From Wikitravel

Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary is in the state of Karnataka in India.

[edit] Understand

[edit] History

Ranganthittu bird sanctuary became a national park in 1940 due to the efforts of Dr. Salim Ali.

[edit] Landscape

Ranganthittu is on the river Cauvery, about 13 km away from Mysore. The part that visitors are allowed to see is a slow section of the river, with many little islands which form nesting sites for sorts of migratory birds. Low hanging branches, small rocks with crocodiles sunning themselves are easily found, so don't be surprised if you look around to see a crocodile within arm's reach.

[edit] Flora and fauna

Some of the birds seen at Ranganthittu are the white Ibis, cormorants, egrets, herons, river terns and darters. In addition, the place is also home to a large number of crocodiles.

[edit] Climate

[edit] Get in

Nearest airport: Bangalore.

The drive from Bangalore is approximately 130 km, and takes a couple of hours at the most, thanks to the four lane highway. Driving from Mysore is much nearer, about 13 km. If you are driving from Bangalore, look out for a small right turn after Srirangapatna. The park opens at 9AM and closes at (I believe) 4PM.

[edit] Fees/Permits

The park charges a small entry fee, and the boat ride is also a charged service. For a half hour leisurely tour of the river you get charged Rs. 200, which also ensures that you are the sole occupants of the boat. Mass rides are also available at much cheaper rates, though these are charged per person. The fees below were valid in September 2006 but may be subject to change:

• adults: Rs. 20
• childern: Rs. 5
• still camera charges: Rs. 20
• cars: Rs. 25
• boat ride per person: Rs. 10
• boat ride charter (entire boat for about half an hour): Rs. 200

[edit][add listing] Do

The boat ride! Otherwise the only thing you can do is watch birds from the shore, which will require a really good pair of binoculars. If you do the boat ride, you can get really close to the birds and the nests .. if you are lucky, you get to see a nest with baby birds at eye level.

[edit][add listing] Eat

There is a small cafe at Ranganthittu, and Mysore is always close by.

[edit][add listing] Drink

No drinking/smoking allowed in the park.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

There is no lodging at the park itself, but you can stay in Srirangapatna or better yet, Mysore.

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