- From city centre
- ~85 km · 2–2 h 30
- Best months
- Nov–Mar
- Best hours
- Early morning
- Entry
- Confirm at gate
- Habitat
- Sanctuary
- Birds listed
- 6
How to get there
About 85 km on the Bangalore–Mysuru highway; take the turn-off after Maddur and follow signs to Kokkare Bellur village. The turn is easy to miss, so use a map.
Best time to visit
Best: November to March (nesting season). Time of day: Early morning.
Entry fee & timings
As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.
Birds you can spot
6 birds listed. Tap a bird to add it to your life list (saved in this browser only).
Regularly reported, not guaranteed. See recent sightings on eBird
About Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary
A village where painted storks and spot-billed pelicans nest in the trees beside people's homes. Villagers have protected the colonies for generations. Expect close views of nests, and expect smells and noise at the peak of the season.
History
Locals have long protected the nesting birds, treating them as guests, and the village has become a conservation model in Karnataka.
Flora
Tamarind and banyan trees in the village, with the Shimsha river and fields nearby.
Fauna
Fish, and the village's own livestock. The birds feed on fish in the river and ponds.
Nearby places
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary~45 kmBoat rides among nesting islands.Birding guide →
- Srirangapatna~45 kmTipu Sultan's old island fortress.
- Maddur Vade~10 kmA famous snack on the highway.
Tips
- Visit on a weekday and in the morning.
- Keep the village quiet; stay away from the trees' roots.
- Do not disturb nests or chicks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary for birds?
November to March (nesting season). Early morning.
What is the entry fee for Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary?
No ticket reported in the sources checked; confirm with the forest office or locally. Timings: Daylight.
Which birds can I see at Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary?
Regularly reported birds include Painted stork, Spot-billed pelican, Black-headed ibis, Little cormorant, Cattle egret, Asian openbill. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary?
About 85 km on the Bangalore–Mysuru highway; take the turn-off after Maddur and follow signs to Kokkare Bellur village. The turn is easy to miss, so use a map. It is about 85 km from central Bengaluru (2–2 h 30 depending on traffic).
More birding spots
Reviewed 2026-11-04. Species lists, fees and timings are as reported and can change; confirm before you go.