The adventure hub of Karnataka, Dandeli lies on the banks of the River Kali in north Karnataka and is also an ideal place to unwind amidst natural beauty some 1,551 ft above sea level.
There is an intriguing story about how Dandeli derived its name. It is believed that it is named after a person known as Dandelappa. Employed at the manor of the Mirashi landlords, a Mirashi lady fell in love with Dandelappa. To avoid dishonor to his master, Dandelappa rejected her proposal. The jilted lady went to her brothers and accused Dandelappa of misbehaving with her. The landlords killed Dandelappa and placed his remains at different places. Two temples stand testimony to Dandelappa in the region. And as a mark of respect, the region came to be called Dandeli. ALSO SEE How to Reach Syntheri Rocks near Dandeli in Karnataka
Dandeli has a dense forest cover and is one of the best natural habitats in the world. Dandeli is one of the top white-water rafting destinations in India. Kayaking, canoeing, water rafting, overnight rafting or canoeing trips on the Kali River, along with other adventure sports like cycling and mountain biking are some of the things one can indulge in here. Dandeli also offers crocodile spotting, nature walks, treks, boating, bird watching, and angling trips. CHECK OUT
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. The sanctuary which was declared a tiger reserve in 2007, is crisscrossed by River Kaneri and River Nagajhari, tributaries of River Kali. The sanctuary is the natural habitat for several wildlife species such as tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur and langur. Jungle jeep safaris are the best way to see these animals, many of which also climb atop the cars.
On a ride down the river, a variety of birds can be sighted. Hornbills, kingfishers, darters and egrets are among the 300 species of birds found here.
You can also visit Dandeli’s famous historic landmarks and religious spots such as the Ulavi temple, the beautiful Sykes Point, the Supa hydroelectric dam, the Kavala caves and the Syntheri rocks.
Dandeli is an educational as well as industrial hub in Karnataka.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DANDELI
Dandeli has hotels for all budgets. Dandeli Jungle Inn on the banks of Kali River offers some quaint and beautiful colonial bungalows. Karnataka Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) guesthouses are also available .
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN DANDELI
Dandeli doesn’t have many restaurants to choose from. A few small restaurants offer south Indian food. The resorts in and around Dandeli have dining facilities for their guests.
BEST TIME TO VISIT DANDELI
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Dandeli is as given below. The best time to visit Dandeli is also specified.