Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is one of the premier Tiger Reserves of India, located in the southern state of Karnataka. It forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which includes Bandipur, Mudumalai, and Wayanad wildlife sanctuaries. Renowned for its high density of tigers and elephants, Nagarhole has diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and well-managed conservation programs. Designated as a Project Tiger Reserve in 1999, it plays a vital role in the long-term conservation of large carnivores.
Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park is located in the Kodagu and Mysuru districts of Karnataka, which spans approximately 847 sq. km. Originally a hunting reserve of the Mysore kings, it was declared a national park in 1988 and later incorporated into the Project Tiger scheme. The name “Nagarhole” comes from the Kannada words ‘Naga’ (snake) and ‘Hole’ (stream), referring to the many serpentine streams that flow through the park.
The Nagarhole National Park is well-known for its systematic conservation policies, eco-tourism model, and its significance in maintaining the ecological balance in the Western Ghats-Nilgiri corridor.
Geographical Features of Nagarhole National Park
Geographical Features of Nagarhole National Park is a blend of gentle hills, dense forests, valleys, and riverine zones. It lies between the Kabini River in the north and Bandipur National Park in the south, forming habitat for tigers and elephants.
- Location: Kodagu and Mysuru districts, Karnataka
- Area: 847.98 sq. km
- Altitude: 700-960 meters above sea level
- Rivers: Kabini, Lakshmana Tirtha, and several streams
- Climate: Moderate tropical climate with heavy monsoon rains
- Terrain: Forested hills, grasslands, swampy areas, and riverine forests
Nagarhole National Park Flora
Nagarhole National Park Flora includes lush tropical and moist deciduous forests, with patches of swampy grasslands and riparian vegetation. The park’s vegetation supports a variety of herbivores, which form the prey base for carnivores like tigers and leopards.
| Nagarhole National Park Flora | |
| Category | Common Species |
| Dominant Trees | Teak (Tectona grandis), Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), Indian Kino, Axlewood, Sandalwood |
| Shrubs & Understory | Lantana, Helicteres isora, Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus), Clerodendrum |
| Grasses | Cynodon dactylon, Elephant Grass, Savannah grasses |
| Riverine Vegetation | Terminalia arjuna, aquatic ferns, sedges, water lilies |
| Seasonal Flowers | Flame of the forest, Indian Laburnum (Amaltas), various orchids |
Also Check: Dudhwa National Park
Nagarhole National Park Fauna
Nagarhole National Park Fauna has a high density of apex predators, making it one of the most important tiger habitats in India. It is also a part of the Elephant Reserve No. 8 and supports a large population of Asian elephants.
| Nagarhole National Park Fauna | |
| Category | Common Species |
| Carnivores | Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Dhole (Wild Dog), Sloth Bear |
| Herbivores | Asian Elephant, Indian Gaur (Bison), Sambar Deer, Chital (Spotted Deer), Barking Deer |
| Primates | Bonnet Macaque, Hanuman Langur |
| Birds | Malabar Trogon, Indian Pitta, Crested Serpent Eagle, Hornbills, Peacock |
| Reptiles & Amphibians | King Cobra, Indian Python, Marsh Crocodile, Monitor Lizard, Frogs, and Toads |
Nagarhole National Park FAQs
Q1. Where is Nagarhole National Park located?+
Q2. What is Nagarhole National Park known for?+
Q3. Which river flows through Nagarhole National Park?+
Q4. What kind of forests are found in Nagarhole?+
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