Dandeli Jungle Camp

Kali Tiger Reserve

A protected tiger reserve in the Uttara Kannada, Karnataka district, formed from the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Anshi National Park. It was previously known as the Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve (renamed December 2015).

Dandeli Jungle Camp, Pradhani sits in the wider landscape near the reserve — it is not located inside the protected core area. Safaris and forest excursions into the reserve itself are arranged separately, on routes and with permits governed by the forest department.

The Kali River winding through forest near DandeliPiolAtif, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Area

Roughly 1,300-1,400 sq. km.

Published estimates vary slightly across sources for how this total splits between the sanctuary and national park components, so only the rounded total figure is published here.

Tiger population

An estimated population of around 40 tigers across the reserve and adjoining Anshi National Park (single-source estimate, not independently confirmed).

Treat this as an estimate rather than a live count, and never as a promise of a sighting.

Key species

Mammals

  • Bengal tiger
  • Black panther (melanistic leopard)
  • Indian elephant
  • Indian bison (gaur)
  • Sloth bear
  • Dhole (Indian wild dog)
  • Barking deer, spotted deer, sambar
  • Malabar giant squirrel
  • Indian pangolin
  • Civets and mongooses

Birds

  • Great Pied Hornbill
  • Malabar Pied Hornbill
  • Crested Serpent Eagle
  • Brahminy Kite
  • Peregrine Falcon
  • Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
  • Over 200 recorded species across the wider reserve

Safari & forest-access rules

  • Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife, wild or habituated.
  • No camera flash or spotlights around animals.
  • Never feed wildlife — it changes their behaviour and creates risk for future visitors.
  • Stay with your guide and on the agreed route; do not wander off at night.
  • Keep voices low and movements slow, especially near water sources at dawn and dusk.
  • Pack out everything you bring in; do not leave food waste or plastic on trails.
  • Follow all forest department and guide instructions without exception.

Will we see a tiger, leopard, or other big wildlife?

There is no way to guarantee that, and we would rather be honest about it than promise something we can't deliver. Dandeli sits within the wider Kali Tiger Reserve landscape, home to an estimated population of large mammals including tigers, black panthers, and elephants — but sightings depend on season, weather, habitat use, patience and a good deal of chance. Many guests see deer, langurs, giant squirrels, and a wide range of birds; fewer see the rarer, larger species. Come for the forest itself, and treat any sighting as a bonus.

Is river rafting always available?

No — rafting and several water activities depend on the Kali River's current water level and release schedule, which is managed independently of the camp. Availability and run length can change with the season and with dam operations. We'll confirm what's realistic for your dates when you enquire.

Plan your time in the reserve

See the wider landscape’s species and viewing etiquette, or look at the guided activities that take guests into and around the reserve.

Wildlife & BirdingGuided Experiences