Karnataka's forests and wildlife are her priceless natural heritage. The State boasts some of the largest jungle tracts south of the Vindhyas. From the majestic evergreen forests of the Western Ghats to the scrub jungles of the plains, a wide variety of habitats teem with diverse flora and fauna, some of them endemic to the region. Some of these jungles were the private preserves of former rulers. Thanks to their protection, these jungles have survived. However, some of the lesser-known ones are sanctuaries protected by the local populace.

Tread the path of the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore with a visit to Bandipur, about 80 kms south of Mysore on the Mysore-Ooty Road. The reserve is a playground for wildlife, with elephants taking the lead role. Be prepared for an unforgettable experience - you might see a tiger prowling amidst the mix of deciduous, evergreen forest and scrubland vegetation. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the enchanting Niligiri mountains with its mist-covered peaks, Bandipur was once the Mysore Maharaja's private hunting ground. It was brought under Project Tiger in 1973. This is one of the best game sanctuaries in India to observe and photograph wildlife in close proximity. A temple perched atop Himavad Gopalaswamy Hill, the highest peak in the Bandipur range, is worth a visit.

Explore the environs of Nagarhole, Kannada for 'Snake River.' The Rajiv Gandhi National Park derives its name from the winding course of the river that flows through the forests. Nagarhole has an astonishing abundance of wildlife, especially the Asiatic elephant. The backdrop of the distant misty blue Brahmagiri Mountains, the natural sounds of the jungle, the gurgling of streams and rivers and the twittering of the birds make Nagarhole a memorable experience.

A unique blend of hill resort and wildlife sanctuary. The hills take their name from the ancient Ranganatha Swamy Temple that sits at the edge of a granite precipice with a drop of more than 1000 ft. into a dense forest. Find inner peace at the foot of the great champak tree (Dodda Sampige,) believed to be more than 2000 years old and worshipped by the Soligas, the tribals of that area. Don't miss the coffee estates, the tribal hamlets and the Vivekananda Girijana Kalyana Kendra which displays preserved tribal information and the biodiversity of the region. There are many trekking trails here, including one that leads up to Honnamati, the highest point of the range.

Tucked away amidst mountains, valleys, a mighty river, jungle sounds and lush greenery, the sanctuary is an idyllic getaway where anglers and nature enthusiasts can get a whiff of raw adventure and a view of the majestic Cauvery as it bounces over jagged rocks. Here, you can trek to the top of the hill to get a panoramic view of the Cauvery flowing through the picturesque valley below. You could also visit the ruins of the magnificent sculpted Shiva temple, a place of worship for the local Soliga tribes, raft down the rapids of the Cauvery, or even indulge in game fishing.

Just outside Srirangapatna, near Mysore, the Cauvery river meanders around a string of tiny islets, which together form a splendid nesting site for waterfowl. Experience the excitement of a boat ride that takes you within touching distance of the birds as marsh crocodiles bask in the sun. Delight in watching the winged visitors making happy forays into the water. You could also test your powers of observation by trying to spot flying foxes hanging on the highest branches of the tallest trees at dusk.

The Kudremukh, or Horse Face Range, gets its name from the unique shape of its peak. The broad hills, 95 kms south-west of Chikmagalur town, overlook the Arabian Sea and are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. As yet undiscovered by tourists, Kudremukh is a trekker's paradise. Let the wonderland of lush green forests interspersed with rivers, grassy slopes, captivating cascades, rare orchids, caves, ruins and traces of old civilisations amaze you as you trek your way through it. The Lakya Dam located near the Kudremukh project area is an interesting spot. Ganga Moola is another scenic spot in the Bhagawathi Forest for trekkers.