<p>Gadag: As far as the eye can see, lush green landscapes stretch out, accompanied by refreshing breezes that soothe the senses, the sweet melody of birdsong, and clouds playfully drifting between the hills... This is the serene charm of Kappatagudda, often hailed as the Sahyadri of North Karnataka.</p><p>The months from August to November are considered the best time to experience the natural beauty of Kappatagudda. Tourists visiting Kappatagudda during this period can soak in its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, making it a perfect retreat into the lap of nature.</p><p>Starting August 17, trekking activities will commence in the Shirahatti and Mundaragi forest ranges, sparking excitement among trekking enthusiasts. </p><p>A total of seven trekking points have been identified across the two ranges, allowing visitors to choose their preferred routes to explore the hills.</p><p>To support the trekkers, the Forest Department has trained 30 local youth and designated them as ‘Trekking Guides’. These guides will not only assist participants along the trails but also share insights about the region’s wildlife, bird species, and medicinal plants, enhancing the eco-tourism experience.</p><p>Interested participants must register in advance through the official website. A fee of Rs 250 per person has been fixed for the trekking experience.</p><p>Speaking about the initiative, RFO Manjunath Megalamani from the Mundaragi range stated, “Trekking will begin this Sunday in both the Mundaragi and Shirahatti zones. In the Mundaragi range, two trekking points have been identified near Hirevaddatti, one near the Nandiveri Mutt, and another from the Doni Tanda area. </p><p>Similarly, in the Shirahatti range, trekking points have been set up near the Kappatamalleshwara Temple and close to Jalligera.”</p><p>This initiative not only promotes eco-tourism but also brings attention to the ecological significance and scenic allure of Kappatagudda, offering visitors an immersive nature experience.</p><p><strong>Safari jeep rides launched</strong></p><p>The number of tourists visiting the Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary is steadily increasing. To cater to this growing interest, a direct bus service from Gadag city to Kappatagudda was recently introduced. </p><p>To further assist visitors arriving by bus, a safari jeep service has been launched on a trial basis starting from August 15.</p><p>Passengers arriving by bus can now board a safari jeep from the ticket counter to the Galigundi Basavanna point. The fare for the jeep ride is set at Rs 100 per person, and each jeep can accommodate up to 10 people at a time. Officials note that riding through the hilly terrain in an open jeep, while enjoying the scenic beauty, offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.</p><p>To facilitate this trial run, the Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR) has provided one safari jeep each from its Dubare Elephant Camp and River Tern Lodge at the Bhadra unit.</p>
<p>Gadag: As far as the eye can see, lush green landscapes stretch out, accompanied by refreshing breezes that soothe the senses, the sweet melody of birdsong, and clouds playfully drifting between the hills... This is the serene charm of Kappatagudda, often hailed as the Sahyadri of North Karnataka.</p><p>The months from August to November are considered the best time to experience the natural beauty of Kappatagudda. Tourists visiting Kappatagudda during this period can soak in its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, making it a perfect retreat into the lap of nature.</p><p>Starting August 17, trekking activities will commence in the Shirahatti and Mundaragi forest ranges, sparking excitement among trekking enthusiasts. </p><p>A total of seven trekking points have been identified across the two ranges, allowing visitors to choose their preferred routes to explore the hills.</p><p>To support the trekkers, the Forest Department has trained 30 local youth and designated them as ‘Trekking Guides’. These guides will not only assist participants along the trails but also share insights about the region’s wildlife, bird species, and medicinal plants, enhancing the eco-tourism experience.</p><p>Interested participants must register in advance through the official website. A fee of Rs 250 per person has been fixed for the trekking experience.</p><p>Speaking about the initiative, RFO Manjunath Megalamani from the Mundaragi range stated, “Trekking will begin this Sunday in both the Mundaragi and Shirahatti zones. In the Mundaragi range, two trekking points have been identified near Hirevaddatti, one near the Nandiveri Mutt, and another from the Doni Tanda area. </p><p>Similarly, in the Shirahatti range, trekking points have been set up near the Kappatamalleshwara Temple and close to Jalligera.”</p><p>This initiative not only promotes eco-tourism but also brings attention to the ecological significance and scenic allure of Kappatagudda, offering visitors an immersive nature experience.</p><p><strong>Safari jeep rides launched</strong></p><p>The number of tourists visiting the Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary is steadily increasing. To cater to this growing interest, a direct bus service from Gadag city to Kappatagudda was recently introduced. </p><p>To further assist visitors arriving by bus, a safari jeep service has been launched on a trial basis starting from August 15.</p><p>Passengers arriving by bus can now board a safari jeep from the ticket counter to the Galigundi Basavanna point. The fare for the jeep ride is set at Rs 100 per person, and each jeep can accommodate up to 10 people at a time. Officials note that riding through the hilly terrain in an open jeep, while enjoying the scenic beauty, offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.</p><p>To facilitate this trial run, the Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR) has provided one safari jeep each from its Dubare Elephant Camp and River Tern Lodge at the Bhadra unit.</p>
