wildlife trip india

6 sensational places to see wildlife in India

Explore India's National Parks to spot diverse animal life, including tigers, leopards, rhinos, birds and river dolphins.

Beyond India’s buzzing cities nature lovers can discover serene sanctuaries teeming with wildlife . While the iconic Bengal tiger—India’s national animal—is the top draw for safari-goers, an impressive array of wild things can be spotted in India’s teakwood forests, grasslands, mountains, rivers, and other natural spaces.

India has more than a hundred national parks, covering over 15,600 square miles of protected land. Many of the country’s wildlife sanctuaries once were hunting reserves of the maharajas, and more than 50 have been designated as tiger reserves. According to the last available census, done in 2014 by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), India is home to 2,226 tigers, 70 percent of which reside within tiger reserves.

If you’re ready to fulfill a bucket-list dream of seeing a wild Bengal tiger or are eager to spot Asian elephants, Asiatic wild dogs, and other species rarely seen outside of zoological parks, here are six superlative spots in India for wildlife watching.

Nagarahole National Park, Karnataka

The lush forests and marshlands of southern India’s Nagarahole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park , form one of the country’s premier tiger destinations. Backed by the hills of the Western Ghats, the park is filled with fragrant sandalwood and teak trees, thick groves of bamboo, and dozens of winding streams. A jeep safari is the best option to spot big cats, while a slow drift in a coracle—a small round boat—along the Kabini River offers prime viewing opportunities for aquatic birds, crocodiles, and Indian elephants.

FUN FACT: Nagarahole is one of the best national parks in the world for spotting leopards.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The park is open year-round but can close due to flooding in July and August during monsoon season. It’s best explored as part of a tour of the region, combining Nagarahole with trips to Karnataka’s beaches, hill stations, and the lovely city of Mysore (Mysuru).

WHEN TO VISIT: October to February

GATEWAY CITY: Mysore

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

On the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, Kaziranga National Park began as a forest preserve in 1905 with the aim of bringing the greater one-horned rhinoceros back from the brink of extinction. Hunted for their prized horns, rhinos are a prime target for poaching. With Kaziranga’s protection, nearly two-thirds of the world’s population of greater one-horned rhinos now live inside the park. The reserve’s many tigers are well hidden amid elephant grass and dense jungle. But you’ll spot buffalo, endangered swamp deer, and river dolphins.

FUN FACT : Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, Kaziranga is one of the last areas in eastern India largely untouched by humans.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO : Most visitors fly from Kolkata to Jorhat, 70 miles from the park, or Guwahati, 135 miles away. The park is closed from June to September for monsoon season.

WHEN TO VISIT: November to March

GATEWAY CITY : Jorhat

Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

Situated between the historic cities of Jaipur and Agra, Keoladeo National Park is an ornithologist’s dream, with hundreds of bird species in its compact size. Once a duck-hunting ground for maharajas in the 19th century, this reserve became a bird sanctuary in 1976 and a national park in 1982. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it plays a vital role in protecting migratory birds, an aim of National Geographic’s 2018 Year of the Bird campaign. Many species along the Central Asian flyway, some critically endangered, winter here. Part wetland and part savanna, the park is crowded with painted storks, and birders delight in spotting sarus cranes, spoonbills, and black-headed ibises.

FUN FACT: Keoladeo hosts migratory waterfowl from China, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, and Siberia.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO : Most visitors arrive via the two-hour drive from Agra, while the nearest airports are in Delhi and Jaipur.

GATEWAY CITY: Agra or Jaipur

Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Picturesque Satpura National Park , in the highlands of central India, is a photographer’s paradise. Grasslands and malachite green forests are riddled by ravines and slot canyons, concealing temples and waterfalls. “I love Madhya Pradesh,” says National Geographic photographer Matthieu Paley. “It’s a pocket of real India, far from the obsessive selfie culture. Just make sure you bring enough spare camera batteries.” The park is home to leopards, birds, and sloth bears, but the highlight is its diverse range of antelope and deer species.

FUN FACT: Tranquil herds of diminutive Indian muntjacs, long-limbed spotted chital, and splendidly antlered sambars and blackbucks move through Satpura’s woodland glades.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Satpura offers safaris by jeep, motorboat, kayak, and foot. Bhopal is the nearest airport, while Pipariya is the closest railhead. The park is easily accessed by road from the cities of Jabalpur, Chhindwara, and Nagpur.

WHEN TO VISIT: November to February

GATEWAY CITY: Bhopal

Hemis National Park, Jammu And Kashmir

High in the Himalaya, Hemis National Park envelops snow-covered peaks and alpine tundra at the northern tip of India. Most visitors come in summer when Buddhist prayer flags flutter under the sun, but the park is a year-round picture of sparse beauty. “Visit Hemis in winter,” advises Paley. “That’s when landscapes are starkest.” It’s also the best time to spot this remote park’s headline attraction: snow leopards. A new count is forthcoming, but the WII, citing a 2013 estimate, reported that 3,920 to 6,390 snow leopards may remain in the wild. Hemis likely hosts the densest population, but sightings are rare.

FUN FACT: The park’s elusive snow leopards are known as “gray ghosts.”

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: About an hour flight from Delhi, the Ladakh region’s main city, Leh, is 11,500 feet above sea level, so allow time to acclimatize to the altitude.

WHEN TO VISIT: January to March

GATEWAY CITY: Leh

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Andaman Islands

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park consists of 15 forest-cloaked islands surrounded by coral reefs and home to indigenous tribes. Tourism is just beginning to take off here, and only two islands—Jolly Buoy and Red Skin—are open to the public, offering visitors a profound sense of remoteness. “Finding a king cobra on her nest, visiting the home of the endemic Narcondam hornbill, watching manta rays feed in the current. These have been my most precious experiences in 40 years of visiting the Andamans ,” says Rom Whitaker, a National Geographic filmmaker and co-founder of the Andaman Nicobar Environment Team.

FUN FACT: More than 560 coral species have been identified in the coral reefs of Jolly Buoy and Red Skin islands.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Arrival is via Veer Savarkar airport in Port Blair, 600 miles from India’s east coast. Most activities close from June to August for the monsoon.

GATEWAY CITY: Port Blair

Related Topics

• WILDLIFE WATCHING

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• An All-Encompassing Wildlife Itinerary...in Less-Traveled Parks This is the ultimate India experience for nature lovers. Boost your chances of seeing Bengal tigers—plus a host of other Indian wildlife—on visits to three different national parks that are home to some of India's most concentrated tiger populations. Most travelers go to Ranthambore National Park at peak season, which is heavily advertised and very crowded. We visit equally appealing Bandhavgarh National Park instead, plus Kanha and Kaziranga, which are more remote with far fewer tourists. Kanha also offers some of India's best tiger-viewing possibilities, while Kaziranga offers close encounters with rhinos and wild elephants. We also have a chance to see seven deer species and 600-plus bird species among an impressive diversity of wildlife. 
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• A Small Group Means More Authentic Nature Experiences Most visitors to India travel in large groups aboard tour buses, focusing on cities and crowded cultural monuments. But that’s no way to experience India’s rich nature, which is our focus. We take just 11 guests, for a lower impact in nature reserves and more personal encounters with wildlife and local people.
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• 18 Places You Need To Visit For The Best Wildlife Experience In India

23 Mar 2023

India has very rich and diverse wildlife and has always drawn the attention of nature lovers from around the globe. From the mammoth mountain ranges in the north, the marshy lands in the east, to the tip of Kanyakumari in the south, India is home to a number of wildlife conservation parks and sanctuaries. These places offer some of the best wildlife experiences to its visitors. Here’s a list of the places you should travel to this year for their exquisite wildlife in India.

18 Places For The Best Wildlife Experience In India

Are you looking for some amazing encounters of the best wildlife tourism in India ? India is not just a land of diversities but also a land of wildlife adventures. Here are some of the best places in India where you can have really thrilling wildlife experiences:

• Jim Corbett National Park – Uttarakhand
• Ranthambore National Park – Rajasthan
• Gir National Park – Gujarat
• Bannerghatta Biological Park – Karnataka
• Kaziranga National Park – Assam
• Periyar National Park – Kerala
• Bandhavgarh National Park – Madhya Pradesh
• Hemis National Park – Ladakh
• The Great Himalayan National Park – Himachal Pradesh
• Tadoba – Maharashtra
• Nanda Devi – Uttarakhand
• Khangchendzonga – Sikkim
• Panna National Park – Madhya Pradesh
• Bera – Rajasthan
• Bhitarkanika National Park – Odisha
• Jhalana Reserve Forest – Rajasthan
• Sunderbans National Park – West Bengal
• Manas National Park – Assam

1. Jim Corbett National Park – Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park wildlife safari in India is also one of the most exciting safaris. Situated in the mountainous district of Nainital, Jim Corbett National Park which is a part of the larger Corbett Tiger reserve is home to a large number of tigers. If you are lucky, you may spot a white tiger as well. This is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in India .

Things to do: Drive around the park to catch a glimpse of the wildlife, try angling at Kosi River, visit the Corbett falls Species to see: Tigers, Spotted deer, Elephants, Golden jackal, sambar deers Opening/Closing times: Best to visit the park is from 15th November to 15th June. The Park is open from 6 am to 10 am and then from 2 pm to 6 pm. The Park charges are Rs. 200 for an Indian national and Rs. 1000 for a foreigner. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 3800-4000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Aahana The Corbett Wilderness, The River View Retreat, The Den Corbett, Le Roi Corbett, The Roar Resort How to get there: Jim Corbett is around five hours drive from Delhi. Adventure Tip: Enter the park with a permit and celebrate a peaceful bonfire night amidst the wilderness.

Must Read: Long Weekends In India : Ways To Enliven Your Vacay Vibes Safely In The Post-Lockdown Era!

2. Ranthambore National Park – Rajasthan

Ranthambore National Park wildlife safari in India is one of the most adventurous safaris. This National Park is located in Rajasthan and was previously a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas. Now a wildlife conservation park, this park is most famous for its Tiger trails and Bird watching tours.

Things to do: Bakula has a lot of waterholes and hence is crowded with wildlife. The Raj Bagh ruins are ancient ruined structures, domes and arches. The Padam Talao is another lake worth visiting. The Ranthambore fort is ideally located. The view from the top is mesmerizing.

Species to see: Tigers, leopards, Hyenas, Jackals, Jungle cats, Indian Foxes and a wide range of birds like Pelicans, Ibis, Flamingos, Egrets, Parakeets Opening/Closing times: The Park is open from October to June. It is closed for the remaining months of the year. The morning trip is from 6.30 am to 10 am. And the evening trip is from 2.30 pm to 6 pm. The Charges are around Rs. 75 for an Indian national in a canter and Rs. 131 for an Indian national in a gypsy. For foreign nationals it is Rs. 475 in a canter and Rs. 530 in a gypsy. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 4000 to 8000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Taj Sawai, Tree House Anuraga, Tiger Den resort, the tiger villa, Tiger moon resort, Sanctuary resort, Ankur resort How to get there: The Park is three hours’ drive from Jaipur. Adventure Tip:  You could soar high in the sky in a hot air balloon for some spectacular views of the National Park.

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3. Gir National Park – Gujarat

The Gir National forest in Gujarat is best known for its Asiatic lions. Gujarat tourism is synonymous with the Gir Lions. If you want to enjoy an exciting safari and catch a good look of the king of the jungle, then head straight to Gir.

Things to do: Go for the lion safari and get up and close with the king of the jungle, also try boating amongst the many lakes in Gir Species to see: Asiatic Lions, Indian leopards, sloth bears, jungle cats, striped hyenas, snakes, blackbucks, crocodiles, monitor lizards Opening/Closing times: The Park is open from 16th October to 15th June every year. The morning timings are from 6 am to 12 pm. and then evening timings are from 3 pm to 6 pm. The Charges are Rs. 4000 for upto 6 Indian Nationals travelling in a jeep. And Rs, 10, 000 for upto 6 foreign nationals travelling by jeep. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 3000-8000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Gir Jungle resort, the gateway hotel, Anil farm house, Gir Lion’s paw resort, Hotel Umang How to get there: Junagadh is the closest city to Gir national Park. Junagadh has a railway station that connects it to bigger cities like Ahmedabad Adventure Tip: Plan a visit during early morning to capture the best experiences of the place

Suggested Read: 30 Places To Visit In India In April: Beat The Heat This Summer Like A Pro

4. Bannerghatta Biological Park – Karnataka

Just at the outskirts, south of Bangalore, is the Bannerghatta Biological Park. This park includes a zoo, an elephant sanctuary, a tiger park and a butterfly park. Who would have thought that such a wonderful nature’s treat lies in the middle of a bustling city?

Things to do: Check out the Butterfly Park and go on a tiger safari, also go boating Species to see: Tigers, leopards, Elephants, spotted deer, barking deers, butterflies, snakes Opening/Closing times: The Park is closed on Tuesdays. The park opens at 9.30 am and closes at 5 pm. Entry fee for the butterfly park is Rs. 30 for adults and Rs. 20 for children. The grand safari costs Rs. 260 for adults and Rs. 130 for children. Where to stay: Svenska design hotels, Ibis Bengaluru Hosur road, Confido Inn and Suites, Lords Plaza Bengaluru Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 3500-10000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) How to get there: The Park is 22 kms from Bengaluru city. Adventure Tip:  If you are visiting on weekend then reach the site before 2 pm as there are chances of tickets getting sold out.

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5. Kaziranga National Park – Assam

This park has the largest population of one horned Rhino in the World. This national park has achieved great success with its conservation projects.

Things to do: Check out the tea plantations around the park Go on a safari to spot rhinos and tigers, Take in a view of the entire park from the watchtowers Species to see: Tigers, Rhinos, Elephants, Swamp deer, Wild Buffalo Opening/Closing times: The park is open daily from 1st November to 30th April i.e., for 6 (six) months. Jeep safari timings are from 7.30 am to 9.30 am and 2pm to 3.30 pm. The entry fee is Rs. 50 for an Indian national and Rs. 500 for a foreign national Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 4000-8000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: IORA- The retreat, Infinity, Aranya Lodge, Jupuri Ghar How to get there: The Park is a five hours drive from Guwahati. Guwahati is connected to most major cities by rail and road Adventure Tip: Explore wildlife while you sail on the glinting waters of the river Brahmaputra.

Suggested Read: 31 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Northeast India

6. Periyar National Park – Kerala

This park is in the hilly areas of the Cardamom Hills in Kerala. Perched among the hills, this park is a nature lover’s paradise. With is lush green slopes and landscapes, it is a visual treat.

Things to do: The wildlife trail is highly recommended; take a boat ride on the periyar lake, Check out the wildlife sanctuary Species to see: Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Deers, snakes and reptiles Opening/Closing times: The Park is open all days of the week from 6 am to 6 pm. The entry fees is Rs. 25 for an Indian adult and Rs. 5 for an Indian child. And Rs. 300 for an adult foreigner and Rs. 105 for a foreign child. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 3000-8000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Springdale heritage, Aranya Nivas KTDC, Spice village, the elephant Thekkady How to get there: Periyar National Park is a three hours’ drive from Kochi. Kochi is a well-connected city and has an airport as well Adventure Tip:  For an unbeatable wildlife experience in one of the most verdant states of India, go bamboo rafting along the river to spectate the richness of flora & fauna.

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7. Bandhavgarh National Park – Madhya Pradesh

This Park has a large population of tigers and langurs. The park is at the center of India and is home to the famous white tiger.

Things to do: Go for a birding tour or a jeep safari to catch a glimpse of the best wildlife. Also once there, do not miss out on seeing the Khajuraho temples. Also, have a look at the Bandhavgarh fort. Species to see: Bengal tigers, Elephants, deers, primates, reptiles and a large number of birds Opening/Closing times: The Park is open from 15th of October to 30th of June. The entry fees is Rs. 4000 for foreigners and Rs. 2000 for Indian nationals for a jeep carrying up to 6 people. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2000-8000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Bundela Jungle Lodge, Kings Lodge Bandhavgarh, Nature heritage resort, Tiger Lagoon resort How to get there: It is not easy to reach Bandhavgarh as it has no airport facility. The nearest town is Jabalpur. There are taxis services which ply from Jabalpur to Umaria Adventure Tip:  The best time to visit the park is early in the morning or after 4 pm to spot the animals. 

Suggested Read: Top 51 National Parks In India: A List You Just Can’t Ignore!

8. Hemis National Park – Ladakh

This is a high altitude national park in eastern Ladakh. The park is home to many endangered animals like the snow leopard, the Asiatic Ibex, the red fox, Tibetan wolf. This park has pine forests, meadows and is nothing short of a safari in heaven.

Things to do: Take an adventure trek at Hemis Species to see: snow leopard, the Asiatic Ibex, the red fox, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan marmot, Blue sheep Opening/Closing times: The Park is open on all days. The entry fees is Rs 20 for an Indian national and Rs. 100 for a foreigner. Cost of Jeep Safari : NA Where to stay: There are no hotels near Hemis national park. There are villages around the park where homestay facilities are available. The Hemis monastery also provides rooms for visitors to stay How to get there: The nearest railway station is Kalka in Haryana. The park is 5 kms from the Leh district; the leh-manali highway can also be used to access the park Adventure Tip:  No vehicles are allowed inside the park. Solo treks are fun, but they should be avoided at night as this national park is full of wild animals that come to prey in the dark. 

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9. The Great Himalayan National Park – Himachal Pradesh

This park is in the snowcapped mountain regions of Kullu. With coniferous forests, sloping hills and green landscapes, this park is the crowning glory of the Himalayan slopes.

Things to do: Take a walk among the clouds, breathe in fresh pollution free air, go on a trek among the forest lands and take a boat ride on the river Tirthan. Also camp under the stars Species to see: The snow leopard, musk deer, primates, Himalayan pit viper Opening/Closing times: The Park is open throughout the year. The entry fees is Rs. 50 for an Indian national and Rs. 200 for a foreign national. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 4000-8000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Forest House Saipora which has a dormitory, library and also arranges biodiversity trails How to get there: The starting point of the park is at Kullu Valley. Kullu is connected to most major cities by road. Adventure Tip:  If you are planning to go on a trek here then make sure that you are accompanied by at least 1 local who knows the area well. 

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10. Tadoba National Park – Maharashtra

Tadoba is one of the largest national parks in Maharashtra. Very close to the city, Nagpur, Tadoba is most famous for its Tigers and Tadoba crocodiles. Things to do: Go on the tiger safari and bird watching trails Species to see: The Chimur Hills and Andhari sanctuary Opening/Closing times: The park is open from 15th October to 30th June. The park is closed on Tuesdays and the timings are 6 am to 11 am and 3 pm to 6 pm. The entry fee is Rs. 10 for an adult and Rs. 5 for children Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2300-6000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Svasara Jungle lodge and resorts, Tuli Tiger resort, The wildflower resort How to get there: The park is very close to the city Nagpur. By rail, the closest railway station is Chandrapur Adventure Tip:  Visit the place early morning if you don’t want to miss out the unbelievable sights of wilds in their natural hanitat.

11. Nanda Devi – Uttarakhand

Nanda Devi National Park is home to the Asiatic black bear. Adjoining the valley of flowers, Nanda Devi Park is a sight to behold.

Things to do: Try and scale the nanda devi peak, Enjoy the views from various hilltops and peaks, Take a walk in the alpine valley Species to see: Asiatic black bear, blue sheep, Himalayan musk deer Opening/Closing times: Best time to visit the park is between April and October. Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2000-3000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: There are very few accommodation options at Nanda Devi. Visitors can stay at hotels in Joshimath and Badrinath. How to get there: The nearest railway station is at Rishikesh. By road, the park can be accessed via Joshimath Adventure Tip: You can also indulge in other adventures such as trekking, hiking, mountain strolls, etc.

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12. Khangchendzonga – Sikkim

Famous for the red panda, Tibetan antelopes and snow leopards, this national park gets its name from the Kanchenjunga mountain in Sikkim .

Things to do: See the many lakes and mountain peaks besides getting a glimpse of the Red Panda Species to see: Musk deer, snow leopard, red panda Opening/Closing times: The best time to visit is between April and May. Entry fee is Rs. 200 per head for an Indian national for the first seven days and Rs. 400 per head for a foreign national for the first seven days Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2100-4800 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: It is advisable to stay at hotels at Gangtok, given that very few accommodation options are available at the Park. Mayfair Spa and Resort, Suhim Portico, Orange Villa Resort How to get there: The park can be accessed from the city Gangtok. Adventure Tip:  Indian tourists need to take special permission from Inner-Line Permit from the State Home Department while foreign nationals would require a restricted area permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

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13. Panna National Park – Madhya Pradesh

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Located in the Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh, Panna National Park covers an area of 542.7 km sq. The wildlife and nature lovers enjoy exploring the dense surroundings of the park through their guided safari tours. This is also a great place for bird watching and you can spot birds like changeable-hawk edge and the blossom-headed parakeet.

Things to do: Visit Pandav Falls, enjoy camping at the Panna Tiger Reserve Species to see: Tiger, leopard, sloth bear, sambar, nilgai Opening/Closing times: 6 am – 10 am / 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) Where to stay: Pashan Garh by Taj Safari or the Ken River Lodge How to get there: The nearest airport to the Panna National Park is the Khajuraho airport (26 km). Jhansi (176 km) is the nearest railhead and Panna is connected to Bhopal (NH86) and Chhatarpur (NH75) by road Adventure Tip:  Book your safari well in-advance if you don’t wish to miss it out!

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14. Bera – Rajasthan

Bera, a small region in the Southern Rajasthan is not a national park. But over the last few years, the place has emerged as a popular leopard sighting spot. The encroachment of land due to urban development has pushed the local population and the wild animals to share the place. So the villagers started hosting safaris tours in this region, especially around the Jawai Dam in the Aravallis, where leopard sightings are common. The dam is also home to many water birds.

Especially the area near the Jawai Dam on the Aravallis,

Things to do: Take a village safari or a jungle safari. Visit the leopard hills and the Jawai Dam Species to see: Leopards, flamingos, crane, geese, hyna, deers Opening/ Closing times:  6am to 6pm Where to stay: Jawai Safari Camp, Jawai Sagar, Jawai Castle Resort Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 4500 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) How to get there: Bera is 3 hours drive away from the Udaipur airport Adventure Tip:  The place is the best for leopard spotting. Try to plan a visit on a sunny day for the best experiences. 

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15. Bhitarkanika National Park – Odisha

Located in the Kendarapa district of Odisha, Bhitarkanika National Park is the core area of the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering an area of 145 km sq., this place is dense mangrove forest with salt-tolerant trees. The marshy land and various big and small water streams provide the best habitat to crocodiles, lizards, and snakes.

Things to do: Go boat cruising, angling or beaching at the Pentha Sea Beach Species to see: giant saltwater crocodiles, water monitor lizards, cobras, and other snakes Opening/Closing times: 7 am – 5 pm Cost of Jeep Safari : NA Where to stay: National Park Swiss Tents, Sand Pebbles Bhitarkanika Jungle Resorts, Empire Paradip How to get there: The park is 3 hours drive away from the Bhubaneshwar airport Adventure Tip:  Go in the creeks on boat for sightseeing. Crocodiles, wild boars, spotted deer and lots of birds would be visible.

Suggested Read: 22 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala That Showcase South India’s Exotic Fauna & Flora

16. Jhalana Reserve Forest – Rajasthan

The Jhalana Reserve Forest in Jaipur is one of the newest wildlife destinations in the country. Over the past few decades, this place has been home to more than 20 leopards. So in May 2017, the government finally decided to declare it as a protected reserve. Covering just 25 sq. km. area, the USP of Jhalana Reserve Forest is that the probability of spotting a leopard is high.

Things to do: Jhalana Park Safari, bird watching, explore tourist attractions in Jaipur Species to see: Leopards, birds like shikra, white-eyed buzzard, peacock Opening/Closing times: 6.45 am – 9.30 am / 3.30 pm – 6.15 pm Where to stay: ITC Rajputana, Red Fox Hotel Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 4500 – 6500 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) How to get there: The Jaipur Airport in Sanganer connects the city to other major Indian cities. There are several trains that connect Jaipur to other big and small cities of India. You can also take NH8, NH11 or NH12 to reach the city by road. Adventure Tip:  Plan a visit during early hours to capture the true vibe of the place.

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17. Sunderbans National Park – West Bengal

It is said that whether you spot a Tiger at Sunderbans or no, it is sure to have spotted you. Sunderbans with its marshy land, dense mangroves and Tigers, is a naturalist’s paradise. Spread over 54 islands, it extends into neighboring Bangladesh.

Things to do: Go on a Tiger trail, See the various watchtowers and the crocodile park Species to see: The Royal Bengal Tiger, Crocodiles, bull sharks, primates and snakes, dolphins Opening/Closing times: It is best to visit the park between September and May. Entry fee is Rs. 15 for an Indian and Rs. 150 for a foreigner. An extra charge of Rs. 300 is levied for a camera. Where to stay: Sunderbans Tiger camp, United 21 Resort Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2500 to 4000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) How to get there: The Park is around 95 kms from Kolkata Adventure Tip:  This national park offers a unique experience of cruising in the waters & spotting the wildlife alongside.

Suggested Read: 15 Best Wildlife Resorts In India For A Thrilling Experience

18. Manas National Park – Assam

Manas National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes a Tiger reserve, elephant reserve and a biosphere reserve in Assam. This national park less frequented as compared to the Kaziranga National Park. Therefore it offers a richer wildlife experience. One of the most famous species is the pygmy hog.

Things to do: Enjoy a picnic at Bogamati Picnic Spot or Chowki Picnic Spot Species to see: Tigers, elephant, golden langur, Assam roofed turtle, pygmy hog Opening/Closing times: 6 am – 3 pm Where to stay: Bansbari Lodge, The Sikhiri Cottage, Musa Jungle Retreat Cost of Jeep Safari : INR 2500 – 4000 per Jeep (for 4-5 people) How to get there: The nearest railhead to Manas National Park is Barpeta Road (32 km). You can also hire a cab from Guwahati (176 km). Adventure Tip:  Capture the best of Manas National Park through elephant safari. Don’t forget to visit tea plantations on your visit. 

Further read: 15 Places to visit in India while you are still young

Did knowing about these wildlife adventure places in India excite the adventure junkie in you? Plan a trip to one of your favourite India destionations without wasting a moment and make the best memories of your life. Also, do not forget to share it with your friends and folks. Make sure you keep your cameras charged and ready, for you never know which wild beast would you be crossing paths with

Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Experience

Which is the best wildlife sanctuary in India?

With so many wonderful wildlife sanctuaries spread across the country, it is not possible to single out one as the best. Each of these offer something unique to wildlife explorers in terms of adventure and wildlife sighting. Some of the best wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in India include the likes of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh, Hemis National Park in Ladakh, and Kaziranga National Park in Assam.

What animals can you see in India?

You can see a wide variety of animals in India including the Great Indian Elephant, Gaur, Nilgai, wild water buffalo, Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, and many more.

Which is the best jungle safari in India?

Travelers can engage in the best jungle safari in India in places like Ranthambore National Park, Corbett National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Sundarban National Park, Gir National Park, Kanha National Park, and more.

Where we can you see lions in India?

You can only spot Asiatic Lions at Sasan Gir National Park in Gujarat in India. In fact, India is the only place in the world where you can see lions and tigers in the same habitat.

Which is the biggest wildlife sanctuary in India?

As per the area, the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary located in Rann of Kutch is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India, followed by the Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim and Sanjay National Park in Chhattisgarh, Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat, Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal, and Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand.

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13 Best Wildlife Safaris in India Every Animal Lover Needs To Take!

Man started living in a jungle, domesticating his way through life, only to make the modern cities a jungle. If you are the rare breed who would rather leave the city behind and live in the jungles again, a trip through the wildlife India has to offer might be the closest you get to that dream! Here’s taking a look at some of the best wildlife safaris in India.

1. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Spanning over 1,334 square kilometers, the Ranthambore National Park is a royal home to predators not short of royalty themselves – tigers. Being the main attraction, tigers capture the interest of wildlife photographers.  While you enjoy a safari in Ranthambore , the wild cats come out to enjoy the warmth of the desert.

Additionally, if you can’t spot these majestic cats, you won’t be disappointed as you will get to see other wildlings like Sloth Bears, Wild Boars, Sambar to name a few.

Best time to visit – October to June while tiger sightings happen between March and May.

2. Hemis National Park, Ladakh

If you’re one who likes the ultimate thrill of the high altitude, chilly winds and animals, the Hemis National Park is your paradise.  Spreading 4400 sq km, the park is home to 16 species of mammals and 73 of birds apart from the snow leopard. 

It is best known for Snow leopards, Tibetan argali sheep, Ibex, Blue sheep, chukhar, snow cocks, golden eagles to name some. As many as 100 endangered snow leopards call this their home.

Best time to visit -  May to September is the best time to visit. In November due to heavy snowfall, the park closes the safari.

3. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett is perhaps one of India’s best known wildlife parks, being Asia’s very first National Park. Residing in this park are the most furious member of the cat family – the Tigers. People from different nations visit Corbett just to get a glimpse of these wild cats. Besides tigers, there are Serow, Goral, Himalayan Tahr among other fascinating wild species.

Best time to visit - Mid-November to June end with tigers best spotted from March to May.

4. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

If you want to see the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers then look no further than the Bandhavgarh National Park. Bandhavgarh is counted among the best places for a wildlife safari in India, presently being a protected environment wherein different wild beings can live and prosper. The tiger population is one of the most densely populated in India. In the past, it also served as  haunting ground for the royals.

Best time to visit -  October to June and tigers are sighted sound March to May.

5. Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary , Gujarat

Located on the western Gujarati peninsula, this park’s rugged scrubland and forests are best explored on a Jeep safari. King o the jungles, the lion makes its fearful presence felt here and this is the o nly place in the world where you can see Asiatic lions. Past from the lions and leopards, the Jackals, striped Hyenas, and India Fox are some of the smaller carnivores found here. Several birds and reptiles also find a home in the forests.

Best time to visit -  December to April; the park closes mid-June through monsoon season in mid-September.

6. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Spanning across 429.69 square kilometers, the Kaziranga National Park is home to largest population of One Horned Rhinoceros in the world . Being far away from the human inhabitance is perhaps the reason for the flourishing wildlife here. Apart from the rhinos, elephants, bears, panthers and various pretty birds traverse the landscape of the park. Kaziranga is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit -  November to April is the ideal time to visit.

7. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Popularised by Rudyard Kipling as the Mowgli land, Kanha is the place that inspired the classic – the Jungle Book. The Black Panther, Bears, Pythons, Elephants and even the Bengal Tiger , found their space in the classic. Around 125 tigers dot the scenery of the park and it’s a real treat for book and nature lovers alike!

Best time to visit -  October to mid-June with March to May being ideal to spot the tigers and panthers.

8. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

This picturesque, 192,000-acre wildlife sanctuary located in the lap of the Western Ghats in Kerela, offers a lush environment for its inhabitants. There are plenty of tigers to see apart from birdwatchers who enjoy the park for its tropical species. One can also boat around the park to see the animals up real close like the elephants.

Best time to visit -  Open throughout the year, September to December is the best time to go here. 

9. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam

A Project Tiger Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage site, Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is located at the border of Assam and Bhutan, a four-hour drive from Kaziranga. There are jeep tours and elephant rides across the area as well as raft excursions on the water. It is home to a great variety of wildlife, including many endangered species, such as the tiger, pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros and Indian elephant.

Best time to visit -  October to April with January to March being peak wildlife spotting time.

10. Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal

Travelling around the mangroves of the Sunderban National Park you will see sights like a tiger swimming in the water, a rarity found nowhere else! The Sundarbans area covers 4624 sq km incorporating a wide variety of birds and reptiles and including the salt-water crocodile. Apart from the Royal Bengal Tiger; Fishing Cats, Leopard Cats, Macaques, Wild Boar, Indian Grey Mongoose are also found in abundance here.

Best time to visit -  October to April

11. Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra

Tadoba is a wonderful place to enjoy wildlife in India, with a lake encircled by forests and hills. The stunning lake is among the main attractions of the place. The wildlife here includes Tigers, Barking Deer, Hyenas, Gaur, Leopards to name some.

Best time to visit -  October to June, tiger spotting happens in March to May.

12. Pench National Park , Madhya Pradesh

Located almost at the border of Madhya Pradesh with Maharashtra, the Pench National Park is a tiger reserve spanning 464 sq kms . The topography supports a mosaic of vegetation ranging from moist, sheltered valleys to open, dry forests. The Nilgai, Leopards, Wild Boars are just some of the fantastic beasts found here.

Best time to visit -  October to June

13. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Almost every willing you can imagine can be spotted at the Satpura National Park. The rugged terrain along with the dense jungle makes it the perfect habitat for the wild animals to flourish and makes for a challenging safari through the park for the adventure lover in you!

Some of the animals you can spot here are the Spotted Dear, Leopards, Sloth Bear, Black Buck, Sambar, Four Horned Antelopes, Porcupine, Smooth Otter so make sure your camera has plenty of space to capture it all.

This post was published by Akriti Paracer

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India Tiger Safaris & Cultural EcoTours

The Ultimate Combination of Wildlife Safari & Culture Our award-winning India journeys eliminate the need to choose between India's spiritually rich cultural experiences or its classic wildlife safaris --Wild Planet's Leopards, Tigers and Palaces itineraries provides the very best of both.

Nature's Exotic Jewel Wild Planet offers the most comprehensive 13-day and 19-day multi-safaris available in India. Our wildlife expertise shines at India's top national parks, wildlife reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites where you can thrill to the sight of wild leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, tigers and more. Our 19-day program includes safaris in 5 very different National Parks and wildlife reserves, by jeep, elephant-back and camel-back. Only Wild Planet offers a combination of safaris in such a wide variety of eco-systems, for the best wildlife experience possible.

A Cultural and Spiritual Journey In addition to unsurpassed wildlife viewing, you'll immerse yourself in India's cultural and spiritual melange of sights, scents and colors--the brilliant reds and bold saffron of tribal costumes, the rose pink of ancient palaces, the soft indigo rooftops of fabled cities, the tawny browns of vast deserts, and the unforgettable black and orange stripes of the tiger. You'll feel transported back to a romantic era of turbaned warriors, valiant princes, and sultry harems as you explore the golden-hued desert strongholds of Jodhpur and Jaipur, the magnificent Taj Mahal, the remote villages of Rajasthan and off-the-beaten-track Assam, the Bishnois sect of Hindus who revere wildlife as part of their religion, and the contrasting modern bustle of Delhi. No other company offers anything like this!

Stay in Princely Style Wild Planet's India trips allow you to experience the dramatic rivers, fabled jungles and profuse big game of this exotic jewel. You'll stay in princely style at accommodations ranging from 4 & 5 star hotels to top game lodges and classic safari tented camps. You can even choose to stay at a former maharajas' palace which has now been converted into a magnificent hotel! You simply won't find an itinerary as remarkable as ours, or one that so thoroughly explores so many facets of India's wildlife, culture and spirituality. Our 19-day or 13 day Ultimate Wildlife Safari: Leopards, Tigers and Palaces journeys are available in your choice of scheduled group departures or you can go on your own on a date of your own choosing with minimum of 2 people. We also offer custom tours for families, groups and special interests including ashrams and yoga. If you don't see what you're looking for, please give us a call!

India - Award-Winning Wildlife Safaris & Cultural EcoTours - Select Your Adventure Below:

India - Ultimate Wildlife Safari 19-Day: Leopards, Tigers & Palaces

This multiple-award-winning trip combines the very best of India's spiritually rich culture and its classic wildlife safaris. It is the most comprehensive multi-safari available in India, with unsurpassed safaris for tigers, leopards, rhinos & wild elephants. Includes 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 5 national parks, plus the cultural and spiritual melange of Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, Taj Mahal and more. Learn More>

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India - Ultimate Wildlife Safari 13-Day: Leopards, Tigers & Palaces

A shorter version of our acclaimed Ultimate Wildlife safari featuring the first 13 days of the 19 day tour, without Kaziranga & Manas. Enjoy leopard safaris in Siana, tiger safaris in Kanha, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bharatpur & the Taj Mahal, plus rich culture & spiritual experiences in Jodhpur, Jaipur and Agra. Learn More>

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India - Untamed India & Nepal 19-Day Wildlife Safari

This multi-safari combines the best of India and Nepal, featuring unique walking and boating safaris in Satpura (+ jeep) for a more intimate and authentic wildlife experience. Tiger safaris in Bandhavgarh (India) and Bardia National Park (Nepal), and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary. Visit the ashrams of Varanasi, witness the spiritual ceremonies at the Holy Ganges river, erotic carvings of Khajuraho, culture of Kathmandu & the Taj Mahal - 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites! Learn More>

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India - Untamed India 14-Day Wildlife Safari

A shorter version of our 19-day "Untamed" itinerary including everything except Nepal, with walking and boat safaris in Satpura (+ jeep) for a more intimate and authentic wildlife experience, tiger safaris in Bandhavgarh, and the riverside wildlife sanctuary of Chambal. Visit the ashrams of Varanasi, witness the spiritual ceremonies at the Holy Ganges river, erotic carvings of Khajuraho & Taj Mahal. Learn More>

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India - Pushkar Fair & Ultimate Wildlife Safari 19-Day

The Pushkar Camel Fair is the only one of its kind in the entire world. During the fair, people from rural India flock to Pushkar, along with camel and cattle, for several days of livestock trading, horse dealing, pilgrimage, and religious festivals. This small town becomes a cultural phenomenon when colorfully dressed devotees, musicians, acrobats, folk dancers, traders, comedians, 'sadhus' and tourists reach here during Pushkar Fair. We've combined this authentic cultural experience with our award-winning India Ultimate Wildlife Safari itinerary for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Learn More>

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India - Holi Festival & Ultimate Wildlife Safari 13-Day

This special departure combines our award-winning India Ultimate Wildlife Safari itinerary with the amazing Holi Festival to bring you an unparalleled wildlife experience coupled with an authentic and memorable cultural experience of celebrating Holi during your adventure. Learn More>

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Featured guide.

Let us plan you a perfect Wildlife Tour

India is a diverse country with rich biodiversity, offering several exciting wildlife destinations for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Here we list some of the top wildlife destinations in India where you can experience incredible wildlife trips.

Gir National Park

Corbett National Park

Kaziranga National Park

Ranthambore National Park

About India Wildlife

A fabulous amalgamation of the diverse culture, tradition, religion, geography and the wildlife is what makes India a peerless and fascinating country in the entire world. With the diverse topography and climate, the different regions of India are well endowed with the distinct exquisite landscape and an array of unparalleled flora and fauna. The variations in the ecology with the change of the region provide the desirable natural habitat for the distinct variety of the wildlife in India.

Indian landscape is enriched by the mesmerizing Natural beauty and multifarious wildlife species which are hard to find in any other part of the world. With the whopping 103 National Parks, 543 Wildlife Sanctuaries and around 769 protected forests as well as the 50 Tiger Reserves among them, India is among the flag bearers in the world in the field of Wildlife conservation and wildlife tourism.

With the Jungle Safari organized in the various National Parks and Sanctuaries, the astounding wildlife in India attracts millions and millions of wildlife enthusiasts and Nature Lovers from various corner of the globe. The Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Lions, Indian Wild Elephants, One-horned Rhinoceros, Leopards, different species of Deer, Indian Bear, Wild Boars, Wild Buffaloes and many others are the prime wild animals along with the numerous species of Avifauna, Reptiles and Aquafauna enrich the Indian forests.

The perilous voyage of the Indian forest landscape for the trailing and sighting of the dangerous predators of the wild such as Royal Bengal Tigers and Asiatic Lions is the prime adrenaline-pumping adventure activity that entices the wildlife tourists to embark on the journey to the haven of wildlife, India. Global Tourism India provides you the professional tourism services for the unhindered trip to the Wildlife of India.

Top Trending India Wildlife Sanctuaries

National Park Bandhavgarh

National Park Ranthambore

National Park Kaziranga

National Park Gir

National Park Tadoba

National Park Kahna

National Park Sundarban

National Park Sariska

National Park Jim Corbett

National Park Pench

Top trending indian wildlife tour packages.

Gir Tour Packages

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Top trending indian wildlife hotels.

Here's a roundup of 10 hotels that are either home to mini-zoos or animals roaming freely on the grounds. Find hotels near Wildlife Sanctuary, India online.

Hotels in Ranthambore

Book budget, cheap & luxury Ranthambhore hotels. Find hotels near Ranthambore National Park, India online.

Hotels in Jim Corbett

Book the best hotels in Corbett. Choose from available Corbett resorts

Hotels in Gir

Good standard hotels/resorts in the surrounding area of sanctuary play an important role in the promotion of tourism in the state

Hotels in kanha

Sweeping meadowland spotted with forests. Home to populations of tigers, sloth bears and leopards.

Hotels in Bandhavgarh

Book budget, cheap & luxury BANDHAVGARH hotels. Find hotels near BANDHAVGARH National Park, India online.

Hotels in Kaziranga

From the economical to the luxury, a variety of accommodations are available in the vicinity of the Kaziranga National Park to cater the wildlife tourists.

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15 Wildlife Sanctuary Tours In India Promising Adventure Like None Other

A wildlife sanctuary in india is a place that offers views of flora, fauna and wild beasts. so, plan an adventure to one of them soon.

By: Anushka Goel Published: Sep 21, 2022 03:00 PM IST

If you love wildlife, you must have visited several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. These places offer the best of wildlife and nature, bringing you closer to the wild beasts like never before. So, if you’re planning a nature-based trip, these wildlife sanctuary safaris in India are some you must check out. By Anushka Goel

Wildlife Sanctuaries in India for the ultimate adventure

Corbett national park.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Himanshu Agarwal (@himanshuhimz)

The dense forests located in Uttarakhand are known for rare tiger sightings. What makes it so special is the abundant flora and fauna, including some exotic trees and shrubs, waterfalls, dams and endangered animals.

Best time to visit: October to July

Bandhavgarh National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Suyash Keshari Official (@suyashkeshari)

This wildlife sanctuary in India is located in Madhya Pradesh, boasting a splendid tiger population. Also visible here are the rare white tigers, which make for a magnificent sighting. With plenty of forests, meadows, wildlife and more, Bandhavgarh is a reserve that will bring you up, close and personal with nature and these beasts in a way you never thought was possible!

Best time to visit: October to March

Ranthambore National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Indian Wildography (@indianwildography)

Among the most famous tiger reserves in North/West India is Ranthambore . Located in Rajasthan, the wildlife sanctuary draws lakhs of tourists who come here with the promise of being able to see the magnificent Royal Bengal Tigers, and rarely are they left disappointed! With several zones and plenty of creatures, a trip here promises fun and adventure.

Best time to visit: October to June

Gir Wildlife Sanctuary

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Discover Wild Paws (@discoverwildpaws)

The only lion reserve in India, Sasan Gir is home to the Gir National Park. The place, located in Gujarat, makes for some stunning lion sightings. Gir is the only place lions roam free in the wild in India, and the destination draws thousands of wildlife enthusiasts every year because of the same.

Best time to visit: November to April

Kanha Tiger Reserve

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jitender Govindani (@jitendergovindani)

Kanha National Park is another tiger reserve located in Madhya Pradesh. The place, being located in the central highlands of India, possesses a plethora of flora and fauna, including some local, exotic trees and plants. Apart from tigers, what is also popular here are swamp deer and barasinghas, which make for stunning sightings. The place is home to jackals, wild dogs and sloth bears, as well as several birds including black ibis, grey hornbills, bee-eaters, and cattle egret, among others.

Kaziranga National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sachin Rai (@sachin_rai_photography)

Home to the one-horned rhinoceros, this wildlife sanctuary in India makes for a must-visit for adventure lovers. You can spot elephants, rhinos, Asiatic water buffaloes, swamp deer and a lot more at Kaziranga National Park . What’s more, the location and ambient weather make it a great spot to go bird-watching, too. Go on a jeep safari or hop aboard an elephant, or go on a cruise on the Brahmaputra river to spot some more stunning creatures.

Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kamal Ahuja (@kamal.ahuja)

Sundarbans is the largest contiguous mangrove forest in the world, and it also houses a wildlife sanctuary – home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, a species most found in India. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also part of the world’s largest delta, and houses several rare species of aquatic mammals, birds, and reptiles. You can opt for boat safaris to explore the variety of foliage and wildlife found here and hop atop one of the many watchtowers.

Tadoba Wildlife Sanctuary

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mahavir Surana || Wildlife (@mahavirsurana_)

The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is among the many popular wildlife sanctuaries in Maharashtra and is also among the largest. Home to Bengal tigers, leopards, jungle cats and more, the place houses both herbivore and carnivore beasts, and makes for a beautiful place to visit. This is not all – the exotic flora and fauna here include the rare axle-wood, which is fire-resistant.

The Great Himalayan National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bhavya Joshi | Wildlife (@bhavyajoshi0)

Among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in North India, The Great Himalayan National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in Himachal Pradesh. The place has significant biodiversity conservation and houses creatures such as the rare snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, serow, and musk deer. The place also has three endangered birds along with a few other animals, namely western tragopan, koklass, and cheer pheasants. Indulge in camping, trekking and other experiences as you soak in the stunning views.

Best time to visit: March to June as well as September to November

Manas National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Curtain Call Adventures (@curtaincalladventures)

Located in the state of Assam, Manas is the only place to house both the Project Tiger Reserve as well as Project Elephant Reserve. The wildlife sanctuary is also the only one that is home to the pygmy hog. Travellers can visit the park for birdwatching experiences, and gain knowledge about tea plantations.

Panna National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ambikesh Patel (@ambikeshpatel)

Located in Northern Madhya Pradesh, the wildlife sanctuary in India is spread over 550 kilometres. The place is home to tigers, sloth bear pangolin, Indian wolf, four-horned antelope, leopards, rusty-spotted cats, Indian foxes and many more species. It also has historic paintings dating back to the Neolithic times, which you can view while on a safari. The place is also home to 200 bird species, which make for a wonderful time.

Best time to visit: November to March

Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hari (@hari_wildlife_official)

Nestled in the lush Western Ghats, in the state of Karnataka, is Bandipur National Park. The place is said to have the second largest population of tigers, and also houses Asiatic elephants. Along with them, view magnificent creatures such as leopards, sambar, dhole, jackals, sloth bears, muggers, and four-horned antelopes.

Best time to visit: March to May

Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary

Nagarhole is a wildlife sanctuary in India which is among the most visited for its tiger population. The place houses exotic plants, animals and more, and the destination also makes for a great place to witness some beautiful birds.

Best time to visit: April and May

Keoladeo Ghana Wildlife Sanctuary

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bibhas Deb (@treat_for_the_eyes)

Keoladeo is also called Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary , as it forms among the largest places in the world for migratory birds. The place has about 230 species of birds, along with 37 species of animals. Walk along the pathways, bring out your cameras and snap avian creatures such as green sandpiper, Siberian cranes, spotted bill ducks and so many more!

Best time to visit: August to November for resident birds and October to February for migratory birds

• Rajaji National Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sunil Sharma | INDIA (@sunilsharma.ab)

Another great destination to visit for tigers, as well as elephants (it has about 600 elephants!), is the Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand. You can also witness leopards, over 400 bird species and more.

Best time to visit: Winters

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Sam Power/Unsplash

Related:  Done With Goa’s Nightlife? Go On A Date With Nature At These National Parks In Goa

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Anushka Goel

Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument. Read Less

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India’s wildlife: our safari guide to the central parks

• Ranthambhore National Park

By India specialist Sophie

Hundreds of national parks and sanctuaries are scattered across India, many with the raison d'être to protect the country’s most remarkable beast: the Bengal tiger. India’s national animal is the star, but the wildlife opportunities in Indian national parks are many layered. Sloth bears and leopards lurk in the shadows while herds of deer and elephant roam freely. The air flutters with electric-blue butterflies and brightly feathered birds.

It can be hard to decide which area to focus on but, for me, the parks of central India offer particularly biodiverse landscapes, as well as the most successful tiger safaris.

India’s central parks

The network of national parks spread across India’s three central states, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, are well set up for wildlife spotting. The lodges and hotels have honed their skills, employing enthusiastic staff and knowledgeable naturalists.

For the best experience, I suggest dedicating your time to just a couple of the parks — otherwise you can bet a tiger is sighted the day you’re driving in-between two of them. I’ve chosen the four parks that have impressed the most, each offering its own distinct wildlife experience, to choose from.

Safaris in Kanha National Park

Visit Kanha in February or March and you’ll find the plains ablaze with shocks of red flowers. The flame of the forest, a type of deciduous butea tree, is in full bloom. Outside this period, the landscape of yellow-green meadows and lakes with petrified trees jutting up from them still holds its interest.

Kanha is well-known for its flourishing tiger population and, while not guaranteed, you stand a good chance of sightings. On one afternoon jeep safari, we’d almost given up hope of spotting one. Suddenly, an awful smell hit us and a tiger emerged from the undergrowth dragging a huge wild boar carcass. I hadn’t appreciated how large tigers were until I’d seen one pulling a 90 kg (14 stone) boar with ease.

Aside from tigers, large numbers of deer and blue bulls graze the meadows, and Indian marsh crocodiles lurk near the lakes. You might also spot Indian jackals in small packs and, if you’re very lucky, a leopard.

All safaris in Kanha are by jeep, but many lodges offer walks through the park’s buffer zone that concentrate on birdlife and flora. Lodges also supply bicycles for you to visit some of the local traditional villages populated by the forest-dwelling Gond and Baiga tribes.

How to get to Kanha

The park is best reached by a domestic flight from Delhi to Jabalpur, the closest airport city. From Jabalpur, it’s a three-hour drive to the park.

Where to stay in Kanha

There are plenty of places to stay around Kanha but, for me, the six canvas tents at Shergarh are hard to beat. Run by a local naturalist and his English wife, the camp is set in a forested area overlooking a freshwater lake. Guests eat together in the main house, and the menu of home-cooked dishes often has an Anglo-Indian twist.

The camp’s naturalists are on hand to take you on walks into the surrounding deciduous forest, along trails well-worn by local villagers. On foot, my naturalist, Rajan, could point out details we’d missed by jeep, including some fresh leopard scat and claw marks in the dust. Turquoise mormon and blue oakleaf butterflies danced around us as we walked, one briefly landing on my shoulder.

Satpura National Park

There’s less focus on tigers at Satpura , although they do live in the vicinity. Sloth bears and leopards take the stage instead, as well as packs of wild dog, the bison-like Indian gaur and sambar deer.

Walking deep into the forest with my naturalist, I could appreciate the smaller animals, including Malabar giant squirrels and clouds of endemic butterflies.

The Denwa River and its tributaries run through Satpura’s gorges and ravines, enabling you to explore by canoe as well as jeep. It’s also the only national park where you can walk on foot inside its boundaries.

I rose early one morning for a canoe safari. The only boat on the river, our canoe’s quiet motion did nothing to interrupt the still of the morning. We pulled onto a riverbank for breakfast as the sun began to rise. As we sat, a family of more than 20 wild boars swam across the river, completely oblivious to our presence. The group swam in a diamond shape, the babies in the middle to protect them from gharials.

The birdwatching at Satpura is among the best I’ve experienced in India, as the waterholes, rivers and lakes provide a variety of environments for endemic and migratory birds. As well as a small colony of the rare Indian skimmer, more than ten types of eagles live here.

How to get to Satpura

Satpura connects well with Kanha , and visiting both parks gives you a good chance of seeing a mix of wildlife. From Kanha, you take a two-hour train journey to Satpura, passing through the Madhya Pradesh countryside.

Where to stay in Satpura

While Reni Pani isn’t in the national park proper, its secluded location surrounded by the thick forest has a middle-of-the-jungle feel. Each of the 12 cottages has a veranda where you can sit and listen for wildlife.

The lights go out around the lodge at evening time so as to not disrupt the wildlife (sloth bears have been sighted in the grounds), which means on a clear night you can see the smallest of stars. Dinner is served under the boughs of a fig tree before guests gather for a nightcap around the bonfire.

Pench National Park

Sat between Kanha and Satpura, Pench is a good addition for a safari if you have the time. It’s a well-populated tiger park, although its huge size and dense forest can make the animals tricky to spot. Fewer visitors lend the park a particularly tranquil feel.

A healthy colony of wild dogs and large herds of gaur roam here, and the teak forests hide the rare flying squirrel. With extreme luck or patience you might see a civet, jungle cat or porcupine.

Due to the small visitor numbers, Pench is a park where you can take a jeep safari to a quiet corner and wait to see what emerges from the jungle. As I watched, a blue-black Asian forest scorpion scuttled across the ground and proceeded to attack the wheel of the jeep with vigor.

Where to stay in Pench

Visiting Pench gives you the opportunity to stay at Jamtara Wilderness Camp, ten luxurious safari tents set in an arjuna tree forest.

You can spend a night of your stay sleeping under the stars on a local farmer’s machaan, a stilted platform positioned above a paddy field (traditionally used to guard crops from elephants). A guard is nearby if you need assistance.

A private entrance into the park is only a five-minute drive away, giving you more time in bed than the other camps allow. After a day’s safari, guests congregate under the trailing arms of a banyan tree for drinks around a fire pit.

Tadoba National Park

It may be one of India’s oldest national parks, but Tadoba has remained off most itineraries — the limited number of places to stay keeps visitor numbers low. The park boasts the highest density of tigers in India, although the dense forest setting means sightings aren’t guaranteed.

In the hotter months, from March to May, the vegetation dies back and the smaller pockets of water dry out, bringing the tigers to the larger waterholes. Sightings are frequent, and I saw a leopard skulking across to the waterside to drink, as well as a pair of civets.

All safaris in the park are conducted by jeep, accompanied by a trained naturalist. When I visited in October, the forest was lush with post-monsoon growth. As the tigers were particularly difficult to spot, my naturalist used track marks and jungle noises to predict where a tiger might emerge, leading us to the spot where a female emerged from the undergrowth into the sunlight.

I’ve long been fascinated with sloth bears. Rudyard Kipling celebrated the species through his character Baloo in The Jungle Book, and modern adaptations of the story have helped conservation efforts to protect the bear, which is native to India’s central parks.

On one afternoon safari in Tadoba, as the light dimmed, we happened upon a pair of sloth bears sloping across the path in front of us, with their distinctive shaggy fur and loping gait. The driver slowed and we trailed them — the pair remained completely unfazed by our presence — until dark.

As you track the larger animals, you’re likely to encounter a variety of birdlife as well as gaurs, langurs, four-horned antelopes (chausinghas in Hindi) and mugger crocodiles. I also spotted a wolf spider the size of my hand.

How to get to Tadoba

Tadoba is a domestic flight from Nagpur, which connects with Delhi and Mumbai , then a three-hour drive. You can combine a safari in Tadoba with Pench National Park (a five- to six-hour drive), carrying onto Satpura or Kanha from there.

Where to stay in Tadoba

Family-run Svasara Jungle Lodge has 12 well-kept cottages in a relaxed environment and the appeal of a swimming pool for the hotter months.

Audley and TOFT

Audley is a member of Travel Operators for Tigers (TOFT), which together with Global Tiger Patrol supports a sustainable approach to tourism in the Indian Subcontinent’s wildlife reserves.

Key to TOFT’s work is showing the local community that tigers are more valuable alive than dead. A current focus involves encouraging local people to become watchmen or guides so they can make a living while protecting the tiger population.

We make a donation for everyone who travels with us to one of India's national parks where tigers are present.

TOFT also visits a number of lodges in India, helping to promote sustainable practices. All the properties we work with have an eco-rating (known as a pug mark), which you can see on TOFT’s website. You can also download one of TOFT’s Good Wildlife Travel Guides to take with you.

Best time to spot wildlife in India

In February and March, the temperatures average a comfortable 27°C (80°F), rain is rare and the foliage starts to thin out, making wildlife easier to spot. If you can handle warmer temperatures, in April and May the water sources dry out, drawing animals from the jungle to larger lakes, which can lead to some very successful sightings.

The parks close to visitors roughly from June to mid-October, when the monsoon rains fall. India then descends into wintertime. December and January are the coldest months, and I suggest packing thermals, hats and gloves if you visit during this time. Due to the cold weather, mammal sightings are rare but the great migration of sub-Himalayan birds brings eagles, herons and storks down to the plains.

How to make the most of a wildlife trip to India

• Safari permits go on sale well in advance, and there are more hotel rooms than permits for most parks: I advise planning your trip 9 to 12 months ahead.
• Consider adding in some cultural exploration. If it’s your first time in India, the Taj Mahal is a simple addition before flying home from Delhi. If you’re a more seasoned visitor, you could fly home via Mumbai.
• Regardless of when you visit, it can be surprisingly chilly on early morning game drives so I suggest taking a jacket or fleece. In dry weather it can also get very dusty, so a scarf can be helpful.
• To reduce the impact on the environment, safaris are conducted in shared jeeps of usually no more than eight people (including the driver and naturalist), with space to stretch out and take photographs. Some parks occasionally offer private jeeps, but these are hard to guarantee.
• The parks of central India never teem with international visitors, but the country has a budding wildlife culture and many Indians visit. During festival time, when many Indians take time off, the parks can get very busy.

Start planning your India wildlife trip

India's Golden Triangle & tigers

10 days from $3,050pp

Tigers & sloth bears: unusual wildlife experiences in central India

10 days from $5,100pp

India's wildlife treasures

9 days from $5,090pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in India: our highlights guide
• Family vacations in India
• Choosing the right Indian experience for you
• Luxury vacations in India
• More Audley wildlife trip ideas

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Top Wildlife & Jungle Lodges

15 Top Wildlife and Jungle Lodges in India

There are some superb jungle lodges in India that provide unforgettable wildlife experiences.  Many are dedicated to eco-tourism and conservation.  If you're planning on going on safari, the choice of lodge becomes important as the quality of naturalists and transport varies.  These lodges are all outstanding in terms of location, services, and activities. Some are well known, while others are off-the-beaten-track.

Jawai Leopard Camp, Pali District, Rajasthan

Jawai Leopard Camp offers the ultimate glamping experience in the untamed Rajasthan desert where leopards roam. This very exclusive and opulent experiential jungle lodge is surrounded by the Aravalli hills, halfway between Jodhpur and Udaipur. What makes it really unique is that the area is not part of a national park, so there are no restrictions. The property has just nine luxury tents in the wilderness. Although, calling them tents doesn't do them justice at all! If you really want to pamper yourself, stay in the royal suite with its own private heated swimming pool. Leopards aren't the only wildlife around. There are more than 170 species of birds and crocodiles. Jeep safaris, cycling, and treks offer the opportunity to see them. Other activities include village excursions, yoga and meditation, and day trips to Kumbhalgarh Fort and Ranakpur Jain Temple. Outdoor dining is also a highlight. Imagine eating dinner under the stars in a private granite kopje (outcrop). It's possible!

• Rates: From 58,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Evolve Back, Kabini, Karnataka

Evolve Back (formerly the award-winning Orange County) sits on the edge of Nagahole National Park , surrounded by Karnataka's Kabini River. The philosophy is simple: provide an exquisite vacation and wildlife experience while preserving the nature and culture of the land. Guests are accommodated in 37 spacious huts, with the design inspired by tribal villages. Subtle on the outside but sublime on the inside, they either have their private swimming pool or open-to-the-sky Jacuzzi.

Facilities include reading lounge, Ayurvedic center, family swimming pool, and two gourmet restaurants. Guests can also dine by the riverside or on a candlelit cruise. Experiences offered include boat safaris and jeep safaris in the national park, coracle rides on the Kabini River, guided nature walks and night trails, and Kuruba tribal dances around the campfire. The lodge even has its own resident elephant that you can bathe and feed!

• Rates: From around 30,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Breakfast is included.

Spice Village, Thekkady, Kerala

An eco-friendly CGH Earth property, Spice Village is also themed on a tribal village. Its thatch-roof cottages are set amid 14 acres of spice trees close to Periyar National Park . The environment is wild! Activities include boat safaris through the national park, forest treks, bird watching, visiting a local tribal village, and Kerala cuisine cooking classes. The property also has an Ayurvedic treatment center and outdoor swimming pool.

• Rates: From around 15,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Breakfast is included.

Singinawa Jungle Lodge, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh

Named Most Inspirational Eco Lodge of the Year in the 2016 TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards, stunning Singinawa Jungle Lodge showcases the region's unique tribal and arts culture. The lodge is unique because it has its own Museum of Life and Art, dedicated to tribal Gond and Baiga artisans, on the property. It's located on 110 acres of jungle and also undertakes many conservation initiatives. One of the special things about the lodge is that it offers a range of village experiences in addition to jungle safaris so that guests can connect with the local tribes and learn about their lifestyles. It's fascinating to be able to visit tribes in their village during the day and see them dressed up and performing their tribal dance at night. Gond tribal art lessons are also available.

Accommodations are provided in 12 rustic stone and slate cottages, plus a four-bedroom jungle bungalow, and a 2 bedroom jungle bungalow. Facilities include The Meadow spa with Indian and Oriental treatments and The Wallow swimming pool surrounded by nature.

• Rates : From around 16,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Chitvan Jungle Lodge, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh

Chitvan Jungle Lodge is one of the top places to stay near Kanha National Park , and it's situated super close -- almost within walking distance of Mukki Gate. This secluded lodge is spread over 14 acres and does a wonderful job of blending in with its environment. The owners have converted farmland into a mini-forest with over 100 species of birds and butterflies. Their motto is "Conservation through Tourism" and the focus is on making tourism an alternate economy for the local community.

The idea behind Chitvan is to provide a retreat from worldy life -- with "chitt" being a product of the mind and ego, and "van" meaning forest. Guests can tame their minds among nature. The luxurious cottage accommodations have been named after various elements: Agni (fire), Prithvi (earth), Jal (water), and Akash (ether). All have magnificent views of the forest or farmland. Highlights are open showers, and private sit-outs and terraces. Meals are prepared using organic ingredients grown at the resort. Activities offered include jeep safaris in the national park, birding and butterfly spotting at the lodge, nature walks, tribal dances, bullock cart rides, and market visits.

• Rates: From around 6,500 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Kanha Earth Lodge, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh

Another award-winning eco-lodge, Kanha Earth Lodge is also located near Kanha National Park, on 16 acres of forest in a small tribal hamlet bordering the buffer zone. It's around 30 minutes from the park's main entry gate (Khatia Gate). The lodge successfully blends eco-sensitivity and local village cooperation with a fantastic wilderness experience.

There are 12 independent luxury cottages for guests. Their design has been influenced by traditional Gond tribal architecture and locally available material has been used to build them. What's particularly notable about Kanha Earth Lodge is that it's managed by Pugdundee Safaris . The safaris conducted by this very reputable company really stand out in terms of knowledge and enthusiasm of naturalists, and maintenance and comfort of vehicles. 

• Rates: From around 12,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh

Samode Safari Lodge at Bandhavgarh National Park is part of the Samode Hotels portfolio -- a renowned luxury heritage hotel group from Rajasthan that's in the process of expanding. The group is best known for its magnificent flagship property, the 500-year-old Samode Palace near Jaipur , which opened as a hotel in 1987. A trip to Africa prompted the owners, who are descendants of the royal family of Samode, to create the lodge. Its architecture has been inspired by the colorful villages around it. There are 12 eco-friendly, gorgeously furnished cottages, as well as a dining room, library, recreation room, a fully equipped spa, and swimming pool.

Food is a big focus at Samode properties. At the Samode Safari Lodge, guests are treated to different dishes daily for lunch and dinner so that they can experience a range of cuisines. The dining locations change as well. The lodge's safaris are also highly rated. The lodge has its own jeeps and expert naturalists, which are possibly the best in the area. Wildlife conservation is taken seriously, and guests are shown a thought-provoking documentary about tigers and the problems they face in India.

• Rates: From around 66,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Mahua Kothi, Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh

A Taj property, also at Bandhavgarh National Park, Mahua Kothi derives its name from the Mahua or butter tree. The substantially sized lodge occupies 40 acres of land around 20 minutes from the park entrance. Best defined as rustic luxury, it has two parts: the original kothi (homestead) that's been beautifully renovated and serves as the common space for guests, and newly constructed guest accommodations. The 12 guest huts have been built in central Indian village style, and are accessed through private courtyards with traditional mud floors. The recreated village experience also includes an open kitchen, breakfast displayed on a bullock cart, traditional Indian games, kettles of boiling water on charcoal burners, and bicycles for guest use. 

In addition to morning and afternoon jeep safaris, conducted using the lodge's own naturalists and vehicles, guests can also go on guided nature walks, village and school visits, and learn star gazing. Special mahua martinis, made from the tree's flowers, are served in the evenings.

• Rates: From around 35,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Breakfast is included.

Forsyth Lodge, Satpura, Madhya Pradesh

You're unlikely to see a tiger at lesser-known Satpura National Park but it's an excellent place to spend time in nature, and Forsyth Lodge is one of the best wildlife lodges to do it at. This lodge is set on 44 acres of reclaimed jungle at the edge of the park. It has 12 independent guest cottages constructed out of cob in an arc around the lodge building, giving them unique vantage points into the landscape The lodge is made out of rammed earth and holds dining areas, a well-appointed library devoted to Indian wildlife, a lounge, several fireplaces, and a bar. There's also an eco-friendly (chlorine-free) swimming pool and telescopes on the terraces for stargazing

Satpura National Park is an inspiring example of a park that doesn't just focus on the usual jeep safaris, although the lodge does offer them both during the day and at night. Other possible activities inside the national park include elephant safaris, canoe safaris, and walking safaris led by the lodge's naturalists. Notably, Satpura is one of two protected forests in India that visitors are allowed to walk through. In addition, the lodge offers an expedition to Pachmarhi plateau, a two-day hike to or from the plateau on the Forsyth Trail, and a three-day introductory course into jungle craft and understanding the wilderness.

• Rates: From around 22,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Satpura, Madhya Pradesh

Reni Pani is another popular option for staying near Satpura National Park. It features 12 luxury cottages with three different locations and designs. Six of the cottages sit along the seasonal stream that runs through the property, four are in the forest, and two are atop a hillock on the property. The forest and hill cottages are built with local material and have private viewing decks and bay windows. The 30 acres of forest that the lodge occupies is blessed with thick trees, a wide meadow, seasonal stream, and watering holes that attract several species of birds and animals. It's pure delight for nature lovers! Bird watching, anthropology expeditions, jeep safaris, elephant safaris, boat safaris, canoeing and nature walks are all offered.

• From around 16,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

Sherbagh, Ranthambhore, Rajasthan

Sherbagh is a pioneering luxury tented camp situated on a family estate bordering Ranthambore National Park , one of India's top destinations for seeing a tiger .  It was founded by a local family who's played an active part in wildlife conservation in the area for more than 40 years. When they bought the estate in the 1980s, it was barren, degraded and devoid of vegetation. With much care and attention, they've grown a healthy forest on it, filled with trees, grasses and other indigenous flora, birds, and animals.

The 12 luxury tents nestled on the property have been designed along the lines of the 1920s safari accommodations popular during the British Raj.  Inside, they're decorated with classic colonial furniture. The lodge provides guests with a detailed introduction to Ranthambore, its wildlife, and conservation efforts. It has its own exclusive safari vehicles and teams of wildlife trackers, so you can be assured of the best safari experience. There's also a jungle spa, under the canopy of a holy peepal tree, that offers a range of treatments.

• Rates: From around 46,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

The Blackbuck Lodge, Velavadar National Park, Gujarat

Off the beaten track, The Blackbuck Lodge has a fabulously secluded position along the Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, near the Gulf of Cambay on Gujarat's west coast. This park was formerly the private grassland and hunting ground of the Maharaja of Bhavnagar. Now, it's protected area for blackbucks (spiral-horned antelopes) to inhabit. And, you can watch them from the privacy of the veranda at the back of your room.

The Blackbuck Lodge occupies 70 acres of untamed land. It has 14 luxury villas for guests, with chic interiors and stylish architecture. The lodge offers safaris into the park and excursions to surrounding tourist destinations.

• Rates: From around 12,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Breakfast included.

Asiatic Lion Lodge, Gir, Gujarat

Asiatic Lion Lodge opened in 2014 and offers eco-friendly accommodations near Gir National Park , where these lions roam. The lodge is a venture of Terra EcoTourism and the owners (who are keen wildlife photographers) have been in the hospitality industry for the past 20 years. It has a serene location, amongst nature near the village of Haripur, in the western part of the Gir jungle around six kilometers from Sasan Gir village (the entry point to the national park). Apparently, the lodge is the first eco-tourism property in the area.

There are 16 guest cottages, constructed in an environmentally friendly manner. The lodge's Flavors of Forest restaurant serves north Indian and regional Kathiawadi delicacies of Gujarat, cooked with organic ingredients where available. There's also the Forest Cafe, situated adjacent to a seasonal natural water pond. It's got a library with a wide variety of books on wildlife and is a great place to relax. In terms of activities, films on wildlife are shown every evening. Nearly 35 species of rare birds are often sighted in the area next to the lodge, and its naturalist takes guests on guided nature walks and bird watching walks.  Other activities such as bicycle riding and visits to a nearby tribal village are possible, along with safaris into the national park.

• Rates: From around 4,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Breakfast is included.

Pench Jungle Camp, Pench, Madhya Pradesh

Pench Jungle Camp offers luxury tented and cottage accommodations on 12 acres of forest close to the entrance of Pench National Park. What's particularly notable is that it has its own 38 acre ecological park, bordering the buffer zone of the national park, that's home to a diverse range of wildlife and birds. Guest can explore it on foot or horseback, or by bicycle. The camp has its own naturalists who also conduct birdwatching trips, along with jungle safaris inside the national park. Facilities include lounge and library, swimming pool, and Ayurvedic spa.

• Rates: From around 6,000 rupees per night, plus tax. Breakfast is included.

KTDC Lake Palace, Thekkady, Kerala

The Lake Palace is not your usual government owned and operated property -- it's surprisingly special in a number of ways. First, the location. It's on Lake Periyar in the midst of Periyar National Park and is only accessible by a 20 minute boat ride. Second, it was the summer retreat of the kings of Travancore. It's an intimate property with only six guest rooms, built in 1927. The old-world ambiance has been retained. A drawback of this is that the rooms and bathrooms are quite old fashioned, but some may say it's part of the charm! All the rooms offer fantastic views of the lake and jungle, and it's not uncommon to see deer, elephants, and wild buffaloes from them! 

Since it's situated inside the park, the Lake Palace has an advantage of offering exclusive nature-based activities from its premises. These include wildlife boat cruises, nature walks, and trekking, bamboo rafting, border hiking, elephant rides, and jungle patrols. Outside the property, additional activities are bullock cart rides, plantation tours, visits to tea factories, and shopping for spices at the local market.

• Rates: From 10,000 rupees per night, plus tax. All meals are included.

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The Best Staycation in Every State

Premium India & Wildlife

19 days | discover the majestic wildlife, enigmatic wonders, and cultural charms of india.

Experience vibrant India through its rich cultural heritage, ancient religion, breathtaking wildlife, and natural beauty. On this 19-day Premium adventure, you’ll safari through four of India's best wildlife parks, including Satpura, Ranthambhore, and Panna – as well as one of the most popular national parks for spotting the royal Bengal – Bandhavgarh Tiger Sanctuary. Discover the Pink City of Jaipur, witness the Mughal splendours of Delhi and Agra, soak up the ambience of holy Varanasi on a sunrise cruise, and see why Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary is renowned as one of the world's best places for birdwatching. Your local leader will bring the magic of India to light, from lavish palaces to vibrant bazaars and the incomparable Taj Mahal. Packed with wildlife hotspots and hidden gems, discover the natural and cultural wonders of India.

Trip overview

• Embark on a rickshaw safari through the bird sanctuary of Keoladeo, take an evening boat and night safari in Satpura National Park and search for the elusive royal Bengal tiger on jeep safaris through Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh and Panna National Parks.
• Explore the architectural marvels of North India, including Jaipur's Amber Fort and Royal City Palace, Agra's Red Fort, and the iconic Taj Mahal.
• Search for nocturnal animals such as leopards, jungle cats, fruit bats, flying squirrels and flying foxes under the stars, during your night safari in Satpura National Park with a local, naturalist guide.
• Spend two elegant evenings at your Feature Stay hotel in Jaipur. The heritage hotel has been in the same family since its opening in 1928 and offers opulent details and warm, friendly service.
• Take part in Exclusive Experiences to remember – visit to a royal haveli in Jaipur and hear the stories of its owner’s ancestors, and cruise down the Ganges at sunset accompanied by local musicians.
• In general, the best time to spot wildlife is at dawn and dusk. There will be many early starts on this tour to capitalize on optimum safari times or to avoid morning traffic on travel days.
• In the winter months of November, December, and January, early mornings and late evenings tend to be cold, while the rest of the months offer hot and sunny conditions during safaris. Remember to stay hydrated, use sufficient skin protection, and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable experience.
• While this trip doesn't include strenuous physical activity, the jeeps used in national parks are simple, typically with a high step to get in and out of them, and the roads can be quite bumpy.
• It can get foggy between December and February, which can put a new spin on the already spectacular scenery. However, it may cause traffic congestion and delays.

Namaste! Welcome to India. An airport transfer is included if you’re arriving today, so you can just focus on the excitement of taking in the energy of Delhi. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your trip leader and your fellow travellers, followed by a flavourful group dinner to get to know each other. If you arrive early, why not book yourself on an Urban Adventure through the city – a great introduction to the magic of Delhi!

• The Grand Hotel or similar (1 night)

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

After breakfast this morning, you’ll hop on a train towards Jhansi with your group – the city sits on the banks of the Pahuj River and is home to some rich history. Listen to your leader’s stories while the walled Jhansi Fort overlooks the centre. Grab some lunch with your group before driving towards Panna National Park. This protected Tiger Reserve is home to around 35 tigers, as well as sloth bears, spotted deer, leopards and a wide array of birdlife. When you arrive, you’ll have the option to visit the nearby Temples of Khajuraho – built between 950 and 1050 during the Chandella dynasty, these gorgeous temples are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth the visit. Tonight, enjoy dinner with your group and get a good sleep, ready for your first wildlife adventure tomorrow.

• Tendu Leaf or similar (1 night)
• Khajuraho - Temples of Khajuraho - INR7850

Your travel time today will be approximately 7.5 hours.

Arise bright and early this morning for your first safari. You’ll head into Panna National Park with a local naturalist guide and discover the beauty of the park’s waterfalls, forested areas and vast open plains. Look out for the roaming tigers that call this place home, and you might even see spotted deer up on their hind legs, eating from a tree – or a leopard or sloth bear prowling the grounds. This park really excels in local birdlife, so make sure you look to the sky and the trees, too! There are over 200 species of bird here, with many of the water birds unseen in any other national park. You will also have the option to prebook a second, afternoon safari to double your chances of ticking off bucket list wildlife.

• Panna National Park - Morning Safari with a Naturalist Guide
• Panna National Park - Evening Safari (Prebook) - INR15000

It is important to pre-book today's optional safari to guarantee your spot. We recommend booking at least four months in advance. Please speak with your booking agent to reserve your spot.

This morning, after a spot of breakfast, say goodbye to Panna National Park and make your way on wheels towards the next destination – ‘The Land of Tigers’ or Bandhavgarh National Park and Tiger Reserve. Bandhavgarh is known for its resident royal Bengal tigers, and the density of their population is the highest known in India. When you arrive, you’ll have time to settle in before a group dinner. You also have the option to book some evening entertainment – a bonfire dance show at the hotel.

• Bandhav Vilas or similar (1 night)

Set off on your morning safari through Bandhavgarh National Park and Tiger Reserve this morning. With a local naturalist guide by your side, you’ll have a great chance of spotting one of the many royal Bengal tigers that prowl these lands – keep your eyes out for the other residents, too! There are also white tigers, leopards, wild boars, gaurs (buffalo), langurs, eagles and deer due to the biodiversity of the grounds – a mix of tropical forest, swamps, cliffs, Sal trees and grasslands. See the scores of birdlife soar above, the energetic langur jump from tree to tree and the wild boar sitting lazily by the water. You’ll also have the option to pre-book an afternoon safari today (if you just can’t get enough of the diverse wildlife that calls this park home).

• Bandhavgarh National Park - Morning Safari with a Naturalist Guide
• Bandhavgarh National Park - Evening Safari (Prebook) - INR15000

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

This morning, you’ll have breakfast as a group, and if you fancy, you can head out on another morning safari drive through the great lands of Bandhavgarh National Park. Alternatively, enjoy a free, lazy morning of rest and relaxation – maybe reading a book in the sunshine or going for a swim in the pool. This afternoon, you’ll head out on another safari, to strengthen your chances of spotting the gorgeous Bengals in their natural habitat. Your naturalist guide will give you all the insights into how these beautiful beasts live day to day in the park and as always, give you the best chance to spot as much wildlife as possible! Tonight, enjoy a group dinner and share photos of all the day’s finds.

• Bandhavgarh National Park - Evening Safari with a Naturalist Guide
• Bandhavgarh National Park - Morning Safari (Prebook) - INR15000

Say goodbye to Bandhavgarh National Park this morning after breakfast and make your way towards Jabalpur. Surrounded by low hills in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, this city is a popular spot with visitors, known for its natural landscapes and historic architecture. When you arrive, you’ll head out on a leader-led walking tour of the city to get your bearings then you’re free to discover at your own pace. Maybe head to the rocky hilltop on the western outskirts to see the Madan Mahal Fort, built in 1116. Or, head west to the Pisanhari Ki Madiya Jain temple for great views over the city. Before finding the best spot for dinner, why not go chasin’ waterfalls – Jabalpur has four!

• Narmada Jackson or similar (1 night)

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

We have selected the best available accommodation in Jabalpur. However, due to limited options, tonight's accommodation does not meet the same standards as the rest of the tour.

Say goodbye to Jabalpur this morning and drive to the Satpura Mountain Range. Watch the central Indian landscapes pass you by as you chat with your fellow travellers, take the opportunity to have a much-needed nap or get stuck into your favourite podcast. When you arrive at Satpura National Park, settle into your new surroundings before heading out on an exciting night safari with a naturalist guide. As you drive through the forested ranges of this national park and tiger reserve, watch out for nocturnal animals that can only be spotted once the sun goes down – leopards, flying squirrels and flying foxes are just some of the creatures that come out under the stars.

• Forsyth Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
• Satpura National Park - Night Safari with a Naturalist Guide

Fuel up on a good breakfast this morning and (if you’ve prebooked the optional morning safari today), head out to see Satpura National Park in the sunlight. Among the cascading waterfalls, deep canyons and natural pools of Satpura, sunlight sees a high density of sloth bears here, as well as giant squirrels, deer, a range of different monkeys and hundreds of birds! After a group lunch and some time to rest (or your free afternoon if you opted out of the morning safari), you’ll get ready for your second evening exploration, but this time, by boat! Watch the sun go down from a boat sailing through the park, and from the waters, try to spot the nighttime jungle cats, fruit bats and flying foxes.

• Satpura National Park - Walking Safari - INR6800

Continue your adventure this morning with a drive to Bhopal. This is a bit of a long travel day, so make sure you’ve got your favourite book, playlists and car games ready! Maybe grab some lunch in Bohpal and then take a train towards Agra, your destination for tonight. When you arrive, you’re free to head out wherever you wish for dinner – your local leader always has great recommendations!

Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.

Wake up in the beautiful city of Agra this morning and after breakfast, head out for a morning in Keoladeo National Park. This huge bird sanctuary and national park has long been recognised as one of the world's most integral breeding and feeding grounds for local birdlife. When you arrive, you’ll take a rickshaw safari ride through the sanctuary with a local naturalist guide. As well as the 260 species of bird that live here, you may also spot some of the deer, nilgai (antelope) and boar that reisde in the park. Return to Agra and get ready to tick off one of the Seven Wonders of the World off your bucket list – that's right, Agra is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Taj Mahal! Marvel at the 17th century structure as you learn about its history (and snap some pretty epic pics) and soak in the majesty of this amazing site, at sunset no less.

• Grand Mercure Hotel (Previously Crystal Sarovar Premier) or similar (1 night)
• Agra - Taj Mahal
• Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - Rickshaw Safari with a Naturalist Guide

Today’s total driving time is approximately 4 hours.

Start the day with a visit to one of the finest looking forts in India – the magnificent Agra Fort. Learn how a fortress and prison was built out of red sandstone by Akbar in 1565, then conversions and additions by Shah Jahan transformed the fort into a palace. Explore elegant courtyards and a labyrinth of buildings while you try to take in the grand scale of this remarkable structure. After your visit, depart Agra and make your way to Ranthambore, arriving in the late afternoon. On arrival, you may like to take a stroll around town, put your feet up and relax beside the pool, or enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant.

• The Sher Garh Resort or similar (1 night)
• Agra - Agra Fort

Today’s total driving time is approximately 6 hours.

Please note that Ranthambhore National Park is closed between 1 July and 30 September each year. On those trips affected, we'll visit nearby Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary. Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary is located approximately 16 kilometres from Ranthambhore and, due to its hilly terrain, isn't as affected by the monsoon. Tigers inhabit this area also and sightings are more favourable at this time of year as they move away from flooded areas of Ranthambore.

As this is a combination trip, the composition of your group will likely change, and you will have a new group leader. Your new leader will arrange to meet with you in advance to brief you on the next section of your tour.

Rise early for a morning safari. Ranthambore National Park is one of the original Project Tiger reserves – a place where nature has reclaimed ancient fortresses and temples and is teeming with wildlife. In 4WD safari vehicles, take game drives to search for animals, including the majestic tiger which stalks through the jungle. Even if they are too stealthy to see, the park is filled with other animals like gazelle, hyenas, sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, three types of antelope (nilgai, sambar and chital) and leopards to watch out for. Enjoy some downtime at the resort in the afternoon, then venture back out for an evening safari through the park – another chance to spot some of this region’s resident tiger population. You may also have the opportunity to explore the 1000-year-old Ranthambore Fort, where two pavilions that have survived the ravages of war and time, Badal Mahal and Hammirs Court, give an idea of its old grandeur.

• Ranthambhore National Park - Morning Wildlife Safari
• Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari

Today you will travel to Jaipur, the capital of the Rajasthan region. Arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation, the fabulous Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. This beautiful heritage hotel has been run by the same family since its opening in 1928 and retains the warm feel of a traditional family home, while opulent touches emanate from every corner – look out for delectable chandeliers, stained glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Surrounded by a glittering swimming pool and lush gardens, you’ll enjoy a magical escape from the rush and racket of the outside world. Take some time to settle in, then join your leader on a walking tour through the crowded streets packed with cars, camel carts, rickshaws, trucks and bicycles, past traditionally dressed Rajput men wearing colourful turbans and sporting magnificent moustaches. Hear stories of the city’s culture and history as you explore crowded bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art, and the local speciality of semi-precious stones. Dinner this evening is something a little bit special – head to the home of a local  family for a wonderful homecooked dinner. Chat to your friendly hosts about their way of life and learn their culinary secrets.

• Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
• Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner
• Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk

Begin the day with a visit to the extravagant Amber Fort – the jewel of Jaipur. It is quite a sight, with its soft shades of red, sandstone and white marble with elaborate Hindu-style flourishes. Your leader will share the stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, lavish murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Afterwards, stop at one of India's most photographed buildings, the Hawa Mahal or 'Palace of the Winds', to capture your own photo. Then pay a visit to the striking City Palace, a marvellous blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Tour the grounds and learn about its construction by the founder of Jaipur. Later in the afternoon, hop on a rickshaw and travel to a royal haveli. Haveli’s are old mansions which were ornately decorated as a display of wealth, many of which remain across the city today. Here you will meet the owner of the haveli who will give you a tour of the property and share fascinating photographs and stories of his ancestors who once ruled the nearby provinces. Head to the rooftop for drinks and take in sweeping views of Jaipur’s old walled city.

• Jaipur - Amber Fort
• Jaipur - City Palace
• Jaipur - Private Royal Haveli visit with owner
• Jaipur - Rooftop drinks overlooking old walled city (one drink included)
• Jaipur - Balloon Safari - USD280
• Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory - INR200

Depart your feature stay accommodation then board a flight bound for Varanasi. On arrival, make a stop off at Sarnath, one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features a number of stupas and museums to explore. Continue on to the city of Varanasi. Awash with shrines and temples, it is the ultimate destination for Hindu pilgrims who travel from far and wide to experience the city’s spirituality. Varanasi may not be known for its cleanliness, but there’s no denying it is one of India’s most inspiring places.

• Ramada Katesar or similar (1 night)
• Varanasi - Sarnath

Currently, there are no non-stop flights operating between Jaipur and Varanasi, so you will fly through Delhi. This flight will require an early morning start time, and you will arrive in Varanasi in the afternoon.

Today starts early with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges. Your leader will explain the significance of India’s most sacred river as pass by the many ghats and temples along its banks. Then, join your leader for a walking tour of the Old City and uncover its secrets as you walk through narrow laneways packed with stalls and shops, past the dhobi wallahs, burning ghats, and the endless temples that echo with bells and the pungent aroma of incense. In the evening, return to the Ganges to see it from another perspective during a sunset cruise. You will be joined by local musicians on board and watch a beautiful flower and candle ceremony take place – an experience that is sure to be etched on your memory long after your time in India is over. Witness pilgrims performing ancient bathing rituals and ceremonies as the sun sets over this sacred city.

• Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
• Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony
• Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
• Varanasi - Sunset Ganges boat trip (musicians on board)

Depart Varanasi and catch a morning flight to Delhi. In the afternoon, get a real taste of the city during a tour with your leader. Navigate the city’s metro system and arrive in Old Delhi where you’ll wind through its lanes and markets. It’s not the real Delhi without a traffic jam so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandni Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, then head into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara for a moment of peace and to observe the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. The rest of the afternoon is free for further explorations, then come back together in the evening for a final dinner as a group. This last meal will take place in a beautiful haveli dating back to 1887. Enjoy a feast of Mughlai cuisine, street food dishes and kebabs in a stunning historical setting – a perfect finale to your Indian adventure.

• Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
• Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour
• Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
• Delhi - Final dinner

Today’s flight is approximately 2 hours.

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. For those who wish to stay on in Delhi to further explore the city, we are happy to help in booking accommodation (subject to availability). Perhaps pre-book an Urban Adventure and let a local show you more of this mega city.

• Delhi - Qutub Minar - INR600
• Delhi - Red Fort - INR600
• Delhi - Humayun's Tomb - INR600
• Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure - INR4000
• Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure - INR3750

18 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 13 dinners

Train, Auto rickshaw, Boat, Cycle rickshaw, Private vehicle, Jeep, Metro, Plane

Hotel (9 nights), Lodge (5 nights), Satpura Feature Stay (2 nights), Jaipur Feature Stay (2 nights)

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. Please provide a scanned copy of your passport bio page at the time of booking to secure a permit for your Ranthambhore National Park visit. Authorities at the park follow a strict booking process whereby permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. If we do not receive your passport scan in time, we cannot guarantee you will be able to join the safari. Your full name will need to be provided exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket if an amendment occurs. If you renew your passport or decide to travel with a different passport from the one you originally provided, please bring your old passport or a photocopy of it with you. 4. This trip includes domestic flights. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on. You can store excess luggage at the start point hotel. Currently, there are no non-stop flights operating between Jaipur and Varanasi, so you will fly through Delhi. This flight will require an early morning start time. 5. The safaris in Panna National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park must be pre-booked to guarantee your spot. Due to high demand and limited availability, we recommend booking this tour and any optional safaris at least four months in advance. Please inquire about booking optional safaris when you book your tour. 6. If you are travelling with others, please let us know in advance so we can do our best to arrange for you to be in the same safari vehicles.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

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Discounted Best Seller On The Footsteps of Tiger-The India Wildlife Tour (15 days)

15 Days from $2885 / person

Wild Bengal Tigress also known as Panthera Tigris chases to catch her prey in the Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan, India. © Raju Soni

An unexpected sight where the safari travelers spot the Tiger in its habitat in the jungles of a National Park, India. © Adam Fraise

A scene of Jungle safari wherein a Jeep is laden with visitors goes on a search for Tigers amidst the jungle of Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India. © cornfield

Chital deer also known as spotted deer indulge in an intense fight with each other in Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India. © Travelstock

A view of the Jungle where a Gray Langur, also called Hanuman Langur is sitting on a dried branch and looking towards the photographer in Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India. © Travel Stock

A group of Indian women and girls explore the Agra Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. © Greta Gabaglio

Elephants adorned with paint and clothes carry commuters with its riders through the Amber Fort gate in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. © Moroz Nataliya

A large female Sambar Deer also known as Rusa unicolor stares into the camera while roaming in the Jungle of Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India. © Leslie Brinza

A sight of Indian Leopard which is one of the big cats takes a stroll in its habitat in the Jungles of Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India. © Santanu Banik

An old man purchases tomatoes from a Muslim vegetable seller on the crowded streets of Old Delhi, India. © Elena Ermakova

Foreign travelers with the riders, enjoy the Rickshaw Safari through the Keoladeo National Park which is a vast bird sanctuary in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India.

A huge crowd of visitors visit the Qutub-Minar complex, also known as the “victory tower”, situated in the city of Delhi, India. © Gobob

A Sloth bear also known as Melursus ursinus takes a stroll in the Jungles of a National Park in India. © MartinP

A wonderful sight of a Tiger amidst the grass in the Jungles of Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India. © Santanu Banik

A mesmerizing sight of the Jungle which features two Storks strolling around in the Keoladeo National Park, located in Rajasthan, India

A glimpse of one of the majestic white marble pillars of the Taj Mahal, situated in the city of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. © Alexandra Lande

Two jackals roar in its habitat amidst the jungles of Kanha National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, India © Leslie Brinza

A view of one of the temples of Khajurao which is well known for its erotic sculptures and situated in the heart of the country, Madhya Pradesh, India. © OlegD

A Sambar Deer forages in the lake which is completely covered with Duckweed in the Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India. © AndreAnita

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Be a part of the ultimate India Tiger Safari experience as you venture on our India Wildlife tour!

Trip details.

➜ Looking for adventure and excitement? Then the Tiger Tour of India is just the thrill for you. Enjoy the coveted experience of actually seeing the elusive, yet majestic, orange striped creature in its own natural habitat. As you take this adventure on the India tiger safari, you will experience some magical moments in India’s National Parks, even though they are relatively small when compared to those in Africa. While venturing on this India Tiger Safari and Wildlife India Tour , brace yourself for the emotional rush you will experience on your encounter with herds of elephants, wolves, maybe leopards, and of course the Bengal Tiger.

➜ The conservationists in India have been doing a fantastic job in preserving the Tiger population and ensuring that on your India tiger tour you get the best opportunity to spot and track a tiger. The most recent census conducted in 2019 shows that the tiger population of India has increased by nearly 33 per cent in a period of three years, rising from 2,226 to 2,967 with the major increases occurring in the parks of Central India (Madhya Pradesh) . This is in contrast to other regions of the world where the tiger population has been decreasing. This data was collected by utilizing the most recent technology including digital imaging of pug marks, satellite data, camera traps, and, tagging.

➜ TRAVEL GUIDE TO INDIA’S WILDLIFE IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND TIPS

➜ Come along with us on our India tiger tour as we track the footsteps of a tiger at three of India’s major national parks and experience an India Wildlife tour of your dreams. Take in the amazing events and exciting encounters with the largest of all the animals in the cat family, as you go on the tiger safari India. VacationIndia.com selects Jeep safaris that are guided by the experts, and we arrange for you to escape the crowds and be housed in small camps and lodges that are owned and operated by the best-known conservationist in the field. Our aim is to allow you to enjoy your India Tiger Safari to the fullest. As we journey, we will pass through the Old Delhi and see the Khajuraho temples and the Orchha fort palace . Not to be left out, of course, is the internationally famous Taj Mahal as well as Jaipur’s rocky forts and palaces; helping you to be a part of the fascinating combination of history and culture and leaving you with an authentic Indian experience.  

Highlights – On The Footsteps of Tiger-The India Wildlife Tour

• 14 Guided Tiger Safaris in Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh), Kanha Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) and Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan)
• Explore the Avian paradise at Bharatpur – Keoladeo National Park (UNESCO Natural Heritage) on your India tiger tour
• Visit the amazing ‘wonder of wonders’ the Taj Mahal
• Discover Historic treasures of Delhi , Khajuraho , and Jaipur

--> Day 1 - Welcome to Delhi!

It’s the first day of your Wildlife India Tour ! After your arrival at the Delhi International Airport and on completion of the customs procedures, you will be greeted by our representative, who will deliver all your travel documents and transport you safely and comfortably to your hotel. India’s second-largest city is situated next to Mumbai on the Northern side of the country. It is rich in history and has an abundance of culture and heritage. This city has seen the rise and fall of many Empires and has been rebuilt eight times by those who conquered it. The evidence of the reign of the British, Hindu, and Muslim Empires, remains throughout and can be seen distinctively in the architecture, customs, food, and lifestyles of the people. But, there is new dawn arising as it is gradually evolving as India’s modern capital metropolis. Overnight in Delhi.

--> Day 2 - Guided Tour of Old and New Delhi

Old Delhi is a vibrant and colorful city and is laid out with a network of narrow alleys and tall buildings. Whether you walk or travel through old Delhi on a rickshaw, you will experience the life and hustle bustle that is truly Indian. Visit the bazaars! See the fantastic sights! Hear the Indian beats! Smell the aromas of Old Delhi! While there, we must visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site called Red Fort. This fort consists of marble palaces and courtyards, which are encircled by the beautiful marble domed Jama Masjid with its towers, the Meena bazaar, and the Chandni Chowk.

Our next stops will be to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. First, we visit the charming Humayun’s Tomb , which is a perfect representation of early Mughal architecture, with some elements of Persian design. It is thought that this structure was the forerunner to and inspiration of the Taj Mahal design. Then we will visit the massive Qutab Minar “the most beautiful example of its class known anywhere” described Victorian historian James Ferguson. It is indeed a magnificent victory tower that was built as a memorial of Qutb-ud-Din’s defeat of the Turks back in 1236 and it can be seen from miles away.

New Delhi really is a stark contrast to Old Delhi , it is a city of extensive boulevards and is well known for its official parks, impressive Parliament Building, the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the official residence of the President) and the India Gate , which was built to memorialize the 90,000 soldiers of the former British Indian Army who died fighting for the Indian Empire in the Afghan Wars and World War 1.

We will take a guided shopping tour of Delhi in the afternoon and browse through the posh Khan Market, which is frequented mainly by expats and well-off Indians. This market is rated as the 21st most expensive retail high street in the world. Visit the Meherchand Market not far away and shop for your Indian weaves, designer leather bags, organic spices and a variety of other products. Stop at the ancient historic village of Hauz Khas which has been transformed into a sophisticated village with antique shops, art and designer stores. Overnight in Delhi.

--> Day 3 - From Delhi to Jaipur (260 Km, 5 Hours), Half-Day Guided Tour of Jaipur

After your fill of a hearty breakfast, we will travel to Jaipur , a place of kings, queens, and legends and the opening to the lively, marvelous state of Rajasthan. Jaipur was established in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, a mighty warrior, and astronomer. It is also known as the “ Pink City ” with its pink sandstone architecture that adds to its uniqueness and color. It is also distinguished by its palaces with intricately carved designs, forts, Havelis and fantastic bazaars.

Transfer to the hotel after arrival.

Vibrant colorful bazaars and delicious cuisine! That’s what Jaipur is famous for and you will want to take in as much of the action as you can. So after a short rest at the hotel, we head to the old pink city for a guided and exciting tour of the famous bazaars.

It will be a quick ride to MI Road where we will have lunch at Natraj . You can take your pick from the delicious dishes on the menu, with a wide variety of Indian, Chinese and Continental favorites. Don’t be shy, try out some different meals like thali, which is a large plate with small amounts of a variety of curries and Indian breads. After lunch we head to none other than Lassiwala a little further at #312 and with the sign “since 1944”. It is here that you will be treated to a delightful yogurt drink in an earthenware cup. Simply Delicious!

Enjoy lunch and take a stroll over to the Tripolia Bazaar on the West. Located on a narrow street with shop after shop lining its edges you will find a wide selection of traditional Rajasthan-style bangles, necklaces and other jewelry. It’s a good time and place to do some bargaining. Not far away we take a walk south to the Johari Bazaar or Jewel Market, taking in all the city’s sights and sounds. Here you will find shopping for everyone, tourists and locals alike: saris, scarves and well-known Jaipur jewelry. A note to the wise however; before buying large quantities, do some research first. We then make a right turn towards the Bapu Bazaar which sells mainly housewares and accessories. Check out the mirror-work, draperies, bedspreads, and other linens and if you wish, get your arm or hands designed by a skillful henna (mehendi) artist on the side of the road.

Our day will end at the Nahargarh Fort , also called Tiger Fort , which was constructed in 1734 by Jai Singh as a security bolster for Amer Fort. On the North and overlooking the city from the edge of the ridge this fort is a sight to behold in the night, as the floodlit walls bounce off yellow, orange and white reflections, illuminating the night skies. To reach the fort you travel on a winding path 8 km through the hills from Jaipur. When you get to the top drink a well -deserved cold beer and cast your eyes over Jaipur’s splendid view beneath. Awesome! Overnight in Jaipur.

--> Day 4 - Morning Guided Tour of Jaipur, Afternoon Drive to Ranthambhore National Park (165 Km, 3-4 hours)

We make our way to the magnificent Amber Fort after breakfast. It has been given its place among the Six Hill Forts of Rajasthan that have been chosen as UNESCO World Heritage sites. It will be an adventure touring this fort from the beginning to the end. You have an option if you want, to hop on an elephant’s back to make your way there or perhaps you prefer more modern transportation by jeep. Whichever way you choose, it will be worth it. Eleven kilometers from Jaipur you will have the privilege of seeing a fantastic exhibition of Rajput architecture that is an excellent representation of the old capital during the Kachhawah Empire. Maharaja Raja Man Singh started the first palace while MaharajaSawai Jai Singh later finished it. Be amazed at the old fortress with a maze of vast walls and beautiful marble towers standing in the midst, carved and brightened by the numerous small mirrors that glimmer playfully. Inside the palace there are The Diwan-e-Aam, or Public Hall, the Diwan-e-Khas, or the Private Hall and the Sukh Niwas, the perfect spot to feel the refreshing air that emanates from the water channels in the summer. Admire the famous Sheesh Mahal or “Hall of Mirrors” in the Jai Mandir or the “Temple of Victory”, then check out the queens’ private rooms from which they could watch what was happening around them in privacy.

We head back into the Pink City for a tour of the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds. This pink building with a pink sandstone exterior was erected for the royal ladies to be able to watch the parades and the events on the streets below without anyone noticing them. We will walk around the corner and enter this magnificent building. The interior is a beautiful display of small chambers and stained-glass windows, along with a stunning view over Jaipur city.

The next stop will be the City Palace . This museum is massive and is well-loved for its exhibits of royal clothing, palanquins, and carpets. It shows off an impressive fusion of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. There is also a special room set for the ancient armory and miniature paintings depicting battles and court scenes. As you walk further on the inside, you will see the Chandra Mahal which is still a royal residence and because of this, there is a restriction on visitation. Nevertheless, you will still enjoy a walk around this spectacular seven-story building. You will browse around the courtyard known as the Pitam Niwas Chowk with four doors including the, especially beautiful peacock door. Next to that is another one of India’s outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Sites called Jantar Mantar . This is India’s best kept of the five solar observatories all named Jantar Mantars across Northern India. You will be astounded by these 14 huge and ancient astronomical instruments, which despite being built in the 18th century by Maharajah Jai Singh II are still able to foretell when an eclipse will occur, tell time accurately up to 2 seconds and measure distances amongst other things. Just Incredible!

When lunch is over, we take the eagerly awaited drive to Ranthambhore National Park , to begin our Tiger searching adventure! Ranthambore is an exceptionally charming place resting between the Vindhyan Plateau and the Aravali Hills in Rajasthan’s eastern section, which was the ancient hunting place for Jaipur’s Maharajas. Set in an area of 1334 square km, the original idea of Jaipur’s leaders was to preserve this area for nature. In 1955 Ranthambore was transformed into a Safari reserve and became one of India’s first protected areas even though it only became an official National Park in 1984. In 1972 with the introduction of the “Project Tiger” it became one of the first reserves to host tigers. You will find the environs to be very pleasing. The park gets most of its water from the Banas in the North and the Chambal River in the South and has an amazingly beautiful landscape, including six man-made streams and lakes that are always filled with water.

Upon arrival in Ranthambhore, Transfer to your Jungle Lodge on the outskirts of the national park. Overnight in Ranthambhore.

--> Day 5-6 - Morning and Afternoon game drives in the Ranthambore National Park!

It’s early in the morning and time to sip on your welcome cup of tea or coffee, delivered straight to your door at dawn. Slip-on enough clothes to keep you warm and get ready for the tiger safari. The sun rises and at the entrance you will be accompanied by a Forest Department guide (mandatory). His role is to help you spot the tiger and the other wildlife in the park, ensure your safety and make sure the rules are kept. Note that there are times when only shared jeeps are allowed to enter the Ranthambore National Park, in an effort to control vehicular traffic.

This park is home to an abundance of mammals and birds. There are numerous Spotted Deer (Chital) and Sambar Deer (Swamp Deer) who feed way out in the lakes and sometimes you can only see their heads. Look out for Common Langurs, Nilgai (the largest of India’s antelopes), Mugger (Crocodiles) in the lakes and Monitor Lizards on the shores and a fantastic array of birds including peafowls in the lakes, Bronze-winged and Pheasant-tailed Jacanas and the Cotton Pygmy Geese. Chances are we will come across a Sloth Bear, Leopard, or maybe a Chinkara Antelope (or Indian Gazelle). So even if we do not get a view of a tiger on this safari it would still have been an unforgettable morning.

All good things must come to an end and so we complete our tour in the park, we go back to the hotel for breakfast and then make our way to the impressive fort of Ranthambore (you can visit Ranthambore Fort on any of the two days stay in Ranthambore). It is located on a cliff some 65 meters high and offers spectacular views of the landscape over the Sawai Man Singh Sanctuary and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Late in the afternoon we can go back to the park by jeep and stay there until sunset. Our journey back is lit by oil lamps and before having a much-needed sleep, we enjoy dinner and have some stories and drinks around the campfire. Overnight in Ranthambhore.

--> Day 7 - From Ranthambore to Agra, Enroute visit Keoladeo National Park

On Day seven we have breakfast then take a long five-hour drive to Agra known for being the home of the glorious Taj Mahal. As we make our way there, we stop off at Keoladeo Ghana National Park  a UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site. Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, in Rajasthan, is a bird watcher’s paradise and is accepted as one of Asia’s most outstanding vast wetland reserves and was initially created for duck shooting. The connecting shallow swamps in the Park, which are constantly refilled by monsoon rains throughout the summer, become a sanctuary for thousands of migratory birds during the winter months. Our exploration of this 29km park will be on foot and also by bicycle rickshaw. You have also an option of doing a Boat safari in Keoladeo National Park (subject to enough water). You will be excited to see the over 150 species of birds that inhabit this park: the Ruddy-breasted Crake, White-tailed Eagle, Sarus Crane to Small Minivet, and water birds like the Black-necked and Painted Storks, Cotton Pygmy-goose, Intermediate Egret, Black Cormorants, and Darter. Then there are also the rare Ferruginous and Red-crested Pochards and Greater Painted-snipe.

But the park is not only about birds because it also houses a wide variety of wild animals including the hard to find Fishing Cat. This park is one of the few places where this animal is known to be. Also keep your eyes out for the Sambar (swamp deer) and Spotted Deer, Nilgai (blue bull), Asiatic Jackal, Wild Boar, and two species of mongoose.

When we arrive in Agra in the afternoon we transfer to the hotel and after a short rest we make our way to take in the breathtaking “Love Poem in Marble” the Taj Mahal at sunset. Probably the most photographed monument in the world, the Taj Mahal will not disappoint. Indeed it’s the world’s wonder of wonders with unsurpassed beauty. It is an extraordinary tribute of endless love from Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal who died during childbirth. Perfectly proportioned and exhibiting the highest quality of marble with mosaic work done with semi-precious stones, the Taj Mahal showcases the outstanding abilities of the 20,0000 artisans from countries like Turkey, France, Persia and Italy who labored for some 17 years to build it.

Spend the night at a hotel in Agra

--> Day 8 - Train from Agra to Jhansi, Car drive from Jhansi to Khajuraho, Enroute visit the medieval charming town of Orchha

Enjoy breakfast early this morning and proceed to the Agra railway station to travel in air-condition chair-class on the superfast Shatabdi Express train to Jhansi, departing at 08:00 hours and arriving at 10:00 hours. We will then drive for four hours to Khajuraho.

Along the way we will stop in Orchha , a tiny ancient town on the Betwa riverbanks. Here you will find 16th-century temples and thousands of devotees and tourists in the tranquil countryside environment. Immerse yourself in the serenity and natural settings of this village.

Then we visit the Jehangir Mahal , a Hindu-Islamic designed memorial dedicated to the visit of Mughal Emperor Jehangir to Orchha. Not too far away is the Raj Mahal , replete with a wealth of lively murals depicting both secular and religious themes that enliven the walls and ceilings. The Raj Parveen Mahal palace is a wonderful two-storey building constructed to match the height of the trees in the gardens of Anand Mahal and devoted to the love of Raja Indramani.

In Orchha we will enjoy a delicious lunch and then drive to Khajuraho , Central India’s temple city. It consists of a significant number of temples carved with precision and erotic 10th-century sculptures that were erected by the Chandela Dynasty over a period of 100 years. After the Afghan invasion the creators of the temples fled, and they were left in the jungles untouched for centuries. It was only after a British officer on a hunting expedition stumbled upon them in 1838 that they were restored. Although only twenty-five of the eighty-five temples remain, it is believed that some of the best temple architecture anywhere in the world can be found here. Khajuraho remains an important religious center and equals centers like Bhubaneswar (Orissa) and Aihole (Karnataka). It is no secret that the carvings on these temples dedicated to a variety of deities are highly sensual and erotic. For that reason it has become a major attraction.

Transfer to the Hotel after arrival! Overnight in Khajuraho

--> Day 9 - Visit of Khajuraho Temples, Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park (275 Km, 5-6 hours drive)

Today we will visit Khajuraho’s Western Group of Temples , which consists of the impressive Lakshmana Temple, one of the best-kept temples of the group and is dedicated to Vishnu. A must-see is the Shiva temple of Kandariya-Mahadev dated back to the 11th century, an outstanding illustration of the brilliance of the ancient Chandela architects. It is some 31m high and has almost 1000 statues decorating the walls of the temple’s interior and exterior. Further into the inner sanctuary is the fertility symbol of Shiva which is the phallus or stone lingam. One of the main attractions of this temple is the erotic and sensual sculptures exhibiting passion, emotion, and sexual fervor. Apart from the deities immortalized in stone there is a wealth of sensuous and erotic sculptures with an exquisite depiction of human life and emotions, equating passion with a spiritual union. The sculptures are considered to be the most perfect figures achieved in stone which depict gods, goddesses, and amorous couples.

It takes two to three hours to visit the temples of Khajuraho, after which we leave for Bandhavgarh National Park . On the way we take lunch.

Upon arrival, transfer to the Hotel. Overnight in Jungle Lodge in Bandhavgarh.

--> Day 10-11 - Bandhavgarh National Park – Morning and Afternoon Game Drives

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh  is one of the most beautiful in India and carries the name of the tallest hill in the park (807m), where the Bandhavgarh fort is located. Visitors are offered much more than amazing wildlife as there is also history, temples, incredible hermit caves carved by hand, 10th-century shrines all snuggled within sal trees (Shorea robusta) and forests irrigated by springs and streams, along with precipitous rugged hills and valleys. Because of the terrain and the fact that the park’s roads cut across the forests, your chances of spotting the tigers in Bandhavgarh are increased.

With a core area of 105 km² (and a buffer zone of approximately 400 km²), this is the smallest of the three parks in the region – the others being Kanha and Pench – but it has one of the highest concentrations of tigers in India and is quite popular as a result.

Bandhavgarh National Park is a natural environment that is unblemished and an excellent home for its wildlife inhabitants, which include of course, the tigers. But there are other fascinating animals like the Sloth Bear, Gaur (Indian Bison), Leopard, Wild Boar, Porcupine and of course the Spotted Deer and Chinkara (Indian Gazelle). There is also an abundance of other animals like the Golden Jackal, Rhesus Macaques, Gray Langur (Semnopithecus), Striped Hyena, Small Indian Civet and the Jungle Cat. Not forgetting such beautiful birds as the Rock Pigeon, Long-Billed Vultures, Plum-Headed Parakeet, and the Orange-Headed Thrush.

It’s such a wonderful location that we will spend two full days at the Bandhavgarh National Park. You will have the very best guides and environmentalists on tour with you and when you spot the tigers you have enough time to track their movements. There will be a burst of excitement at your first sighting; perhaps it will be when they are playing, sleeping, hunting or drinking. Cherish this awesome moment! Don’t leave the park without climbing up to the Bandhavgarh Fort, a trek well worth it for the astonishing view of the beautiful countryside below, atop one of India’s oldest forts.

Please Note: On all of our tours we make every effort to provide three game drives through Tala gate (Premium Zone) and two game drives through Magdhi & Khatoli gate (Normal Zone)

--> Day 12 - Morning Jeep Safari in Bandhavgarh, Drive to Kanha Tiger Reserve – fabulous road trip along its picturesque countryside

This morning we continue our tiger safari India, as we go on another game drive hoping for another sighting of the majestic and powerful tiger.

Go back to the Jungle Lodge for breakfast.

Continue the day with a drive to the Kanha Tiger Reserve some five hours away. As we travel along this route from Bandhavgarh to Kanha you will encounter lovely landscapes and a kaleidoscope of nature’s colors that will thrill your total being. Beds of beautiful yellow flowers intermingled with emerald, green hills, fields with pink and purple flowers all blending nicely to create spectacular picture-perfect scenes. As you drive along the well-paved roads you will be charmed by the goings-on in the villages, as the people of this region go about their everyday lives; men working in their fields, children on bicycles, women in their beautiful saris carrying out their daily chores. The small homes are made of mud and tiled roofs amidst the peaceful lakes and rivers.

Kanha Tiger Reserve situated in Madhya Pradesh in the heart of Central India is the largest tiger reserve in the country and one of the best parks for tiger sightings. It is believed that it inspired the writings of Kipling’s Jungle Book.

It spans area of 1945 sq. km. including a core area of 940 sq km. Kanha offers an amazing panoramic view: rivers and valleys, precipitous cliffs, hilltop forests and bamboo, thick low lying forest of sal trees that are forever green and rising and falling grasslands. Adding to this awesome environment are some 200 species of birds like the Crested Serpent Eagle, Peafowl, Grey Hornbill and the Hawk Eagle.

This reserve also houses some 22 species of mammals, the only four-horned ungulate in the world the Chausingha (four-horned antelope), Tigers, Gaur (Indian Bison) and the Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii branderi) known as the Swamp Deer), which was almost extinct until recently, when the numbers were increased from a mere 66 to 550 by June 2015.

It is very likely that you will also get a glimpse of a sloth bear or leopard.

At the Kanha Reserve the most often seen animals are the Jackal, Wild Boar, Langur, Swamp Deer (Cervus unicolor), Sambhar Deer (Cervus duvauceli) and Chital (Axis Axis) more popularly known as the Spotted Deer which lets you know when there is a tiger somewhere close. Drive through the Jungle – listen to the warning calls – exciting.

The first scientific study on tigers was started by the well-known zoologist George Schaller and there is the possibility that the grasslands maybe extended to encourage the increase in habitat. This is being done under the “hard ground” project. If implemented there will be a displacement of the surrounding villages.

We stay at the jungle lodge on the outskirts of the Kanha Tiger Reserve and that’s where we go after arrival.

Spend the Night in Kanha.

Please Note: Our itinerary in Kanha includes five Exclusive game drives and we always make every effort to ensure that there are three drives for Kanha Zone (Premium) and two drives for Kisli, Sarahi and Mukki zones.

--> Day 13-14 - Kanha Tiger Reserve– Tiger safari India-Morning and Afternoon Game Drives

Rise early! Expect an adventure! You will have two full days to enjoy and explore the Kanha National Park, a fantastic space with great looking tigers. We journey there before sunrise, looking to increase our chances of seeing a tiger. Surreal is the simplest way to describe the feeling of being in such a natural environment, with the most refreshing atmosphere and gorgeous landscapes of sal and other trees and every shade of green mixed with the orange-red flowers of the butea gum trees. Added to that there are several species of beautiful, colorful wildlife in all shapes and sizes. It would be no surprise if this is what inspired Henry David Thoreau, the famous American philosopher to pen the classics Walden and The Maine Woods. As you set out to explore this vast national park, make sure you put on the right clothing to keep you warm; it can be quite cold early in the morning.

For the next few hours, you can take a little rest, eat some lunch, watch the birds, freshen up or trek around the camp’s environs by foot.

Later in the afternoon you get the opportunity to go back to the park until sunset by jeep. Oil lamps will light our way home. If you are not too tired you can have a nice chat about the day’s events around the campfire before dinner and then get some sleep.

Don’t miss the chance while you stay in Kanha to take a cycle ride and visit the nearby villages and browse the local market, discovering more about Kanha and its surrounding areas.

Overnight in Kanha Tiger Reserve.

--> DAY 15 - Drive from Kanha to Jabalpur (155 Km, 3 hours), Fly to New Delhi

It’s the morning of our final day on our India Tiger tour and we will make our last expedition of this magnificent park searching for these large orange striped cats. Then we will drive to Jabalpur and fly back to Delhi.

After you arrive in Delhi you can either head to the airport and go to your next destination or spend the night in Delhi!

India your way, your route, your style

• Price based on two persons in a double room • Prices are in USD Excluding international flights • Do you prefer to travel alone or would you like to come to India with a group of friends? We will be happy to tailor-made your tour program that meets all your wishes and needs

Would you like to have the trip tailored to your wishes?

Our itineraries are only examples and suggestions and can be customized individually. For example, a trip can be shortened or extended with additional destinations or monuments, the hotels can be a mix of 4 and 5 star etc. Let us know your personal wishes so that we can adapt the trip to your wishes. Connect with our travel expert for a 1:1 consultation and receive your obligation free travel proposal. Together with the travel request we will send you the hotel list so that you can get a picture of the hotels selected on the internet. We promise ✔Competent and Friendly Guides ✔Expert Drivers ✔Best Hotels ✔24/7 Support. Read more on Why Vacation India?

Get in Touch: [email protected] / +91-99274-65808 (India Calling & Whatsapp) / USA/Canada: 1 (888) 414-6804

Included Services

• 15 days individual travel from New Delhi to New Delhi
• 14 Nights in a double room or single room in selected hotels according to the booked category
• Daily breakfast
• A high-quality air-conditioned car with driver at your disposal during your entire stay
• Round trip, sightseeing and all excursions as mentioned in the tour program
• Services of a Local English-speaking guide
• Transfers airport – hotel – airport
• All monument entrances as described in the tour program
• Jeep Safaris as mentioned in the Program (4 shared Jeep Safaris in Ranthambore National Park (Exclusive private Jeep Safaris in Ranthambore is possible at a surcharge), 5 Exclusive (Private) Jeep Safaris in Bandhavgarh and 5 Exclusive (Private) Jeep Safaris in Kanha
• All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner), during your stay in National parks – Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh and Kanha)
• Visit to Keoladeo National Park
• 2 hours Rickshaw Safari in Keoladeo National Park together with the services of a Naturalist
• Entrances to all National Parks and Tiger Reserves
• Services of Naturalist during safaris in the National Park
• Visit to the Taj Mahal
• Elephant ride or Jeep to Amber Fort in Jaipur
• Guided Walk through the old pink city of Jaipur
• Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi
• 2-liter bottles of mineral water per person per day is
• 24 hours contact in India
• All taxes and fees, parking, tolls, and interstate taxes etc.

Services Not Included

• International and Domestic Flights
• Any type of travel insurance
• Main meals not mentioned
• Separate camera and video charges during the visits to monuments [Digital cameras are allowed free of charge in most of the monuments in India] Frequently asked questions
• Expense of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone/fax calls, alcoholic beverages, medical expenses, etc.

India Wildlife Trip Notes

• In Central and North India, the National Parks are open from the middle of October to the end of June
• Morning and Afternoon Game Drives in Jeeps allow you to enter the park at sunrise, go back to your lodge or camp for breakfast and lunch, take a rest and then return to the park in the late afternoon
• India’s national parks do not have any camps or lodges within, and entrance and exit are at specific times, usually at sunrise and sunset
• Note carefully, that in December and January the weather in the National parks of India, can be very cold early in the morning and night and there can be sudden frost which kills the grass. You are advised to wear jackets, gloves, and scarfs to keep you warm
• At Ranthambhore, Bandhavgarh and Kanha you have several options for accommodation. From economy to top of the line eco –lodges. Meals are all-inclusive at the Wildlife Lodges
• There has been a recent change in the management of national parks by the Indian authorities which includes the methods for booking game drives. One such change is the reduction in the number of jeeps permitted to enter the park and advance payments and bookings must be made far in advance. Safari bookings are done on a first come first serve basis
• At the time of booking each game drive, a list of client names and details of the passports are requested. Payments for Jeep Safaris are non-refundable after bookings are made and there can be no changes done in names
• In order for us to secure the necessary game drives we advise that you book all wildlife trips at least 1-2 months in advance

Vacation India Trip Notes

➜ All the above-mentioned tour prices are per-person prices, calculated for 2 people sharing a double room

➜ Price for single occupancy and price for a group can be provided on request

➜ We offer the services of multilingual guides for most Indian destinations. Please consult our travel advisor at the time of the booking. Our guides are well versed with languages such as Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian etc.

➜ The number of overnight stays and the program may vary depending on the international flight you choose

➜ Tour Price is subject to change, taking into consideration any increase in current Indian tax rates or Monument Entrance fees or any increase in fuel prices. We reserve the right to recalculate the offer price

➜ We book rooms only after your tour confirmation. We always try our best to book you the offered hotel, but in case the offered hotel is fully booked out, we offer, in consultation with you, an equivalent alternative. After all hotels are confirmed, we will send you a definitive list of all the hotel address and contact information

➜ In all flight arrangements VacationIndia.com acts only as an intermediary. We might be forced to renew the charges if there is a change in flight schedule or price (fares, taxes) and we reserve the right to change our price quote accordingly

➜ We expressly reserve the rights for any changes in tour program, errors, and omissions

Reviews Box

Rajasthan tour with national parks.

**This review was written in German and has been translated using Google Translator

We decided to book the round trip on VacationIndia.com because the website was very appealing and also showed flexibility. Rajasthan with the Rambathore National Park seemed tempting, but we wanted more nature. Vikas has added another national park (Bandavagarh) to the trip. The total of 8 game drives in the two national parks were great and we saw some tigers and even leopards. The whole trip was very well organized. Everything always worked out on time, even with the two domestic flights. We had a good comfortable car, very safe drivers and competent, very friendly guides in all cities. We would especially like to mention Imran in Agra. On the way, clean restaurants with delicious lunches were always approached. The selected hotels have all convinced us, especially in terms of ambience and location. Vikas was always personally c oncerned and kept asking via Whats App if everything was working. We would like to thank him very much for the dinner in Agra, where we ate great and had a lot of fun.

The train journey from Jainsi to Agra was also very interesting and the train journey from Phulad to Kamlighat was very impressive. Looking back, we can only say: it was so exciting, instructive and varied. Yes, we thoroughly enjoyed every day.

It was the first trip to India but certainly not the last, because the large country inspires with all its cultural and natural treasures.

Denise and Rolf

To receive the list of Hotels selected for this tour, please email us at [email protected]

Tour Information

• Tailor-made itinerary
• Free 1:1 travel consultation
• No hidden costs
• Excellent tour guides
• Best price-performance ratio
• 16 years of experience: Specialist for India, Nepal and Sri Lanka

India Impressions

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Indian Animals: A Guide to 40 Incredible Indian Wildlife Species

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

When most people think of Indian animals, the Royal Bengal Tiger is usually the first species that springs to mind. And with good reason: The subcontinent is home to more than half of the world’s wild tigers, with a thriving population in nearly 50 tiger reserves.

But the national animal of India is hardly the only endemic species of Indian wildlife. In fact, India is home to approximately 7.6% of the world’s species of mammals, 12.6% of its bird species, and 6.2% of its reptiles. 

Protected by more than 120  national parks , 18  Biosphere reserves,  and 500+ wildlife sanctuaries, the animals of India are vast and varied. It’s the only country in the world where you have a relatively good chance of seeing (Asiatic) Lions, (Bengal and Indochinese) Tigers, and (Sloth) Bears.

Other iconic species of wild animals in India include Asian Elephants, Snow Leopards, Clouded Leopards, the Great Indian Rhinoceros, Deer (including Barasingha, Chital, and Hangul), the Dhole (a.k.a. Indian Wild Dog), and endemics such as the Nigiri Leaf Monkey.

Before you travel to visit India, check out our guide to 40 incredible Indian wildlife species, which includes many of the country’s most fascinating apex predators, birds, mammals, and reptiles.

READ MORE: 50 Fascinating Facts About Indian Culture

WILD INDIAN ANIMALS

Click our printable Indian Animals List with Big Cats in India, Birds in India, Mammals in India, Indian Snakes, Indian Lizards and other Indian Wildlife.

• Big Cats in India
• Birds in India
• Mammals in India

Indian Snakes

• Indian Lizards
• Other Indian Reptiles

BIG CATS IN INDIA

Asiatic lion.

Although a majority of wild lions live in Africa, India is home to the last population of Asiatic Lions . These Indian big cats live in Gir Forest in Gujarat, located in western India . The Asiatic Lion is the state animal of Gujarat.

Like other lion species, Asiatic lions live in prides. But they’re smaller than the African variety, weighing around 300-500 lbs.

Asiatic Lions are also distinguished from their African counterparts by an extra fold of skin along their stomachs.

With a total population of around 500, these lions’ slightly different features may be a result of inbreeding.

But wildlife conservation in India has helped grow the population to where many lions now live outside the Gir Protected Area.

READ MORE: The Walking With Lions & Canned Lion Hunting Connection

Royal Bengal Tiger

As one of the five remaining species of tiger, Royal Bengal Tigers make up about half of all wild tigers.

Tigers are the largest big cats in India, and Bengals can weigh anywhere from  240-500 lbs. There are about 2500 of these tigers today, who can be found in different types of forests .

They spend most of their time alone, hunting for medium-sized mammals in India such as deer and boars early in the morning or late in the evening while resting during the day.

Deforestation as well as poaching have caused dramatic population declines for these tigers over the last few decades.

But conservation efforts are working toward strengthening Bengal tigers’ environments and cracking down on poaching.

READ MORE: Ranthambore National Park- On The Trail Of Tigers

Indian Leopard

Primarily found in the trees, Indian Leopards are distinct from other leopards for their larger spots (or rosettes) and coat colors, which vary depending upon their habitat.

Rosettes, like a tiger’s stripes, are distinct for each animal, with no two sets being exactly alike.

These leopards are solitary animals who leave the trees only to hunt for different varieties of deer and Sambar (state animal of Odisha) and Langur monkeys.

Their hunting style relies upon their strong jaw muscles. And, unlike other predators, they have been known to bring their prey into the trees with them.

Along with their treetop homes, Indian leopards are fond of swimming and sunning themselves.

READ MORE: Saving Asian Animals (10 Best Conservation NGOs)

Snow Leopard

With a thick, long coat, Snow Leopards are found in the Himalayan mountains of North India. The Snow Leopard  is the state animal of Himachal Pradesh. 

These cats have a light gray coat to camouflage them in the snow and keep them warm in the cold.

Their large paws also keep them agile on the thick snow of the mountains. Since they live in the mountains, these solitary cats feed on different species of mountainous sheep.

These leopards are also distinct for their more passive nature, since they have not been observed to be aggressive to people.

This attitude is highlighted by their inability to roar due to the anatomy of their throats, which make them appear to be a less intimidating variety of leopard.

READ MORE: Endangered Species Spotlight: Snow Leopard

Clouded Leopard

Large spots, short legs, and a large head distinguish the Clouded Leopard from other leopard species. The Clouded Leopard is the state animal of Meghalaya.

Clouded Leopards come in two subspecies, one of which is found in the forests of southeastern Asia and the other found on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra .

Like other leopards, they live in trees and feed on mammals like monkeys. But their larger heads and teeth set them apart. Their short and powerful legs also aid these Indian animals in climbing and hunting.

These cats are also a bit smaller than other leopards, weighing only up to 50 lbs. But they more than make up for it with their impressive strength.

The powerful Clouded Leopard has even been known to hang upside down from tree branches, making the most of their strong paws.

READ MORE: 60 Weird Animals Around The World

BIRDS IN INDIA

Indian spotted eagle.

Residing in northern India, the Indian Spotted Eagle has brown feathers with lighter spots that give the bird its name.

These birds of prey live in forests, where they hunt for mammals, amphibians, and smaller birds.

Their coloring is lighter than other species of spotted eagles. They also stand out from other spotted eagles due to their mouths and eyes. The Indian Spotted Eagle’s mouth is the widest of its related species, and its eyes are darker than others.

This eagle has a bizarre call that is commonly described as a high-pitched cackling sound.  And they prefer to reside in forest areas rather than wetlands, which are preferred by their sister species the Greater Spotted Eagle.

READ MORE: 15 Beautiful Birds Of The Galapagos Islands

Golden Eagle

A golden neck and back stand out against the dark brown body of the Golden Eagle.

This beautiful bird is found in open areas, particularly the Himalayas. There it feeds on small mammals such as rabbits and rodents, as well as smaller birds in India.

Golden Eagles are great hunters: Large eyes provide these birds with excellent eyesight during the day, which helps with finding prey from long distances.

They also hunt in pairs, tag-teaming their prey, with one eagle directing prey to the other. Pairs are a serious commitment for the Golden Eagle, since they mate for life and have several nests and chicks together over their lifetimes.

READ MORE: How To Experience Traditional Mongolian Culture

Great Indian Hornbill

The Great Indian Hornbill is easily identifiable by a bright yellow feature resembling a horizontal banana.

This feature, called a casque, sits on the bird’s upper bill, but has not been observed to serve a specific role in the bird’s behavior.

They feed on fruit (which also provides them with all the water they need), along with small mammals and other small birds.

Using their bright yellow bills, the Great Indian Hornbill eats its prey in an unusual way: It throws it into the air after capturing it, and then swallows it whole.

In India, the bird is found in the Himalayas as well as the Western Ghats.

READ MORE : Tibetan Culture In Ladakh, India

Himalayan Monal

Also known as the Impeyan Pheasant, the Himalayan Monal resides in the world-renowned mountains in North India.

Much like peacocks, the males have bright plumage, with feathers in varying shades of blue, green, red, and purple. This led to the species’ nickname, “the nine-colored bird.”

Female Himalayan Monals, on the other hand, are a light brown color with black feathers interspersed, similar to female peacocks.

These birds use their bills to feed on insects by digging them out of the ground. Due to their environment being cold and mountainous, the Himalayan Monal is well-equipped to dig in the snow when scavenging for food.

READ MORE: 10 Best Mountains in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

Indian Peafowl

The Indian Peafowl is one of the most striking birds in the world and is the Indian national bird.

Male Peacocks are notable for their glorious blue and green feathers, as well as the distinctive mating dance they use to woo females.

Female Peahens are brown in color, and males use their bright coloring to attract the more modest-looking females.

The Peacock’s long, distinguishable feathers are often called a tail, but they are actually a “train” made of feathers covering the base of the tail (called coverts).

Although males are flashy in appearance, they are able to evade predators who grab onto their feathers by flying away, with the feather detaching from its body easily.

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Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird

Named for Elizabeth Gould, the wife of noteworthy English ornithologist John Gould, Mrs. Gould’s Sunbirds are known for their colorful beauty.

These vivid birds have all the primary colors accounted for, with red backs, yellow stomachs, and a small blue patch on the face. They feed on insects and nectar and reside in tropical forest habitats.

Mrs. Gould’s Sunbirds are more easily found in eastern and southeastern Asia, in countries like Bhutan and Nepal . They’re fairly uncommon in India, but they have been spotted in the eastern part of the country.

Thankfully, these pretty birds have a stable population, and are of least concern in terms of conservation status.

READ MORE : 10 Steps To Bhutan Happiness: A Nature Lover’s Travel Guide

Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher

Although it is small in size, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is a proficient predator that should not be messed with.

These birds measure just 13 cm (5 inches) in length. Yet they feed on a variety of small amphibians and reptiles by hovering over bodies of water and quickly diving after their prey.

Water sources are important for this bird, as they like to live near small streams in the forest.

The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is also noteworthy for its bright orange beak and feet along with multicolored feathers of yellow, orange, blue, and pink.

They are aptly known as the 3-toed Kingfisher for the presence of three toes on each foot.

READ MORE:   10 Most Important Rivers in The World

Sarus Crane

Found in northern and central India, the Sarus Crane is the tallest flying bird in the world (at a height that can range up to 5 feet 11 inches).

These tall birds stand out, not only for their height, but their red heads and legs set against gray bodies.

Sarus Cranes live in small groups in the wetlands areas of northwestern India . They feed on plants and insects near the water, including in agricultural areas.

Out of all the world’s crane species, the Sarus Crane is arguably the least social. They’re known to be territorial and, at times, aggressive.

MAMMALS IN INDIA  

Asian Elephant

One of two species of elephants in the world, the Asian Elephant is the slightly smaller counterpart of the African Elephant. Their ears are smaller and rounder than the African elephant’s, and female (as well as some male) Asian elephants do not have tusks.

The Asian Elephant a.k.a. Indian Elephant is the state animal of Karnataka, the state animal of Kerala, and the state animal of Jharkhand.

These elephants can usually be found in forests and grassy areas. They communicate with each other over distances of up to 2 miles by making very low rumbling sounds.

An especially noteworthy feature of elephants is their trunks, which have a finger-like attachment at the end that allows them to grip objects, drink water, and communicate.

With strong emotional ties rooted in Hinduism, Asian Elephants also have a huge significance in traditional Indian culture.

READ MORE: 50 Interesting Facts About Elephants (for World Elephant Day)

Barasingha Deer

With a name that translates as “12-tined,” the Barasingha Deer is named for the presence of between 12 and 20 tines on its antlers.

Living in northern and central India, the Barasingha Deer is the state animal of Madhya Pradesh and the state animal of Uttar Pradesh. These deer have golden coats, but can be difficult to spot in the wild.

Barasingha Deer are also referred to as swamp deer, since they usually live along rivers and not in the open forest.

Like other deer, the Barasingha grazes on grass and plants growing near the water throughout the day.

Unfortunately, their preferred habitats are in trouble due to being converted into agricultural land or deforestation. But they can be found in several national parks in India .

READ MORE: Kanha National Park Tiger Reserve

Indian Rhinoceros

Found in northern India, the Indian Rhinoceros is also known as the Greater One-horned Rhino for its singular horn. It is the Assam state animal.

This horn is 8-25 inches long and black in color. The rest of their bodies are gray, with layers of skin resembling armor.

Their skin is tough but flexible, which helps these large mammals move. Despite a weight of around 2.2 tons, these rhinos can run at a speed of up to 30 miles per hour when provoked.

Although they are large in size, these animals graze on grass, leaves, and fruit found throughout their homes in grassy areas and forests. Unfortunately, it is one of the most critically endangered Indian animals .

READ MORE: Killing For Conservation: Can Hunting Save The Black Rhino?

Langur Monkeys

Langur Monkeys come in several varieties, and can be found throughout southern and southeastern Asia. Phayre’s langur is the state animal of Tripura.

They dine on leaves, fruit, and tree bark, and their complex stomachs and digestive systems cause these monkeys to have slight pot bellies.

Unlike many other monkeys, Langurs do not use their long tails to grab objects. But they are used for balance and sometimes communication.

They spend most of their time high in the trees and infrequently come down to the ground. When they do, at least one monkey remains in the trees to watch out for potential predators (such as tigers) while the other monkeys are drinking water.

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Himalayan Musk Deer

Found in the Himalayas, the Himalayan Musk Deer lives in the mountains. These deer are named for a musk sac, which is used for communicating with one another as well as attracting females.

Himalayan Musk Deer feed primarily on grass, moss, and other plants, and do not usually venture out very far to forage.

However, males are known to be quite territorial and aggressive with one another.

Strong senses of smell and hearing help these deer watch out for each other and their respective homes. They will sometimes scream to alert other deer when they have been hurt.

Lion-tailed Macaque

Lion-tailed Macaques can only be found living in rainforests in the Western Ghats of India. These monkeys have black fur all over their bodies, but their tails are bare except for a ball of hair at the end that looks like a pom-pom.

Lion-tailed macaques rely heavily on spoken communication, and have 17 vocal patterns.

They are also notable for their large cheeks, which can hold huge quantities of food (such as fruit, flowers, and occasional lizards) in order to quickly escape predators they encounter while foraging.

Their cheeks can store the same amount of food as their stomachs, which makes for quite an interesting sight!

Bharal (Himalayan Blue Sheep)

Although they are technically sheep, Bharals look a lot more like goats. They are marked by large horns and a blue-gray coat of fur, rather than the typical white fur of the average sheep.

They are found in the Himalayas and can live in many different types of habitats, from hot mountains to cold cliffs. Their blue-colored fur helps camouflage them in the mountains.

These sheep feed on different types of grass depending on the season, and they stay near cliffs in order to easily run away from predators.

One of their main predators is the Snow Leopard, making them a crucial part of the Himalayan ecosystem.

READ MORE: The Annapurna Circuit Trek (Why It May Be Now or Never)

Ganges River Dolphin

Found in the sacred Ganges River, this river dolphin is the national aquatic animal of India and one of the oldest known species in existence. Unfortunately, it’s also among the most endangered Indian animals on this list.

The Ganges River Dolphin is gray-brown in color, with females having a longer snout than males, and may travel solo or in small groups.

Due to severe pollution of the Ganges River , these dolphins and their prey are endangered because they inevitably ingest chemicals from all of the toxic substances in the water.

These dolphins only live in freshwater environments, and due to poor eyesight they swim on their sides and have stronger hearing skills.

They use echolocation for hunting, and they are carnivores who feed on fish as well as aquatic plants when necessary.

READ MORE: How to Grade Captive Dolphin Facilities

Dhole (Indian Wild Dog)

About the same size as a German shepherd, Dholes are nonconformists in the world of dogs. With one less molar on each side of their mouths and a tail more like that of a fox, Dholes stand out amongst other animals their size.

These Indian Wild Dogs are known for their speed on both land and water, which aids in their hunting of larger prey such as deer and buffalo.

These dogs are also distinct for their communication style, which consists of whistles amongst the pack.

Since they are able to prey on much larger animals, the biggest threat to the Dhole is humans, habitat loss, and diseases from domesticated dogs. Fortunately, numerous  conservation NGOs are working to save this rare Indian animals.

READ MORE: Facts About the Dhole (Indian Wild Dog)

Identifiable by their black, shaggy coats, Sloth Bears can be found in the forests of India.

These noisy, solitary bears primarily feed on termites, ants, and fruit, using their paws and long claws to dig termites out of the ground.

Since they’re missing their two front teeth, the bears consume the termites by sucking them up through the gap.

Sloth Bears are unusual for a few reasons: Unlike most other bears, they do not hibernate.

Their shaggy fur has a strange purpose, as the extra hair on their backs is utilized for carrying young sloth bears until they are 6-9 months old. Sloth Bears are the only bears to carry their young this way.

READ MORE: Top 10 Things To Do In Agra, India (For Nature/History Lovers)

Indian Wolf

Sometimes mistaken for a fox due to their small size, the Indian Wolf can be found in open areas of India. They weigh in around 40-60 lbs and measure about 2-3 feet in length.

These wolves are distinct from other wolves for other reasons as well, including their infrequent howling, mating time in October, and short, dense coat of fur.

Their lack of howling is sometimes attributed to the wolves being less territorial than most wolf species, and their short fur is useful in the Indian wolf’s warm environment.

These small wolves feed on small mammals such as rabbits and rodents. Sadly, these beautiful Indian animals are increasingly endangered due to habitat loss and human conflict.

READ MORE: 5 Species of Animals That Mate For Life

Giant King Cobra

One of the most well-known snakes in the world, the Giant King Cobra is not technically even a cobra. These snakes are more closely related to the deadly Mambas found in northern Africa.

Regardless of their specific species, King Cobras are known for being the longest venomous snakes in the world.

They can grow up to 10-13 feet in length—twice as long as a person. Their venom targets the immune systems of its prey, rather than the circulatory system.

Other unusual qualities include their diet (mostly other snakes) and nest-building. King Cobras are the only snakes in the world who build nests in preparation for laying eggs.

Indian Cobra

With a distinctive design on its hood resembling a mouse or glasses, Indian Cobras are large Indian snakes that are found in most habitats other than deserts .

When under threat, these snakes raise their hoods and stretch their necks up, showing off the hood mark.

These snakes feed on reptiles and rodents, always swallowing them whole, but also feed on other venomous snakes. Their venom is very potent, and can paralyze or even kill their victims, including humans.

In search of food, Indian cobras sometimes wander into human-populated areas such as farms, villages, or even buildings. This can occasionally lead to humans being bitten.

Indian Green Pit Viper

Known by many other names (such as the Bamboo Pit Viper, Green Tree Viper, and Bamboo Snake), the Indian Green Pit Viper can be found in southern Indian jungles.

These snakes are named for their bright green color, which helps camouflage them from predators in the forest.

The fangs on these snakes are a unique feature: They are hollow and can grow back if they fall out.

These snakes live high in the trees and hunt at night, feeding on birds, lizards, and occasionally rodents. They often prefer to rest in the shade of bamboo and other thick trees rather than along the water.

Saw Scaled Viper

The Saw-scaled Viper is named for its unusual scales, which are arranged in uneven rows all over its body.

They are smaller than many other venomous snakes, but are known for having  quite a temper. When they’re angry, these snakes move slowly: Their uneven scales rub against each other to produce a hissing noise, which becomes louder the angrier they get.

There are eight species of Saw-scaled Vipers, and some of these are the cause for the most deaths by snake bites globally.

These deadly snakes are primarily found in north India, feeding on a wide variety of prey ranging from insects to small reptiles.

Indian Rock Python

Like other pythons, the Indian Python is a constrictor that wraps around and squeezes its prey rather than biting them or injecting them with venom.

With a light green color, these snakes live alone in the forest, hanging on tree branches during the day and hunting at night. But they can adapt to many other environments as well, as long as water is nearby.

They usually prey on small mammals, reptiles, and birds, constricting them and swallowing them whole. But they have a special preference for rodents.

This method of eating allows these large snakes to abstain from eating for weeks on end.

Small, but incredibly deadly, Kraits are the most highly venomous snakes in India.

The average krait is only three feet long, but their bites can quickly cause respiratory failure and death for their victims.

They hunt at night, their prey being other snakes as well as reptiles and small mammals.

Kraits come in several different varieties. The Common Krait is virtually inactive during the day, but bites its prey at night, ultimately causing paralysis.

Some species can be found in water as well as on land. Sea Kraits feed on eels and other fish, and their venom is incredibly potent as well.

Russell’s Viper

Rounding out the big four of India’s most dangerous snakes, Russell’s Viper is very aggressive and responsible for many snake bites in populated areas.

Named for Scottish herpetologist Patrick Russell, these snakes are four feet long on average, with a dark brown body and lighter brown spots.

These snakes are usually found in open areas feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, but are sometimes seen in human-populated areas when hunting for food.

Bites from these snakes can lead to immense pain and possibly kidney failure. Luckily, adult snakes do not move very fast unless provoked, so they are best left alone.

Red Sand Boa

Found throughout India, the Red Sand Boa is easy to identify by its dark red color. These nocturnal snakes live in agricultural or desert areas, where they feed on rodents and other snakes by using constriction.

These snakes are non-poisonous, but they are often traded illegally due to perceived beliefs of bringing good luck and curing diseases.

Part of this belief comes from the presence of “two heads:” one being the actual head and the other being the tail, which greatly resembles a head.

These snakes are also endangered because they are dug out of the ground, where they tend to reside, by farmers.

INDIAN LIZARDS

Bengal Monitor Lizard

Spending most of their days searching for food, Bengal Monitor Lizards are found in various habitats throughout India.

Unlike similar lizard species, Bengal Monitors are more adaptable to different climates and can live in areas with both high and low levels of precipitation.

Their tongues resemble those of snakes, with a fork in the middle that helps them find food. Their prey ranges from small mammals and birds to other reptiles.

Bengal Monitor Lizards are also exceptionally strong. They tend to burrow in the ground when escaping predators. To keep safe, they fill their lungs with air and dig their claws into the hiding space, making them virtually impossible to dislodge.

Indian Chameleon

The Indian Chameleon is similar to other chameleons in its physical characteristics.

Like monkeys, they have prehensile tails that help them balance and comfortably stay up in the trees. Like other chameleons, the Indian variety changes color for communication purposes.

Their large eyes can move in separate directions of each other, giving these lizards a wide range of vision.

Indian Chameleons are typically green or brown in color. Their color-changing ability is due to the presence of pigment granules found in some of their cells that respond to the chameleons’ emotions and environment, not to match their current background.

Indian Gecko

The Indian Gecko, also known as the Tokay Gecko, can be found in rainforest environments.

These Indian lizards are one of the largest species of gecko, and are identified by their bright blue-gray bodies covered with red and yellow spots.

These geckos stand out for their noticeable adaptations: Their large eyes have clear scales over them that act like lenses, and their strong jaws and teeth can give a nasty bite that, thankfully, is not venomous.

These nocturnal lizards can be found eating insects as well as other geckos, and are usually alone. If you see one, be cautious, as they can be territorial when confronted by people.

Dragon Lizards (Fan-Throated and Southern Flying)

India is home to Dragon Lizards of various shapes and sizes.

The Fan-Throated Dragon Lizard is named for the layer of skin beneath its chin, which resembles a fan. This lizard can be found all over India, living along the forest floor.

There were five known species of Fan-Throated Lizard, but in 2016 a new species was discovered. It was named for British naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough.

Another aptly-named lizard is the Southern Flying Dragon Lizard, or Draco Lizard. Though they technically do not have wings, the long ribs and tails of these lizards extend and allow them to “fly” in order to avoid predators.

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Spiny Tailed Lizard

Found in northern Africa as well as India, the Spiny-tailed Lizard can handle the heat. Also known as the Dab Lizard, this reptile is vegetarian and feeds on plants found in their habitats.

Their scientific name, uromastyx, is Greek for “tail,” and their tail is a very important physical feature.

Their common name comes from the spines that grow all along their tails, which can be used to defend themselves against predators.

Spiny-tailed Lizards sleep with their powerful tails facing the entrance to their dens in order to protect themselves.

Another useful adaptation is their yellow-brown coloring with black spots, which helps camouflage them against rocks.

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Oriental Garden Lizard

Found in forests, the Oriental Garden Lizard is also known by several other names. It is sometimes known as “Bloodsucker,” most likely because males have red heads and necks when mating.

They are also called calotes, and come in a variety of colors ranging from orange to purple.

Other names for the lizard include Eastern Garden Lizard and Changeable Lizard, which is fitting considering their wide range of coloring.

These lizards feed on insects, and when they bite they do not draw blood. Along with insects, they feed on rodents and other lizards, swallowing their prey whole like some snakes do.

OTHER INDIAN REPTILES

Crocodiles (Gharial, Mugger, Saltwater)

India is home to several different species of crocodiles, and some are more dangerous than others.

The Mugger Crocodile has a characteristic flat nose and is one of the largest crocodile species. Although it feeds on Indian reptiles and fish, this massive croc has also attacked and killed large mammals and people.

The Gharial, another of the more endangered species of Indian wildlife, is found in northern Indian rivers. It does not target people, but uses its sharp teeth to feed on fish and human corpses found in the water.

Southern India is home to the Saltwater Crocodile, which, ironically, can be found in freshwater as well,. It can weigh over 1,000 pounds and can also be dangerous to humans.

Olive Ridley Sea Turtle

With an olive-green skin and shell color, the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle is found in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

These turtles are some of the smallest sea turtles in the world, and only weigh up to 100 lbs.

Some of these turtles are solitary, while others nest in large groups called arribadas.  It is unclear to researchers why their nesting patterns vary so greatly.

Located in the eastern Indian city of Odisha, Gahirmatha Turtle Sanctuary is one of the world’s largest nesting sites for the Olive Ridley.

This area became a sanctuary in 1997, and attracts thousands of turtles during the annual mating season, which lasts from October through May. –by Anika Chaturvedi; intro by Bret Love

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Wildlife wonders of india: captured through your lens.

In response to the resounding demand from professional wildlife photographers like you, we are thrilled to present our coveted wildlife and birding photography tours in India. These carefully curated expeditions are designed to elevate your next wildlife photography adventure to unprecedented heights.

Prepare to embark on a journey like no other as you witness the awe-inspiring beauty of India’s rich and diverse wildlife on a Photography Wildlife Tour. From the majestic Bengal tigers, elusive Indian leopards, and regal Asiatic lions to the gentle giants of the Indian jungles, the Indian elephants, and the magnificent one-horned rhinos, you’ll encounter an array of mesmerizing creatures. Our tours take you to some of the most breathtaking and picturesque national parks in India, including Jim Corbett, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Ranthambore, and more. Each location promises a unique and enchanting wildlife experience on the Best Wildlife Photography Tours in India.

But that’s not all – if you’re an avid birder or a passionate bird photographer, we have something extraordinary in store for you. Our birding photography tours offer the opportunity to capture the rare and magnificent avian treasures of India, including the Great Indian bustard, Indian vulture, Forest owlet, Himalayan quail, Sociable lapwing, Bengal florican, Indian pitta, Himalayan monal, White-rumped vulture, Nilgiri flycatcher, Malabar Parakeet, White-winged duck, Masked finfoot, Austen’s brown hornbill, Green avadavat, Greater adjutant, and Hume’s Pheasant.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic amateur wildlife photographer, our tours are open to all who share a passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world. Join us on our next  wildlife photography tour in India , where you’ll be guided by our experienced naturalists, indulge in premium wildlife resorts, enjoy seamless transfers, and experience top-notch service throughout your journey.

Prepare to witness the wonders of India’s wildlife through the lens of your camera, and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Your photographic safari of a lifetime awaits. Book now, choose from some of the best wildlife photography tours in India!

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Best Time to See Wildlife in India: Month by Month Travel Guide

• Updated on August 4, 2023
• India , wildlife

India, with its extraordinary array of cultures and landscapes, is a testament to diversity and heritage. Equally impressive is the country’s abundant wildlife, representing a spectrum of ecosystems. From the harsh, sun-baked deserts of Rajasthan to the dense, verdant jungles of Kerala, each region of India offers a distinctive wildlife narrative. With each passing month, these narratives evolve, turning a new page in the incredible saga of India’s natural world.

Embarking on a wildlife expedition in India is a matter of timing. Different seasons present different opportunities, making it crucial for travelers to know when to explore specific regions. In this guide, we’ll take a month-by-month walk through India’s wildlife calendar, revealing the most spectacular sights and experiences that await.

So grab your binoculars and hiking boots; we’re about to embark on a 12-month journey through the wildlife-rich landscapes of India!

Table of Contents

January: A Frozen Wilderness

1. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan : In the cool climes of January, Ranthambore comes alive with the roaring of tigers. This is a prime time to spot these majestic predators as they prowl the park.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 800
• Safari Booking: Can be booked online through the official website or tour operators. Safari options include Canter (20 seater) and Jeep (6 seater) safaris.
• Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 10:00 am and 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Renowned for Bengal tigers, dry deciduous forests; also home to leopards, hyenas.
• 2 Nights 3 Days Ranthambore Itinerary
• Ranthambore Package for 03 Days
• Ranthambore National Park Travel by Train
• Delhi Agra Jaipur with Ranthambore Trip

2. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan : January marks the peak season for migratory birds in Bharatpur . Witness thousands of birds, including Siberian Cranes, making their winter home here.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 75; Foreigners: INR 500
• Safari Booking: Cycle rickshaws, bicycles, and guided walking tours are available. Book on arrival or through tour operators.
• Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for migratory birds like Siberian cranes, storks, herons, eagles, and hawks; also home to deer, sambar, and nilgai.
• 9 Nights 10 Days Rajasthan Travel
• 14 Days Rajasthan and Varanasi Tour
• 8 Days Rajasthan Tribal Trip
• 15 Days Rajasthan Mumbai Goa Travel
• Rajasthan & Kerala Tour 18 Days
• 6 Nights 7 Days Rajasthan Package
• Check Rajasthan More Itineraries

3. Gir National Park, Gujarat : This month offers an excellent opportunity to view the endangered Asiatic lion. The cooler weather means more activity among these magnificent creatures.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 200; Foreigners: INR 4,000
• Safari Booking: Online booking is available. Jeep safari for up to 6 people.
• Timing: Open mid-October to mid-June, 6:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Famous as the last refuge of the Asiatic lion; also home to leopards, hyenas.
• 8 Nights 9 Days Gujarat Trip
• 3 Days Kutch Rann Utsav Travel
• Gujarat Tour 5 Nights 6 Days
• 7 Days Gujarat Diu Package
• Gujarat Package for 5 Days
• Check Gujarat More Packages

February: The Dance of the Wild

1. Sundarbans, West Bengal : February is a fantastic time to explore the dense mangrove forests of the Sundarbans . This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the elusive Royal Bengal tiger.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 60; Foreigners: INR 200
• Safari Booking: Boat safaris are common; booking through tour operators or Forest Department is recommended.
• Timing: Open September to March, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Unique mangrove forest; habitat of Royal Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and various birds.
• 3 Days Sundarban Trip Itinerary
• 6 Days Gangtok Kalimpong Darjeeling Trip
• 7 Days Darjeeling & Gangtok Tour
• 4 Days Darjeeling Travel Package

2. Periyar National Park, Kerala : The gentle touch of spring arrives in Kerala , providing an excellent opportunity to view elephants in the wild. The moderate temperature enhances the beauty of the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 55; Foreigners: INR 500
• Safari Booking: Boat safaris on Periyar Lake, Jeep safaris, and trekking options are available through the official website or tour operators.
• Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Home to elephant herds, a wide variety of endemic bird species, and rich aquatic life.
• 5 Days Kerala Backwater Trip
• 10 Days Kerala Tour Package
• Kerala Travel 7 Nights 8 Days
• 5 Nights 6 Days Kerala Tour
• 11 Days Goa Kerala Travel
• Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days
• 4 Dyas Munnar Alleppey Trip
• Check Kerala More Packages

3. Kaziranga National Park, Assam : Home to two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses, February’s mild weather allows visitors to see these rare animals with ease.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 650
• Safari Booking: Elephant and Jeep safaris can be booked through official channels or tour operators.
• Timing: Open November to April, 7:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses.
• 5 Days Kaziranga Guwahati Trip
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March: A Symphony of Spring

1. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka : As summer begins to make its presence felt, March is a delightful time to spot elephants, leopards, and tigers in Bandipur .

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 300
• Safari Booking: Jeep and Bus safaris are available; can be booked online or on arrival.
• Timing: Open year-round, 6:30 am – 8:30 am and 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Rich biodiversity including tigers, elephants, and various birds.
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2. Simlipal National Park, Odisha : Explore the diverse flora and fauna, including the captivating Melanistic tiger. March offers comfortable weather to traverse this enchanting forest.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 75
• Safari Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked through local tour operators.
• Timing: Open November to June, 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Elephant reserve; home to Bengal tigers, gaur, and various bird species.
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3. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra : Famous for its tiger sightings, March offers warmer weather, making wildlife more visible.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 600
• Safari Booking: Online booking for Jeep safaris is available.
• Timing: Open October to June, 5:30 am – 10:00 am and 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Known for tigers; also home to leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and various birds.

Tadoba Package:  2 Nights 3 Days Tadoba National Park Tour from Nagpur

April: Summer’s Stirring

1. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh : April’s dry climate allows tourists to spot a variety of wildlife, such as tigers, leopards, and wild dogs.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 90; Foreigners: INR 2,000
• Safari Booking: Online booking is available for Jeep safaris.
• Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 11:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: High density of royal Bengal tiger, leopards, barasingha; famous for its lush sal and bamboo forests.
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2. Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka : With summer setting in, waterholes attract elephants, gaurs, and deer, creating perfect viewing opportunities.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 150
• Safari Booking: Jeep and Bus safaris are available, and bookable on site.
• Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 8:00 am and 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Known for its tiger population; also home to leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species.

3. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh : The hot weather provides excellent chances to see tigers, who frequently visit the park’s watering holes.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 1,500
• Safari Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked online.
• Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 9:30 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Known for its tiger population; home to leopards, wild dogs, and diverse bird species.

May: The Heat of Exploration

1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand : May is a hot month but ideal for wildlife enthusiasts to spot tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 200; Foreigners: INR 900
• Safari Booking: Jeep safaris and Canter safaris are available. Online booking is advised.
• Timing: Open November to June, 6:00 am – 9:30 am and 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: India’s first national park; renowned for Bengal tigers, leopards, and elephants.
• 3 Days Jim Corbett Safari Tour from Delhi
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2. Sariska National Park, Rajasthan : Despite the soaring temperatures, May is considered a prime time to witness tigers.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 80; Foreigners: INR 470
• Safari Booking: Jeep and Canter safaris are available; can be booked online or on arrival.
• Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 10:00 am and 2:00 pm – 6:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Prime tiger territory; also home to leopards, sambar, chital, and various birds.

3. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh : This month offers fantastic opportunities to see tigers, especially around the Tala zone.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 2,000
• Safari Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked online or through authorized tour operators.
• Timing: Open October to June, 6:00 am – 11:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: High density of tigers, including white tigers; also home to leopards, deer.

June: A Monsoon Prelude

1. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu : June is a great time to explore the Western Ghats and witness the region’s abundant wildlife.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 30; Foreigners: INR 250
• Safari Booking: Elephant safaris, Van safaris are available; book on arrival.
• Timing: Open year-round, 7:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Home to endangered and vulnerable species like the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and elephants.
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2. Valmiki National Park, Bihar : Spot various wildlife species like tigers, leopards, and Indian bison in June before the monsoon sets in.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 500
• Safari Booking: Jeep safaris are available; booking can be done on arrival.
• Timing: Open November to June, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Rich biodiversity; habitat of tigers, Indian rhinos, and black bears.

3. Dachigam National Park, Jammu & Kashmir : This period is an ideal time to spot the rare Kashmir stag or Hangul.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 10; Foreigners: INR 100
• Safari Booking: Options include guided tours; book through official channels or local tour operators.
• Timing: Open year-round, 5:30 am – 6:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Famous for endangered Kashmir stag; also home to Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard.
• 8 Days Kashmir Tour Package
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July to September: Monsoon Magic

These months usher in India’s monsoon season, a time when many national parks close due to heavy rainfall. However, some places still offer unique wildlife experiences:

1. Agumbe, Karnataka : Known as India’s Cherrapunji, Agumbe offers a chance to explore the mesmerizing world of reptiles, especially the King Cobra.

• Entry Fee: No specific entry fee for reptile viewing.
• Safari Booking: Guided tours for reptile spotting can be arranged through specialized tour operators.
• Wildlife Highlights: A biodiversity hotspot; renowned for King Cobras, and other reptiles.

2. Kabini, Karnataka : Explore the lush green wilderness, which attracts elephants, leopards, and other fauna during the monsoon.

• Entry Fee: Packages including accommodation usually cover entry.
• Safari Booking: Boat and Jeep safaris are available through resorts or tour operators.
• Wildlife Highlights: Rich aquatic wildlife; great chance of spotting leopards, elephants, and diverse bird life.

3. Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha : Witness the nesting of Olive Ridley turtles in the serene monsoon setting.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 2,000
• Safari Booking: Boat safaris can be booked on arrival or through tour operators.
• Timing: Open year-round, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Home to saltwater crocodile, Indian python, King Cobra, and migratory birds.

October: A Fresh Beginning

1. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh : Enjoy jeep, elephant, and even canoe safaris in October, with pleasant weather and lush landscapes.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 125; Foreigners: INR 2,500
• Safari Booking: Jeep, Elephant, and Canoe safaris can be booked online or through tour operators.
• Timing: Open October to April, 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Habitat of leopards, wild dogs, bears; unique central Indian highland ecosystem.

2. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala : The mild weather of October brings a plethora of opportunities to witness wildlife like the grizzled giant squirrel.

• Safari Booking: Jeep safaris and guided trekking tours are available through local operators.
• Wildlife Highlights: Known for its ecological, faunal, and floral diversity; home to grizzled giant squirrels, and tufted gray langur.

November: The Autumnal Affair

1. Sundarbans, West Bengal : Tigers, crocodiles, and spotted deer are commonly seen in the ethereal landscapes of Sundarbans in November.

• Wildlife Highlights: Largest coastal mangrove forest; habitat of the Bengal tiger, spotted deer, and crocodiles.

2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam:  Known as ‘Mini Kaziranga’, November marks the beginning of the rhino-spotting season.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 500
• Safari Booking: Elephant and Jeep safaris are available; can be booked through local tour operators.
• Timing: Open November to April, 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: Rich in rhinoceros; also home to leopards, wild boar, and various migratory birds.

December: Winter’s Welcome

1. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan : December attracts migratory birds, making it a birder paradise.

2. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh : Explore the snow-laden wilderness, home to elusive species like the snow leopard.

• Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 400
• Safari Booking: Guided tours are available through local operators.
• Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights: The largest protected area in the Eastern Himalayas, offering diverse flora and fauna; harbors tigers, leopards, red pandas, and over 400 bird species.
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3. Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh: A Symphony of Wildlife Wonders in Serene Landscapes.

• Entry Fee : Indians: INR 150; Foreigners: INR 600
• Safari Booking : Jeep safaris are available; online booking or through local tour operators.
• Timing : Open October to June, 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights : Tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and various bird species.

4. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh: Where Snow-Capped Peaks Embrace Breathtaking Biodiversity.

• Entry Fee : Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 200
• Safari Booking : Guided trekking tours; book through authorized operators.
• Timing : Open year-round, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights : Snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears, and pheasants.

5. Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand: Nature’s Grand Theatre of Diverse Fauna and Flora.

• Safari Booking : Jeep safaris are available; online booking is recommended.
• Timing : Open mid-November to mid-June, 6:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights : Elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 300 bird species.

6. Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal: A Glimpse of Majestic Tigers in the Heart of Cultural Heritage.

• Safari Booking : Elephant and Jeep safaris are available; booking through local operators.
• Timing : Open October to May, 6:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Wildlife Highlights : Tigers, elephants, Indian bison, and several bird species.

7. Mollem National Park, Goa : Discover the Hidden Wilderness in Goa’s Heartland.

• Entry Fee : Indians: INR 20; Foreigners: INR 100
• Safari Booking : Jeep safaris and guided walking tours are available.
• Timing : Open year-round, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights : Spotting of black panthers, sambars, spotted deer, and Malabar pit viper.
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8. Manas National Park, Assam: A UNESCO Heritage Site: Where Rare and Exotic Wildlife Thrive.

• Entry Fee : Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 500
• Safari Booking : Jeep and Elephant safaris are available through authorized operators.
• Timing : Open October to April, 5:30 am – 6:30 pm
• Wildlife Highlights : Tigers, rhinos, elephants, and various bird species.

9. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan: Where the Wild Roam Free Amidst Rajasthan’s Rugged Terrains.

• Entry Fee : Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 300
• Safari Booking : Jeep and Horse safaris available; booking on arrival or through local tour operators.
• Wildlife Highlights : Wolves, leopards, hyenas, and sloth bears.

India’s wildlife is a year-long festivity, a beautiful tapestry that changes with every passing month. Whether it’s the roaring of a tiger or the graceful flight of a bird, each moment offers a unique and thrilling experience.

Remember to plan your travels carefully, considering the local climate and park regulations. India’s wildlife is a treasure; it offers unparalleled beauty and excitement, but it also demands our respect and care.

Pack your bags, set your itinerary, and embark on an adventure that only India’s magnificent wildlife can offer. It’s a journey you will cherish forever!

Suggested Articles:

• 12 National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries in Andaman and Nicobar
• Top 10 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu
• Most Popular Wildlife National Parks in Northeast India
• Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks in Odisha
• 20 Famous Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks in the Asia
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Satnam Singh

Satnam is a writer who loves traveling, meeting new people, and sharing his experiences through captivating blogs that you'll enjoy reading.

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Journey to India to see mesmerizing royal cities in the Rajasthan desert, Bengal tigers on the prowl in pristine national parks, and snow leopards padding below striking Himalayan summits. India is a world like no other and our Trip Leaders introduce you to their favorite “secret” spots along the way.

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This was my first trip to India and I cannot imagine a better introduction. Because of the care with which the trip had been planned and organized, I was able to relax, enjoy, and try to fully absorb the experience without spending even a moment concerned about the quotidian details of the trip. What a luxury.

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Home / Blog / Wildlife Tourism in India

India has a rich treasure of fauna and flora. In fact, it is not wrong to say that India is the biological capital of the Earth. A muse of the nature lover, fascinating haunt for photographers, love of wildlife enthusiasts and a new normal for honeymooners- India is in the top list for wildlife tourism in the world.

About india wildlife tourism.

India’s wildlife tourism is a story to show the world about man and animal’s strong friendship and their persistence to live in love and harmony.

Tourists from all over the world come to India to witness its wildlife treasure. Wildlife tourism in India gives the tourist a scope of plenty of self- introspection, useful insight on the biodiversity and cultural aspect, as local people and community are involved deeply in the preservation of Wildlife.

If you are travelling to explore India, apart from the best tourist attractions and heritage sites in India, a wildlife tour is a much-needed escape from the chaos of city life.

• Total National Parks in India – 104
• Total Tiger Reserves in India- 52
• Total Bird Sanctuaries in India- 61
• Total Wildlife Sanctuaries in India – 566
• Popular National Parks in India- Corbett, Ranthambore, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Tadoba, Kaziranga, Sunderban

Also Check Out: Popular Wildlife Tour Packages India

Wildlife of India

Nature based tours are becoming increasingly important in India due to the chaos of city life and their long-term detachment from nature. India is the storehouse of some of the best wildlife and bird Sanctuaries and Tiger Reserves.

Wild creatures of India enjoy privileged positions of protection and nourishment from the Indian government. This is why India has rich biodiversity.  About 1.33% of the geographical area of the country is covered with National Parks. To be precise, India has 104 national parks and 566 wildlife sanctuaries, 214 community reserves and 97 conservation reserves to lure wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world.

Wildlife Tourism: What’s in it for you?

• Relaxation: If you are a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast or a toil weary soul who has lost connection with nature then Wildlife Tour is an absolute necessity to fine tune your spirit. There has been a significant raise in the number of tourists for wildlife tourism. Nowadays Wildlife sightseeing is also considered to be a great way of enjoying vacation. It refreshes your mind, body and soul and eliminates all the tensions of life. Wildlife tours in India are the best way of recreation and rejuvenation of your tired mind.
• Nature’s Bliss and Thrills of Adventure: India has finest National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Tiger reserves to take you to the wild world of wild beasts where you can enjoy the enchanting pristine greenery of the forests, cascading waterfalls, picturesque mountain ranges and valleys along with the calls of wild creatures. Isn’t it amazing? But this is not enough, our adventurous hearts need to be satisfied to enjoy the best of wildlife tourism. For this, adventure seekers can also get the thrill of forest safari, river rafting, angling and fishing, trekking, mountain climbing, cycling and nature walk which is absolutely delightful for a nature and wildlife holiday.
• Spot the Tigers: While you are on your wildlife exploration, Tiger spotting trips would elevate your experience to a new level. A chance to witness elusive tigers will be a once in a lifetime experience and what better way to watch these tigers while enjoying all the comforts and luxuries of Jungle lodges and resorts in protected wilderness areas? Dotted with lush green foliage these lodges are the best options to stay on your wildlife tour.

Some of the best Tiger reserves in India are Pench Tiger Reserve, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Kanha Tiger Reserve, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Kaziranga National Park, Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Sundarbans Tiger reserve Etc. The best time to spot tigers is the summer season when they visit the waterholes to quench their thirst.

UNESCO Wildlife World Heritage Sites

India also has some National Parks and Reserves which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  There are total 7 UNESCO World Heritage National Parks and Sanctuaries-

• Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, Himachal Pradesh
• Western Ghats
• Kaziranga National Park
• Keoladeo National Park
• Manas wildlife Sanctuary
• Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Park
• Sundarbans National Park

Only Tigers?

Not only Tigers have the right to give you a visual treat but there is also a plethora of other wild beasts that would be eagerly waiting for your attention. Sites like Kaziranga National Park are very famous for one -horned Rhinos. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam is a home to golden langur, Assam roofed turtle etc.

Nanda Devi and Valley of flowers National Park is a home to globally threatened Snow Leopard and Himalayan Musk deer and varieties of plant species. This is just the tip of an iceberg. Once you indulge yourself in wildlife exploration, you will see varieties of flora and fauna that you have never seen before.

Most Popular Wildlife Safari Destinations in India

• Jim Corbett National Park
• Ranthambore National Park
• Bandhavgarh National Park
• Panna National Park
• Kanha National Park
• Pench National Park
• Tadoba National Park
• Bandipur National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions and Tiger Reserve in India. It is a land where tigers are found in abundance. This prestigious national park is the place where the Project Tiger was first launched in 1973. It is the only national park to offer a stay inside the jungle. It is a best place for nature lovers as lush greenery, hills, waterfalls, riverine belts and marshy grasslands provide picture perfect scenery. Apart from tigers, rare species like Otters and endemic fish-eating crocodiles are found here.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Your Wildlife vacation will be the best one if you visit Ranthambore National Park. It houses the pride of the jungle, Royal Bengal Tiger. It’s one of the major wildlife tourist attractions in India.  You will see a myriad of mammals, birds and reptiles for wildlife exploration. Jungle Safari will give you the best views of wildlife and make your sightseeing in Ranthambore more fun.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a very popular wildlife tourist attraction for a great wildlife vacation. It is famed for its Great one horned Rhinoceros. The whole park resounds in the calls of Elephants, swamp deer, wild water buffalo, lesser adjutant etc. The presence of Brahmaputra River and lush greenery all around makes Kaziranga National Park the best place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Situated in the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh Bandhavgarh National Park is a buffer area of 400 sq. km whose typography is so beautiful as it consists of forests, ridges and open meadows to lure the heart of solace seekers and wildlife lovers. It has the highest density of Tiger population in India. Elephant Safari and Jeep Safari are the best things to do in Bandhavgarh National Park.

Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Panna National Park is a prime tiger located in Madhya Pradesh after Bandhavgarh National Park. Your eyes will be soothed by a variety of animals like Tigers, Leopards, wolf, hyaena, caracal, sloth bear, chital, Indian deers and 200 species of birds etc. For any wildlife enthusiasts this is a must visit place in Madhya Pradesh. Mesmerizing waterfalls, gorges, rivers and lush greenery will take you to the world of bliss.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Situated in the Maikal range of Satpuras in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park is declared as one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It is one of the best wildlife tourist attractions in India. For nature lovers, pristine greenery of this enchanting wilderness, clear streams and dense jungles will be a thing of joy forever. It is said that Kanha National Park is the source of inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. You will witness the most popular Barasingha apart from tigers and other reptiles and birds etc.

Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Pench National Park is one of the most popular national parks in India. Spread over an area of 292.83 square kilometers on the borders of Seoni and Chhindwara districts, this national park is named after the Pench river that divides it into two parts. This river flows from the north to south direction of the park. Pench National Park, which holds the distinction of being the best Tiger Reserve of the country, was declared as a Tiger Reserve in 1993.

Pench National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, due to which its name comes among the major national parks of India. The rich forest and calm environment according to wild animals make this national park a good tourist destination. The park has an abundance of flora and fauna. Apart from panthers and tigers, Pench National Park is also home to animals like chital, black buck, black-naped rabbit, hyena, flying squirrel, sambar, fox, wild boar, porcupine, jackal, four-horned, nilgai etc. Many birds are also found in abundance in the park, including both native and migratory birds.

Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

Located in Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is one of the best national parks for wildlife vacation. This national park is rich in various wildlife and flora and remains a popular tourist attraction of Karnataka due to its deciduous forest. This national park is the country’s first biosphere reserve with a wide range of wildlife, teak and sandalwood trees. This enchanting wilderness is a home to many animals like hornbills, elephants, deer, sloth bears, pythons, panthers, etc., which can be seen roaming freely to capture the heart of the tourists. Bandipur National Park serves as a preserve of many rare and endangered species of India including Tiger. A good population of many endangered and vulnerable species like elephant, gaur, tiger, sloth bear, mugger, Indian rock python, four-horned antelope, jackal can be seen in this park. Apart from wildlife, different species of birds, snakes, and small insects are also present in Bandipur National Park.

Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra

Tadoba National Park is located in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra state. It is the most visited National Park in India. Known for its natural heritage, the Tadoba Tiger Reserve, spread over an area of about 625.4 sq. km, is one of the best protected tiger reserves in India and has the largest number of tiger reserves in the state.

Tadoba National Park is the perfect tourist destination for wildlife and nature lovers on the weekend, where tourists can see various rare species of flora and fauna. Along with natural beauty and wildlife, this park is also famous for Tadoba Lake, Irai Dam, Moharli and Khosla Village, which play an important role in the attraction of Tadoba National Park and attract lakhs of tourists every year.

The largest wildlife sanctuary in Maharashtra, Tadoba Tiger Reserve is home to Majestic Tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, nilgai, dholes, striped hyenas, small Indian civets, wild cats, sambar, deer, barking deer, It is home to many other mammals such as the chital.

Along with the wildlife, about 195 species of birds, 74 species of butterflies can be seen in the park. Apart from these, the park is also home to a variety of reptiles including swamp crocodile, Indian python.

With Bon Travel India, your wildlife tour would be one of the best tours you have ever enjoyed. From booking hotels to organizing safaris and best guides, our sole motive is to provide you with the best wildlife experience of India. Book your Wildlife Tour with Bon Travel India and get the best discounts on our best wildlife tour packages. Plan your wildlife vacation and merge with the bliss of nature.

Frequently asked questions(faq), q. what are the necessary guidelines to follow for wildlife tourism of india.

Following are the necessary measures to follow for wildlife exploration are –

• Follow all the government Covid guidelines for your safety.
• Do not disturb wild animals and do not try to feed them.
• Book your tour and safari in advance, you will only get to enjoy the tour if you have done your bookings in advance. You will not get any slots later as they are limited in numbers.
• Always hire a licensed tour guide for useful insights on wildlife tourism, without a guide you are not allowed to enter the park.
• Wear covered clothes to protect yourself from insects.
• Smoking, drinking and lighting are not allowed in the Parks.
• Do not throw any waste in the Parks as it is our duty to maintain cleanliness in the park.

Q. What is the best time to explore the wildlife wealth of India?

October to June is the best time to explore the wildlife wealth of India. Summers, to be precise, are best for spotting tigers. Monsoons are not favorable for wildlife exploration as most of the sanctuaries remain closed at that time.

Q. What are the best National Parks to visit in North India?

Some of the best National Parks to visit in North India are –

• Sariska National Park
• Rajaji National Park
• Gangotri National Park

Q. What are the best National Parks and Sanctuaries to visit in South India?

Some of the best National Parks to visit in South India are –

• Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
• Mudumalai National Parkand Wildlife Sanctuary
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Chinnar wildlife Sanctuary
• Nagarjunasagar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bandipur NationalPark
• Periyar Wildlife sanctuary
• Nagarhole National Park
• Eravikulam National Park

Q. What are the best National Parks and Sanctuaries to visit in West India?

Some of the best National Parks to visit in West India are –

• Gir National Park
• Tadoba -Andhari Tiger Reserve
• Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Sanjay Gandhi National Park
• Vansda National Park
• Marine National Park

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Guide to safari in Ranthambore – Gates with maximum tiger sighting

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , RAJASTHAN / Created : Apr 7, 2024, 18:50 IST

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Ranthambore National Park comprises ten safari zones, each offering a unique landscape and wildlife viewing opportunities. These gates, located in the core area of the park, are considered prime tiger territory. Gates 1 to 3, in p … Read more

Ranthambore National Park comprises ten safari zones, each offering a unique landscape and wildlife viewing opportunities. These gates, located in the core area of the park, are considered prime tiger territory. Gates 1 to 3, in particular, are renowned for their lush forests, water bodies, and rocky outcrops, making them ideal habitats for tigers. Gate 3, also known as Sultanpur Gate, is especially favoured by wildlife enthusiasts for its higher tiger sighting rates. Read less

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Ranthambore National Park comprises ten safari zones, each offering a unique landscape and wildlife viewing opportunities. These gates, located in the core area of the park, are considered prime tiger...

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A story of india's animals | walks on the wild side, part travelogue and part inquiry, stephen alter’s the 'cobra’s gaze' urges indians to connect deeper with nature amidst our ongoing war against wildlife.

I n The Cobra’s Gaze , Stephen Alter returns with another slow-burning tour de force, drawing on journeys in the Indian subcontinent to revisit the human connection with nature. Offering cultural and historical context to our ongoing struggle to preserve wildlife, the Indian-born American author urges us to meet the gaze of creatures that are looking at us, perhaps for answers.

9 Tourist Attractions You Shouldn't Miss In Coimbatore

9 awesome things you must do on your coimbatore trip.

With its unique mix spanning heritage temples, misty waterfalls and wildlife reserves - Coimbatore presents delightful gems for culture vultures, nature lovers and history buffs alike! Let's explore the 9 attractions you shouldn't miss to keep your Instagram feed buzzing with envy-inducing travel moments!

1.Seek Blessings High Up at Marudhamalai Murugan Temple

Be awestruck by sublime forest views and spiritual glow as you climb over 500 ft uphill reaching 12th century Marudhamalai temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and Goddess Valli built into a cave shrine. Gaze inside rock cut sanctums resonating with bells, illuminated intricate pillars housing deity idols and partake in soul-stirring evening aarti rituals as golden light dapples through lush environs.

• Highlight: Awe-inspiring hilltop location
• Built in: 12th century Pandyan era
• Entry fee: No entry charges

Carry fruits and flowers as offering seeking divine grace!

2.Stunning Art at Thousand Pillar Patteeswarar Temple

Let the architectural brilliance intricately adorned with sculptures, pillars and shrines leave you spellbound at historic Perur Temple built along the banks of River Noyyal dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Pachai Nayaki. Enter the holy sanctum sanctorum housing the emerald lingam, glimpse deity idols under ornate stone carved roofs for envy-inducing holiday 'gram backdrops.

• Built in: 16th century, Chola era
• Highlights: Intricate stone pillars, musical pillars
• Entry fee: No entry fee

Admire the carved figures from Hindu mythology for their masterful craftsmanship.

3.Peaceful Sanctuary at Isha Yoga Center

Seeking to boost your soul minus city rush? Visit Isha Yoga center just 25 km from city promising tranquil environs across lush foliage backdrop for spiritual rejuvenation. Sit for interactive sessions, walk through vibrating Dhyana temples, replenish over organic meals or meditate at mystical Dhyanalinga temple at this wisdom hub for all harmoniously seeking wellbeing.

• Ashram stay options: Accomodation available
• Founded by: Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev in 1992
• Entry fee: Free (activities charges extra)

Enjoy chanting sessions sitting under the Bodhi tree for positivity.

4.Vintage Rides at Gedee Car Museum

Let vintage cars, motorbikes and automobiles spanning Rolls Royce, Victorian carriages to 1930 Model As take you back in time at this automobile nostalgia museum in Lawley Road. Marvel at displays like Ford 1922 truck, 1956 Fiat, sparkling limousines, an entire railway coach and even elephant seats for sheer uniqueness.

• Museum built by: GD Naidu in 1980
• Total vehicles: Over 120 on display
• Entry fee: Rs 50 per person

Strike a fun pose next to funky Ambassador moon cars for trendy travel gram.

5.Wildlife & Nature Discovery at Gass Forest Museum

Explore rich biodiversity insights on endemic Western Ghats flora-fauna at Tamil Nadu Forest Department Museum with large enclosures housing preserved tigers, dinosaurs fossils to colourful butterflies for engaging discovery! Stroll through bamboo trails spotting giant ferns, exotic birds in special zone created as natural forest for wholesome wildlife immersion.

• Built across: Sprawling 25 acre campus
• Highlight: Cocoon gallery displaying silk thread
• Entry fee: Rs 5 per head

Carry your binoculars ready for an awesome wildlife photography adventure.

6.Tranquil Nature Walks by Shiva Temple

Be one with nature by trekking through panoramic upper Palguni hills landscapes dotted with waterfalls to reach Adi Annamalaiyar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva believed sacred for 5000 years nearly. Gaze upon the Swayambulingam, meditation caves nearby housing sages or simply find a quiet riverside rock listening to gushing waters for serene vibes during this day long heritage and wellness hike.

• Path options: Bus or 6 km forest walk
• Shrines include: Ganesha, Murugan
• Entry: Free

Partake in rejuvenating ayurvedic food or herbal teas at houses nearby.

7.Frolic under Cascading Falls

Escape city bustle amid stunning natural visuals at Kovai Kutralam Falls nestled amidst the western ghats forest nearly 35 km from town created by River Surappa cutting through mountains majestically. Dip into cool waters swirling in rocky pools, enjoy picnics by the serene surroundings promising fun getaways with feet in the water and heads held high.

• Spans nearly: 90 feet high
• Best season: Post monsoons till January
• Entry fee: Rs 10 per head

Capture those fun vacation portraits with pretty falls behind.

8.Jungle Date with Roaring Waterfalls

Be thrilled witnessing Siruvani waterfalls gush with full gusto through lush Western Ghat jungles during monsoon season as you trek downhill nearly 700 steps to feel the chilled sprinkle mists with your own skin! With exotic birds calls echoing around, picnic hampers, wild fruits it makes for the perfect offbeat date promising a romantic holiday story to relish.

• Water source: Siruvani River
• Built alongside: Reservoir lake

Set up camp by moonlight next to ancient pillared mantapas still dotting the landscape for surprise elements.

9.Immerse in Bustling Local Life

Coimbatore charming old world elements beautifully shine through across vibrant neighbourhoods like Townhall lined with colonial era buildings, churches and iconic Kovai jalebis sweetmeat shops promising engaging walks for culture discovery! From trying traditional cuisine, shopping pretty Kanchipuram silks to simply smiling at strangers immerse happily in local experiences.

• Historic architecture: Victoria Town Hall, century old churches
• Budget stay options: Lodge hotels
• Transport: Local buses ply extensively

End your day with happy tummies, fuller hearts and broader smiles enjoying travel.

Hope you're all set now to explore offbeat Coimbatore for the ideal South India holiday. When are you planning the trip?