if They sailing on a slightly turbulent sea and yet they know they are in a forest. Since the animals are used to having elephants around, they don't disturb them either.Spend some time in the watchtower and watch as a mind-boggling variety of wildlife comes down to the water hole. Ride a coracle.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN KABINI
Built across Kabini River in 1974, the dam is located near Beechanahalli village. This dam is 58 m in height and 2284 ft long. You can access the dam from Heggadadevanakote.
This dam also provides water to the combined system of Sagaredoddakere and Upper Nugu Dams. There is an arrangement of lifting and transfer of 28.00 TMC of water during the monsoons months from the Kabini dam to the other two smaller dams. The dam is spread over an area of 55 hectares covering forests, rivers, lakes and valleys.
The Kabini dam becomes an exotic location for nature lovers, the beauty such that nature looks glamorous and enthralling. With over 250 species of birds alone, vibrancy is defined in unusual forms. You get a chance to see and explore, in a surrounding intricately knitted with forests, hills, all drawing picturesque scenery.
The region was regularly visited by the British during the colonial era, frequented mostly because of its rich bio diversity and wildlife. It has been a private hunting resort of the Maharaja of Mysore and the wealthy English noble aristocrats for whom killings was a form of entertainment. It was a mode of relaxation, a chance to get closer to nature, view the beauty and see life budding everywhere.
Common Langur, Wild pig, Asian Elephant, Four horned antelope, Munjtak, Bonnet Macaque, leopard, tiger and wild dog are frequently sighted here. The wildlife here is distinct with different variety of species inhabiting the region.
The river which flows from Wayanad from the confluence of Panamram River and Mananthavady River is called by various names, Kabani, Kabini or Kapila. The river flows eastwards towards Kaveris river and as it flows towards the Bay of Bengal, it forms the Kabini reservoir in the town of Sagrur. Manchegowdanhalli, N Begur Village, Sagahalli, Nagarhole National Park, Suttan halla crossing road, Taraka Reservoir, Bandipur National Park and Kuppe Betta are near by attractions.
Nagarhole National Park
Declared a national park in 1974, the part is said to be the best habitat for Asian elephants and one of the remaining one. It is surrounded by shallow valleys and gentle slopes on all sides.
► Hotels, Boarding, Lodging & Accomodation In Kabini
Availability of lodges in Beechanahalli in and near Kabini Dam, near Bidarahally and Beechanahalli in HD Kotte Taluk.