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Wildlife Sanctuary & Western Ghats Paradise
Brahmagiri Hills form a spectacular mountain range in the Western Ghats, straddling the border between Karnataka and Kerala. This pristine wilderness area is part of the larger Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, covering an area of approximately 181 square kilometers. The hills are renowned for their rich biodiversity, offering one of the most authentic wildlife experiences in South India.
The name 'Brahmagiri' translates to 'Mountain of Brahma', reflecting the sacred significance these hills hold in local traditions. Rising to elevations of over 1,600 meters, these hills are characterized by dense evergreen forests, rolling grasslands, and numerous streams that eventually feed into the mighty River Cauvery, whose source lies within this mountain range.
Brahmagiri Hills are home to an incredible array of wildlife, including Asian elephants, leopards, wild boars, spotted deer, sambar deer, and the endangered Nilgiri langur. The sanctuary is also a paradise for bird watchers, with over 200 recorded bird species including the Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and various species of kingfishers, flycatchers, and barbets.
The diverse ecosystems range from moist deciduous forests in the lower elevations to shola forests and grasslands at higher altitudes. This variation in habitat supports a rich flora including medicinal plants, orchids, and endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The hills are particularly famous for their butterfly diversity, with numerous rare and endemic species.
Thirunelli (Kerala side)
Main entry point from Kerala
Distance from Virajpet
45 km (1.5 hours drive)
4WD Vehicle
Recommended for forest roads
Permits Required
Forest department permission
October - February
Clear skies, pleasant weather, excellent visibility, ideal for camping
March - April
Moderate temperatures, good trekking conditions, wildlife spotting
June - September
Lush greenery, slippery trails, limited visibility, camping restricted
"Brahmagiri Hills is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise! We spotted elephants, deer, and numerous bird species during our trek. The pristine forests and mountain views are breathtaking. A must-visit for anyone seeking authentic wilderness experience in Coorg!"
"Excellent trekking destination with rich biodiversity. The guided nature walks are very informative and we learned so much about the ecosystem. Camping under the stars was magical. Requires good fitness level but totally worth the effort."
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
All days (Mon-Sun)
Guided Services:
November to April
Best for wildlife spotting
Early morning (6-9 AM)
Maximum bird activity