Facts:
- Distance from Bangalore – 458.5kms (8hrs 45 minutes via NH-48)
- Terrain – Hilly Terrain
- Type – Deep Cavern Valleys
- Total Trek/Hike Km – 13kms
- Forest Type – Opaque Lush-Green Forest
- Difficulty Level – Easy to Moderate
- Altitude – 472 Mtrs
How to reach Dandeli ?
Dandeli is 78 km from Hubli and 32 km from Alnavar. The nearest railway stations are Londa, Alnavar, Dharwar, and Hubli. From Bangalore, one could take the train to Alnavar or Hubli.
There is also a KSRTC bus, and private bus operators like – VRL Travels, SRS Travels, Sugama Travels, Durgamba Travels, and Redbus App in which you can book an online ticket to Hubli or Dharwad.
From there, take the local bus to reach Dandeli. The nearest Railway station is at Dharwad which is located at a distance of 46kms.
About this place :
Dandeli is a taluk located on the banks of the River Kali, in the Western Ghats of Uttara Kannada District. Until 1936, there was no school. Hence Shivaji Narvekar, Pundalik Pai, Sadanand Gopal Nadkarni, Balappa Chavan, and Bapshet together contributed to building a one-room school in a hut on the nearby hill where the government Urdu school is situated. Ramachandra Ganapat Nayak migrated from Sanikatta near Gokarna to run the school. The school got started with merely 18 students, where three of whom were older than their teacher, R.G. Nayak. In 1939 the school was recognized by the British government.
There is a popular story that reveals how this place acquired its name: There once was a humble servant of the Mirashi landlords known as Dandelappa who fell in love with the lady of the family. The lady also responded and put forth a proposal to get married to Dandelappa. But the loyal servant declined and in turn enraged the lady by his decision.
The lady later lied about Dandelappa to her brothers, alleging that his behavior was inappropriate. Hearing this her brothers killed Dandelappa in a fit of anger and sliced him into two. His head and body landed in separate parts where presently two temples exist in his memory and this is how the town got its name as ‘Dandeli’.
Dandeli is surrounded by dense forest cover and is home to a wide range of biodiversity. A paper industry called West Coast Paper Mills in Bangur Nagar is one of the famous industries in Dandeli. As this place is just 125kms from Goa, it is well-known as an extended Goa.
Attractions in Dandeli
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary:
If you are a nature lover, never miss an opportunity to visit Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary which is amidst the lush green forests of Dandeli. Wildlife safari is the best part while exploring this sanctuary which has a host of wild animals, exotic birds, and unusual reptiles. From White-Water Rafting across the Kali river to Mountain Biking are a few activities you can do in this sanctuary if you are an adventure enthusiast.
If you are lucky you can spot a few tigers and rare species of birds while doing these escapade activities. Major attractions of this wildlife sanctuary are Crocodiles, Black Panthers, and Great Hornbill. A wildlife trip amid the Dandeli forest is one of the fascinating things you should not miss. Camping in tents during such tours gives an extra ardor. You can spot tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur, deer, antelopes, and bears. Dandeli Wildlife sanctuary stands second in Karnataka and was designated as a tiger reserve in the year 2007. The jungle is home to almost 300 varieties of birds beside a host of reptiles.
Tourists can enjoy water rafting at the Virnoli Rapids connected to the Kali River.
You can visit this sanctuary from 6 am to 6 pm.
Entry Fees – For Adults, it is INR 200, Foreigners – INR 1000, Children below 5yrs – Free, and Children between 5-12yrs – 50% off on the tariff.
The best time to visit is between September to May.
Apart from White-water rafting and Mountain biking, you can even do kayaking, Jacuzzi bath, Water ball zorbing, Burma bridge climbing, Bird watching, River crossing, Nature walking, Crocodile watching, and Angling.
Nearby tourist spots that can be visited during the day time are Ulavi, Syntheri Rocks, Anshi National Park, and Moulangi.
Moulangi Eco Park:
Moulangi Eco Park is a very popular tourist destination in Dandeli. Located in a thick forest, this Eco Park is encompassed by stunning greenery with huge bamboo trees. This place is an ideal spot for camping. It is not only a tourist place but also a trekker’s paradise. Trekking on the cliffs and climbing the rock formations of Moulangi Eco Park gives a feeling of thrill. However, if you are coming with your family or friends this is a perfect place to organize camps and picnics. The best time is during Summer.
Molangi Falls:
Molangi falls is situated in the dense green forest of Dandeli. This waterfall joins the mighty river, Kali. You cannot do river rafting beyond this point. Its panoramic landscape is spectacular. You can rejuvenate and unwind near Molangi falls. Tall bamboo trees and precipitous rocks are the highlights here. You can even swim in the pool formed by this waterfall. An apt place for romantic couples, this place is just 8kms away from the Dandeli bus stand.
Kavala Cave Trek:
Kavala caves is situated 25kms from Dandeli in a place called Lalguli. This natural cave is located in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Formed by volcanic rocks, the Kavala cave is a must-visit place. It is believed that these caves were formed during the prehistoric period. Presently it is inherited by snakes and bats. Also known as limestone caves, the dimension of the caves are small and there are plenty of stalagmite formations inside. To enter this cave, people are required to crawl. The deeper you go inside, the narrower it will be. You even have to climb 375 steps to reach this cave. These caves are a famous tourist spot in Dandeli. Trekking fees is Rs. 475/- per person, and Guide fees is Rs. 500/- per group.
The Dandeli Forest department usually organizes this trek every day at sharp 6 AM. You will need to trek about 3 to 4 kilometers ascending 540 steps to reach the Kavala Caves. Besides the caves, you also witness the flowing river, Kali. The best time to visit Kavala Caves is from October to February.
Kavala Cave Temple:
Just as you enter the caves, you will come across this temple. You need to inch down 40ft to have the darshan of a naturally formed Shiva Linga. The height of this Linga is 4ft. And the diameter is around 3-4ft. The texture of this Shivalinga appears like nuts that are called Kavala in the Kannada language. Therefore this cave came to be called Kavala Cave. Visitors may have to carry a torch or candle as the entrance passage is dark and narrow. Only during Shivaratri, the bulbs are lit when thousands of devotees gather there. Mainly for this temple, Kavala Cave is a great attraction for tourists in Dandeli tourism. The entry fee is Rs. 10/- and you can enter this temple on all the days between 8 AM to 5 PM.
Mallikarjuna Temple:
Mallikarjuna temple is one of the oldest structures in Dandeli located in Ganesh Gudi. Abode of Lord Shiva, this pilgrim centre is open throughout the year. This temple is very famous for its architecture. A stone inscription inside the temple says that the land in which this temple is constructed was donated by the Kadamba king Jayakeshi in the year 1144. The “Navarang mantap” placed inside the sanctum sanctorum is a prime attraction of the temple.
The Winter season from October to February is the best time to head to this temple. Mallikarjuna Temple is open from 6 AM to 7 PM daily and the temple is approximately 20kms away from the Dandeli bus stop.
Shiroli Peak:
This is the highest peak in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. It is both a trekking destination as well as a vacation spot famous for magnificent sunsets. This peak is also an apt place for zealous adventurers and passionate photographers. You can trek or visit this mountain at any time of the year between 6 am to 6 pm
Dandelappa Temple:
Situated in Ganesh Gudi, Lord Dandelappa Temple is visited by several devotees. Surrounded by beautiful nature, this temple’s landscape is a visual treat to the eyes. As per the legends, whoever prays in this temple, their wishes get fulfilled. You can visit this temple from October to February. This temple is open during the day and is just 2.3kms from the bus stand.
Shivaji Fort:
Shivaji Fort is one of the historical places of interest in Dandeli. It is believed to have been built by Chatrapati Shivaji. The fort proudly boasts of the clever warring techniques and strategies implemented by the warriors to win an ongoing war as well as to protect the fort from the enemies.
Sykes Point:
Sykes Point is another wonderful and vantage place to visit in Dandeli. Situated in a hill station, the view-point offers a wonderful view of the valleys and densely forested hills along with the Nazgari River and Kali confluence River. Located at a distance of 6kms from Ambikanagar, it takes 24kms from the Dandeli bus stand to reach Sykes Point. This spot is named after a British engineer who discovered it. A private cab can be hired to visit this unique destination. Highlights of this place are – A beautiful view of the sunset, giant hornbills, the Nagzari river and river Kali confluence, and the Nagzari Power House of the Kali Project. .
Kali River:
Situated in the Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, the Kali river is one of the magnificent rivers in Dandeli. Visit Dandeli to admire the beauty of nature around the river Kali and gear-up to try some adventure activities such as Kayaking, Coracle riding, Trekking and bird watching, a trip to Shiroli peak, and White-water rafting at your expense. Check-in time: 12:30 pm and Check-out time is 11 am the next day. Rates: Rs. 2000/- per person
Sathodi Falls:
Sathodi Falls is an amalgamation of numerous streams near Kallaramane Ghat, in Uttara Kannada district. Popularly called Mini Niagara, the falls flow from an altitude of 50 meters and is a part of the Ganeshgudi forest range. You can visit the waterfall between November to April. The entry fee is charged Rs. 5 per person. Located in Balgar, it is 34kms away from Dandeli.
Tip: Beware of the Leeches. For your safety, apply savlon or Dettol before going to this waterfall. Also, carry some food and water with you. (only during monsoon season)
Anshi National Park:
This National Park is an evergreen tropical rainforest located in the district of Uttara Kannada. It takes roughly 38kms to reach this National Park from Dandeli. Anshi is situated on the Karwar-Londa highway and is part of the Dandeli wildlife sanctuary. This is the only National Park in the whole of Asia where Black Panthers are found in their natural habitat. You can even trek from Anshi nature camp which is located 3kms away from the National Park. There are four trails from this spot. The Nature Camp is properly maintained as Tents, and dormitory accommodations with food are available. Ordinary and deluxe tents are on offer while a dormitory has 16 beds with the price ranging from Rs 50-70 for Indians and foreigners respectively. Entry Fees: Indian Adults – INR 200, Foreigner Adults – INR 1000, 50% off on tariff for children and Trek guide generally costs INR 500 per person.
Syntheri Rocks:
Situated in Gund near Ulavi Channabasaveshwara temple, Syntheri Rocks is a granite structure that attracts travelers across the nation to explore various bird species, especially pigeons are in abundance here. The rocks in this place are made of granite. One can easily reach the destination either by walking down about 200 steps from Ulavi Temple or hiring a jeep to the rocks. The entry hours are from 8 AM to 6 PM. Distance from Dandeli is 35kms.
The best season to visit is from November to June.
Magod Falls:
Cascading from a height of nearly 200 m, Magod Falls are located over River Bedti which flows in the Magod Village of North Karnataka. The uniqueness of this falls is that the waterfall is split into two different waterfalls that flow separately next to each other. This is an ideal picnic spot for the entire family. Jenukallu Gudda and Kavadi Kere are the two places that are nearby.
The best season to visit is between October to January and the distance from Dandeli is 81kms
Mini Tibet:
True to its name, Mini Tibet rightfully makes one feel like being in Tibet. As Dharamshala is called mini Lhasa, similarly Mundgod is known as Mini Tibet. Established in 1996, Mini Tibet showcases the ambitious Tibetan culture of the refugees and also reflects their thought process to some extent. Do visit the Tibetan Monastery on your trip to Dandeli. Distance from Dandeli: 80 kilometers.
Supa Dam:
Built across the river Kali, this place is famous for its hydroelectricity plant. Supa Dam is a renowned place to visit near Dandeli and is located in the district of Uttara Kannada. With the breathtaking panoramic views around, it’s a perfect family vacation. The major activity offered in this place is boating. Entry is free. When to visit: Between June to November
Kulgi Nature Camp:
For all the nature lovers who wish to spend a day amidst the forest, Kulgi Nature Camp is an ideal place for you to visit. Located 11km from Dandeli this campsite is comparatively economical for a great experience. Accommodation in the form of Log Huts costing Rs 1,500 + 12% GST is available. The cost for two Veg dinners and two breakfasts is around Rs 350. You can enjoy watersports here or simply do one of the more famous activities like rock-climbing, jungle trekking, safari, and rafting. The camp is surrounded by impeccable environs and has a lot to offer in terms of accommodation. There are cottages, dormitories, and tents available for guests. Kulgi Nature Camp proffers a close-up view of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary as well. This Nature Camp is located 12kms from the Dandeli bus stand.
The entry to the safari ride is located 3km from the camp base. One can expect to spot deer, fox, giant Malabar squirrel, peacocks, lots of birds including hornbills on the way to the Jeep ride inside the jungle. Jeeps carrying 7 to 8 people in one trip will charge Rs 450/person.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: Between INR 5000-9600
Ulavi Temple:
This temple built by the Lingayat community, is considered one of the most visited places in Dandeli. The temple has the samadhi of Channabasavanna who was a revered 12th-century Lingayat saint. The Ulavi Temple is visited throughout the year and is open from 8 am to 6 pm. Nonetheless, the temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims from all over Karnataka during the Ulavi Jathre a temple fair.
It is located 35km from the Dandeli bus stand.
Disney Park:
As the name itself suggests, Disney Park in Dandeli is the most fascinating place to visit. A favorite place among children, this park is almost a replica of the original Disney Park with all the Disney characters intact. The park is located at the entrance of the Dandakaranya road, off the JN Road. The entry fee is Rs 20/person. Opens at 9.30 in the morning, this Park closes at 6 in the evening.
Dandakaranya Park:
Dandakaranya Park which was once an Eco-Park, is now more of a theme park. With statues of many fictional characters and Hollywood actors, this place was built to stop the encroachment of forest land. This Park now houses statues of Charlie Chaplin, The Transformers, and most of the characters of the Avengers. Kids will also like to see the statue of Motu Patlu and Chhota Bheem. The best time to visit the park is between November and March.
Crocodile Park:
The crocodile park in Dandeli comes under the jurisdiction of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and is recognized by the Govt. of India. This place is situated about 3km from the Dandelappa temple and is located on the SH46, Kerward road. If you stand on the banks of the River Kali there is a great chance to spot the crocodiles and also up the island.
