Bangaluru.org - "Shivgiri Wildlife" Wildlife in Karnataka

Shivgiri Shivgiri is completely isolated from the outside world and that is the best part. You wouldn’t want to see a McDonald glow sign in the middle of the forest, would you? It is a wonderful place to unwind, de-stress and distance yourself from the chaotic city life. The forest offers adventure in the form of trekking, rock climbing and wildlife viewing. The forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife and birds and all day long the calls of the wild animals can be heard. It is not uncommon to hear the grunts and see the pugmarks of a tiger or a panther.

Activity
Shivgiri offers great adventure in the form of trekking and rock climbing. There is a 5500 ft peak called the Doddabale Siddaragudda and the trek to the top can be rather tiring but hugely rewarding. To get to the top, you have to walk through the thick coffee plantations and you will find droppings and pugmarks of animals by the dozens. There is always an experienced guide to lead the trekkers least they go off deeper into the forest. The peak offers fabulous view of the rivers and the villages far below and you can see for miles. Mundre (12kms) offers excellent rock climbing and rappelling opportunities. Also trek to the remains of the ruins of an ancient fort or to the caves that some animals, including tigers call their home. You can also go kayaking in the waters of Madagadakere Lake. Take a jungle safari but you have to be rather lucky to see the tigers and the ever-elusive panther although you can see animals like different variety of deer, wild boar, sloth bear, jackal, monkeys, elephants and other small animals. You will have a field day identifying the different birds and there is a huge variety of them.

Accomodation Options
Shivgiri Trails Estate offers an excellent package that includes stay, meals and trek through the forest and it is not at all expensive.

Things to Pack
Tough cotton cloths and proper trekking shoes are a must. In the evening it might get chilly as the wind blows through at high velocity, so be sure to carry a cardigan or jacket. Binoculars and sun protection are must.

Getting There
Drive on NH4 to Tumkur via Nelamangala and then take NH206 to Birur via Tiptur and Arsikere. State highways will take you to Hoggarehalli Village via Lingadahalli. Driving time is 5 1/2 hours. You can also take the Janshatabdi Express from Bangalore to Birur and then take a taxi to Shivgiri Trails Estate. Journey time is 3 hours + ½ hours.

Best Time To Visit

Throughout the year is good, except July and August because the monsoon makes trekking and other activities a little difficult.

Places Nearby

Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary lays 65 kms away and you can take a safari inside the sanctuary for a view of some endangered animals.

There was a small Lord Shiva temple, which according to the locals was 400 years old and has a very strong deity.

Distance:-	235 km North West of Bangalore
By Road:-	5 hours
Location:-	Shivgiri is located above Yemmedoddi Village in the Hoggarekangiri Hills, north of the Babu Budanagiri Hills in Kadur taluk of Chikmagalur District.
Route:-	Drive on NH4 to Tumkur via Nelamangala and then take NH206 to Birur via Tiptur and Arsikere. State highways will take you to Hoggarehalli Village via Lingadahalli. Driving time is 5 1/2 hours. You can also take the Janshatabdi Express from Bangalore to Birur and then take a taxi to Shivgiri Trails Estate. Journey time is 3 hours + ½ hours.
When to go:-	Throughout the year is good, except July and August because the monsoon makes trekking and other activities a little difficult.
Tourist offices:-	KSTDC(bookings and info) Badami House, NR Square, Bangalore Tel: 080-2275869, Fax: 2352626 Email: kstdc@vsnl.in
Where to stay :-	Shivgiri Trails Tel: 08025483220, 9448130096 Mail: shivgiritrails@gmail.com Tariff: Rs 2300/- per head, inclusive of all meals on a twin sharing basics. Contact Person: Mr. Navin Bopaiah