Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary

About Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary

Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary (119 km2) was declared as a sanctuary mainly to protect blackbucks. It comprises two unconnected portions, an eastern and a western bit. The sanctuary has a core zone of 14.87 km2 and a buffer-cum tourism zone of 104.13 km2. The area is covered mainly by scrub forest and Eucalyptus plantations, and is also inhabited by the highly endangered Great Indian Bustard and the wolf. However, the Great Indian Bustard has not been sighted in the sanctury since around 2002 and may be locally extinct. Blackbuck are pleantiful with a count of more than 6000 in the 2005 census. Agricultural fields surround the sanctuary.One of the most populr animal in the world called “Krishnamruga” is available to see in this Sanctuary only.

Jayamangali (Maidanahalli) Blackbuck Conservation Reserve has the second largest contiguous population of Blackbuck in Karnataka, after Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary. Department along with the WANC members conducted a joint study in the area on 15 November–16 November 1997, during which a population of 408 Blackbuck was recorded. Subsequently on 1 - 2 October 2002, which revealed a population of over 600 blackbuck.

In total, 19 species of mammals belonging to 11 families have been recorded in the area, including the endangered Blackbuck. Apart from the blackbuck, other mammals present in the area include wolf, Bonnet macaque, Jungle cat, Small Indian Civet, Indian Gray Mongoose, two species of bats, and six species of rodents.

There are about 125 species of birds belonging to 37 families have been recorded in the area, of which 22 are migratory. As expected of grasslands, the area is rich in ground birds, shrikes, larks and raptors. The Indian Courser (Cursorius coromandelicus) and Painted Sandgrouse (Pterocles indicus indicus) have been seen in this terrain.

One can find about 26 species of reptiles in this dry areas/plains. About have been recorded in the area, including 14 different species of snakes.

This place is the home for more than 80 species of plants have been recorded from this area. Many of these plants have medicinal value. Mainly this is grassland with Eucalyptus and Acacia auriculiformis. there are sixty-seven species of butterflies belonging to seven families have been sighted in the area. Most of the species recorded are common throughout the Indian Peninsula and some are typical of the arid regions.

History

The Forest Department have protected this reserve by fencing a portion of the area and started a nursery. A concrete watchtower was erected along with two wood houses and watchmen sheds to keep a vigil over the area and the status of a Protected Area, like a wildlife sanctuary has been issued.

In 1997, the Tumakuru-based Wildlife Aware Nature Club (WANC) submitted survey report, which helped the wildlife wing of Karnataka Forest Department to source data and proposed the area to be declared a ‘Conservation Reserve’. Accepting the Government of Karnataka proposal, in February 2007, Government Order No: FEE 342 FWL 05, 798.33 acres of the area was finally notified as Conservation Reserve. Though the original area proposed was 893 acres. Thus, Tumkur District’s Jayamangali Blackbuck Conservation Reserve was born.

Nearest Visiting places

Bheemeshwari Bheemeshwari is a small town that lies between the Shivanasamudra falls and Mekedatu falls, on the Cauvery river in Mandya district of Karnataka. It is a great spot for eco-tourism and is a natural habitat for the mahseer fish found in the waters of the Cavery. Mahseer is considered as one of the finest game fish in the world.

Devarayana Durga Devarayan Durga is a rocky hill station situated in the midst of picturesque scenery at an altitude of 3940 feet, about nine miles east of Tumkur town of Karnataka State of India. It is 65 km from Bangalore, India, by road on Tumkur road There are 3 elevations and seven gates leading to the top.

Shivagange This is a hill which looks like the shape of the Shiva Linga from one of its sides. There are spring water spots found on this hill, it is believed that the water is “Gange” sacred river for Hindus. Hence the name “Shivagange”. Just about 60kms from Bangalore, near Dobbspet, Tumkur district this hill is ideal location for a one day trek. Also it is a holy place which is known as “Dakshina Kashi”.

Help Line/Phone Number

* Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF)
Madhugiri Territorial Sub-Division,
Forest Office, Madhugiri Town,Tumkur District
Telephone: + 91-8137-324777

* Range Forest Officer (RFO)
Madhugiri Territorial Range,
Forest Office,
Madhugiri Town,Tumkur District
Telephone: + 91-8137-283004

Location info

• Address: Blackbuck Conservation Reserve is Tumkur District.

• **District:**Tumkur district

• **Nearest City:**Madhugiri (23 km)

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is between October and March for observing the blackbuck, while the bustard is most easily sighted from February to June.
One can visit this place anytime of the year. The weather is pleasant throughout the year. In Summers, it is very dry with temperatures raising upto 40 degrees centigrade during day. It better to reach the place early morning or late evening.

Climate & weather

The climate varies greatly according to the seasons- from a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius in winter to a maximum of 43 degrees Celsius in summer. The rainy season is from late June to mid-October. The average rainfall is approximately 300 to 350 mm. The geographical co-ordinates of the forest watch tower inside this area are 13 44’ 20“ N and 7 19’ 41“ E.

How to reach Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Hindupur (apx 20 km): along the Guntakal Junction - Bangalore line

• **Nearest Airport:**Devanahalli/Bangalore International Airport (163 km)

**Road Transport:**about 138 km from Bangalore via Tumkur, 23 km from Madhugiri Route taken from Bangalore City -> Dobbespete - >Tumkur -> Koratgere -> Madhugiri

Hotels & accommodation nearby

There are no lodges in the area. Visitors can request forest department to give them permission to camp in the area.

Things to carry

Food is not available here, hotels in nearby towns of Madhugiri or Hindupur. So carry food and some water along with you.

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.

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 Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary

October to May is the best time for wildlife sightings. October-February offers pleasant weather and good animal activity near water sources. March-May is dry season — excellent sightings as animals gather at remaining waterholes. June-September (monsoon) most sanctuaries remain closed or have limited access.

Timings & opening hours

Safari timings: Morning 6:00-9:00 AM, Evening 3:30-5:30 PM (timings vary by season). Sanctuary office open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Night stays require prior booking.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 50-200 per person for Indian nationals, INR 300-600 for foreign nationals. Vehicle entry: INR 200-500. Jeep safari charges: INR 1,000-2,500 per person. Guide fee included in safari packages. Camera fee: INR 50-200 (professional cameras extra).

Duration needed

Half day for a single safari (3-4 hours). Full day recommended for 2 safaris (morning + evening). Overnight stay required for the complete wildlife experience.

Safety tips

Stay inside the vehicle during safaris — do not get out unless instructed by your guide. Do not feed or provoke wild animals. Maintain silence for better wildlife sightings. Follow all forest department instructions. No smoking or open flames in forest areas.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station serves the district. Nearest airport: typically Hubli Airport, Mangalore International, or Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore. KSRTC buses to the nearest town, then local transport to sanctuary gate.

Things to do at Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary

Jeep safaris, birdwatching, nature walks (with guide), wildlife photography, visiting interpretation centres, and learning about conservation efforts. Some sanctuaries offer night safaris and trekking.

Things to visit & highlights

Forest trails, waterholes where animals gather, watchtowers/observation hides, riverine habitats, grasslands, and the sanctuary interpretation centre/museum.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What animals can I see at Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary? A: The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife including deer species, primates, birds, and possibly elephants, leopards, and gaur. Sightings depend on season and time of day. Q: Do I need to book a safari in advance? A: Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season. Q: What is the best time for safaris? A: Early morning (6-9 AM) offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Quick facts

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

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary

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