Pilikula Nisargadhama

Tiger, tiger in the woods!!!

Mostly, the idea of must see places for me is passe. For one, I know
that every place casts its magic - be it in a remote corner of some
Godforsaken place, a known city or a tourist haven. I grew up in
Mangalore and Pilikula Nisargadhama had been around for 15 odd
years. However, off late when it attained the status of a tourist
destination, my curiosity got the better of me... And I wondered
what all the raving was about...

I must say I was in for a pleasant surprise when I chanced upon this
beautiful place - Lush green wild life park, well maintained lawns in
green splendor, a serene lake...

Pilikula Nisargadhama is a major eco-education and tourism
development project promoted by the District Administration of
Dakshina Kannada in the beautiful city of Mangalore. Situated on
the Mangalore – Karkala state highway, Pilikula with all facilities
included spans over a splendid 350 acres of land. Pilikula literally
translates into the “Pond of tigers” in Tulu. It is said that in the
days of yore, tigers used to frequent this lake to drink water. And
as legend has it, that tigers and Dakshina Kannada (earlier known
as South Kanara) were synonymous; such were the presence of tigers.

Lurking in the shadows & swimming from the depths of murky
waters,the tiger is arguably the most fascinating solitary hunter.
You would notice that none of the attractions I mentioned are in
the pictures as I spent all my hours there watching the tigers,
completely captivated by their majestic presence.

Only one possible downside - different species of wild cats were kept
in unacceptable conditions. But I am positive the management would
upgrade the facility soon.

I am looking forward to my next vacation, to capture the magic in
this rustic nature reserve.

Kudos to the Pilikula management!!!