DANDELI, KARNATAKA – WHERE WILDERNESS MEETS SERENITY

Dandeli is a town located in the Uttara Kannada district of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is situated on the banks of the Kali River, and is surrounded by the lush green forests of the Western Ghats. Dandeli is known for its wildlife sanctuaries, adventure activities, and scenic beauty.

The town is home to the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, which is spread over an area of 834.16 square kilometers and is home to a variety of animals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. The sanctuary is also a bird-watcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds found here.
Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like river rafting, kayaking, rappelling, and trekking in Dandeli. The Kali River offers an ideal location for white water rafting and kayaking, with rapids ranging from Grade 2 to Grade 3.
Other attractions in Dandeli include the Syntheri Rock, a scenic monolithic granite structure located deep in the forest, and the Kavala Caves, which are natural limestone caves that can be explored by trekking.
Dandeli is well connected to major cities in Karnataka by road and rail. The nearest airport is the Hubli Airport, which is around 56 kilometers away from Dandeli. The best time to visit Dandeli is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities.
What Makes it a Destination Worth Visiting
Dandeli is a destination worth visiting for several reasons. Here are a few factors that make it an attractive tourist spot:
- Wildlife: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a major attraction for tourists, especially for those who are interested in wildlife and nature. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, birds, and plants, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
- Adventure: Dandeli is an adventure seeker’s paradise. With activities like river rafting, kayaking, rappelling, and trekking, it offers a thrilling experience to those who love adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Scenic beauty: The town is surrounded by lush green forests and is situated on the banks of the Kali River, making it a scenic spot. The beauty of the place is further enhanced by the Syntheri Rock, the Kavala Caves, and other natural attractions.
- Connectivity: Dandeli is well connected to major cities in Karnataka by road and rail, making it easily accessible. The Hubli Airport is also located nearby, making it convenient for air travelers.
- Weather: The weather in Dandeli is pleasant throughout the year, except during the monsoon season. The best time to visit is between October and May, when the weather is conducive to outdoor activities.

Popular Tourist Activities
Dandeli offers a wide range of tourist activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular activities that tourists can indulge in:
- Wildlife Safari: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. Tourists can take a wildlife safari to explore the sanctuary and spot some of the animals in their natural habitat.
- River Rafting: Dandeli is a popular destination for river rafting, thanks to the rapids of the Kali River. Tourists can enjoy a thrilling experience while navigating through the rapids.
- Kayaking: Kayaking is another popular water sport in Dandeli. Tourists can enjoy kayaking on the Kali River, which offers a unique perspective of the surrounding forests.
- Trekking: Dandeli has several trekking trails that take tourists through the lush green forests, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Rappelling: Tourists can try their hand at rappelling, which involves descending a steep rock face using a rope and harness. Syntheri Rocks is a popular spot for rappelling in Dandeli.
- Bird Watching: Dandeli is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Tourists can explore the sanctuary and other areas to spot different bird species.
- Nature Walk: A leisurely nature walk is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Dandeli. Tourists can take a guided tour of the forests and get a closer look at the flora and fauna.

Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
Dandeli and its surroundings are dotted with several attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Dandeli:
- Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary: The wildlife sanctuary is spread over an area of 834.16 square kilometers and is home to a variety of animals and birds.
- Kali River: The Kali River is a popular spot for adventure sports like river rafting and kayaking. The river is surrounded by lush green forests, making it a scenic spot.
- Syntheri Rocks: Syntheri Rocks is a massive monolithic granite structure located deep in the forests. It is a popular spot for rappelling and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
- Kavala Caves: Kavala Caves are natural limestone caves that are believed to be formed millions of years ago. Tourists can explore the caves by trekking.
- Ulavi Temple: Ulavi Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site located around 30 km from Dandeli. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
- Supa Dam: Supa Dam is a scenic spot located around 25 km from Dandeli. The dam is built across the Kali River and offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
- Anshi National Park: Anshi National Park is a protected area located around 60 km from Dandeli. It is home to a variety of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.
- Dudhsagar Falls: Dudhsagar Falls is a spectacular waterfall located around 90 km from Dandeli. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 310 meters and is a popular tourist spot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dandeli is between October and May, as the weather during this period is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. During this time, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 35°C, with cool mornings and evenings.
The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to the region, making it difficult to engage in outdoor activities. However, if you enjoy the lush greenery and want to experience the beauty of the waterfalls in full flow, you can visit during the monsoon season.
The summer months of April and May can be hot and humid, but the evenings are usually pleasant. It is advisable to carry light cotton clothes and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

How to Reach
Dandeli is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, and there are several ways to reach the place. Here are some of the options:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Dandeli is the Hubli Airport, located around 75 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dandeli.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Dandeli is the Alnavar Junction, located around 32 km away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dandeli.
- By Road: Dandeli is well-connected by road to major cities in Karnataka and neighboring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Goa, and Pune to reach Dandeli.
- By Car/Bike: You can also drive to Dandeli from nearby cities. The roads are well-maintained, and the drive through the lush green forests is scenic and enjoyable.