Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary

Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary near Hampi is India's first sanctuary specifically established for the conservation of sloth bears. The sanctuary spans 83 sq km of rocky, scrubby terrain in the Deccan Plateau — a landscape of granite boulders and thorny bushes that provides ideal sloth bear habitat. The main visitor experience involves sitting in a watchtower at the sanctuary's feeding station, where bears emerge from the scrub during the late afternoon and evening. On a good evening, multiple bears can be seen feeding and moving around the rocky landscape. The sanctuary also supports leopards, hyenas, wild boars, and porcupines. Its proximity to Hampi (15 km) makes it an excellent add-on to a heritage visit — combining the ancient Vijayanagara ruins with a unique wildlife experience.