Top Resorts to Visit in Monsoon

1. River Tern Lodge, Bhadra

Nestled on the fringes of the Bhadra Reservoir in the picturesque Chikmagalur district, River Tern Lodge stands as a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and bird lovers alike, offering an eco-tourism haven amidst untamed nature's splendor. The lodge is embraced by the tranquil backwaters of the river, their gentle ripples providing a soothing backdrop as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.

Named after a nearby island, River Tern Lodge becomes a bustling hub during the breeding season of the river terns, with hundreds of these majestic birds adorning the landscape with their elegant presence. Their white plumage stands out against the lush greenery, creating a picturesque contrast that's a delight to behold. Spotting these graceful birds as they flit among the trees or gracefully sip from the river is a highlight of any stay at the lodge.

Embark on a thrilling jeep safari during the cool evenings, heading towards the Bhadra Tiger Reserve just 4 km away. This well-preserved forest is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including leopards, tigers, gaurs, elephants, crocodiles, deer, wild boars, and monitor lizards. Keep your binoculars handy to catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures thriving in their natural habitat.  For avid bird watchers, the region boasts over 200 species of birds, including the Grey Junglefowl, White-rumped Shama, Racket Tailed Drongo, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Brown Fish Owl, Grey-Headed Fish Eagle, Osprey, White Bellied Sea Eagle, and, of course, the River Tern.

River Tern Lodge offers an opportunity to interact with the majestic Asian elephant, adding a royal touch to your jungle experience. The lodge itself is a haven of relaxation, offering activities like kayaking on the river, supervised swimming, and sunset boat rides, all under the watchful guidance of trained experts adhering to strict safety protocols. After a day of adventure, unwind at the homely Gol Ghar with a delectable buffet of fresh vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, satisfying even the most discerning palate.
 

2. Sharavathi Adventure Camp, Jog Falls

Escape the fast-paced city life filled with Zoom calls and endless chores, and immerse yourself in nature's splendor. The Sahyadris, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world's eight biodiversity hotspots. This mountain range is a treasure trove of wildlife, featuring lush valleys, gushing rivers, emerald grasslands, and expansive forests, offering a glimpse into a pristine world.

During the monsoon, the Sahyadris come alive with fresh greenery and swollen rivers teeming with life. The River Sharavathi plunges from 830 feet, creating Jog Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. The monsoon is the best time to witness this spectacular sight, cascading in four unique streams: Raja, Rani, Rocket, and Roarer. Just 6 km from Jog Falls, the Sharavathi Adventure Camp blends majestic mountains, greenery, and streams. Nestled by the Talakalale Reservoir, the camp thrives in the monsoon's sunshine and rain, creating a lush, cool ambiance. The season is perfect for nature walks, bird watching, and enjoying the serene countryside.

Explore the camp, follow butterflies, or indulge in watersports like kayaking and coracle rides. Fishing enthusiasts can catch their meal and have it prepared by the in-house restaurant. The area is home to diverse birds and wildlife, perfect for photography. As evening falls, savor a cup of tea or coffee by the water’s edge, watching the sky turn vivid shades of pink, crimson, orange, and mustard. Relax and unwind, surrounded by the tranquil mountains.

3. Kali Adventure Camp, Dandeli

In Dandeli, the "Adventure Capital of India," the Kali River commands the landscape, winding through a mix of gorges, valleys, forests, and meadows. Named after this powerful river, the Kali Adventure Camp offers an exhilarating experience. The camp features a sprawling bungalow beside the frothing river, giving an adrenaline rush just from the view.

This wilderness camp emphasizes connecting with nature and balancing adventure sports with ecotourism. Whitewater rafting enthusiasts will find the camp specially equipped for this thrilling activity. Expert guides ensure all safety standards are met and educate participants about the wildlife and adventures in Dandeli. Besides rafting, guests can enjoy coracle rides, birdwatching, nature walks, jungle safaris, and sightseeing in this beautiful region.

Dandeli's untouched landscape boasts diverse flora and fauna. The Kali Tiger Reserve is home to spotted deer, gaurs, sloth bears, barking deer, hornbills, yellow-footed pigeons, peafowls, and the crested serpent eagle. The elusive black panther also roams the reserve, and spotting this sleek predator is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. Jungle safaris bring you close to these magnificent creatures, offering photo opportunities that create lasting memories. 

4. K Gudi Wilderness Camp, BR Hills

The Kyathdevaraya Gudi (K Gudi) Wilderness Camp offers a unique ecotourism experience in one of Karnataka's biodiversity hotspots. Surrounded by lush greenery and freely roaming wildlife, this Jungle Lodges & Resorts property balances adventure with nature conservation. Nearby, the B.R.T Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected haven for elephants, gaurs, tigers, and leopards, attracting visitors keen to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 

The jungle teems with 250 bird species, including the velvet-fronted nuthatch, gold-fronted chloropsis, blossom-headed parakeet, and Malabar whistling thrush. Expert-led jeep safaris take you into the heart of the forest, offering glimpses of animals you've only seen in documentaries. The camp provides two safari trips: one at dawn as the forest awakens and one at dusk when nocturnal creatures emerge. For trekkers, exploring the forest on foot reveals hidden trails and lesser-known flora and fauna. As evening falls, the camp transforms into a tranquil retreat. Enjoy the warmth of a campfire (season permitting) and the serenity of your surroundings. Wildlife enthusiasts can watch nature documentaries in the audio-visual room, and mealtimes evoke the camaraderie of old hunting lodges with communal buffets and shared stories.

Escape the city's hustle and celebrate the wild beauty of Karnataka at K Gudi Wilderness Camp!

5. Seethanadi Nature Camp, Agumbe

The Western Ghats of Karnataka are a biodiversity hotspot teeming with a rich variety of flora and fauna. This stunning region showcases the state's natural beauty, particularly within the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1974. The sanctuary is home to a perennial river that nourishes the land and attracts diverse wildlife.

The sanctuary forms part of a larger protected area that includes the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kudremukh National Park. Here, you can encounter Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, Ussuri dholes, Indian elephants, Indian jackals, spotted deer, black-naped hares, lion-tailed macaques, and both the Great Indian and Malabar grey hornbills. The river’s gentle flow draws water birds, while otters and the famed mahseer fish swim in its depths.

Located within the sanctuary, the Seethanadi Nature Camp in Hebri offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery. This quiet oasis allows you to immerse yourself in nature, far from the noise and dust of the city. Nature walks reveal the vibrant wildlife of Karnataka, where you can joyfully observe animals in their natural habitat. Identifying animal tracks and encountering these magnificent creatures is an exhilarating experience.

Discover a different side of Karnataka at this off-beaten camp, where you can experience the tranquility and beauty of nature.

6. Galibore Nature Camp, Kanakapura

Situated on the banks of the River Cauvery, the Galibore Nature Camp offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts. While fishing for the mighty Mahseer is no longer permitted, the camp's surroundings teem with wildlife, making it a must-visit destination. You can spot spotted deer, the endangered grizzled giant squirrel, marsh crocodiles, turtles, and various snakes. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with the 230 species of birds, including fish eagles, green pigeons, kingfishers, and owls.

The true charm of Galibore Nature Camp lies in its knowledgeable naturalists and staff, who provide fascinating insights into the local wildlife. At the Gol Ghar, where delicious local cuisine is served, you can observe colorful birds flitting through the forest foliage. Enjoy the flavors of the locality while taking in spectacular views of the river and birds from your seat. As the sun sets, relax by the riverside and savor a barbecue meal under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the forest.

To make the most of your visit to Galibore Nature Camp, plan your trip between August and February. This period, during the monsoon season, showcases the forest at its lushest, making it the ideal time for bird watching. Experience the tranquility of nature at Galibore Nature Camp and return home rejuvenated.

7. Gopinatham Mystery Trails, Gopinatham

Have you ever wanted to witness the wildlife of two states simultaneously? Located near Gopinatham, a charming haven on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp offers a glimpse into a unique world of wildlife. Nestled within the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, this camp is surrounded by the serene flow of the Cauvery River, which sustains the rich flora and fauna along its banks.

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for diverse wildlife. You can spot tigers, elephants, wild boars, leopards, barking deer, black-naped hares, chevrotains, four-horned antelopes, smooth-coated otters, Malabar giant squirrels, and more. The river attracts a variety of reptiles, including mugger crocodiles, Indian rock pythons, and Indian mud turtles. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher's paradise, home to endangered species like the white-rumped vulture, Indian vulture, Nilgiri wood-pigeon, greater spotted eagle, white-naped tit, and red-headed vulture.

Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp, situated in the heart of the sanctuary, allows you to immerse yourself in nature. The surrounding landscape features grassy hills and deciduous forests. During the monsoon, the earth releases a sweet fragrance, and the trees transform into lush green canopies, providing a soothing retreat.

Explore the forest on foot, uncovering hidden nooks or visiting the memorial of a celebrated forest officer. Trek to vantage points for spectacular views of the sanctuary. Just 13 km from the camp, the famous Hogenakkal Falls, known as the Niagara of India, offers a breathtaking sight. Glide down the waters in a coracle boat, creating lasting memories of your visit.

8. Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp, Malavalli

The Cauvery River flows through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, originating from Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri range of the Western Ghats. It traverses gorges, waterfalls, rapids, and dense forests. Just two hours from Bangalore, the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp offers a perfect blend of adventure and wilderness, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

This camp provides various adventure activities, including zip-lining, kayaking, and rope-walking. For nature enthusiasts, jungle treks offer opportunities to spot elephants, deer, crocodiles, turtles, snakes, and around 200 bird species. The highlight of the camp is the Mahseer, the largest tropical gamefish. Although fishing is not allowed, watching these magnificent fish swim through the greenish-blue waters is a thrilling experience.

The ideal time to visit is from August to February, just after the monsoon season, when the river is at its peak and the surrounding greenery is lush and vibrant. Birdwatchers will be delighted to see colorful birds such as river terns, fishing eagles, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and other water birds flocking to the riverbanks. Spend long hours observing these birds and soaking in the serene environment of Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp.

9. Hampi Heritage and Wilderness Resort

The Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort, a renowned JLR property, offers guests a unique experience in Hampi. Nestled on the edge of the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, the resort provides a glimpse into the rugged red terrain, the natural habitat of the majestic sloth bears. These bears can be seen leisurely stretching out in the countryside. The resort's watchtower, perched atop a hillock, offers panoramic views where guests can spot wildlife such as black-naped hares, pangolins, porcupines, jackals, and leopards. 

Venturing 8 km into the forest is an exhilarating experience, with the lush green canopy sheltering a variety of avian species including peafowl, spurfowl, yellow-throated bulbuls, sand grouse, quails, sirkeer malkohas, and stone curlews.  The cool, misty mornings are perfect for exploring Hampi's heritage trails. Hampi's monuments are divided into the Sacred Centre, Royal Centre, Urban Core, and Suburban Centre. Across the river lies Anegundi, or Kishkinda from the Ramayana, an important place in Hindu mythology that exudes an old-world charm. 

After a day of exploration, unwind with a delicious meal at Gol Ghar, offering a variety of cuisines with a view of the ancient red city in the distance. Even after two days in this historical city, there's much more to discover, from its vibrant bazaars to kayaking on the river, making Hampi an unforgettable experience.

10. Anejhari Butterfly Camp, Kollur

When we think of forest wildlife, majestic tigers and elephants often come to mind, symbolizing the grandeur of nature. Yet, there is a delicate and enchanting side to the wilderness that Anejhari Butterfly Camp reveals.

Butterflies, with their gentle fluttering, evoke a sense of warmth and beauty. Their transformation from caterpillars to butterflies symbolizes personal growth and change. Mistaken for flowers when perched on green branches, their colorful wings resemble blooming petals. Despite their short lifespan, witnessing these fragile creatures is a unique and fleeting experience. Nestled in the verdant Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Anejhari Butterfly Camp is a sanctuary of greenery and the soothing Souparnika River. Located near Kollur, it offers trekkers the chance to ascend Kodachadri Peak, the 10th highest peak in Karnataka and a natural heritage site. The trek reveals wildlife such as Malabar langurs, Malabar pied hornbills, Indian tigers, leopards, and Indian rock pythons.

For a change of scenery, Maravanthe and Byndoor beaches are just 35 km away, ideal for sunbathing or beach activities. Nearby Arisinagundi Falls offers a picturesque spot for a picnic. At the camp, birdwatching, butterfly spotting, and adventure activities await. The butterfly trail showcases a variety of species including the Tamil Lacewing, Plain Puffin, Malabar Tree Nymph, and more. Wildlife enthusiasts can also spot the Malabar Giant Squirrel, sambar deer, wild boar, Indian gaur, and peacocks. Birdwatchers can capture glimpses of the Pied Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and other avian species. Children can enjoy the dedicated play area.

Embark on a unique adventure at Anejhari Butterfly Camp and witness the delicate beauty of forest insects as they gracefully traverse the canopy.

11. Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg

Dubare is renowned for its expansive elephant camp nestled along the picturesque banks of the River Kaveri. Historically, Dubare Elephant Camp trained elephants for the grand Mysore Dussehra, with the river serving as their main watering hole. Today, following the cessation of logging operations, around 150 elephants are cared for by the Karnataka Forest Department at Dubare. These magnificent creatures, once part of the Dussehra spectacle, now offer visitors a glimpse into the gentle side of nature's wild beauty as they interact within the camp's vicinity.

At the Dubare Elephant Camp in Coorg, guests can observe, learn about, and actively engage in various activities involving the elephants. In-house naturalists enrich the experience by sharing insights into elephant history, ecology, and biology.

One of the most engaging activities is the elephant grooming session, where visitors spend over three hours bonding with these majestic animals. Witness the elephants enjoy a scrub bath in the river, complete with traditional rituals such as oil application to their foreheads and tusks. Visitors also learn about elephant food preparation and feeding, as well as the role of elephants in logging operations. This experience offers a unique glimpse into wildlife care in its natural habitat.

Beyond elephants, the surrounding forests are home to a variety of wildlife including gaurs, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, peacocks, and partridges. The monsoon season from July to September transforms the forest, with the river swelling with grayish-blue water, offering adventurous opportunities for monsoon river rafting on the Kaveri. To satisfy hunger pangs, the in-house Gol Ghar serves delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, with the option to request local delicacies.