Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

The Ranganathithu Bird Sanctuary is located about 3 kms near Srirangapatna and approximately 15kms from Mysore. It is formed by a cluster of 5 islets on river Cauvery and is breeding and nesting ground for a varied species of birds. Also, can be spotted are marsh crocodiles, Indian Mongoose and monitor lizard. Being a protected area and undisturbed, the place if heaven for migratory birds.
 

Marsh Crocodile resting along banks

I visited Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in first week of December mainly to test my new camera. Although I am not a big bird lover, the number and variety of bird that I saw int his place truly amazed me. The place is very near to Srirangapatna and when approaching Mysore from Bangalore on Mysore Bangalore Highway. Once you enter Srirangapatna, continue on the highway and just when you are to exit Srirangapatna toward Mysore, you need to take right turn and travel about 3 kms to get to the sanctuary. There is a gate indicating the sanctuary after you take the turn and travel about 1 km. Vehicles have an entry fee which are subject to change but charges are not too high.

Eurasian spoonbill

The place is ideal for a family picnic and food and other stuff is available inside. The calm vicinity of the place makes it a favourite for couples. The area near boating is well maintained with garden and picnic area. There are also bird watching towers surrounding the water. The islets make the place look like a big lake, birds and crocs are easy to spot from the towers. Shutter bugs will have a good time clicking around. 

To have a close look at the birds and crocs, the boat ride is a must. There are two options available, a common boat which charges Rs.25 per person. This boat ride will be around 45 mins and in the main waters. If you are planning to get some good shots, better take the other option of hiring a private boat as the common boat is very crowded. Hiring a separate boat is expensive around Rs.400 if I remember it right. I also promised the boatman a good tip for taking me between the islets.

Thick Knee

Cormorant

For about an hour and half the boatman patiently took me between every islets where the other boat did not venture and the place was a total bird paradise. Never in my life had I seen so many variety of birds. The boatman was very informative and told me the names of the birds too and would hold the boat still when I used to click. It was a bit difficult to click long range shots on boat but was very exciting.

White Throated Kingfisher

Black Headed Ibis

The sight of huge marsh crocodiles resting along the banks was amazing. After the boat ride I had some light food and started back for Bangalore. Enjoy looking at some of the shots I managed to click on this trip. I am also looking forward to re-visit this place with a Tripod this time and do some prior homework on names of bird before visiting.

Pied Kingfisher

White Browed Wagtail

Eurasian Spoonbill

Red Wattled Lapwing

Pied Kingfisher

Best time to Visit:
June to November

Suggested to avoid monsoons as shutter bugs won't be able to get good photographs

Timings:
9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Route Map:



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