Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Mysore

One of the most important bird sanctuaries in South India is Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, which is tucked away on the banks of the Cauvery River around 16 km from Mysuru and roughly 3 km from the ancient town of Srirangapatna. The sanctuary, which spans around 40 acres and is made up of six tiny islets created by the river, is home to an amazing variety of resident and migratory bird species.

Ranganathittu, also referred to as the “Pakshi Kashi” of Karnataka, is a veritable gold mine of biodiversity and provides a peaceful, engrossing experience in the natural world. It draws families, animal photographers, ornithologists, and tourists looking for a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city.

A Refuge Originating from Ecological Insight

Dr. Salim Ali, a visionary naturalist, is credited with creating the sanctuary when he realised in 1940 the islets’ ecological significance and the abundance of birds that nest there. As a result of his efforts, the region became one of India’s first bird sanctuaries when it was designated a protected sanctuary in 1940.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu is home to more than 170 species of birds, both local and migratory. The sanctuary becomes especially vibrant from June to November, which marks the nesting and breeding season.

Commonly Spotted Birds:

• Painted Storks
• Asian Openbill Storks
• Black-headed Ibises
• Spoonbills
• Egrets and Herons
• Kingfishers
• Cormorants
• River Terns
• Woolly-necked Storks

Migratory birds from regions as far as Siberia, Australia, and North America arrive during the winter, turning the sanctuary into a global avian hotspot.

Boat Rides at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

One of the most fascinating things to do here is take a guided boat ride on the Cauvery River. Without interfering with the natural ecology, the boats provide guests with stunning photo opportunities as they glide softly through the canals and bring them up close to nesting birds.

The feeling of remoteness is further enhanced by the possibility of seeing flying foxes, monitor lizards, otters, and mugger crocodiles lounging on the riverbanks during these journeys.

Flora and Environment

The sanctuary’s lush environment supports a variety of flora including bamboo groves, eucalyptus trees, and aquatic vegetation, creating a refreshing atmosphere. The islets and wetlands also help regulate the local ecosystem, making it an important ecological zone in the region.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary timings and fees

• Location: Ranganathittu, Mandya District, Karnataka (approx. 30-minute drive from Mysuru)
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (open all days)
• Best Time to Visit: June to November (breeding season) and December to March (migratory bird season)
• Entry Fee:
  • Indian Adults: ₹70
  • Foreign Nationals: ₹400
  • Boating Charges: ₹80–₹100 per person (varies by boat type)
  • Camera Charges: ₹50 (approx.)

Facilities for Visitors

• Well-maintained walking paths
• Watchtowers and shaded viewpoints
• Restrooms and drinking water
• Interpretation centre and nature guides
• Parking area and ticket counter
• Eco-shop with souvenirs and refreshments

Nearby Attractions to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu pairs well with a trip to other heritage and natural spots such as:

• Srirangapatna Fort
• Daria Daulat Bagh
• Gumbaz (Tipu Sultan’s Mausoleum)
• Chamundi Hills
• Mysore Palace

You can write to info@groowynd.com to book Mysore Tour Packages or to Book Wayanad Resorts @ Best Rates.Groowynd Holidays, a tour operator with operational presence in Mysore and Kerala. Groowynd is a South India-based 9 Times Award-winning travel company from TripAdvisor. The Mysore Tour packages can be customised, and more destinations can be incorporated. You can contact us for a complete package including transfers from Bangalore, Calicut, Mysore, Mangalore, Kochi or Coimbatore.

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