One day trip to Jayamangali (Maidanahalli) Blackbuck Sanctuary

I was pleasantly surprised when I found out that there was a blackbuck sanctuary so close to home, Bangalore. Even though there are many places around Bangalore that are interesting and beautiful, but the blackbuck sanctuary was surely unique and made a perfect one-day trip over the weekend. I visited Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary a few years ago and it was one of the best places I have visited around Bangalore to spot wildlife.

For all the places around Bangalore that can be visited in just a day, refer One day trips from Bangalore section.

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About Jayamangali Blackbuck Sanctuary

Located in Tumkur district, Jayamangali (formerly known as Maidanahalli) blackbuck sanctuary is a protected area with a huge population of blackbucks and has grasslands of Eucalyptus and Acacia auriculiformis. Spread across 800 acres of grassland, the blackbuck sanctuary is Tumkur’s only protected area and is one of those amazing places around Bangalore that can be visited in one day.

Did you know that the blackbucks are worshipped by the Bishnois of Jodhpur? They consider the blackbuck as the reincarnation of Guru Bhagwan Jambeshwar, also known as Jambaji.

The sanctuary is an open grassland that is home to at least 600 blackbucks. The Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary also has a wide range of other flora and fauna including 67 butterfly species, 19 mammals species, 26 reptile species including snakes, 125 birds species and 80 plants species.

While you are visiting Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary, make sure you also check out Channarayana Durga fort.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the post-monsoon and winter seasons (between the months of October and February) as the weather is pleasant. Summer season can be very hot. Also, try to be at the sanctuary either in the morning or during sunset. One day is sufficient to visit the sanctuary but there are accommodations available near the sanctuary where you can stay for a night or two.

How to get to Jayamangali Blackbuck Sanctuary?

Driving

The distance between Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary and Bangalore is just around 110 kilometres and takes only 2 hours 40 minutes to drive. The route has toll roads and is towards Doddaballapura.

Public transportation

Unfortunately, there is no direct public transport to Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary.

• The nearest train station is at Hindupur and there are frequent trains between Majestic railway station in Bangalore and Hindupur. Up to date information on timings, fare and route can be found on IRCTC website.
• There are also frequent buses to Tumkur from Majestic or Hebbal bus stops in Bangalore. Refer KSRTC website for more details.

Blackbucks in Jayamangali

What is a blackbuck? Inhabiting the grassy plains, a blackbuck is an antelope native to India and Nepal. They have white fur on the chin and black stripes on the face. The colour of a blackbuck can vary between light brown to dark brown or even black. Males have ringed horns. Currently, the blackbucks are threatened species and are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

After Ranebennur blackbuck sanctuary (which is 300 kilometres from Bangalore), the Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary is the second largest blackbuck sanctuary in Karnataka state. According to 2002 year census, there are around 600 blackbucks in the sanctuary. During your visit to the blackbuck sanctuary, you will spot abundant blackbucks just gazing around and enjoying their freedom in the wild.

Visitor information

• The sanctuary is open every day between 6 AM and 6 PM.
• There is an entrance fee of INR 100 per person.
• One needs at least half a day to see and explore the sanctuary.
• Make sure to carry your binoculars or cameras to capture some amazing shots.
• Early morning or during sunset are the ideal times for seeing and capturing pictures of blackbuck.
• Ensure to carry food and drinks, especially water, as there are no food facilities at the sanctuary.
• DO NOT litter and throw garbage. Make sure to carry your rubbish with you and discard them only at dustbins.

Safety for solo female travelers

Traveling to Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary is safe for solo female travelers. However, I suggest traveling to the place and be back to the city before it gets too dark and isolated. As this is a wildlife zone, always be cautious and know where you walk. There are snakes in the area, and it could be dangerous for you and the snakes.

Are you new to solo traveling? Or do you have a lot of questions related to solo traveling? Read my guide on solo traveling.

Closing Notes

Jayamangali blackbuck sanctuary is a perfect place for wildlife and bird lovers. There are many species of wildlife, and it is divine to see them in their natural habitat. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this sanctuary and highly recommend as one of the best places to visit when traveling in Karnataka.

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