Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve complex in North Karnataka, protects over 834 sq km of lush Western Ghats forest along the Kali River. The sanctuary has gained fame as one of India's most reliable locations for melanistic leopard (black panther) sightings, particularly along forest roads near Ganeshgudi. The Kali River provides a different safari experience — boat safaris and coracle rides through densely forested banks offer chances to spot crocodiles, otters, and rich birdlife. Dandeli is a premier birding destination in the Western Ghats — the Malabar pied hornbill is the signature species, and the forests host great hornbills, Ceylon frogmouths, and Malabar trogons. The sanctuary also doubles as an adventure destination with white-water rafting and kayaking on the Kali River.