Unleash the Wild Beauty of Hampi: Encounters with Sloth Bears, Leopards, and picturesque Boat Journeys
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In the heart of India, nestled among ancient ruins and 14th century temples and palaces, lies the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi. But beyond its famed monuments, this historic destination offers less-explored wildlife experiences that captivate visitors and reveal the rich ecosystem coexisting with its ancient ruins.
During a sunset observation from the Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, author and historian Tirumala Venkata Devaraya, the 20th descendant of King Krishnadevaraya, spotted a leopard roaming the boulder-strewn landscape. This encounter reinforced his belief that conservation begins with appreciation, and appreciation begins with observation.
Sarath Champati, Director of Conservation at Evolve Back resorts, emphasised the importance of seeing beyond the obvious to appreciate the wildlife in Hampi. Many visitors, he noted, miss out on these experiences, focusing solely on the monuments.
One such lesser-known wildlife experience is the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, located about 25 km from Hampi. This sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation of sloth bears, offers visitors the opportunity to observe free-ranging sloth bears, as well as other wildlife such as jackals, boars, and hares, in a rocky, scrub jungle environment.
Leopard sightings at dusk around Hampi have also been reported. These resident male leopards control specific territories, providing a thrilling wildlife spectacle. Coracle boat rides on the Tungabhadra River at sunrise offer opportunities to see riverine wildlife such as the Indian Eagle Owl with its striking orange eyes, and playful smooth-coated otters, locally known as "river dogs".
Ankasamudra Lake, located about 45 minutes from Hampi, is a notable bird-watching spot during migration season. Thousands of flamingos flock to the lake, creating a spectacle rivaling famous wildlife destinations. Painted storks and spoonbills also grace the lake, creating a vibrant and dynamic natural tapestry.
The yellow-throated bulbul, an endemic species found only in peninsular India, was spotted near the Queen's Bath complex. Srinivas Gowda, a forest guide, shared that the boulders in Hampi are significant in Indian mythology, as they are believed to have sheltered bears for millennia.
The author's itinerary included visits to places where both human history and natural history have co-existed for centuries. One such encounter was with Tirumala Venkata Devaraya, who shared unknown truths about Hampi. The author also met with Sharath Champati, who emphasised the importance of appreciating Hampi's wild side.
Observing the yellow-throated bulbul against the backdrop of ancient architecture crystallised the dual heritage of Hampi for the author. The interconnectedness of wildlife and human heritage in Hampi is a testament to the beauty and importance of conservation efforts in this unique destination.
References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/travel/destinations/karnataka/hampis-wild-side/article31190786.ece
[3] https://www.thehindu.com/travel/destinations/karnataka/hampis-wild-side/article31190786.ece
Traveling through Hampi's ancient ruins, one can experience a unique lifestyle that blends history with wildlife observation, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich ecosystem that coexists with its historical landmarks. Beyond the exploration of monuments, a visit to the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary provides an opportunity to travel deeper into the unexplored wildlife experiences that Hampi has to offer.
