Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Mysore

Located in the picturesque state of Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Srirangapatna is a haven for a wide array of bird species. It is the largest bird sanctuary in the state and comprises of six small islands on the banks of the river Kaveri.

The beauty that finds a place here in Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a sight to sore eyes. The scenery of the local vegetation and landscape, coupled with the colourful variety of wildlife makes it a unique learning experience for everyone.

Out of the 170 species of bird recorded here, the most notable ones are the Painted Stork, Common Spoonbill, Asian Openbill Stork, Black-headed Ibis, and Woolly-necked Stork.

This biodiversity hub also houses many small animals such as bonnet macaque, flying fox and small mammals like common palm civet, Indian grey mongoose and the monitor lizard.

History of Ranganathittu Bird Sancctuary

The islands, which are a distinctive feature of the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, were formed as a result of the building of an embankment across the Kaveri river in the year 1648 by Mysore King Kanteerava Narasimharaja Wadiyar.

Fauna at Ranganathittu Bird Sancturay

The natural charms of Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is an attraction not just for tourists, but for a wide variety of animals as well. Among the bbirds that are found here, the most notable ones include painted stork, Asian openbill stork, common spoonbill, woolly-necked stork, black-headed ibis, lesser whistling duck, Indian Shag, Stork-billed Kingfisher, egret, cormorant, Oriental Darter, spot-billed pelican, heron, great stone plover, and river tern, Streak-throated swallows and pelicans.

Boating at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Since the sanctuary is located on several islets, the boating activity here is quite interesting. There can be no better way to experience the beauty of this destination than its exquisite boat ride.

 As you row your boat in the waters of the Kaveri river, you can spot a wide variety of birds flapping their wings away.

The price of this activity is INR 50 per head for Indian adults, INR 25 per head for Indian children while foreign tourists will have to shell out INR 300 per head to experience the same. 

How to Reach Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

The best way to reach Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is via the means of road. It is located only 19 kilometres away from the city of Mysore from where you can take the bus or hire a taxi to reach the sanctuary.

Both private and government buses run between Mysore and Srirangapatna. From Srirangapatna you can hire an auto rickshaw to reach your destination. An alternate way to reach Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is that you travel till Srirangapatna via train and take a cab from there.

Entry Fee:

 Indians: Adults INR 50, Children: INR 25,
Foreigners: Adult: INR 300

 Open Time:

 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM