Gudekote Extension Wildlife Sanctuary

Gudekote Extension Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Ballari district of Karnataka, is a protected area primarily established for the conservation of the Indian sloth bear. It is an extension of the original Gudekote Sloth Bear Sanctuary, which was created in 2013 and later expanded in 2016 and 2019 to reach a total area of about 167.59 square kilometers.

The sanctuary is situated across the Kudligi and Sandur taluks and features dry deciduous and thorn scrub forests that provide suitable habitat for sloth bears and other wildlife. Besides the bears, the sanctuary hosts a variety of animals including leopards, jackals, Indian wolves, civet cats, and wild boars. It also supports over 130 species of birds and several reptiles like vipers, cobras, and sand boas. The sanctuary holds cultural value as it contains prehistoric rock paintings, natural caves, and old temples, enhancing its significance beyond wildlife conservation.

Nearest access points are Ballari city and railway stations, with Bangalore’s international airport being the closest major airport. The sanctuary serves as an important ecological and biodiversity hotspot in the region, promoting wildlife preservation and eco-tourism.