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One of the scariest animals in the wild, Black Panther is the most common form melanistic leopards that have been selectively bred for captivity in zoos. Because of its selective breeding, the number of black panthers found in the world is limited. Official records say that there are eight of them existing in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Sighting the animal is very rare and mostly depends on one’s luck but there are people indeed who have actually seen the mysterious black big cat glide through the forest. The dark coloration of the panthers gives them a huge hunting advantage.

Crocodiles, sloth bears, bush grail, elephants, sambars and tiger are other animals that you may come across in the sanctuary. Dandeli is also home to the barking, spotted and mouse deer, gaur, wild dog, civet cat, bison, jackal, mongoose, porcupine, langur and giant flying squirrel, besides a variety of colourful birds and reptiles. The reptilian and amphibian fauna of the region include a variety of ruffles and frogs.

The main bird species in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary include magpie robin, golden backed woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and a large variety of other birds. The white breasted kingfisher, grey hornbill, great pied hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbills are some more bird species to watch out here. In fact hornbill is present here in large numbers.

Kavala Caves: Once home of Pre-historic man, who had made these limestone caves his home are today a tourist attractions. Kavala Caves are located 30 km away from Dandeli.

Shiroli Peak: Other interesting place to visit is Shiroli Peak located 25 km away. This is the highest point in Uttara Kannada District, which offers great views of the ghats and also provides good options for mild trekking.

Kulgi Nature Camp: A must visit when in Dandeli is Kulgi Nature Camp located 14 km away. The camp is situated on the Ambika Nagar-Yellapur route and has a nature interpretation centre with a small museum. The highlight is the stuffed remains of a 13-ft long king cobra, caught in the area a few years ago. The forest department organises nature walks and jungle safaris here.
For more info: 08284-331585

Places to stay in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Dandeli offers a host of accommodation for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the sanctuary. Dandeli also has a number jungle lodges, adventure camps, forest rest houses and resorts that provide decent accommodation facilities in Dandeli. Hotels in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

By Air: The nearest airport is in Dabolim (Goa) at a distance of 145 km.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is in Londa (25 km). Other close railheads are in Dharwad (57 km) and Hubli (72 km).

By Road:The best way to reach Dandeli is to travel from Karwar which is at a distance of 120 km.