The Karnataka Forest Department and Karnataka Ecotourism Development Board are organising the third edition of the Karnataka Bird Festival from January 5 to 7, 2017, at the JSW Interpretation Centre, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Hampi, in Ballari district of the state. For travellers, it is a great way to tie birding, sightseeing and cafe-hopping together.
Karnataka, known for its high number of tigers and elephants, also boasts over 500 species of birds. According to the festival's website, “the Hampi-Daroji landscape is an interesting mix of ecology with a high concentration of special birds like the Yellow-throated Bulbul. The region is also host to birds like sandgrouse, quails, Painted Spurfowl and many wintering birds, including waterfowl."
The first two editions of the festival took place at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Kali Tiger Reserve, respectively. The third edition will see more than 200 participants, including expert birders, bird photographers and enthusiasts.
Top 10 Things To Do In Hampi
While the bird festival will be one of the highlights of Hampi this January, there is much more to the place than just birds.
The Hampi Ruins – Rent a bike and ride around. You don’t necessarily need a guide, just pick up a map. You could also walk the streets of Hampi in the evenings.
Vittala Temple – Built in the 15th century, the temple is one of the main attractions in Hampi. You can spend an evening admiring the architecture or just sit and take in the atmosphere.
Anegundi – Cross the Tungabhadra on a ferry and visit the village right across from Vittala Temple. There are several lesser-known monuments here that are not very well-maintained or commonly frequented, but the locals are more than happy to guide you towards them and regale you with folklore.
Anjanadri Hill – The hill, according to Indian mythology, is the birthplace of Hanuman. There is a temple at the top that you can climb up to (400-500 steps).
Sanapur Lake – The Sanapur Lake is actually a reservoir and a great spot for birding. You can take a coracle ride or swim in its waters (the lake is deep with occasionally strong currents, so exercise caution).
Malyavanta Hill – This is one of the few hills in the vicinity that you can drive up to. It gives you a lovely view of Hampi and the surrounding region.
Archaeological Museum at Kamalapura – If you are a history buff, visit the museum to peruse a great collection of statues and artefacts from the Vijayanagara Empire.
Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary – While attending the bird festival, keep an eye out for the bears. Bears roam free in the area, make use of your binoculars or the various telescopes positioned in the area.
Mango Tree – Visit the iconic restaurant, not just for the food, but to relax and rejuvenate. The casual atmosphere of this place lends itself to a de-stressing session over several glasses of fruit lassis.
Virupapur Gadde – Reminiscent of Goa in the 70s, visit Virupapur Gadde for its hippie vibe, especially if you are a "flower child".
What to pack
- A good pair of binoculars, probably the most imperative piece of gear on a birding trip.
- A hat for hot afternoon walks.
- Warm clothes; temperatures range from 33 degrees in the day to 18 degrees as the sun goes down.
- A field guide to identify birds. We recommend Birds of the Indian Subcontinent by Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp, Tim Inskipp. You can also download the app on your phone.
- Suncreen.
With inputs from Raji Sunderkrishnan, Ghousiya Sultana
For more information about Karnataka Bird Festival, visit myecotrip.com
