Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary is situated close to the Melkote temples in the state of Karnataka. It was established as a wildlife sanctuary on 17 June 1974, to safeguard the population of grey wolf in the area. The wildlife sanctuary is divided into two zones – Narayandurga (approx. 45.34 sq. km) and Mudibetta (about 4.48 sq. km).

Flora
Forest type: mostly Tropical dry land scrub forest
Major species: Common Queen Sago, White Bark Acacia, Sandalwood, Axlewood, etc

Fauna
Flagship species: Grey Wolf
Leopard, Spotted Deer, Black Buck, Jungle Cat, Wild Pig, Indian fox, Langur, Pangolin and Bonnet Macaque

Avian Fauna
Migratory birds: Eurasian Blackbird, Indian Blue Robin, Ultramarine Flycatcher and many more. Resident birds: Yellow-throated Bulbuls, Sirkeer Cuckoo, Brown Rock Pipit, Changeable Hawk-Eagle, etc

How to Get There
Nearest railway station to Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary is at Mysore (about 55 km away) and at Mandya around (35 km away). Closest airport is at Bangalore, which is approximately 140 km away. The wildlife sanctuary is well linked with different parts of Karnataka through a good network of roadways.

Tourist Information
Accommodation can be availed around the sanctuary. More than two dozen water bodies exist in and around Melkote sanctuary. These places are the ideal spot to sight the wild animals and birds. Visitors are expected to respect the privacy and the serenity of the wildlife and not to disturb them in any manner. Imitating birds’ call, chasing, feeding or touching the wild animals are strictly prohibited. Avoid wearing gold or other heavy ornaments. Smoking and carrying weapons or fire arms are not allowed inside the sanctuary as it increases the chance of forest fire.

Additional Information
Location: Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, Mandya district, Karnataka
Area: around 49.82 sq. km. / Altitude: 880 m to 1127 m above sea level
Average temperature: 17°C to 38°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 621 mm
Best time to visit: October to April
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