Nisargadama 
This area once abounded in wildlife. The river sustained a large
population of mahseer, a fish that is fancied by seasoned anglers the
world over. Crocodiles basked on the rocks by the dozens. Otters lived
on the burrows along the bank. Elephants and sambhar were a common
sight
The trees along the banks on either side of mangoes, teak, punnai and occasional rosewood, reach a massive size. The island has, in addition to these trees, various species of terminalia and clumps of bamboo.
The highlight of any tourists stay at Nisargadama can be the three-kilometer walk around the island, along the river. Dewdrops hang like fresh pearls, glistening in the morning sun, on the webs of wolf spiders. Many varieties of butterflies can be seen flitting around. A pied Maratha woodpecker can put up an appearance, followed by a Rufous woodpecker. Flocks of blossom-headed parakeets flit from treetop to treetop, calling to each other constantly. Lorikeets join in the cacophony. Crimson-colored scarlet minivets and nuthatches can be spotted too. From across the river one can hear the drum beat-like calls of a crow pheasant.
How to Reach
Nisargadama is closest to Kushalnagar Town. Cars and Riksha can be hired from Kushalnagar. The Karnataka State Road Transport (KSRTC) also has a bus service at regular intervals.
Where to Stay
For accommodation, small structures have been hoisted on bamboo stilts on the slopes of the island. In addition, igloo-like round cottages are constructed along the side of the island facing the larger expanse of the river. While one such cottage is named-of course-Cauvery, the others bear names of trees like Sindhoo and Payaswini. These cottages are large enough to accommodate about seven persons and are equipped with toilets, fans and lights. |
