For your next escape into the wilderness, you might want to consider this little known wildlife sanctuary known as Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve. Nestled northwest of Bengaluru, the sanctuary can be reached with just over a two-hour drive from Bengaluru. The 798 acres of protected land is home to the largest contiguous population of blackbuck in Karnataka, apart from Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary.
Male Blackbuck protecting its heard Photo: Hari Shetty
A heard of females keenly observing the intruders in their territory. Photo: Hari Shetty
A male seeking respite from the heat. Photo: Hari Shetty
Although the endangered Indian antelope is the star resident, this pristine forest ecosystem of vast grassland and water bodies with patches of dry scrub, eucalyptus and acacia is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The grasslands and water bodies provide a favourable environment for various bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. With a pair of binoculars, one can look forward to spot numerous species of shrikes, larks, raptors, ground birds and painted storks to name a few. Click here for comprehensive list of what’s on offer.
Top Left: Indian roller. Top Middle: Large-grey babbler. Top Right: Greater coucal. Above Left: Yellow-wattled lapwing. Above Right: Pied bush chat. Photo: Hari Shetty
This is a haven for wildlife photographers, both amateurs and professionals. Apart from the the opportunity to capture the grace and charm of the blackbucks in their habitat, you will be presented with a plethora of options, be it the awe-inspiring scenery or the diverse range of plant and animal species within and surrounding the reserve.
Top Left: Red-wattled lapwing Top Right: Cattle egrets. Above Left and Middle Left: Asian green bee-eater Above Right: Grey heron . Photo Hari Shetty
Useful Information
You can rely on Google Maps for the majority of your drive, but when you’re within the last 1 kilometer stretch, there’s a slight detour. Rather than taking the suggested right turn, continue straight for approximately 500 meters until you come across a sign indicating ‘Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve.’ Take a right turn at this point and follow the muddy track that will lead you directly to the forest gate. Once you reach the forest gate, park your vehicle near the watchtower.
Cattle egrets Photo: Hari Shetty
The best time to spot wildlife and enjoy your time at reserve is either early to mid morning and post noon, when temperatures are more favourable for both humans and wildlife. So plan to arrive at the sanctuary no later than 7:00 AM. This means you must start your drive from Bengaluru by 4:00 – 4:30 AM, depending on which part of Bengaluru you stay.
Above Left: Grey heron. Above Right: Kingfisher Photo: Hari Shetty
The drive through the reserve is on unpaved roads with several sub trails leading off the main path. Although one can drive inside the reserve, it is best explored on foot. Park your vehicle adjacent to the guest house and begin your exploration by venturing into any one of the captivating jungle trails.
Dining options around the reserve are basic and limited so it is recommended you bring packed food and sufficient water for the trip. Close to the guest house is a watch tower like building overlooking the Reserve. This is good spot to spread your picnic mat and enjoy your meal while soaking in the expansive scenery of the reserve.
Rocky hills surrounding Hindupur town (Andhra Pradesh) visible from the reserve. Photo: Hari Shetty
Blackbucks are shy creatures and extremely wary of humans. So it is best to watch them from a distance rather than risk the probability of getting close and scaring them away. This is true for most wildlife in the reserve. Photographers would do well to pick the lens with the farthest reach from their arsenal.
A male seeking respite from the heat. Photo: Hari Shetty
Keep in mind that patience and perseverance are essential when it comes to spotting wildlife. Additionally, luck plays a crucial role. Therefore, be prepared to make multiple visits to the reserve if you wish to thoroughly explore the abundant flora and fauna it has to offer