Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary

The first reserve in Asia created specifically for sloth bears lies about 15 km from the ruins, in the same scrub and boulder country: an estimated hundred-plus bears, along with leopards, hyenas, pangolins and a long bird list. Watching happens from the Karadikallu Gudda tower, where the bears come out onto the rocky slopes as the day cools; 3 to 5 pm is the window, and October to February the comfortable season. Gates run roughly 6 am to 6 pm, entry around ₹50 for Indians and ₹300 for foreigners, with vehicle and guide charged on top.

Wild sloth bears seen from a watchtower, an easy half-day out of Hampi and back