Every morning at 6:30 AM between December and March, over 40,000 migratory birds create a spectacular cacophony at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Located 16 kilometers from Mysore city on the Mysore-Bangalore highway, this 40-acre sanctuary spreads across six islets on the Kaveri river. Entry fee is Rs 60 for Indians and Rs 300 for foreign nationals, which includes the mandatory boat ride lasting 20-30 minutes.
The sanctuary, declared protected in 1940 by ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali’s efforts, records 170 bird species throughout the year. During peak season from December to February, migratory birds from Siberia, Latin America, and northern India join the resident population. The boat rides operate from 9 AM to 6 PM with departures every 15 minutes when 4-6 passengers gather.
Best Season to Visit Ranganathittu
December to March stands as the prime visiting period when migratory birds arrive in massive numbers. Painted storks, spoonbills, and pelicans nest during June to November, making this the breeding season worth witnessing. Each season offers different bird watching experiences – winters bring migrants while monsoons see intense nesting activity.
Morning hours between 6:30-9 AM provide the best sightings as birds remain active. Evening time from 4-6 PM sees birds returning to roosts. Avoid afternoons when birds rest and remain less visible. The sanctuary closes during heavy monsoons in July-August when water levels rise dangerously.
Birds Species at Ranganathittu Sanctuary
Regular breeding residents include painted storks, Asian openbill storks, black-headed ibis, spot-billed pelicans, and Oriental darters. During February visits, visitors count 47 painted stork nests on single islets. The pelican colony numbers around 50 birds that have made Ranganathittu their permanent home.
Winter migrants arriving from December include bar-headed geese, northern pintails, and common teals. The streak-throated swallows form massive flocks of 5,000 plus birds. River terns nest on exposed rocks during summer months. The great stone plover, a rare species, breeds here between March-May.
Boat Ride Experience and Timings
The boat ride remains mandatory as walking on islets is prohibited to protect nesting birds. Each rowing boat accommodates 4-6 passengers with life jackets provided. The boatman doubles as guide, identifying birds and sharing interesting facts. Boats navigate channels between islets, approaching within 10 meters of nesting colonies.
Special photography boats costing Rs 500 extra allow longer 45-minute rides with positioning flexibility. Regular boats follow fixed 20-minute routes covering 3-4 islets. Morning boats often spot crocodiles basking on rocks – the sanctuary houses 80 plus marsh crocodiles. Smooth-coated otters appear occasionally near the third islet.
How to Reach Ranganathittu from Mysore
From Mysore City Bus Stand, board buses heading to Srirangapatna departing every 30 minutes. Alight at Ranganathittu junction (Rs 15 fare) and walk 2 kilometers to the sanctuary entrance. Direct KSRTC buses to Bangalore stop at the sanctuary junction on request.
Auto-rickshaws from Srirangapatna Railway Station (3 km away) charge Rs 80-100. From Mysore city, hiring a cab costs Rs 800-1000 for a round trip including waiting time. The sanctuary provides parking for 100 vehicles with Rs 20 charge for cars. Weekends see parking full by 10 AM.
Entry Fees and Ticket Information
Current entry fees: Indians Rs 60, foreigners Rs 300, children below 5 free. School groups get 50 percent discount with prior permission. Camera charges: still camera free, video camera Rs 100. The ticket counter opens at 8:30 AM though boats start at 9 AM. Online booking is not available – tickets sold only at the counter.
Annual membership costing Rs 1,000 allows unlimited visits. Bird photography workshops conducted monthly cost Rs 2,500 including expert guidance and special boat access. Groups above 30 people should inform forest department office in advance for smooth arrangements.
Wildlife Besides Birds
Marsh crocodiles measuring 3-4 meters sun themselves on rocks during winter mornings. The sanctuary’s crocodile population of 80 plus represents Karnataka’s largest freshwater concentration. Flying fox colonies numbering 2,000 plus hang from bamboo groves on the fourth islet.
Bonnet macaques inhabit all islets, often approaching boats seeking food – feeding them is strictly prohibited. Monitor lizards up to 5 feet long swim between islets hunting for eggs. The sanctuary records 15 fish species supporting the aquatic food chain. Smooth-coated otters, though present, remain elusive except during early mornings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary?
December to March for migratory birds, June to November for breeding season. Early mornings 6:30-9 AM offer the best bird activity regardless of season.
Is boating compulsory at Ranganathittu?
Yes, boat rides are mandatory as walking on islets is prohibited. The entry ticket includes the boat ride cost.
How many bird species can be seen at Ranganathittu?
170 species recorded throughout the year. During winter migration, 40-50 species visible in a single visit.
What is the entry fee for Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary?
Indians pay Rs 60, foreign nationals Rs 300, children below 5 enter free. School groups get 50 percent discount.
Can we spot crocodiles at Ranganathittu?
Yes, 80 plus marsh crocodiles inhabit the sanctuary. Morning boat rides frequently spot them basking on rocks.
Contact: Forest Office: 08236-265044
Address: Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Srirangapatna Taluk, Mandya District – 571438
Distance from Mysore: 16 km via Bangalore-Mysore Highway