Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

About Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

The peacock sanctuary in Bankapura Bankapur Fort, situated in Bankapura village of Shiggon taluk, is just 2.5 km from the Pune-Bangalore national highway NH4, 22 km from Haveri town towards Hubli. An historical site, Bankapura has temples of Ranganatha Nagareshwara and Siddheshwara. The peacock sanctuary in Bankapur is the only second sanctuary in the country that is exclusively engaged in the conservation and breeding of peacocks. Bankpur Fort is home for not only for peafowl, but also a number of other birds like wood pecker, great-horned owl, babbler, magpie, robin, green bee eater, nightjar, spotted maina, paradise flycatcher, Indian robin, spotted dove, parakeets, kingfisher, grey hornbill, blue tailed bee eater, blacked winged kite, tailor bird etc.

Bankapura is a panchayat town in Haveri district in the state of Karnataka, India.

Bankapura temples, Bankapur fort, The peacock sanctuary in Bankapur near Hubli-Dharwad

Bankapur Fort situated in Bankapur village of Shiggon taluk, is just 2.5 km from the Pune-Bangalore national highway NH4, 22 km from Haveri town towards Hubli. An historical site, Bankapura is famous for the temples of Ranganatha Nagareshwara and Siddheshwara. Under the Chalukyas, many beautiful temples were built here, but during the invasion of Ali Adilshahi in about 1567 most of the temples were destroyed. A fort, now in ruins, at Bankapura houses the Ranganatha Nagareshwara temple, which has 60 pillars carved out of grey stone. There is also a beautiful mosque in the fort. The place is of historical significance to Jains. Adipuran, a Jain religious text was composed here.

There are more than 50 popular archaeological monuments like Siddeshwar temple and Galaganatheswar temple in Haveri taluk, Shiva temple in Chowdayyadanpur of Ranebennur, Tarakeshwar temple at Hangal, etc, in the district.

The Bankapur fort (454 A D), which was ruled by Kadambas of Banavasi, Gangas, Cholas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Chalukyas, Kings of Vijayanagar, Adilshah of Bijapur, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, is now considered as a conservation reserve for peacocks by the Government of India.
Bankapura Nagareswara temple

The impressive Bankapur fort area has the eye catching 66 pillared Nagareshwar temple. The fort area comprises 139.10 acres (0.5629 km2) of land of, which 52.10-acre (210,800 m2) is reserved for the popularly known Mayura Vana, the abode of the peacocks for three decades.

Fodder grown exclusively for Khilari bulls in the area has become an ideal peafowl habitat. The moat is about 36 km long, 10-15 metres wide and 7-8 metres deep.

The banks of the moat are covered with Acacia, Neem and Ficus plants. Crops like maize, jowar and horse gram grown regularly for cattle are delicacies of the peafowl.

The peacock sanctuary in Bankapura[1] is the only second sanctuary in the country that is exclusively engaged in the conservation and breeding of peacocks.

Ten-year-old Haveri has many distinct features, the district has the rare distinction of housing a Black Buck Sanctuary and a Peacock Sanctuary, second only to the one in Uttaranchal.

Understanding the great presence of peacocks in the region, the Government of India declared Bankapura as a peacock sanctuary on June 9, 2006. Any visitor to this sanctuary will not return without seeing a flock of peacock, our national bird, happily dancing in the sprawling sanctuary, without a care in the world.

This sanctuary is situated on 139 acres of land which has the remains of the historic Bankapura Fort. The high mound and deep trenches of the land have provided a perfect home for these birds. The sanctuary is located on the cattle breeding farm which was set up way back in 1919 during the first world war period. The farm is located in 90 acres (360,000 m2), out of the total 139 acres (0.56 km2) of the sanctuary.

According to a rough estimate, there are more than 1,000 peacocks and peahen in the sanctuary. Also, minimal human intervention has helped in the breeding of these birds. They walk royally on the 4 km mound and also perch on green trees. The officials of the Department of Veterinary Sciences have shown great interest in the conservation of these birds, making it easy for the Forest Department to carry on with their job.

Bankpur Fort is home for not only for peafowl, but also a number of other birds like wood pecker, great-horned owl, babbler, magpie, robin, green bee eater, nightjar, spotted maina, paradise flycatcher, Indian robin, spotted dove, parakeets, kingfisher, grey hornbill, blue tailed bee eater, blacked winged kite, tailor bird etc.

As of 2001 India census,[2] Bankapura had a population of 20,264. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Bankapura has an average literacy rate of 59%, lower than the national average of 59.5%; with 58% of the males and 42% of females literate. 14% of the population is under 6 years of age.

The peacock sanctuary in Bankapura is the only second sanctuary in the country that is exclusively engaged in the conservation and breeding of peacocks.

Ten-year-old Haveri has many distinct features, the district has the rare distinction of housing a Black Buck Sanctuary and a Peacock Sanctuary, second only to the one in Uttaranchal.

Understanding the great presence of peacocks in the region, the Government of India declared Bankapura as a peacock sanctuary on June 9, 2006. Any visitor to this sanctuary will not return without seeing a flock of peacock, our national bird, happily dancing in the sprawling sanctuary, without a care in the world.

This sanctuary is situated on 139 acres of land which has the remains of the historic Bankapura Fort. The high mound and deep trenches of the land have provided a perfect home for these birds. The sanctuary is located on the cattle breeding farm which was set up way back in 1919 during the first world war period. The farm is located in 90 acres, out of the total 139 acres (0.56 km2) of the sanctuary.

According to a rough estimate, there are more than 1,000 peacocks and peahen in the sanctuary. Also, minimal human intervention has helped in the breeding of these birds. They walk royally on the 4 km mound and also perch on green trees. The officials of the Department of Veterinary Sciences have shown great interest in the conservation of these birds, making it easy for the Forest Department to carry on with their job.

Bankpur Fort is home for not only for peafowl, but also a number of other birds like wood pecker, great-horned owl, babbler, magpie, robin, green bee eater, nightjar, spotted maina, paradise flycatcher, Indian robin, spotted dove, parakeets, kingfisher, grey hornbill, blue tailed bee eater, blacked winged kite, tailor bird etc

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Nearest Visiting places

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN BANKAPURA
Bankapur Fort situated in Bankapur village of Shiggon taluk, is just 2.5 km from the Pune-Bangalore national highway NH4, 22 km from Haveri town towards Hubli. An historical site, Bankapura is famous for the temples of Ranganatha Nagareshwara and Siddheshwara. Under the Chalukyas, many beautiful temples were built here, but during the invasion of Ali Adilshahi in about 1567 most of the temples were destroyed. A fort, now in ruins, at Bankapura houses the Ranganatha Nagareshwara temple, which has 60 pillars carved out of grey stone. There is also a beautiful mosque in the fort. The place is of historical significance to Jains. Adipuran, a Jain religious text was composed here.

There are more than 50 popular archaeological monuments like Siddeshwar temple and Galaganatheswar temple in Haveri taluk, Shiva temple in Chowdayyadanpur of Ranebennur, Tarakeshwar temple at Hangal, etc, in the district.

The Bankapur fort (454 A D), which was ruled by Kadambas of Banavasi, Gangas, Cholas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Chalukyas, Kings of Vijayanagar, Adilshah of Bijapur, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, is now considered as a conservation reserve for peacocks by the Government of India.

The impressive Bankapur fort area has the eye catching 66 pillared Nagareshwar temple. The fort area comprises 139.10 acres (0.5629 km2) of land of, which 52.10 acre is reserved for the popularly known Mayura Vana, the abode of the peacocks for three decades.

Fodder grown exclusively for Khilari bulls in the area has become an ideal peafowl habitat. The moat is about 36 km long, 10-15 metres wide and 7-8 metres deep.

The banks of the moat are covered with Acacia, Neem and Ficus plants. Crops like maize, jowar and horse gram grown regularly for cattle are delicacies of the peafowl.

Location info

• Address:Shiggon taluk

• District:

• Nearest City: Haveri town

• Best time to visit:

How to reach Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

• Nearest Railway Station:

• Nearest Airport:

• Road Transport:

Helpline & emergency contacts

• Police Station:

• Nearest Hospital:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bankapura

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

November to March is the peak season when migratory birds arrive. Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:00-5:30 PM) are the best times of day for bird watching. The sanctuary is open year-round but is most active during winter.

Timings & opening hours

Safari timings: Morning safari 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, Evening safari 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM (timings vary by season). The sanctuary is typically closed during the monsoon season (July to September) for breeding and forest regeneration.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: ₹20-₹50 for Indian nationals, ₹100-₹200 for foreign nationals. Camera fee: ₹25 for still, ₹100 for video. Binoculars available for rent at some sanctuaries (₹50-₹100).

Duration needed

A typical safari lasts 2-3 hours. One safari is sufficient for a basic experience, but staying overnight and taking both morning and evening safaris increases wildlife sighting opportunities significantly.

Safety tips

Stay inside the safari vehicle at all times. Do not get out of the vehicle inside the sanctuary. Do not feed or tease animals. Maintain silence for better wildlife viewing. Wear earth-toned clothing. No smoking or littering inside the forest. Follow the guide’s instructions at all times.

Things to carry

Binoculars for wildlife viewing, camera with zoom lens, water bottles, hat/cap, sunscreen, insect repellent, light snacks, and identification documents for safari booking. Wear earth-toned clothing — avoid bright colours.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station varies by sanctuary location — typically Mysore, Shimoga, or Hubli. Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Mysore Airport (MYQ), or Hubli Airport (HBX). KSRTC buses connect nearby cities to the sanctuary approach road.

History of Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary is a designated bird sanctuary in Karnataka, protecting important avian habitats. The sanctuary is home to resident and migratory birds, with many species visiting during the winter months (November to February). The area’s wetlands, lakes, and forests provide ideal conditions for bird nesting and feeding.

Things to do at Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

Bird watching is the primary activity — bring binoculars and a field guide. Nature walks along designated trails. Photography of birds and landscapes. Visit during early morning or late afternoon when birds are most active. Hire a local guide for the best bird-spotting experience.

Things to visit & highlights

The main wildlife viewing areas where tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and other mammals are commonly sighted. Watchtowers and waterholes offer concentrated wildlife viewing. The sanctuary entrance has interpretation centres. Nearby reservoirs attract birds and animals.

Frequently asked questions

What birds can I see? Bird sanctuaries in Karnataka host a variety of resident and migratory birds including herons, egrets, storks, kingfishers, and many species of waterfowl. Winter months (November-February) see the highest diversity.

What is the best time of day for bird watching? Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:00-5:30 PM) are the most active periods for bird activity.

Can I bring binoculars? Yes, binoculars are essential for bird watching. Some sanctuaries offer binoculars for rent at the entrance.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Birds Sanctuaries

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary on popular travel photography sites and social media.