Chinkara: The extraordinary

Once widespread across India, the Chinkara population was sadly declining. This led to the species receiving the highest level of protection from the government. While Chinkaras were historically found in southern India, including parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, surveys showed their disappearance south of the Pennar River in Andhra Pradesh. This suggested a possible local extinction in these regions. Recognizing this threat, the creation of a sanctuary became necessary to protect the remaining populations.

Immerse with the endangered

Embark on a captivating wildlife adventure in Karnataka's Yadahalli Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary, where the elusive Chinkara antelope thrives. These graceful creatures, with their reddish-buff coats and sleek horns, call this sanctuary home.

Led by expert guides, you'll delve into the heart of the Chinkara's domain, a unique blend of rocky slopes, open grasslands, and scrub forests. Learn about their fascinating adaptations to this semi-arid environment. Chinkara are remarkably resilient herbivores, able to survive for extended periods without water, obtaining moisture from the plants they consume and morning dew.

Your experienced guides will strategically plan your exploration to maximize your chances of encountering a Chinkara. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for spotting these creatures as they emerge for grazing. With a little patience and a keen eye, you may be rewarded with breathtaking views of a herd of Chinkara gracefully traversing the landscape. Remember, though horns are found on both males and females, they are relatively shorter in females.

Flora and fauna

The Yadahalli Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary hosts diverse ranges of flora due to its varied habitats, including Southern tropical mixed and dry deciduous forest. Some conventional flora found in Yadahalli Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary are Siris, Neem, Axlewood, Ghatti Tree, Gooseberry (Amla), Jujube, Cutch Tree, Black Catechu and Kokum Tree.

Additionally, the Sanctuary supports a rich variety of fauna, contributing to its diversity. Some of the animal species you can find in the sanctuary are Indian Gazelle (Chinkara), Fox, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Common Langur and Bonnet Macaque. In birds, you might find Peafowl and snakes have also been seen savouring the nature.

Wildlife refuge: What’s in it for you?

Established to protect the habitat of Chinkaras, this Sanctuary provides not only a safe environment for the graceful antelopes to thrive, but it is also bordered by two important rivers Ghataprabha River and Krishna River.

Ghataprabha River flows through the southern part of the sanctuary. It is a significant water body in southern India, originating in the Western Ghats and flowing through the states of Karnataka and Maharashtra.

Whereas, the Krishna River flows through northern part of the sanctuary. It is one of the major rivers in India, originating in the Western Ghats and flowing through several states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Presence of these rivers makes the landscape more attractive.

Escape, indulge and reconnect

Nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers can experience the beauty of Karnataka's wilderness through nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife safaris. These excursions provide insight into the sanctuary's ecosystem and offer close encounters with its inhabitants. Yadahalli Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses a diverse ecosystem comprising dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain. Such unique blend of habitats supports a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ecologically significant area.

From mist-covered valleys to sun-kissed peaks, this wildlife refuge is a haven waiting to be explored. So why wait? Pack your bags and unleash your inner explorer to this Sanctuary’s peace and serenity.