Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is also covered in our Hampi guide, which is the main page for it: Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary in the Hampi guide.
The short answer
Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
A good wildlife stop if you are heading towards Hampi. It is open from 14:00 to 18:00 daily, and the evening watch tower is the best bet; sightings are never guaranteed and fees are not published.
History and context
The story behind Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
The Government of Karnataka declared the sanctuary in October 1994 specifically to conserve the sloth bear. It originally covered 5,587.3 hectares, and a 2009 expansion added the Bukkasagara Forest Reserve land to bring it to 82.72 sq km.
Useful facts
Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Ballari district; about 50 km from Ballari, about 15 km from Hampi
- Area
- 82.72 sq km after a 2009 expansion
- Declared
- October 1994 by the Government of Karnataka
- Visitor hours
- Open daily 14:00 to 18:00
- Best viewing
- Evening from the watch tower
Why it matters
Why Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is worth your time
Daroji is described as Asia's first sanctuary created specifically for sloth bears, declared by the Government of Karnataka in October 1994. It protects a rocky, boulder-strewn habitat that sits right next to Hampi's landscape.
For a traveller, it offers a different rhythm from Ballari's fort and Hampi's temples. It is also a rare chance to see a shy species in the wild under supervised conditions, which is why it deserves a place on a Ballari itinerary.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Evening watch tower
The tower opposite Karadikallu Gudda gives a view of bears descending from the hillocks.
- 02
A first for Asia
It is described as Asia's first sloth bear sanctuary.
- 03
Close to Hampi
Only about 15 km from Hampi, it pairs easily with a day among the ruins.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Plan to arrive in the afternoon, since the sanctuary opens from 14:00 and the best viewing is in the evening when bears come down from nearby hillocks. The watch tower, opposite Karadikallu Gudda, is the vantage point. Settle quietly and wait; noise and movement send the bears back up the rocks.
The sanctuary covers 82.72 sq km after a 2009 expansion that added the Bukkasagara Forest Reserve land. Sightings depend on luck and season. Bring binoculars and patience, and keep within the marked areas and the rules set by the staff.
Because the sanctuary is about 50 km from Ballari and 15 km from Hampi, many travellers fold it into a Ballari to Hampi transfer. Leave Ballari after lunch, spend the late afternoon at Daroji, and continue to Hampi for the night.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Arrive soon after 14:00 to settle at the tower
- Keep quiet and avoid bright clothing
- Carry water and binoculars
- Confirm current fees locally
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Ballari district; about 50 km from Ballari and about 15 km from Hampi
- Time needed
- 2–3 hours
- Best time
- Late afternoon; cooler months
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The watch tower is the main stop, with a modest climb of steps. Older visitors can still enjoy the approach and the setting; shade and seating are limited, so carry water.
- Tickets and access
- Entry fees and entry procedure are not published; confirm with the forest department. The sanctuary is described as open daily from 14:00 to 18:00.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The watch tower is the main stop, with a modest climb of steps. Older visitors can still enjoy the approach and the setting; shade and seating are limited, so carry water.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
What are the visiting hours?
The sanctuary is described as open daily from 14:00 to 18:00.
How far is Daroji from Ballari?
About 50 km, and about 15 km from Hampi.
Are fees published?
No. Confirm entry procedure and any charges with the forest department.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.