One of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in
Karnataka, Dandeli is situated in the
Uttara Kannada District, on the Karnataka-Goa border. It is 75 km away from
Hubli and 93 km from
Karwar, accessible by rail from Londa (25 km) and by air from
Dabolim (
Goa). Dandeli is contiguous with the Mahavir Sanctuary in Goa. This moist deciduous and semi ever-green forest sprawling over 834 sq km, shelters an abundance of rare wildlife that includes different kinds of deer, sloth bear, panther, tiger, gaur, elephant, bison, langur and giant flying squirrel, besides a variety of colourful birds and reptiles, especially the crocodile. The forest is nourished by River Kali and its tributaries, Kaneri and Nagajhari. The magnificent valleys, swaying bamboos and serpentine streams add to the stunning charm of Dandeli.
Thirty-five kilometers away from Dandeli is Syntheri Rocks, an awesome monolithic granite structure rising above the canopy of green, on the banks of Kaneri. The tranquil Kulgi Nature Camp is 14 km away, with a small museum famous for an amazing exhibit—a stuffed
king cobra, 13 ft long. The Shiroli Peak of the
Western Ghats, the highest in Uttara Kannada District, is 25 km away, so are the Kavala Caves, limestone caves from pre-historic times. The Ulavi Temple, Karwar and Kali Wilderness Camp are other picturesque spots.
Dandeli offers ample opportunities for trekking, fishing and jungle safaris. A ride down the River Kali on a coracle, a circular boat woven with bamboo and lined with buffalo hide, can be quite exciting. Crocodile watching is also popular here. October-March is the best time to visit Dandeli.
