Nisargadhama Coorg: Timings, Hanging Bridge and What to See
Photo: Rameshng, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Cauvery Nisargadhama is a 64-acre island in the Kaveri, about 3 km from Kushalnagar town, reached by a hanging rope bridge. It is a forest park of bamboo groves, teak and sandalwood, with a deer park, boating and easy walking paths. It is usually open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. Nisargadhama is less than a kilometre from Amanvana, so our guests often walk over early in the morning or in the last hour of daylight.
Nisargadhama at a glance
| Where | An island in the Kaveri, about 3 km from Kushalnagar town, Kodagu |
|---|---|
| Managed by | Karnataka Forest Department |
| Timings | Usually 9 am to 5 pm, every day (source: trawell.in and coorgtourism.co.in, checked October 2026). Confirm on the day. |
| Fees | A small entry fee, with extra charges for boating and some activities. Check at the gate. |
| From Amanvana | Under 1 km, about 5 minutes |
| From Madikeri | About 30 km |
| Time needed | 1 to 2 hours |
What to see at Nisargadhama
You enter over the hanging bridge, which sways a little as you cross and gives a good view of the river. On the island, paths run through tall bamboo and older trees. The deer park is the favourite with children, and you will also see rabbits and peacocks. There is boating on the river, a children's play area and an orchid house.
Photo: Rameshng, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Photo: Rameshng, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Nisargadhama timings and best time to visit
The park usually opens at 9 am and closes at 5 pm. Mornings are cooler and quieter, and you have a better chance of seeing birds. Weekends and holidays are busy with day visitors from Mysore and Bangalore. In the monsoon the river runs high and fast, and some areas may be closed. The months after the rains, from October to February, are the most pleasant. See our guide to the best time to visit Coorg for the full year.
Tips for your visit
- Go in the first hour after opening for the quietest walk.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Paths can be muddy after rain.
- Hold children's hands on the hanging bridge.
- Do not go into the river when it is running high, even at the edge.
- Carry water and take your rubbish back with you.
Combine Nisargadhama with nearby places
Nisargadhama takes one to two hours, so it pairs well with other sights near Kushalnagar. The Golden Temple at Bylakuppe is 15 minutes from the resort, and Dubare Elephant Camp is 25 minutes away. Harangi Dam is 9 km away and is best after the monsoon. For a full list with drive times, see our guide to places to visit in Coorg.
Stay next to Nisargadhama
Amanvana is a riverside resort in Coorg, right next to Nisargadhama in Kushalnagar. You stay in a private bungalow of 540 sq ft with its own garden courtyard, lotus pond and sunken stone bathtub. The Rainbow Room looks out over the Kaveri, and the Sunken Spa is a quiet way to end the day. Couples can see our romantic resort in Coorg for couples page. Check dates on our booking page, or call reservations on +91 94806 96070.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Nisargadhama timings?
Cauvery Nisargadhama is usually open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. Timings can change, so check on the day, especially in the monsoon.
How far is Nisargadhama from Kushalnagar?
Nisargadhama is about 3 km from Kushalnagar town and less than a kilometre from Amanvana, a 5 minute drive. It is about 30 km from Madikeri.
What is there to see at Nisargadhama?
A 64-acre island on the Kaveri reached by a hanging bridge, with bamboo groves, teak and sandalwood trees, a deer park, rabbits and peacocks, boating and a children's play area.
Is there an entry fee for Nisargadhama?
Yes, there is a small entry fee, with extra charges for activities such as boating. Rates change, so check at the gate.
Is Nisargadhama good for children?
Yes. The walking paths are flat, there is a play area and children like the deer park. Hold their hands on the hanging bridge and keep them away from the river edge when the water is high.