Karnataka has rich flora and fauna, which are her priceless possessions. The State owns some of the largest jungle tracts south of the Vindhyas. Karnataka has a wide variety of vegetation and animals as one can find majestic evergreen forests of the Western Ghats to the scrub jungles of the plains. Some of the jungles are reserves preserved by former rulers and local people.
Amidst such natural setting you can find the exotic wildlife of Karnataka. Crocodiles , Kingfishers, Peacocks, Deers and many more rare species of animals. The diverse flora and fauna of the state never fails to surprise you. So don't wait, come and discover the undiscovered.
Popular wildlife destinations in Karnataka are:
 

BHIMESHWARI
The Bhimeshwari lies between the twin falls of Barachukki and Gaganachukki and the Mekedatu fall. A perfect picnic spot, where nature is at its best. It is the natural habitat for the Mahseer fish and is also known as fishing destination. A variety of exciting animals that can be found here are herds of elephants, Deers, wild Boars, Monkeys, Jackals, Crocodiles, Otters and even Leopards. And a number of species of birds like Heron, Ibis, Cormorant and Kingfisher are found here.
 

RANGANTHITTU BIRD SANCTURAY
At Ranganthittu you will enjoy your holiday with some glorious sights. The sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a wide variety of animals like Crocodiles, otters and flocks of birds. Exotic birds that come all the way from Siberia, Australia, and even North America can be found here. You may see rare species of birds like the white ibis, egret, heron, patridge or even the cormorant.
 

BHADRA WILDLIFE SANCTURY
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in the Chickmagalur and Shimoga District, is one of the best sanctuaries in Karnataka. It is home to animals like the great Indian Gaur, Barking Deer, Flying fox, Mongoose, Elephant, Panther, Macaque, Babbler, Barbet, Bluejay, Kingfisher, Robin, weaver bird and Drongo.
 

BILIGIRI RANGANA HILLS
Situated at a height of 5,091 ft., this resort is a must watch for wildlife lovers. Tall trees and the natural serenity of the hills provide home to animals like, Gaur, Chital, Sambar, Bears, Elephants, Panthers and Tigers.
 

BANDIPUR
The Bandipur National Park is one of the most excellent wild-life centers. Established in 1931, by the Mysore Maharajhas, this park is snuggled in the foothills of the Nilgiris. This park was chosen for the Project Tiger and since then the Tiger population has increased. Apart from the Tiger one can also find Peafowl, Partridges, Quail, Hornbill, giant Squirrel, Dhole ( wild dog), elephants, Sambar and Barking Deer. Exotic trees like Teak, Rosewood, Honne, Mathi, Bamboo and Sandal are found here.
 

NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK
Located in the Kodagu and Mysore district, Nagarhole National Park is a fresh, green world rich in forests, little streams, deep valleys and flowing waterfalls. The park derives its name from the Kannada word ' Naga' meaning Snake and ' hole' means streams. Trees like Rosewood, teak, sandal, silver oak are found here and the deep, fresh aroma of these trees mingles with the sound of wildlife of the park. The park is home to four horned antelope, panther, warblers, hornbills, spotted deer, moyse deer, pangolin, panther, gaur, giant flying squirrel and many other such animals.
 

GOKARNA
Gokarna is famous for its narrow streets, traditional houses and temples, the town of Gokarna is the favourite haunt of Hindu pilgrims, Sanskrit scholars and beach buffs. Om beach, one of Gokarna’s five famed beaches, takes the shape of an ‘Om,’ a spiritual symbol. The other beaches, compact between gigantic cliffs that project like delicate fingers into the sea, are Gokarna, Kudle, Half Moon and Paradise.
One can visit Gokarna any time round the year.
 

KAUP
Kaup is situated 12 kms. south of Udupi, on the coastal belt that passes through the West Coast National Highway. Kaup has a lovely beach, a ruined fort and an old 100ft. high lighthouse. There are two famous temples of Goddess Mariamma in Kaup. The Jain basadis here are in ruins, but are worth a visit.