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We were lucky to meet up with some guys there for the weekend from Bangalore who had been there a number of times before.  They were both incredibly knowledgeable and it gave us access to things we wouldn't have known about or likely gotten to experience without them (like going to the observation station where we sat for 45 minutes and just watched for wildlife or getting to go on the back roads in the preserve).  

A short list of the things we saw includes herds of Gaur, Chital, Sambar, a wild elephant (a tusker), wild pea hens, monkeys (Bonnet Macaques and Langurs), a Muntjac, tons of birds (need a bit of research to actually know what I saw) and apparently, the find of the trip according to our fellow Bangalorian guide, an Indian Giant Squirrel.  I have to say I am happy with the picture I took.

The forest (reserve, jungle or what ever you want to call it) was so impressive.  I can't begin to describe how beautiful it is….so peaceful just watching it go by from our open air jeep.  By far, my favorite was the morning safari – it was a bit early but what a way to wake up.  Quick coffee, climb into a jeep and off to see wild animals as they are moving through the misty forest in search of breakfast.

There are villages within the forest and they were very interesting to drive through – there were some mahouts in one village who were training a HUGE tusker but unfortunately I was not quick enough with the camera to snap a shoot.  The children were playing on one of the roads in the forest – one of our companions remarked on how it was unbelievable given the wildlife – and we stopped so I could take a picture.

Both of us are keen to go back soon – apparently March is a good time to see Tigers which alluded us this trip – we did see evidence of them on tree trunks which gave us a small taste for how powerful and large these animals are.  The safari per person was about $25 which was nothing when you consider we were out for at least 3 hours each time. 

My picture taking was a bit challenging – still getting friendly with my Nikon D60 and various accoutrement.  Definitely would have helped if I had VR on my 55-200 lens (Xmas ideas everyone!) but I happy with most of my shots.  Be warned – there are MANY!

First – my favorite!