The Biligiriranga Hills, commonly known as B.R. Hills, are a hill range situated in southeastern Karnataka, at its border with Tamil Nadu, in South India. They are known for their diverse flora and fauna and are a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and wildlife lovers.
The Biligiriranga Hills are located at the confluence of the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, India.
B.R. Hills are significant for their ecological diversity, hosting a unique eco-system where Eastern and Western Ghats species coexist. It is also home to the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a protected reserve and includes the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple after which the hills are named.
Tourists can expect to see a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, various species of deer, and numerous birds, butterflies, and reptiles.
Popular activities in B.R. Hills include wildlife safaris, bird watching, trekking, nature walks, and visiting the sacred Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple. Adventure activities like mountain biking and fishing are also pursued by visitors.
Yes, there are accommodation options for tourists ranging from forest guest houses to eco-friendly resorts and homestays that provide comfortable lodging while blending in with the natural surroundings.
The best time to visit B.R. Hills is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and favorable for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities. The monsoon months from June to September are less ideal due to heavy rainfall and possible travel disruptions.
The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected area within the B.R. Hills, named after the temple located atop the hills. It is a renowned wildlife sanctuary that spans over 540 square kilometers and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2011.
To enter certain protected areas of the B.R. Hills like the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors may need to obtain a permit. This can usually be arranged through your accommodation or at the forest department offices.
The B.R. Hills can be accessed by road via Chamarajanagar or Yelandur, which are the nearest towns. The closest airports are in Bangalore and Mysore, with Bangalore being the more accessible one for international tourists. From these cities, you can hire a car or take public transport to reach the hills.