This sanctuary is a compulsory detour while visiting Hampi

Who said you can have the best wildlife experiences only in the forest? Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary in Bellary district, Karnataka, is here to show us that some of the best wildlife moments can be experienced in the rocky outcrops of Bellary with vegetation which is next to nil.

Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is Asia’s first sloth bear sanctuary. The protected area is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Indian sloth bear.


The sanctuary is located near Hampi, just about 15 km away from the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is common for tourists visiting Hampi to make this small detour and go see the sloth bears in their natural habitat.


It’s all boulders, caves, rocky outcrops and almost no vegetation. But the bears roam freely here with other wildlife species like leopards, hyenas, Indian foxes, Indian pangolins, and various species of birds.

The sanctuary is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between October and May. This is when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife sightings are more frequent. But there are some strict rules one must follow for the safety of the animals and their own.

• Visitors are not allowed to carry any firearms, explosives or other dangerous objects inside the sanctuary.
• Loud noises, honking, and music are not allowed inside the sanctuary.
• Visitors are not allowed to feed the animals or disturb their natural behavior in any way.
• Smoking, alcohol consumption, and littering are strictly prohibited inside the sanctuary.
• Visitors are advised to stay in their designated areas and follow the instructions of the sanctuary guides at all times.
• Photography is allowed inside the sanctuary, but the use of flash is prohibited.

How to reach Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary?
By Road: The sanctuary is located about 15 km from Hampi. It can be reached by hiring a taxi or a private vehicle from Hampi or nearby cities like Hospet, Bellary or Hubli.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is the Hospet Junction (20 km). By Air: The nearest airport to the sanctuary is the Jindal Vijaynagar Airport in Toranagallu.