Galibore Nature Camp

Cauvery gurgled its way beside the cottages with green hills in the background. The recent rains had swelled the river and green was the predominant colour. A few macaques monkeyed around as I sat in oblivion gazing at the flowing waters through the canopy in the foreground.

Galibore Nature camp, run by Jungle Lodges and resorts off Kanakapura main road is quite cut away from the main access road. The last stretch of 9 Kms is an enjoyable off- roading experience on an undulated mud road and puddles with Cauvery appearing intermittently along with odd wildlife sightings. This nature camp was earlier quite popular for its angling of Mahseer which were let off the hook once they were caught. Angling is presently banned here, however, the serene wilderness by the Cauvery is definitely a reason to head to this camp.

The activities began with a light trek to the top of a hill behind the property premises. One can either opt for this guided trek uphill or go for a nature walk. The guide waded his way through the tall grasses, and I like a dutiful pupil followed him. Half way up an aerial view of Cauvery through the canopy was visible, and the higher we went, the vistas turned panoramic. A sambar whizzed past us, a few meters away as it heard human intrusion. Hardly had a glimpse as it ran through the tall grasses. We waited patiently for it to return, but it scampered off further. In a while we were on top of the hill with magnificent panoramic vistas all over. It is a beautiful frame as Cauvery meanders peacefully through the thick foliage. The watch tower here offers more aerial vistas. We trudged down shortly after gazing at the views for a while. More tall grasses and slippery trail with stones made it a slightly precarious trek down. Back on the mud road in a while, we crossed over to rest and have lunch at the resort a few feet away from Cauvery.

Though fishing is no more allowed, coracle rides are a nice way to understand the river better. After a sumptuous lunch I got onto one of the coracles to go down the stream. Cauvery flowed beautifully as my boatman kept searching for crocodiles to frame. The bright sun, clear skies and the wedged Cauvery between the verdant green hills made a nice frame as the search for crocodiles continued. We spotted a quite a few by the banks. They were quite vigil despite their laid back sunbath and quietly slipped into the waters, the moment our coracle went closer. Birds in various hues and sizes were also seen fluttering all over and it included kingfishers, cormorants, lapwings and many more. There are more than hundreds of species of birds found near this camp as per my boatman.

  

An hour later, we were back on the bank waiting for the vehicle to transport me back to the resort. As we waited, I realised that every frame of the gleaming Cauvery looked beautiful. The jutting rocks, the thick deciduous forests on the other bank and the blue sky further accentuated it. On the way back sighted a herd of spotted deer who were startled by the noise of the vehicle and strolled away. More relaxing moments and a cup of coffee later, I was back manoeuvring the undulated mud road that led out of the camp and away from Cauvery.

A night stay is recommended at the camp as this makes the experience more relaxing and enjoyable. The neat tented cottages has all the basic amenities required. The hammocks outside each tent is an ideal place for a siesta under the shade. 

Signing Note- Relax amidst wilderness by the Cauvery...!!

Route- Bangalore- Kanakapura- Mekedatu- Galibore

Distance- 110 Kms

Dandeli.com is a comprehensive website which helps travellers visit this wonderful nature camp and makes their stay a memorable one. For more travel information, booking and reservation, please contact Mr.Ramnath at 09449244567. You can mail them at book@dandeli.com.

P.S.- I was invited by Dandeli.com to visit Galibore Nature Camp.