Karnataka’s Kabini Forest Reserve is a heaven for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers
Nestled between the forest reserves of Nagarhole and Bandipur, Kabini is reputed to have the highest density of wildlife in South India. The Kabini is a river flowing through the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (declared UNESCO World Heritage site) that’s part of the Western Ghats of South India. The river is flanked by the Nagarhole National Park and Bandipur National Park. However, it’s the south-eastern part of the park that’s known as the Kabini Forest Reserve. This lush green area is home to tigers, Indian elephants, leopards, chitals, sambar deers, and also to Saya, the elusive black panther which makes headline and goes viral on the internet for its rare appearances. The reserve is easily accessible by road from both northern Kerala and Bangalore and is the best place to view wildlife during a tour of southern India.