Nisargadhama Forest, Coorg, Karnataka India

Nisargadhama is a breathtakingingly beautiful island off the state highway, two km from Kushalanagar town and 28 km from Madikeri. The 64-acre island, surrounded by the Cauvery river, can be accessed by walking across a hanging bridge. Established in 1989, the picturesque picnic spot with lush foliage of thick bamboo groves, sandalwood and teak trees has lovely river-side cottages. A deluxe cottage on stilts with the Cauvery flowing around it, can accommodate five persons. Elephant rides and boating are some of the other attractions. There is a deer park, children's park and orchidarium in the resort. Medicinal plants are also grown. Tourists are allowed to get into water at a few shallow and safe points along the river.

This small forest is encircled by the river Cauvery and most of the people make a visit to this place for its serenity. The place has been developed to accommodate bamboo cottages for an overnight stay. A walk around the huge campus will make one tired. One can watch out for resident birds and their nests; bamboo watch towers are made in between, allowing a commanding view of the surroundings.

Small play parks for children are part of the campus. An information centre within the campus provides more details about the place and the wildlife.