Want to escape from the huzzle-buzzle of city life? Want to listen to the melodious chirping of birds? Want to listen to the melodious sound of water flowing in streams? Then Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary is the right choice for you. Yes, this beautiful place has water, greenery, and birds in huge numbers combined with blissful serenity. What else do you need to refresh your body and soul?

About Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. The name is derived after the founder of the sanctuary, Ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali. It is also known as Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka. This Birds Sanctuary gets the credit of Largest Bird Sanctuary as it is spread in an area of about 40 acres. River Cauvery has crafted this wonderful place. Small Islands in the river have become the hot favorite place of migratory birds. All kinds of birds throng this place throughout the year, though the number increases amazingly during the season.

The entire trees and bushes will be covered with birds and it is a spectacular scene to watch them moving, chirping and flying restlessly. These migratory birds come here for breeding, and move back once the young ones are fit enough to fly. About 170 species of birds are noticed here and some of them are permanent residents.

Some wild birds may also be cited during the season. The winged visitors here include birds from North India, Siberia, and Latin America. Display cards giving information about birds, giving a brief description, and a picture are placed aside the walking track. Visitors will get all the information and get to know about the rare species of birds through these posts.

Taking a boat ride and getting a closer view of the birds and their nests is an amazing experience. Boating is allowed depending on level of water flow in the river. The boat takes you around the small islands which gets you a closer look at the birds. The experience is beyond words. Apart from boating, there are watchtowers from where you can get a better look at the winged guests. The pedestrian path takes you on a stroll along the river. One can enjoy the cold breeze, rumbling of bamboo trees, and musical chirps of the birds.

Where is it located?

Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary is on the banks of the river Cauvery, near Srirangapatna. Just 3 Kms. Deviation on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway.

Entry fees is mandatory and charges are based on the vehicle and number of people.

How to reach

Ranganatittu is just 4 Kms. from Srirangapatna Bus stand, if you want to travel by bus from where you can hire a private vehicle. If you are travelling on your own vehicle, it is 16 Kms. from Mysore and about 120 Kms. from Bengaluru.

Best time to visit

All migratory birds visit this place during the period from June to October. If you want to watch rare migratory birds, this is the best time to visit. Other times are also fine, but the number of birds and variety may not be as much.

Accommodation at Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary

There is no accommodation available at the sanctuary. People have to stay at Srirangapatna or Mysore. Mysore is a better choice as it offers a wide variety and range of accommodations.

Entry Fee

There is an entry fee to get into the Ranganatittu Bird sanctuary and timings of visit is 8.30 am to 6.00 pm on all days. The entry fee depends on the vehicle and number of persons.

What to do at Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary

• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Blend with nature
• Walk around in the walk paths
• Visit Salim Ali Museum
• Enjoy the combination of greenery, water and birds.

Other places of interest around

There are lots of places to see around. Most important among them are Ranganathaswamy Temple, Nimishamba Temple, Sangam, and Dariya Daulat.

A humble request

Please remember that you are a visitor to Ranganatittu Bird Sanctuary and the place belongs to the birds. Do not harm them or litter the place. Extra care needs to be taken not to throw plastic and other waste items anywhere in the entire area. Dust bins are provided at frequent intervals, Please use them and maintain the cleanliness of the place. Enjoy the place without disturbing the serenity of the place. Insist this on children also.