Dandeli Tourism

The Old Magazine House – Jungle Lodges & Resorts – REVIEW

January 2, 2017 by sarita

Namastey from team India Ghoomo,

On our very first trip to Dandeli in December 2013, Kamal & I decided to stay at the Old Magazine house – which is a part of Jungle lodges and resorts property.

The resort is very popular among birdwatchers since one can spot over 200 spices of birds within the resort during winters. This video aims to give you an overview of the property and our experience.

We chose to drive our own car and left pretty early at 2:00 am and took the NH4 route. After covering a distance of nearly 475 Kms we reached the property at 8:30 am.

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The Old Magazine House – Jungle Lodges & Resorts – REVIEW

The moment we got down from the car the only sound we could hear was melodious chirping of birds and we we could see birds fluttering their wings and flitting from one branch to another. Since it was a winter morning, it was mist all around.

The old magazine house is surrounded by thick forest and is located in an area which is not open to the general public and the property grounds allow the visitors to enjoy the charms of untouched surroundings.

We quickly checked-into our cottage which was simple and rustic with a spacious balcony overlooking the thick forest. They offer 2 types of accommodation – cottages & dormitory. Currently, since the cottages are under renovation, the property has only dormitory with 20 beds available for bookings.

After having unpacked and freshened we headed towards the dining area gol ghar for breakfast. The dining space was huge offering a 360 degree view of the surroundings and We could spot birds right from there.
Food served was a buffet spread with a variety of dishes to chose from and everything we had was tasty.

After breakfast we decided to walk around the property and spent some time watching birds, clicking pictures and making video footage’s.

There was nothing much to do in the afternoon so we went to see the supa dam which is very close to the property and simply walked around. The bridge offered a lovely view of hornbills flying around from one tree to another and resting over the branches.
At evening, after having a cup of warm tea, the management arranged a 30 min trek inside the property to the Sunset view point. The trek was not a difficult one but for those who are not habitual of trekking might get exhausted.
Watching the sun setting down slowly behind the hills is truely amazing and should not be missed. One can enjoy the panoramic view of the serene backwaters of the Supa reservoir and the lush wildlife greenery spread for miles at a stretch.

After spending around 30 minutes at the hill top, we made our way back towards the lodge. On reaching, we were served delicious snack and tea followed by dinner at 8:30 pm.

Day 2 –

After enjoying a bird watching session early the next morning, the management arranged a short coracle boat ride activity for us carried out at Kali Adventure Camp – It’s yet another Jungle lodges property in Dandeli not very far from the old magazine house.

The slow coracle boat ride into the River Kali was relaxing and thrilling at the same time. We spotted quite a variety of birds on the trees and on little bushes that surround the water and watched crocodiles basking in the sun.

After a 30 minutes coracle boat ride session we returned back to the lodge, had breakfast and made our way back to Bangalore.

The Old Magazine House – Jungle Lodges & Resorts – REVIEW

Verdict!

This Jungle lodges property is unique in it’s own and is best suited for nature lovers and avid birders. The pleasant early morning chill refreshes the mind and soul and the melodious chirping and whistles of birds which starts even before the sunrise fills you heart with peace and happiness.

The humble and courteous staff ensures your trip is a delightfully memorable one.

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Hornbill River Resort in Dandeli – Karnataka

July 7, 2016 by sarita

The Hornbill River Resort in Dandeli is a breathtakingly beautiful place where Kamal and I decided to head for our monsoon and winter retreats. The resort can be reached by train, road or by air. We took our car and that meant a 460 km drive from Bangalore via NH4. FYI, thanks to GPS technology, it is pretty easy to locate the place.

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Monsoon Getaway

The sweet chirping of birds, fresh cool air and the sound of gushing river welcomed us to Dandeli. Such a delight!

For accommodation, there are 4 options – cottages besides river, tree houses, rock houses and tent houses. By the way, if you visit the resort, we advise skipping the tent houses.

Accomodation

We decided on a rock house, which turned out to be very impressive. It had lovely stone walls and flooring that gave us the feeling of being in a cave, a plush cave at that! A cosy, comfortable bed, what more could we ask for?

The house also had a huge balcony overlooking the lush greenery of the resort.

Food and dining

The common dining area was gazebo styled, spacious and with delicious food choices. One can also opt to dine out in the open, under the sky.

Resort experience

It rained almost throughout the day, which we enjoyed leisurely from the comforts of our balcony. One can fathom the tranquillity of the mighty Kali River from one of the benches provided along its banks. Adventure seekers can look forward to white water rafting, kayaking, canoeing, safari, natural Jacuzzi, overnight camping and bird watching. Monsoon is the best time for water sports! On the flip side, leeches can be a problem and this season is not ideal for bird watching.

An adventure trekking to the dense forest of Dandeli and a calm boat ride down the river Kali made our trip all the more memorable.

PICTURES

Indian Travel Youtubers

Winter getaway

For our 6 days winter visit, we decided to book one of the cottages overlooking the Kali River. Many ornithologists and bird watchers visit Dandeli in winter for bird watching. Watching the Malabar Pied Hornbills gather for a dust bath was a delight! The Ganeshgudi forest being home to over 300 species of birds, we spotted kingfishers, black drongo, whistling Malabar thrush, Asian paradise flycatcher, etc.

Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we were taken for adventure trekking. From the peaks of the nearby hills, we enjoyed a panoramic view of the serene backwaters of the Supa reservoir and the lush wildlife greenery spread for miles at a stretch.

Review

It was an amazing wildlife experience and people who enjoy water sports should definitely check this place out. The resort has rightfully left the natural habitat undisturbed, their wildlife themed accommodations were good, staffs were polite and attentive, food was also good, all in all, a perfect getaway with your romantic partner, family or friends.

(FYI: Avoid busy public holidays and weekends as large number of local people gather here and spoil the atmosphere . Also, avoid the tents. They are in very bad shape.)

Kavala Caves in Dandeli

February 10, 2016 by sarita

On our most recent 6 days trip to Dandeli, we decided to visit the astonishing Kavla Caves located in the heart of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Kavla Caves is known for a naturally formed ShivaLing formed from the deposits of Limestone and we just cudn’t wait to explore this gem of a location.

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We started early at 4:30 am from The Hornbill Riverside Resort, where we were staying. towards The Kulgi Nature Camp. After collecting the permit from the forest department we headed towards the entry point for the Sanctuary – which is around 8-9 km from the office.

We hopped into the jeep provided by the forest department along with a guide and made our way into the Sanctuary.

India Ghoomo was at Kavala Caves

The jeep took us 4 kms inside the sanctuary and there came a point beyond which vehicles were not allowed. From there we walked for 4 kms. On the way we were lucky enough to spot wild bore, deers & a variety of birds. To reach the caves, we had to further climb down 540 steps.

There is a temple at the entrance of the cave with an idol of Nandi ji facing the entrance of the cave which otherwise remains closed and opens only when there are people visiting the caves .

The cave is over 40 feet in depth with a narrow passage and one needs to crawl inside. There are lights and bulbs inside, but are lit only during the Shivaratri festival, when the caves witness thousands of people. For the other days, one has to carry flash lights.

Kavala Caves in Dandeli

After crawling half the way inside the cave, we finally saw the the naturally formed ShivaLinga which is around 4 feet in height and roughly 3-4 feet in diameter . The texture of the Shiva Linga surface resembles Rudraksh beads.

Shivling at Kavala Caves in Dandeli

Shivling inside Kavala Caves in Dandeli

Towards the right of the Shivling is an idol of lord Ganpati & Brahma(though, we are not sure if it’s lord Brahma or Lord Kartikey’s idol) Plz let us know. On the left side of the Shivling is Maa Parvati’s idol.

Maa Parvati – Inside Kavala Caves in Dandeli

Dandeli Kavala Caves

There is an udder shaped stone formation just above the Shiva Linga from which water trickles all the time. After having the darshan and meditating for some time, we came out through the other half way. It is believed that these caves have been in existence since the prehistoric times.

Kavala Caves

Kavala Caves Pictures in Dadneli

We spent some time outside the caves soaking in the scenic view. There was a lot of steps climbing and walking ahead of us, so we we decided to have some sandwiches & water that we carried with us and then made our way back to the camp.

Verdict!

You will love it. The naturally formed ShivaLing is a miracle of nature and should not be missed.

Travel Tips:

Don’t forget to carry water bottles and some food. The 4 Kms trekking and 540 steps to and fro can get tiring. It’s better to stay hydrated.
Avoid bright colors and stick to muted shades of greens, grays & browns.
Wear comfortable walking shoes that offer a good grip.
Kavala Caves Dandeli Review and Pictures

Birds in Dandeli – Karnataka

January 20, 2014 by sarita

Our trip to Dandeli over the holidays left us with many memories, chief among them being the wildlife we encountered. Dandeli boasts of rich biodiversity. The abundant greenery is especially a haven for birds and the varieties we saw were staggering.

Bird watching in Dandeli – Karnataka (Video)

Bird Watching At Old Magazine House

It was impossible to note or get a shot of every single bird that we laid eyes upon. Here is just a handful that we were able to get great photos of.

The Old Magazine House where we stayed while in Dandeli is a bird watcher’s paradise. You can’t go anywhere without spotting or hearing a whole bunch of them – birds, not bird-watchers. You don’t have to find birds, they find you. When you step out of your room, go for a walk, take a boat ride or a drive – they’re all over the place.

Bird Watching at Old Magazine House in Dandeli

White-rumped Shama

The males of this species are deep blue/black in color except for their bellies which are bright orange while their rumps are, you guessed it, white. Because of its exotic appearance as well as its captivating voice, the male White-rumped Shama is often caught and caged. It’s quite the talented little thing too, capable of mimicking the calls of other birds.

White Rumped Shama Birds in Dandeli

White Rumped Shama at Old Magazine House Dandeli

Asian Paradise Fly Catcher

The Paradise Fly Catcher is a very elegant-looking bird. Its body is white while its head is entirely black. The male has rather long tail feathers which can grow up to 12 inches. They prefer the safety of tall, dense trees and you won’t often see this bird in a bush and even more rarely on the ground although they will briefly come to the ground if they need to drink or bathe in water.

Asian Paradise Fly Catcher Birds in India

Paradise Fly Catcher Eating Butterfly

Paradise Fly Catcher Pictures – Male

Paradise Fly Catcher

Birds in Dandeli Asian Paradise Fly Catcher

Birds in Dandeli Paradise Fly Catcher

Paradise Fly Catcher White bird with long tail

Paradise Fly Catcher Birds in Dandeli

Old Magazine House in Dandeli – Bird Watching

Black Drongo

The Black Drongo is glossy black and can appear midnight blue in some lights. They are very feisty birds, known to be aggressive and take on birds that are much larger than them. They’ll roost anywhere – in bushes, on trees, walls, animals and electricity wires. They’re not afraid of anything. You can’t tell by the look of them, but they are extremely efficient at hunting and perform flight manoeuvres that put other birds to shame.

Black Drongo at Old Magazine House

Black Drongo

Black Drongo Bird

Black Drongo Dandeli Karnataka

Black Drongo Birds in Dandeli

Black Drongo Bird Pictures

Emerald Dove

The Emerald Dove looks just like any other dove, except that it has emerald wings and the males have blue colouring on their heads. We got many pictures of these birds as they foraged on the ground for food around a makeshift bird feeder that was set up at Old Magazine House. Although they prefer forested habitats, they spend most of their life on the ground and will only go up into a tree to sleep.

Emerald Dove in Dandeli

Pictures of Emerald Dove – Male and Female

Spotted – The Common Emerald Dove in Dandeli, Karnataka ( at Old Magazine House) The Old Magazine House in Dandeli

Brown-cheeked Fulvetta

The Brown-cheeked Fulvetta is a cute little thing that looks like a sparrow attempting camouflage. Although its name implies that it has brown cheeks, the one we spotted was boasting shades of brown all over with the hue on the head being the darkest. We were quite lucky to get a shot of this one because the Brown-cheeked Fulvetta prefers to hide out in dense foliage, probably for protection as they are not known to be very strong fliers.

Brown Cheeked Fulvetter Dandeli Birds

Brown Cheeked Fulvetter

Brown Cheeked Fulvetter Bird

During a Coracle Boat Ride

We took a coracle boat ride on the Kaveri river on a lazy afternoon. It isn’t the smoothest and its always a bit iffy taking pictures on the water. But with patience, persistence and a steady hand, we managed to immortalise these flamboyant specimens in pixels.

Bird Watching in Dandeli

Bird Watching in Dandeli – Karnataka

Brahminy Kite

The coracle boat ride afforded us even more exotic sights, starting with the Brahminy Kite. It looks just like an eagle except that its head and chest are white. In Hindu culture, the Brahminy Kite is a representation of Garuda, the vehicle of Lord Vishnu. These birds tend to keep to their own kind, preferring to nest away from other birds in trees that are isolated.

Brahminy Kite

Brahminy Kite Birds in Dandeli Karnataka

Brahminy Kite In Dandeli

Brahminy Kite India

Dandeli Birds Brahminy Kite

Karnataka Birds Brahminy Kite

Malabar Pied Hornbill

This is a bird you just can’t stop looking at. The Malabar Pied Hornbill looks like it’s from another world. Its monochrome body starkly contrasts with its bright yellow double bills. The second one sits atop its beak, its eye shape strangely hypnotic. They are not picky eaters and will consume everything from fruits and insects to small animals.

Bird Watching in Dandeli Ganeshgudi – Malabar Pied Hornbill

Malabar Pied Hornbill Birds in Dandeli

Dandeli Birds Malabar Pied Hornbill

Malabar Pied Hornbill

Malabar Pied Hornbills in Dandeli

Malabar Pied Hornbill in Dandeli

Malabar Pied Hornbill Bird

Malabar Pied Hornbills

Woolly-necked Stork

Many places in Asia that have warm temperatures, a major water body and surrounding vegetation boast a healthy population of the Woolly-Necked stork. The Woolly-necked Stork has black wings, a brown body, a white head and a black crown. Seen from afar, it appears as though only the neck is white which is where it derives its name from. The one we spotted was perched high up in a tree but these birds usually hunt for food right on the ground.

Woolly Necked Stork

Woolly Necked Stork India Birds Karnataka

Woolly Necked Stork Birds in Dandeli

Dandeli Birds Woolly Necked Stork

We weren’t able to get the best pictures of all the birds we saw and what we’ve showcased here are really just a fraction. But rest assured that if you like watching birds as a serious hobby or just for fun, then you’ll be completely floored by what Dandeli has to offer.

Common Emerald Dove – Male and Female

January 15, 2014 by sarita

Spotted – The Common Emerald Dove in Dandeli, Karnataka ( at Old Magazine House)

The Old Magazine House in Dandeli, Karnataka is a haven for bird watchers. The wooded areas around are flush with them (both birds and bird watchers) and the authorities who run the place have done whatever possible to attract even more bird life. Our trip there afforded us some unforgettable ornithological sights, the common emerald dove being one of them.

We spotted them early in the morning around makeshift bird baths fashioned out of earthen flat pots. The state bird of Tamil Nadu, the common emerald dove looks just like a common dove or pigeon with the small difference that its wings are an emerald green. That’s what gives them their common names – the green-winged pigeon or green dove.

They are quite beautiful, especially the distinctive blue-green coloring on the wings. The males are further marked with white on their heads and shoulders. The females have a similar marking only on the shoulders, but it will appear grey rather than white.

These birds feed on seeds, fruits and anything edible they can find on the ground. They are very like common pigeons, in that they spend much of their time on the ground as they hop around looking for a nibble. You won’t spot many common emerald doves roosting in trees. Like pigeons, you can approach common emerald doves while they are on the ground, especially if you happen to be carrying a bit of seed or grain with which to feed them, and they will happily eat what you give them.

The pictures you see here were taken from quite a distance. Although they would not have flown away had we gotten near (they would have just hopped to a safe distance), we wanted to capture their behaviour in their natural habitat with no human intervention.