Perched at the confluence of the Eastern and Western Ghats, the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve (BR Hills) is one of Karnataka’s most enchanting wildlife destinations. Named after the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple atop the hill, this sanctuary beautifully blends spiritual serenity with untamed wilderness.
Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2011, it covers over 574 sq. km, serving as a vital wildlife corridor between the Western and Eastern Ghats. Its mosaic of forests, grasslands, and sholas makes it a biodiversity hotspot teeming with life.
Location and How to Reach
-
State: Karnataka
-
District: Chamarajanagar
-
Nearest Town: Yelandur (25 km)
-
Nearest Airport: Mysuru Airport (~90 km)
-
Nearest Railway Station: Chamarajanagar (~45 km)
-
By Road: Well connected from Mysuru (90 km) and Bengaluru (180 km)
Flora and Fauna
🌳 Flora
The forests of BR Hills transition from dry deciduous to evergreen and shola forests, hosting trees like Teak, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Terminalia, and Bamboo. The diverse habitats support hundreds of plant species, some of which are endemic to the Ghats.
🦁 Fauna
The reserve shelters a rich diversity of animals, including:
-
Predators: Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Wild Dog
-
Herbivores: Indian Gaur, Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer
-
Elephants: Regularly migrating herds from nearby Bandipur and Sathyamangalam
-
Primates: Bonnet Macaque, Langur
-
Birds: Over 250 bird species including the Malabar Whistling Thrush, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Hornbills
Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple
At the summit of the BR Hills (5,091 feet) stands the revered Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (Vishnu). The temple gives the reserve its name — Biligiri meaning “white hill.”
Every April, the Ratha Festival (chariot procession) attracts devotees from across Karnataka, blending spirituality with conservation awareness.
Eco-Conservation & Soliga Tribe Initiatives
The Soliga tribe, indigenous to BR Hills, has coexisted with nature for centuries. Their traditional practices of sustainable forest use and deep ecological knowledge have contributed to the protection of the forest ecosystem.
In recent years, the Karnataka Forest Department and ATREE (Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment) have collaborated with the Soliga community for:
-
Eco-tourism programs offering tribal-guided nature walks.
-
Non-timber forest produce (NTFP) initiatives, such as honey and herbal product collection.
-
Joint forest management, where Soliga families help monitor wildlife and prevent forest fires.
-
Conservation education for youth and visitors to promote sustainable coexistence.
This community-led conservation model makes BR Hills a shining example of human-nature harmony and inclusive wildlife protection in India.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| October – February | Pleasant climate and best for wildlife safaris |
| March – May | Dry and ideal for animal sightings near waterholes |
| June – September | Green and scenic but limited safari access |
Top Things to Do
-
Jeep Safari – Morning and evening wildlife drives.
-
Birdwatching – Spot endemic and migratory species.
-
Trekking – Explore forest trails with panoramic hill views.
-
Temple Visit – Experience the divine aura of Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple.
-
Tribal Village Tour – Learn Soliga traditions and eco-living.
-
Nature Photography – Capture misty landscapes and rare fauna.
Nearby Attractions
-
K Gudi Wilderness Camp – Eco-lodges and guided safaris.
-
Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta – Hilltop temple and elephant view point.
-
Bandipur National Park – Another tiger reserve just 70 km away.
-
Chamarajanagar – Cultural stop with temples and markets.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chamarajanagar District, Karnataka |
| Area | 574 sq. km |
| Established as Tiger Reserve | 2011 |
| Altitude | 600–1,800 meters |
| Main Tribe | Soliga |
| Main Rivers | Bhargavi and Cauvery tributaries |
| Best Visit Time | November – April |
FAQs about Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve
Q1: Where is BR Hills located?
A1: In Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, between the Eastern and Western Ghats.
Q2: Why is BR Hills famous?
A2: Known for its temple, tiger reserve, and community-based conservation with the Soliga tribe.
Q3: What animals can be seen in BR Hills?
A3: Tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, sambar deer, and over 250 bird species.
Q4: When is the best time to visit BR Hills?
A4: Between November and April for pleasant weather and good sightings.
Q5: Can tourists stay inside the reserve?
A5: Yes, eco-lodges like K Gudi Wilderness Camp and forest rest houses are available.
🔍 People Also Ask (PAA)
1. How many tigers live in BR Hills?
There are about 20–25 tigers, as per recent surveys.
2. What is unique about BR Hills?
Its location uniting the Eastern and Western Ghats creates exceptional biodiversity.
3. Who are the Soliga people?
An indigenous tribe involved in forest conservation and sustainable living in BR Hills.
4. How far is BR Hills from Bengaluru?
Approximately 180 kilometers, a 4–5 hour scenic drive.
5. Is trekking allowed in BR Hills?
Yes, guided treks are permitted in designated eco-tourism zones.
Conclusion
The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve is more than a tiger habitat—it’s a living symbol of cultural harmony, conservation, and spirituality. From the divine temple on its summit to the thriving forest life below, BR Hills embodies the essence of “Sacred Nature.”
Whether you come to pray, trek, or witness the roar of the wild, this sanctuary leaves you with a profound connection to nature and Karnataka’s eco-heritage.
0 comments:
Post a Comment