5. Anejhari Butterfly Camp

When we think of forest wildlife, we often picture regal tigers gracefully treading down wooded trails or elephants lumbering towards their watering holes with tusks held high. However, there’s another side to nature’s untamed beauty, perfectly captured by the Anejhari Butterfly Camp.

Delicate and softly fluttering, butterflies evoke a sense of wonder and warmth when we spot them. In popular culture, the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly symbolizes personal growth and metamorphosis. Often mistaken for flowers, their colorful wings resemble blooming petals. With their brief lifespan, witnessing butterflies in their natural habitat is a rare and precious experience.

Situated in the lush greenery of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, the Anejhari Butterfly Camp is graced by the sweet fragrance of the forest and the gently flowing Souparnika River. Located near Kollur, 80 km from Udupi, the camp offers trekkers the opportunity to hike to the top of Kodachadri Peak, the 10th highest peak in Karnataka and a designated natural heritage site. Along the trek, you might encounter the Malabar langur, Malabar pied hornbill, Indian tiger, Indian leopard, Indian rock python, and more. For a change of scenery, you can dip your feet into the ocean at Maravanthe and Byndoor beaches, just 35 km from the camp, where you can bask in the golden sunshine or build sandcastles on the shore. Alternatively, you can trek to the picturesque Arisinagundi Falls for a relaxing picnic by the waters.

At the camp, you can enjoy bird watching, butterfly spotting, or participate in adventure-based activities. The butterfly trail offers a chance to see butterflies of various hues and colors, including the Tamil Lacewing, Plain Puffin, Malabar Tree Nymph, Paris Peacock, Grey Count, Red Helen, and Blue Oak Leaf. Besides these delicate insects, you might also spot the Malabar Giant Squirrel, sambar, wild boar, Indian gaur, peacocks, barking deer, and other wildlife. Bird lovers can capture photos of the Pied Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Small Blue Kingfisher, Stork-billed Kingfisher, and Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Kids can enjoy the children’s area within the camp, ensuring fun for the whole family.

Visit this unique jungle lodge to experience the delicate beauty of forest butterflies as they flutter from tree to tree.

To know more about the stay or camp, check here: Anejhari Butterfly Camp

6. Kemmannugundi Hill Resort

Seeking a serene hill station away from the usual crowds? Look no further than Kemmannugundi in Chikmagalur. Standing tall amidst the mighty Baba Budan Giri Range, this majestic grassy hill boasts bubbling mountain streams, verdant greenery, panoramic valley views, and exquisite ornamental gardens.

Once the summer retreat of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, also known as the Sri. Krishnarajendra Hill Station, Kemmannugundi is now meticulously maintained by the Karnataka Government's Department of Horticulture. Its red soil, reflected in the name derived from 'Kempu', 'Manu', and 'Gundi', nurtures a rich landscape ideal for crops like coffee plants, creating a lush paradise perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Dubbed 'Queen of the Hills' and 'The Ooty of Karnataka', its cool and pleasant climate year-round makes it an ideal destination for trekkers seeking forested trails.

Perched at 1,434 meters above sea level, Kemmannugundi offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of Chikmagalur. Waking up to a bird's-eye view of tall trees, colorful birds serenading amidst the branches, and lush green valleys dotted with wildflowers is a truly enchanting experience. Trekking is a highlight here, with various access points leading to stunning views, waterfalls, dams, and a rich variety of flora. The iconic Z Point, nestled in the Mullayanagiri Range, offers a picturesque setting for picnics near cascading waterfalls. Visitors can also explore the famous Rose Garden, maintained by the Karnataka Horticulture Department, showcasing a diverse array of vibrant blooms.

Retreat to the spacious cottages of the hill resort for a cozy and peaceful holiday amidst the tranquil beauty of Kemmannugundi.

To know more about the stay, check here: Kemmannugundi Hill Resort

7. Seethanadi Nature Camp

The Western Ghats of Karnataka are a true biodiversity hotspot, showcasing the state's immense natural beauty with an array of flora and fauna. Among its treasures is the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area established in 1974, through which a perennial river gently flows.

This sanctuary forms part of a contiguous stretch of protected areas, including the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kudremukh National Park. Within its bounds, you can encounter majestic creatures such as the Bengal Tiger, Indian leopard, Ussuri dhole, Indian elephant, Indian jackal, spotted deer, Black-naped hare, lion-tailed macaque, Great Indian hornbill, and Malabar grey hornbill, among others. The gently flowing river attracts water birds, and its warm depths are home to otters and the famous mahseer fish.

Located within this enchanting sanctuary is the Seethanadi Nature Camp in Hebri. Surrounded by lush greenery, the camp offers a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, far from the noise and dust of the city. Here, you can explore nature's hidden mysteries, enjoying nature walks that offer glimpses of Karnataka's wildlife in their joyful natural habitat. The thrill of identifying animal tracks and eventually spotting the creatures themselves is a truly exhilarating experience.

Seethanadi Nature Camp provides a unique opportunity to experience a different side of Karnataka, where nature and serenity reign supreme. This off-the-beaten-path camp invites you to reconnect with nature and discover the tranquility it offers.

To know more about the stay or camp, check here: Seethanadi Nature Camp

8. Gopinatham Mystery Trails

Ever dreamed of experiencing the wildlife of two states at once? Nestled near Gopinatham, a serene enclave on the border between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp invites you into a hidden realm of wildlife flourishing at the intersection of these sprawling regions. The expansive Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary spans across the Mandya, Chamarajanagar, and Ramanagar districts, cradling the majestic Cauvery River as it meanders through the landscape, nourishing the rich biodiversity that thrives along its banks. 

Within the sanctuary's embrace, an impressive array of mammals roams freely, including tigers, elephants, wild boar, leopards, barking deer, black-napped hare, chevrotain, four-horned antelope, smooth-coated otters, and Malabar giant squirrels. The river's presence also attracts a diverse range of reptiles, such as mugger crocodiles, Indian rock pythons, and Indian mud turtles. Among the lush trees, endangered avifauna find sanctuary, with sightings of white-rumped vultures, Indian vultures, Nilgiri wood-pigeons, greater spotted eagles, white-naped tits, and red-headed vultures being common occurrences.

Situated amidst this wildlife haven, the Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp offers a unique opportunity to intimately connect with nature. Surrounding the camp, the landscape transitions into rolling grassy hills and stretches of deciduous forests, particularly enchanting during the monsoon season when the earth exudes a sweet aroma and the trees don their vibrant green foliage, offering a rejuvenating retreat for weary souls. Explore the forest trails on foot, uncovering hidden gems or pay homage at the memorial of a revered forest officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in service.

For a breathtaking experience, trek to the nearby vantage point to behold panoramic views of the sanctuary. Just 13 kilometers away lies the awe-inspiring Hogenakkal Falls, often hailed as the Niagara of India. Here, you can witness the water cascading in a shimmering display and embark on a memorable coracle boat ride, creating cherished memories to treasure long after your departure.

To know more about the stays, check here: Gopinatham Mystery Trails

Karnataka boasts an abundance of natural treasures, and its nature camps offer unparalleled experiences for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. From the serene riverside setting of Galibore Nature Camp to the lush forests of Kemmannugundi and the biodiversity hotspot of Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp, each destination presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the wonders of nature.

Whether you seek thrilling wildlife sightings, picturesque trekking trails, or peaceful moments surrounded by greenery, Karnataka's nature camps cater to every preference. The diverse landscapes, rich flora, and fauna, coupled with the tranquil ambiance, ensure a memorable retreat for visitors of all ages.

To embark on a curated journey to explore the best nature camps in Karnataka, look no further than Avathi. With our expertise and personalized service, we'll ensure your trip is tailored to your preferences, creating an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature. Contact us today to embark on your next unforgettable adventure in Karnataka's stunning wilderness!