Situated in southern Karnataka, Kabini is an enthralling tourist spot that is especially exciting for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Nestled in the lap of nature, Kabini is a great weekend getaway and an ideal spot for those who need a break from their routine life. So, if the question - “what to do in Kabini?” has ever crossed your mind, this blog hopes to answer your query.
There are several things to do in Kabini, such as go on jungle safaris, boat safaris, do birdwatching, sightseeing and more. Let us quickly list out some of the top things to do in Kabini.
1. Jungle safari - one of the most popular things to do in Kabini!
One of the best things to do in Kabini is to go on a jungle safari to explore the dense forests of the Nagarahole National Park and spot its charismatic denizens. One can go choose to go in a jeep or a canter. The jeep or the canter takes one on a safari into the jungles and gives one a chance to be immersed in the scenic beauty of the lush forest and be mesmerised by the natural beauty of the Kabini river.On safari, one can sight and photograph a wide variety of mammal and bird species such as elephants, gaurs, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boars, peacocks, jungle fowls, drongos, eagles, owls and many more. If one is lucky, one can even encounter a sloth bear or a pack of wild dogs and be captivated by the brilliant big cats - the tigers and leopards and of course, chance upon the famous elusive black panther. The spectacular wildlife of Kabini is sure to leave one spellbound!
2. Boat safari
Of the many interesting things to do in Kabini, a boat safari is definitely one of the most wonderful activities. The boat takes one upstream on the Kabini river which separates the Nagarahole National Park from the Bandipur National Park. The journey starts from local villages where one can get an insight into the lives of the rural people. As the boat proceeds, the human settlements fade away and one is surrounded by dense forests. On the boat safari, one can expect to spot a few animals that come to the bank of the river to quench their thirst. One can observe the smooth-coated otters playing in the water, the marsh crocodiles lazing on the banks without a worry in the world and a plethora of bird species, some dipping in and out of the water, some skimming the surfaces and some perched on trees. In peak summer, the Kabini river plays host to the largest congregation of elephants in India. These majestic mammals, in their respective herds, travel long distances from all surrounding forests in search of water and finally gather at the semi-parched river. Although the number of individuals gathering at the river has decreased over the years, this conference of the largest land mammal on earth is still a sight to behold! If you are wondering how to get on a safari, read our blog How to book a Kabini safari.
3. Nature walk
Nature walks are the other activity associated with the forest. One can undertake this activity on one’s own or some resorts offer the services of tour guides to lead the expedition. Nature trails are a fun way to experience nature, cherish biodiversity and learn to identify different species of flora and fauna. Sometimes, one must get off the beaten track and take the road less travelled to relieve oneself. Losing one’s way and finding oneself again is a wonderful experience that can even give one an insight into one’s being and unravel a layer of one’s personality. In some of the luxurious resorts of Kabini, nature trails most often happen in the morning and the evening and one is sure to return to a sumptuous breakfast or a warm, relaxing campfire.
4. Birdwatching
Kabini is home to about 250 species of birds, making it a birder’s paradise. Bird lovers can spot and photograph these avian beauties while on safaris or nature walks and even in and around some resorts. The banks of the Kabini river are also a great spot to observe the thriving birds. Apart from smaller birds such as chirpy bulbuls, the proud white-breasted kingfisher and the wondrous woodpecker species, Kabini is also home to raptors such as the osprey, the crested serpent eagle, the changeable hawk-eagle, the spot bellied fishing owl, the red-headed vulture and the list goes on. The magical birds of Kabini are sure to enthrall you!
5. Kabini dam
Apart from venturing into the jungles, there are several other things to do in Kabini which can help one relax and spend some quality family time. If one is simply looking for a quiet escape from the usual hustle-bustle of life, the Kabini Dam is a great spot as one is surrounded by the murmurs of nature and rejuvenated by fresh air. A picnic with one’s partner or family might just lead to a series of memorable experiences.
6. Kabini backwater viewpoint
If there was one spot from which one could experience all of Kabini’s awe-inspiring beauty and cherish all its glory, it would probably be the Kabini backwater viewpoint. The backwater viewpoint is a wonderful place to watch and photograph wildlife in its natural habitat. Observing the sun sign off the day in orange hieroglyphics and surrendering oneself to the balmy wind of the night is truly a peaceful and rewarding experience.
7. Mastigudi temple
Apart from activities related to wildlife and nature, another thing to do in Kabini is to visit the Mastigudi Temple and pay homage to Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh. Situated on the banks of the Kabini river, the Mastigudi temple is dedicated to Mother Parvati. Mastamma which is another name for Parvati means ‘the great wife’. ‘Gudi’ simply means temple. In the days of yore, when devotees would pass through the forest and cross the temple, they would pray to the Goddess Mastamma for Her protection and seek Her blessings for the journey. While the Mastigudi is dedicated to Lady Parvati, its main idol, which is carved out of a big boulder, is that of Lord Ganesh. The temple has completely been destroyed and today, the idol stands alone.
8. Tribal colony visit
Apart from the aforementioned activities, there is another unique thing to do in Kabini. One can visit the small village of the Kuruba tribe and learn about their culture. One can see their traditional huts, witness their tribal dance and let the Kurubas show one around their heritage and listen to their folk stories. This experience can take one back in time and give one a peek into history. If you are a history buff, you may enjoy our blog on the history of Kabini.
Summary
Kabini has been a frequently visited holiday spot and a weekend getaway. Although best known for its wildlife, there are several other things to do in Kabini which can help one relax and feel rejuvenated. One can enjoy activities based around nature and go on safaris.
But apart from the natural and wild side of this magnificent place, one has a chance to live some peaceful moments on the bank of the Kabini river or spend time with one’s loved ones on the Kabini Dam. One can also dip into the culture and visit the tribal colony of the Kurubas and witness the beautiful Ganesh idol of the Mastigudi temple.
We hope our blog has provided you with options of what to do in Kabini, apart from the thrilling safaris. A holiday or a quick escape to Kabini is full of wonderful opportunities. There are newer experiences to be had, amazing photographs to be captured and fresh memories to be made. A whole new world awaits your arrival!
