best safari south india

10 Best Wildlife Safaris in South India

South India has very densely populated forests with immense flora and fauna. According to ISFR survey in 2017, South Indian states Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala played a crucial role in increasing forest growth in all over India. The Western and Eastern Ghats mountain ranges with lush greenery are the main reason for the natural beauty of South India.

South Indian states will be the best places in India to witness varied wildlife animals and mostly Elephants. Because Elephants population in South India is more and varied when compared to others. By this article, you will get to know about the 10 Best Wildlife Safari in South India .

1. Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is a famous one in India and a part of “Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve” in Karnataka. This beautiful national park is home to nearly 100 mammal species and 350 bird species. Bandipur National Park covers larger area and home to many endangered animal species.

Here you can see a large number of tigers, sambhar, gaur, chital, wild dogs, jackal, hornbills and the mouse deer etc. The major wildlife attractions of this National park are Panthers, four horned antelopes, and the Elephants. You can also witness here some rarest bird species like jungle fowl and green pigeon. The best time to visit this national park is in Monsoons and Summers due to the pleasant and friendly environment.

Bandipur National Park

Also Read : Travel Tips for Visiting Bandipur National Park

2. Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is one of the famous tiger and elephant reserves in India and located in Thekkady , Kerala. This national park is home to many endangered animals to restore the wildlife. Wildlife safari to this park is unforgettable with many activities like trekking. The rivers Periyar and the Pamba are the beautiful attractions of this national park.

Here you can see many rare species like Monitor Lizards, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Bonnet Macaque, and Gaur etc. Totally, there are 300 mammal species, 40 reptile species, 160 insects species, 260 bird species, and 40 fish species. The major attractions in birds here are Darters, Kingfishers, racket-tailed Drongoes, and Cormorants etc. Periyar is open in all months even in monsoons. But the most favorable time to visit means from September to April .

Periyar National Park

Also Read : Top Tourist Attractions in and Around Thekkady, Kerala

3. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu is the best destination for bird lovers in Karnataka. A beautiful destination on the banks of River Kaveri with a lot of varied birds. This Bird Sanctuary is home to migratory birds from Siberia and Latin America during the winter season. Nearly, there are 170 species of birds are living here.

The most noticeable birds here are Common Spoonbill, Black-headed Ibis, Painted Stork, and Asian Openbill Stork. Not only birds, here some small animals are also given shelter. They are flying fox, Indian Grey Mongoose, bonnet macaque, and monitor lizard. The best time to visit this bird sanctuary during the nesting season from June to November . Usually, migratory birds come in December but the time changes according to climate. Finally, don’t miss the boat ride here.

Ranganathittu, Mysore

Also Read : 15 Top Places To Visit In Karnataka

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is an integral part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in Kerala . It is also the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala by preserving the endangered flora and fauna. This immense wildlife sanctuary is home to 216 bird species and 30 amphibians species.

The major wildlife attractions here are mostly tigers, elephants, langurs, bonnet macaques, crocodiles, bi-colored frogs, ramnella etc. Popular bird species watchable here are the owl, black woodpecker, babbler, cuckoo, and jungle fowl. Across the river, you can see some rare fishes like Malabar catopra, snake heads, Wayanad mystus etc. The best time to visit this sanctuary is during the winters from October to Februar y. During this time climate is suitable with cool temperatures.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

5. Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley National Park is a human untouched park in the Nilgiri Hills in Kerala . This National Park is a unique one with vast biodiversity and undisturbed place in South Western Ghats mountain rain forests in India. Silent Valley is like a heart core of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with immense flora and fauna.

This valley is a place for many types of research on its rich biodiversity. Many endangered animals and rare plant species are also founded here. Due to the undisturbed environment, this national park was home to many endangered animals. Mostly you can see the Malabar giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri wood-pigeon, Nilgiri tahr, and Nilgiri langur etc. The best time to visit this national park is in between December and April . Visiting hours to this park is also limited just from 8 AM to 1 PM.

Silent Valley National Park

6. Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park can be said as Nilgiri Tahr mountain goat reserve. Because it mostly concentrates to preserve the mountain goat Nilgiri Tahr. It is also the best place to experience the alpine biodiversity and shola-grassland ecosystem. This national park is home to 19 amphibians species, 26 mammal species, and 132 birds species.

The major wildlife species can be seen here are Nilgiri langur, tigers, leopards, and Indian bison. Eravikulam is also the best recreational spot with many adventurous activities like trekking, camping, and helicopter rides. Eravikulam is also one of the best wildlife destinations in Kerala . The best time to visit this national park is during from September to November and from April to June .

Eravikulam National Park

7. Mudumalai National Park

Mudumalai National Park is one of the finest National Parks in South India sharing boundaries with Karnataka and Kerala. This park is covered with lush greenery of Secondary grasslands, Shrubs, and Swamps and home to many species. The major attraction of this Park is Moyar river separating Mudumalai from Bandipur. Moyar river is home to nearly 21 amphibian species and 50 fish species.

Here you can witness India’s rarest Bengal Tiger , White-rumped vulture, and long-billed vulture. In this national park, completely there are 50 mammal species, 34 reptile species, and 200 birds species. Most common animals can be seen here are Elephants, Gaur, Leopard, Owls, Parakeets, and Mynas etc. Favorable time to visit this park is from October to May .

Mudumalai National Park, Karnataka

8. Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park is a famous national park in Karnataka and also a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This park is very famous for the constant increase in tiger ratio. Nagarhole is home to many predators like tigers, wild dog sloth bear, leopard, and hyena. Their count is steadily increasing in this park by the protective measures. In this park, you can see a variety of bird species nearly 250 near the Kabini River banks.

And the most common animals spotted here are sambhar, deer, gaur, four-horned antelope, wild boar, elephants, Indian bison, marsh crocodile, and rocky python etc. Nagarhole is a beautiful national park with waterfalls, hills, and valleys. The best time to visit this national park is from April to May and from November to February .

Nagarhole National Parkk

9. B.R. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

B.R.Hills is a unique wildlife sanctuary with peculiar Eco-system and with connective rivers of Cavery and Kollegal. This sanctuary is located in between the western and Eastern Ghats with many attractions. The main attraction of this sanctuary is 200 bird species lives here and they are the crested eagle, racket tailed drongo, and the white-winged tit.

This deciduous forest is home to many flora species nearly 800. Here you can see Gaurs, sambhar, tigers, leopards, elephants, wild dogs, and chital etc. B.R Hills Sanctuary is also an adventurous spot for trekking , rafting, angling, fishing, and coracle boat riding near the river Cauvery. The best time to visit this sanctuary is from November to March .

BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

10. Viralimalai Wildlife Park

Viralimalai wildlife park is very famous for Peacock Sanctuary and the Murugan Temple. This is the right spot to see the flora and fauna of Tamil Nadu and varied peacocks. Here in this park, you can see six different types of peacocks. This park is completely dedicated to rise and restore the varied peacocks. At present, the number of peacocks has risen to 500.

The most attractive and famous peacock variety is Palawan Peacock Pheasant. This Peacock is very famous because it exhibits different colors. However, this wildlife sanctuary is the beautiful one to see different peacocks at a place. For the visitors of Chennai, this place will be the most visited place in their tour. The best time to see all variety of peacocks is from October to April .

Viralimalai Wildlife Park

Finally, these are the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries or national parks in South India for the best wildlife tours . All these places are home to many endangered animal species and flora. In one word, these forest areas are Reserves for many animals and natural habitation. So it is our duty to protect them.

You can go around these sanctuaries or parks by jeep rides or safaris and can enjoy many adventurous activities like boating, trekking, camping, rafting etc. You can collect many weird and unforgettable moments with the habitation of wildlife and its attractions.

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Travel To Your Nature, nature adventure guides and world travel tips

Travel To Your Nature

Nature Adventure Guides And World Travel Tips

12 STUNNING NATURE DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN SOUTH INDIA (2023)

August 27, 2023 | Raihne Cosmopoulos Asia + Destinations + India

Are you looking to explore the natural beauty of South India? This guide will cover the most beautiful South India nature destinations to visit on your trip.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commision if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

fairytale nature destinations of South India

If you are a nature lover who loves to explore the natural beauty of a country, you may be wondering where the best places are to visit in South India.

Travelling South India was one of my favourite trips I took during my 2 years of living in India. With so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be quite confusing knowing which places to put at the top of your list.

But in this post, I have put together a list of the 12 most breathtaking nature destinations in South India to choose from when planning your trip.

SOUTH INDIA NATURE DESTINATIONS

South India nature destinations with a sunrise over the valley

South India is everything that you would imagine a fairytale world to look like.

It is known for its rich biodiversity and the stunning mountain range of the Western Ghats. You can find everything from relaxing boat rides along the Kerala backwaters to lush green rolling hills, spectacular mountain formations, romantic nature getaways and adventurous treks.

Exploring South India is perfect for any nature enthusiast who loves unique landscapes and scenic views that take your breath away.

A side note: There are many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in South India, especially in Kerala. I urge you to do extensive research on the parks before visiting them for the wildlife experiences. Many of these sanctuaries claim to be ethical. But they offer elephant rides and close encounters that stress the animals out. Some places have even been reported to chain elephants to trees to ensure tourists see them. These parks should not be supported. And such behaviour should always be reported to authorities. I will only list wildlife parks or sanctuaries that I know for sure are 100% ethical and honour the values of eco-tourism.

1. South Goa

sunsets on the palm tree covered beaches of South India

South Goa is the essence of a tropical paradise. With the idyllic beaches, palm tree covered coastlines and exotic surroundings, South Goa is an absolute dream for any beach lover.

You will find some of the most pristine beaches all along this region of India. There are around 20 amazing beaches to visit. And honestly, you cannot go wrong with any of them. But I highly recommend the following beaches as must-see destinations:

  • Cabo De Rama – palm tree scenery and all the tropical vibes
  • Palolem – honeymoon experience and divine sunsets
  • Agonda Beach – relaxing atmosphere and pristine beach
  • Cola Beach – turquoise beach and blue lagoon to kayak and swim in calm waters
  • Colva Beach – endless scenic coastline and adventurous watersports

The best time to visit South Goa is between mid-November and mid-February. Visiting during these months is ideal for swimming and going on adventures. The temperatures are perfect for your beach vacation. If you visit after February, be prepared for very high temperatures that could leave you feeling too tired to fully embrace your trip.

If you love being surrounded by vast stretches of ocean, swaying palm trees and romantic sunsets, then South Goa is the best place for you to be.

2. MUNNAR, KERALA (One of the best nature destinations of SOuth India!)

lush green rolling hills of Munnar, India

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala is the ultimate fairytale land of Munnar. The lush green rolling hills, misty-covered mountains and picturesque vistas gives you a unique experience of how truly diverse the nature of India can be.

With so much beauty to explore here, these are my top recommendations of what to do in Munnar:

  • Echo Point – stunning lake surrounded by forest landscapes, a natural resonance of your voice against the distant hills
  • Tree House Stay – bamboo tree houses for a quiet getaway in the valley
  • Kolukkumalai Tea Estate – a meandering path through the serene tea plantations
  • Visit and picnic at the waterfalls – Lakkam waterfalls, Attukal waterfalls and Thoovanam falls
  • Lakshmi Hills – trekking to the most amazing panoramic views of the Western Ghats and rolling hills
  • Pothamedu Viewpoint – easily accessible panoramic views of Munnar’s lush landscapes
  • Cheeyappara Waterfalls – trek to a majestic 7-step cascading waterfall
  • Eravikulam National Park – wildlife safari, famous for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr

The best time to visit Munnar is after rainy season, between October and March.

It is really easy to navigate around Munnar. Which makes accessing the most beautiful views possible for all travellers. My favourite way to explore Munnar was by scooter. There was no better feeling than riding along the winding roads while I admired the nature perfection that surrounded me.

Out of all the nature destinations of South India, Munnar is the number one place that I would recommend to anyone visiting India for its natural beauty! You just cannot help but be whisked away by its romantic and scenic charm.

3. THE KERALA BACKWATERS

traditional boats on the tropical backwaters of Kerala

The captivating scenery of the Kerala backwaters consists of a serene network of meandering lagoons, canals and rivers. These beautiful waters are decorated with palm trees, coconut groves and authentic villages along the fringes.

The backwaters are a perfect combination of natural beauty and culture.

Cruising through the canals on a traditional houseboat, known as a “Kettuvallam”, is a tranquil escape into nature and a beautiful way to see everything these landscapes have to offer you.

There are a number of appealing backwaters destinations, some of the most unique ones to explore are:

  • Alleppey Backwaters – houseboat cruises with a natural and cultural experience
  • Kuttanad Backwaters – the most ravishing lush abundance of palm trees along the canals
  • Trivandrum Backwaters – enchanting scenery and tropical vegetation
  • Kochi Backwaters – explore several islands scattered along these backwaters
  • Kumarakom Backwaters – panoramic views, boating and fishing, as well as luxury resorts

The best season to visit Kerala is from October to February. This is when the temperatures are much more pleasant than the scorching hot summer months.

The Kerala backwaters will surely leave you feeling completely relaxed and reenergized by its peaceful atmosphere.

4. WAYANAD, KERALA

green rolling hills of Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad is one of the most alluring places to experience the vast beauty of the Western Ghats. It is a true natural wonder with rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, deep valley jungles and magnificent mountain views.

The abundance of wildlife and rich biodiversity makes Wayanad a sanctuary for all life to co-exist and thrive.

Whether you love full on adventures or simply enjoying enamouring views, Wayanad is a nature destination in South India for all kinds of nature seekers.

Here are some of the best nature experiences of Wayanad:

  • Banasura Sagar Dam – Asia’s second largest dam, trekking, boating
  • Edakkal Caves – natural Stone Age caves with ancient pictorial paintings
  • Neelimala Viewpoint – stunning views of the misty mountains and forest scenery
  • Chembra Peak and Valley of Clouds – trekking, a heart shaped like and lush green valley views
  • Ziplining – a thrilling adventure through the hills
  • Soochipara Falls – swim in crystal clear waters
  • Kabini River – river swims, camping, if you are lucky you can see Asian elephants at the reservoir during summer
  • Kuruva Island – bamboo river rafting
  • Kalladi Forest – a beautiful walk/hike through enchanting forests and hills

The most ideal time to visit Wayanad is between November and February. The weather is mostly pleasant and comfortable around this time.

Wayanad is the essence of being in the heart of nature. It will for sure be one of the most memorable places you visit on your trip through South India.

5. IDUKKI, KERALA

best safari south india

Idukki is a beautiful haven for nature lovers to connect with the natural world. With the abundance of wildlife, rich green tea plantations and forest covered hills, Idukki is the perfect place to embrace the serenity of nature.

Idukki is only a one-hour drive from Munnar. So it is easy to visit both on your trip through South India. Even though the landscapes are similar, there are quite a few special things to see in Idukki:

  • Calvary Mount – gorgeous lake views with unique landscapes
  • Ilaveezha Poonchira – trekking, stunning sunsets and sunrise views across the valley
  • Thommankuthu Waterfalls – a mesmerising 7-step cascade
  • Ramakkalmedu – a 4km trek to a beautiful valley view
  • Keezharkuthu Falls – the water falls from 1500m creating an enchanting cascade, also great for rock climbing and mountaineering
  • Gavi – an authentic village tucked away in the green hills and tropical forests, boat rides, bird watching, camping
  • Nadukani – panoramic views of Idukki, its surrounding mountains and the Muvattupuzha River
  • Anakarra Falls – a quaint village with mystical falls and trekking

The best time to visit Idukki is between October and March, once the rainy season is over and the temperatures are more comfortable to explore in.

If you love peace, serenity and tranquillity, then Idukki is a wonderland of nature to explore on your travels through India.

6. VARKALA, KERALA

palm tree coastline of Varkala, India

Varkala is where the crystal waters of the Arabian Sea meets dramatic coastal cliffs. The beauty of this coastline is highlighted against the blue skies and magical sunsets.

Walking along the cliffside path offers you a full view of the vast ocean and palm tree fringed coastline.

Besides swimming in the turquoise waters of Varkala Beach, here are some other places to visit while you are there:

  • Ponnumthuruthu Island – the perfect getaway to an island encircled by the Anjengo Backwaters
  • Thiruvambady Beach – a black sand beach away from any noise, just peace and quiet to relax amongst the palm trees
  • Odayum Beach – a paradise of golden sand and clear waters
  • Kappil Beach and Lake – a picturesque tropical beach-backwater scenery

Varkala has a tropical climate so it is best to visit during the winter months of October to March.

Varkala is a wonderfully unique experience where you can relax quietly in the natural beauty of Kerala’s Southern Coastline.

7. KODAIKANAL & VATTAKANAL, tAMIL NADU

Western Ghats mountain nature destinations in South India

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live in the clouds, then Kodaikanal is the perfect misty wonderland for you!

In the heart of the Western Ghats is the mystical landscapes of Kodaikanal and Vattakanal. This is a true gem when it comes to exploring the most beautiful nature destinations in South India.

There is an abundance of breathtaking viewpoints to truly appreciate the beauty of this land and everything it has to offer you. I will never forget breathing in the fresh mountain air, admiring the green hills and trekking around the winding paths decorated with wildflowers. Not to mention, the sunrises are absolutely spectacular from Vattakanal.

Some of the most amazing activities to do that really capture the essence of this region are:

  • Kodaikanal Lake – even though it is a man-made lake, you can enjoy the natural surroundings of the lake by boat
  • Coaker’s Walk – a plaza walkway along the mountain side over-looking the hills and rivers
  • Vattakanal Falls – an ethereal waterfall in the enchanting forest
  • Dolphin Nose – just a 30-minute hike down to a protruding rock from which to admire the deep valley and vibrant fauna
  • Echo Point – a view into the distant valleys as far as your eyes can see
  • Pillar Rocks – impressive mountain pillars towering over the valley, camping, star-gazing
  • Pine Forest Walks – a beautiful forest landscape to wander through, especially mysterious when the mist whisps through the trees
  • Thailayar Falls – a deep valley waterfall in the heart of the hills
  • Perumal Peak – a hike through the majestic Western Ghats for awe-spiring views from the highest peak of the hills
  • Palani Hills Trek – the best hike to fully experience the wilderness of Kodaikanal

The best time to visit is during the winter months between October and March.

I highly recommend staying in Vattakanal when you visit here. It is a small, intimate village surrounded by nature and quaint guest houses.

8. HAMPI, KARNATAKA

Boulder covered hills of Hampi

Hampi is one of the most beautiful destinations in all of India. Where ancient heritage harmoniously blends with the ethereal nature that surrounds it.

You will be transported back in time as you wonder through this World Heritage Site of impressive ruins, beautiful temples and boulder-strewn hills. Hampi is a treasure of South India for all nature and history enthusiasts.

Even though it is known for the intricate historical architecture, and you should definitely take time exploring the temples and ruins, there is a whole natural world to explore here too:

  • Climb Hampi’s giant boulders – rock climbing for the adventurous spirit
  • Visit the Hippie Island – stay in a hut, bicycle rides to admire the beauty, sunset points
  • Mantaga Hill – the best viewpoint in Hampi to see the entire hilly landscape dotted with boulders
  • Anjaneya Hill – a village just a little bit outside of Hampi with lots of monkeys and breathtaking views
  • Cliff Jumping – jumping off the cliffs at Sanapur Lake
  • Rice Paddies – ride a scooter or bicycle around Hamp to see the lush green rice fields
  • Bamboo Basket Boat Ride – circular bamboo boats on Sanapur Lake

The best time to visit Hampi is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and not too hot for adventuring.

Between its high spiritual energy and unique natural beauty, Hampi is truly a world wonder to embrace.

9. COORG, KARNATAKA

Known as the “Scotland Of India”, Coorg gives you the feels of stepping into an enchanted wonderland.

With its cascading waterfalls, misty hills and emerald-green valleys as far as the eye can see, Coorg is one of the nature destinations in South India you do not want to miss.

Amazing nature activities to do in Coorg:

  • Abby Falls – a glistening waterfall between the coffee and spice plantations
  • HannamanaKere Lake – surrounded by mountains and lush plantations
  • Kotebetta Trek – incredible views of the vast green valley
  • Mallalli Falls – easily accessible trek to the majestic falls situated in the verdant hills
  • Mandalpatti Trek – one of the best treks in Coorg to witness the lush mountains of the Western Ghats and forest covered hills
  • Raja’s Seat – spectacular viewpoint of the entire valley
  • Somwarpet – a tranquil lake amidst the green scenery
  • Tadiandamol Trek – another beautiful trek that takes you up the second highest mountain in Karnataka for the inspiring views of Coorg’s natural beauty
  • Karada Village – an authentic village experience where you can relax in the embrace of nature
  • Waterfall Repelling – Chelavara Waterfalls

Visting Coorg during October and February is the best time for outdoor activities. But towards the end of March, the land is abundant in beautiful white blossoming flowers.

Coorg is the perfect place for the adventure seekers and those who love to relax in nature’s embrace. Not to mention a photographer’s heaven!

10. SHIVAMOGGA, KARNATAKA (Shimoga)

majestic waterfall  and green nature of South India

Deep valley waterfalls, towering coconut plantations, beautiful rice fields, exquisite mountain views, dense jungles and the graceful Tunga River. What more could a nature lover ask for?

Shivamogga is a picturesque landscape rich in beauty and culture. You can feel the majestic energy of the powerful falls from the stunning viewpoint. Making this one of the top nature destinations for travellers in South India.

Some of the most memorable nature places to visit in Shivamogga are:

  • Jog Falls – the second tallest waterfalls in India
  • Honnemaradu – an authentic village vibe, pristine nature, kayaking, hiking, coracle boat ride
  • Kodachadri Trek – captivating views of the Western Ghats and rolling hills
  • Dabbe Falls – trek to this hidden gem of Shivamogga, a perfect escape into nature
  • Agumbe – a village nestled in the dense forest landscapes, beautiful waterfall, unmissable sunset views
  • Onake Abbi Falls – a 5km trek through rich fauna and flora, the summit of the trek offers a unique view of the falls from a height of 500 feet

The best time to visit Shivamogga is in winter, October to March. Although, the waterfalls flow much heavier during the monsoon season, July to September. Visiting during monsoon season may restrict your ability do some of the nature adventures.

Shivamogga is the ultimate paradise for those who love chasing waterfalls and appreciate the untouched beauty of nature.

11. GOKARNA, KARNATAKA

aerial view of a palm tree beach

Gokarna is a paradise vacation away from busyness of everyday life. Along the coastline of South Western India is the small town of Gokarna, surrounded by rocky shores, tropical flora and verdant hills.

The warm ocean temperatures and tranquil atmosphere of Gokarna is the perfect combination to relax and revitalize on your trip.

Just like Hampi, there is a blend of spirituality and natural beauty that captivates all its visitors. You can fully immerse yourself in the divinity of nature and mystical essence of ancient temples.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Gokarna:

  • Om Beach – relaxation, adventure, amazing for photography, rocky trails, dolphin spotting, fishing, trekking, banana boat rides
  • Gokarna Beach – surfing, snorkelling, jet-skiing, the beach is more pristine closer towards the River Gangavalli, you can also walk to other scenic beaches from here
  • Beach Camping – enjoy the sunsets and star-gazing
  • Night Walks – if you are lucky, you can see phytoplankton
  • Kudle Beach – beautiful spot to watch sunset
  • Road Trip – riding through the roads of Gokarna will offer panoramic views of the landscapes
  • Yana – very impressive caves to explore, formed by a volcanic explosion, rich greenery, trekking
  • Dandeli Forest Camp – a wild adventure into the forest, walking trails, bird watching
  • Catamaran Boat Rides – experience the turquoise waters of the ocean
  • Half Moon Beach – reached by trek, blue ocean with a lush forest backdrop, camping
  • Paradise Beach – also reached by trek, one of the most beautiful beaches in Gokarna

The most pleasant time to visit Gokarna is between October and March.

Between the adrenaline adventures, magical sunsets, spiritual energy and exotic nature scenery, Gokarna is a destination of pure bliss to experience.

12. ARAKU VALLEY, ANDHRA PRADESH

valley view of the eastern ghats mountains

Nestled in the Eastern Ghats of South India is Araku Valley. The vibrant colours of the rolling hills, high mountains and misty mornings invites travellers into the embrace of this radiant valley. The abundance of coffee plantations and blooming flowers add to the beauty of these landscapes.

Be sure to visit the following nature spots in Araku Valley:

  • Ananthagiri Hills – a bird’s eye view of the infinite valley, visit the waterfalls
  • Borra Caves – limestone caves, the biggest caves in the country
  • Galikonda View Points – Galikonda is the second highest mountain in the Eastern Ghats, memorable view points
  • Tyda Park – a wilderness adventure, some wildlife roams freely here
  • Katiki Waterfalls – nearby Bora Caves, a majestic waterfall encircled by the jungle

September to March is the best time to visit Araku Valley. Although March being less busy compared to the other months.

I would definitely recommend only visiting here if you have extra time for exploring a number of nature destinations in South India.

Araku Valley is off the beaten path, a treasure of South India that is yet to be explored by many people.

You will experience a wilderness of adventure and tranquillity in South India that is different to the dramatic landscapes of the North. I hope that this post has inspired you to explore the most enchanting and exotic nature destinations of South India.

best nature destinations of South India, Kerala Backwaters

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Which south indian state is the most beautiful.

The most beautiful nature state in South India is Kerala. Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country”. The natural beauty of Kerala is mesmerizingly endless with abundant landscapes that feel like a fairytale dream to explore. Kerala is one of the most popular states for tourists in India and offers something special for all kinds of nature travellers.

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Wildlifer India

Best Wildlife Safari in South India

best safari south india

In South India, there are several exceptional wildlife safari destinations offering unique experiences to visitors. Here are some of the best wildlife safari options in South India:

1. Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka:

  • Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris through lush forests, grasslands, and water bodies, with opportunities to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and a variety of bird species.

2. Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka:

  • Bandipur Tiger Reserve is one of the premier tiger reserves in India and offers excellent wildlife safari experiences. Visitors can embark on jeep safaris through dense forests and open grasslands, with chances to see tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, and various bird species.

3. Periyar National Park, Kerala:

  • Periyar National Park, located in the scenic Western Ghats, is famous for its picturesque setting and boat safaris on Periyar Lake. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through serene waters surrounded by lush forests, with opportunities to spot elephants, sambar deer, Indian bison, and a variety of bird species.

4. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu:

  • Mudumalai National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and offers jeep safaris through diverse habitats, including moist deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrublands. Wildlife sightings may include tigers, leopards, elephants, wild dogs, and numerous bird species.

5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala:

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled amidst the Western Ghats and offers jeep safaris through pristine forests and hilly terrain. Visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, including elephants, deer, monkeys, and birds, while enjoying the scenic beauty of the sanctuary.

6. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Kerala:

  • Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and offers jeep safaris through dense forests and grasslands. Visitors can spot tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, and several species of birds while exploring the sanctuary.

7. Silent Valley National Park, Kerala:

  • Silent Valley National Park is a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts and offers trekking and jeep safaris through its pristine forests. Visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, including lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, elephants, and an array of bird species.

best safari south india

8. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala:

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Western Ghats, offers jeep safaris through its dense forests and hilly terrain. Visitors can spot elephants, deer, langurs, and various bird species while exploring the sanctuary’s diverse habitats.

9. Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana:

  • This tiger reserve, spread across the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is one of the largest tiger reserves in India. It offers jeep safaris and boat cruises for visitors to explore its varied landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies, with chances to spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species.

10. Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu:

  • Anamalai Tiger Reserve, also known as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, is located in the Western Ghats and offers jeep safaris through its dense forests and grasslands. Visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, and an array of bird species.

11. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka:

  • Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the Western Ghats, offers jeep safaris and river rafting experiences for visitors to explore its lush forests and riverine habitats. Wildlife sightings may include tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species.

12. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala:

  • Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is a paradise for birdwatchers and offers guided birdwatching tours. Visitors can spot numerous bird species, including endemics like the Sri Lanka frogmouth, Malabar trogon, and white-bellied treepie.

13. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala:

  • Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Thiruvananthapuram, offers boat safaris on Neyyar Dam reservoir for visitors to explore its scenic surroundings and spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, langurs, and various bird species.

14. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka:

  • Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Western Ghats, offers jeep safaris through its diverse habitats, including moist deciduous forests and grasslands. Visitors can spot elephants, tigers, leopards, gaurs, and an array of bird species while enjoying the sanctuary’s natural beauty.

These wildlife safari destinations in South India provide fantastic opportunities to connect with nature, witness diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the region’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re interested in spotting iconic mammals, rare bird species, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness, each sanctuary offers a unique experience worth exploring.

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5 best wildlife safari destinations in South India that you must check out

First Published Apr 13, 2019, 1:52 PM IST

From tigers in their natural habitat to rare sandalwood trees and more, southern India has a lot to satiate your wanderlust. Take a dekko: 

From tigers in their natural habitat to rare sandalwood trees and more, southern India has a lot to satiate your wanderlust. So, here are a few of the best destinations suggested by WildTrails app, that helps you to plan your wildlife travel right from hotel booking to your wildlife safari.

From tigers in their natural habitat to rare sandalwood trees and more, southern India has a lot to satiate your wanderlust. So, here are a few of the best destinations suggested by WildTrails app, that helps you to plan your wildlife travel right from hotel booking to your wildlife safari.

BR HILLS - The Biligirirangana Hills, commonly called BR Hills, is a hill range situated in south-eastern Karnataka, at its border with Tamil Nadu in South India. The area is called Biligiriranganatha Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary or simply BRT Wildlife Sanctuary.

BR HILLS - The Biligirirangana Hills, commonly called BR Hills, is a hill range situated in south-eastern Karnataka, at its border with Tamil Nadu in South India. The area is called Biligiriranganatha Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary or simply BRT Wildlife Sanctuary.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area and a tiger reserve as part of Project Tiger, located 23 km south of Bhadravathi town and 38 km northwest of Chikkamagaluru town in Karnataka state, India Bhadra sanctuary has a wide range of flora and fauna and is a popular place for day outings.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area and a tiger reserve as part of Project Tiger, located 23 km south of Bhadravathi town and 38 km northwest of Chikkamagaluru town in Karnataka state, India Bhadra sanctuary has a wide range of flora and fauna and is a popular place for day outings.

Bandipur National Park established in 1974 as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger, is a national park located in the south Indian state of Karnataka, which is the state with the highest tiger population in India.

Bandipur National Park established in 1974 as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger, is a national park located in the south Indian state of Karnataka, which is the state with the highest tiger population in India.

A place that never disappoints is "Pench National Park - jungle that became a book". The Kabini, also called Kapila, is one of the major tributaries of the river Cauvery in southern India.

A place that never disappoints is "Pench National Park - jungle that became a book". The Kabini, also called Kapila, is one of the major tributaries of the river Cauvery in southern India.

Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a wildlife reserve in the South Indian state of Karnataka. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park is backed by the Brahamagiri Mountains and filled with sandalwood and teak trees.

Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a wildlife reserve in the South Indian state of Karnataka. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park is backed by the Brahamagiri Mountains and filled with sandalwood and teak trees.

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India’s best jungle safari destinations for the season

Precious Rongmei , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA Updated : Nov 12, 2023, 10:15 IST

best safari south india

India’s unparalleled biodiversity is the main reason why jungle safaris are such incredibly fun things to do. India’s wild has some of the rarest animals in the world and offers a chance to see diverse landscapes. From dense forests to unending grasslands and marshes, there’s so much to see in India’s wild, and all these enhance the safari experience by adding an element of adventure and thrill.

Here's a friendly advice, if you are out for safaris, keep an open mind that you may or may not get tiger sightings. A true friend of wildlife will simply enjoy nature and everything around. And lucky for us, our forests are stunning!

Jawai Bandh Leopard Conservation Reserve, Rajasthan

Take a break from the tigers and elephants and give chance to the leopards. They are known to be elusive and they don't come out in the open so much. But that's not the case in Jawai. This is their natural habitat and this is where they thrive. Take a jeep safari around to see them in their best element. When here, you can opt for a traditional stay with a homestay accommodation; the place is also home to some reputed luxe brands, including the Sujan Jawai Camp, Korta Escape and more for those in mood to splurge some.

Kabini, Karnataka

Kabini is one of the best places in south India where you can have unforgettable safari experiences. There are jeep, bus and elephant safaris available, but the jeep safari is the most popular one. Reason being, it offers more in-depth exploration of the forest. When in Kabini, watch out for leopards, dholes, elephants, tigers, gaurs, bears and bison. Did you know that the forest of Kabini is also home to India's only known black panther? This sighting is as rare as they come. The panther is lovingly named Saaya, meaning, shadow.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest and one of the most famous national parks in India. Here, jungle safaris take you to the heart of the forest to see the majestic tigers, leopards, elephants, and close to 600 species of birds!

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore is known for its thriving tiger population and offers excellent opportunities for tiger sightings. When in Ranthambore, one can’t help but be completely mesmerised by the diverse landscape. From dense forest patches and dry grasslands to rocky outcrops, find them all here.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga is one of the most popular safari destinations in India, mainly because of the unique experiences. From elephant safaris into the rhino territories to a chance to sight some of the rarest animals and birds like the white tiger and Bengal florican, Kaziranga is an experience you will never forget.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park is known for its lush sal and bamboo forests, the home to the majestic Bengal tigers. The forests of Kanha are some of the most beautiful in India, and they are great places to spot tigers, leopards, and barasingha (swamp deer). Kanha National Park is also one of India’s top birding destinations.

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

When we talk about the best and the most unique, Sundarbans is one of the first names that comes up. The Sundarbans is a unique mangrove forest known for its population of Bengal tigers that swim and hunt in the water. It's also home to saltwater crocodiles and various bird species. The mangrove boat safaris are unforgettable.

Periyar National Park, Kerala

It’s a mix of jungle safari and boat safari at Periyar National Park. Here you are in elephant territory so the best thing to do is sit tight and enjoy the gentle giants of the forest. The banks of the Periyar River are some of the best places to see wild elephant herds in action.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh has given us some of the most legendary tigers India has ever seen. From the legends of the past like Sita, Charger and Bamera to the present-day star like Mahaman, Bandhavgarh’s tigers have given us numerous stories, and we keep going for more.

Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

Bandipur is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and offers opportunities to see tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species. It's known for its lush forests and scenic beauty.

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

Tadoba is one of the best places to spot the Bengal tiger. As of now, it’s the tigress Maya that has been ruling the forest for quite some time now and is a big crowd-puller. This beauty is fearless and one of the most photogenic big cats you will ever come across.

Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra

The lush forest of Pench inspired Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book and we can see why. The forest’s beauty is unparalleled. The dense sal forest and the vast grasslands give some of the best photo-ops in the wild. This park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to tigers, leopards, and various bird species.

Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, Rajasthan

Jhalana Leopard Safari Park is small in size, just 23 sq km in total, but it gives some of the most thrilling wildlife experiences. The park is home to around 30-35 leopards. Leopard sighting is not at all difficult here. The park is also located in the heart of Jaipur city, so it makes for a great quick getaway.

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India’s best jungle safari destinations for the season

India’s unparalleled biodiversity is the main reason why jungle safaris are such incredibly fun things to do. India’s wild has some of the rarest animals in the world and offers a chance to see divers...

best safari south india

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Explore The Wildlife Adventure of India

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  • Ranthambore National Park
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South India Wildlife Tour

Ooty

Summary of South India Wildlife Tour

  • Duration: 16 Nights/ 17 Days
  • Major Attractions: Nagarhole, B.R. Hills, Bandipur, Ooty, Munnar, Eravikulam, Periyar, Kumarakom
  • Destination Covered: Delhi, Bangalore-Mysore, Nagarhole National Park, Biligiri Ranganna Hills, Bandipur National Park, Munnar-Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

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Highlights of South India Wildlife Tour

South India is a major circuit in Indian Wildlife Travel. An Indian Wildlife Tour will not be complete without visiting the national parks of South India. South India Wildlife Tour will include three states Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Kerala.

The trip will also include the historical sites of Mysore city especially Mysore Palace, which is one of the biggest palaces of India and finest too. Nagarhole National Park or Rajiv Gandhi National Park is an ideal tiger reserve for tiger safari in India .

If lucky, you can track the Indian Elephants on the banks of Kabini River. Safari Tours in India and that too in Southern part will always be covering Bandipur National Park as it is a prominent tiger reserve and offers maximum changes to see Royal Bengal Tiger in South India. In B.R. Hills, you will see gaur families, herds of elephants, the bears and the leopards.

This tour would also pass through Nilgiri Mountains and you will get the opportunity to visit picturesque hill stations of Ooty and Munnar. Eravikulam National Park is probably the best wildlife park of India to view Nilgiri Thar. While taking a boat ride over Lake Periyar in Periyar National Park, one can easily witness Wild Elephants, birds and wild boars.

Nilgiri Hills are full with spice and coffee plantations, which increase the overall nature experience of South India tour. The tour will finish with unforgettable birding experience at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, as it is quite famous for birding tours in India .

Itinerary Details

best safari south india

Bangalore–Arrival

Arrive at the international airport, you will be assisted by our representative and transferred to the hotel.

Elephant Herd Nagarhole India

Bangalore–Nagarhole National Park

After having breakfast, transfer to Nagarhole National Park or Rajiv Gandhi National Park. Arrive at Nagarhole, check in to the hotel. After lunch, take the wildlife safari in the Nagarhole National Park with our expert naturalist. In the evening enjoy one of the wildlife movies.

Elephant Nagarhole India

Nagarhole National Park

After sipping a cup of tea or coffee, start a boat ride in the backwater of Kabini River to view the crocodiles, various birds and major animals like elephants etc. In the day you may take one elephant ride. In the late afternoon, take one more jeep safari.

Tigeress In Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole–Biligiri Ranganna Hills (B.R. Hills)

In the morning, drive to B R Hills (Biligiri Ranganna Hills). Once you will arrive you will feel the freshness of tree-covered hills. Check-in and have a hot lunch. After having a refreshing cup of tea or coffee, our expert naturalists will take you to the jungle though the jeep. During this safari you will encounter various gaur families, few herds of elephants, the bears and if lucky the leopards hanging on the trees.

Bison in Bandipur National Park

Biligiri Ranganna Hills (B.R. Hills)

In the morning wake up with listening to the songs of mynas of the hill and greet the beautiful misty morning sipping a cup of tea. Take another ride through the depths of the wonderful jungle which might give you the opportunity to see the ruler of the jungle the Tiger and also the sloth bear. Later take the breakfast at the Gol Ghar. After lunch take an afternoon jeep safari along with our naturalist to track the various wild animals.

Checkout all national parks in India

Bison in Bandipur National Park

BR Hills-Bandipur National Park

After breakfast, transfer to Bandipur National Park , also famous as Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Arrive at Bandipur and check in to the wildlife lodge. After taking the lunch, take a jeep safari in the park with our expert naturalist.

Bison in Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park

After having tea/ coffee, join a nature walk with the naturalist in Bandipur Tiger Reserve . Later, take an afternoon jeep ride in the park to see different wild animals. Stay overnight in the wildlife resort.

Ooty

Bandipur National Park-Ooty

Today, take one more jeep safari in the morning. After breakfast depart for the picturesque hill station of Ooty. Arrive in Ooty and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day is proposed free to appreciate the natural beauty of Ooty surrounded by Nilgiri Hills.

Ooty India

Ooty-Munnar

In the morning drive towards Kerala’s highest hill station Munnar (1524 meters) on the way viewing the spice & tea plantations. Munnar is known for its bracing & wonderful climate which displays the charm of an ancient world. The environment of Munnar is purified by the plantations of tea, cardamom and other spices. In Munnar, you will witness many charming mountains, marvellous lakes, various streams and beautiful views of the valleys and clouds touching them.

Munnar

Munnar- Eravikulam National Park-Munnar

Today take an excursion to Eravikulam National Park to see the Nilgiri Thar. In the evening, you will return back to Munnar to stay overnight.

Munnar

Munnar-Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

After having breakfast depart Munnar for Thekkady ( Periyar National Park ) by a charming route. Arrive in Periyar and check in to your hotel. Late, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake which will give you an opportunity to view the wildlife.

Periyar Lake

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Today, take one more boat ride on Lake Periyar to see some more wild animals if lucky you might see the herds of wild elephants. During the day, join a spice plantation tour with our guide.

Tiger in Periyar

Periyar–Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Today depart for Kumarakom – the exotic destination of Kerala known for its backwaters. On arrival in Kumarakom, check in to your hotel. Later in the afternoon, take an excursion to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Kumarakom

Kumarakom-Kochi-Departure

Today, transfer to Cochin international airport to embark the flight back to the home country. The tour ends.

Ask for free of charge No-Obligation Quote for South India Wildlife Tour

Related tour packages.

South India Wildlife Tour

Attractions:

South India Wildlife Tour

Attractions: Wild elephants with other wildlife and spice plantation

South India Wildlife Tour

Attractions: Crocodiles, various birds and major animals like elephants

South India Wildlife Tour

Attractions: Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, Munnar and Biligiri Ranganna Hills

South India Wildlife Tour

Attractions: Coorg, Nagarhole, Sultan's Battery, Vythiri, Tellicherry, Guruvayur, Cochin, Marari Beach

South India Wildlife Tour

Attractions: Cochin, Munnar, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, Kumarakom

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12 best national parks for jungle safari experience in india – love and conserve our wildlife.

best safari south india

India has amazing National Parks and forest reserves for enjoying exciting wildlife safaris. The alluring and enchanting wilderness of India is very rich in floral and faunal species.  Nobody can miss the powerful influence of nature from one’s life. One always needs an escape from the chaotic world of city life and elevates their spirit amidst the healing ambiance of nature. Nature plays an amazing role in inhaling and rejuvenating the spirit of mankind and the best vistas of nature can only be found where there is abundance of greenery.

India has an abundance of green forest reserves teeming with exotic wildlife.  Tourists from all across the globe once in a while visit Forest reserves and national parks to enjoy amazing wildlife safaris. Not only it offers thrilling adventure activities but also it refreshes one’s mind, body and soul from tiredness.

Where are you going this year for your holidays? You can plan wonderful and thrilling Jungle safaris in India’s best National Parks and Tiger Reserves. Here is the list of top 12 best National Parks for Jungle Safari experience in India-

Also Check Out: Best All-Inclusive Wildlife Safari Tour Packages

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore Jeep Safari

Ranthambore National Park offers one of the top jungle safaris in India. Here you will feel the heaven of refreshment all around, lush carpet of greenery, exotic wild animals creating an enchanting spell to seduce the mind of tourists.

Ranthambore National Park offers exciting opportunities for tiger sightings. The lofty Aravalli and Vindhya ranges in the background makes the park visually very appealing. Tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from all across the globe come here for an amazing wildlife experience. It is one of the best tiger Jungle safari destinations in India.

  • Flora in Ranthambore National Park- Babul, Gurjan, Kadam, Khair, Khajur, Khakhera, Karel, Kikar, Mahua, Salar, Ronj, Tendu and Water Lilies etc.
  • Fauna in Ranthambore National Park- Tiger, Sloth Bear, Leopard, Jackal, Fox, Hyena, Indian Wolf, Chital, Sambar Deer, Blue Bull Antelope or Nilgai, Rhesus Macaque and Langur etc

Best Time to Visit for Jungle Safari – October to June

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  • Best Places to Visit in Ranthambore
  • Interesting Facts About Ranthambore National Park
  • Ranthambore – Destination Wedding
  • Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park Ladakh

Hemis National Park is an enchanting wilderness to be healed and fine tune your spirit with the picturesque vistas of nature. Fresh tint of green trees, rivulets, wild calls of animals will definitely amaze your senses. You will completely forget yourself and embrace the wild heart of the jungle to sync with your inner soul’s adventurous nature. Here you will enjoy one of the most thrilling jungle safaris of India. There are around 70 mammal and 70 bird species in the park which will definitely blow your heart away with their wild calls and sweet chirpings.

  • Flora in Hemis National Park – Anemone, Veronica, Delphinium, Gentiana, Lloydia and Kobresia etc.
  • Fauna in Hemis National Park – Ladakh Urial, Tibetan Argali, Bharal, Tibetan Wild Ass and Dholes etc.

Best Time to Visit- May to October

Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Leh Ladakh

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh Tiger

The beauty of Bandhavgarh National Park will never dull your moment and fail to rejuvenate your senses. There is nothing else in the universe that has the capacity to heal your spirit then the influence of nature. The exotic wild animals decorate this heavenly paradise with their calls and smiles.

Bandhavgarh National Park will show you enchanting vistas of Vindhya mountains and the exotic wildlife will seduce your soul with the best safari experiences in India.

  • Flora in Bandhavgarh Park – Dhauda, Sal forests, Tendu, Arjun, Palas, Gamar, Salai, Saja, Bhirra, Khair, Kusum, Haldu, Dhaman, Ambla, Arjun, Kapok, Amaltas, Mahua and Kalasiris etc.
  • Fauna in Bandhavgarh Park- Chital, Tiger, Sambar Deer, Wild Pig, Chausingha, Gaur, Wild Boar, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Chinkara, Dhole and Asiatic Jackal etc.

Best Time to Visit – October to June

  • Top Things to Do in Bandhavgarh
  • Night Safari in Bandhavgarh
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari in Bandhavgarh

Gir National Park, Gujarat

Gir National Park Lion

Picturesque landscape of Gir National Park is very famous for Asiatic Wild Lions. Coming here for an amazing wildlife safari will make you rejoice like a child. From photographers to nature lovers, the beauty and habitat of Gir National Park will leave an amazing impression in your mind for a long time. The habitat of Gir National Park is entirely dry and deciduous which is best for Asiatic Lions. You will not find this species of lion anywhere in India. One more place where this species is found is the jungles of Africa. There are around 40 species of reptiles and amphibians and 200 species of avifauna. Wildlife lovers from all across the globe come here for the best wildlife tourism experience of India.

  • Flora in Gir National Park – Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus, Amli, Tendu, Dhak, Zizyphas and Jamun etc.
  • Fauna in Gir National Park- Sambar deer, Chousingha, Jackal, India Fox, Hyena, Four-Horned Antelope and Asiatic Lions etc.

Best Time to Visit- November to March

Other Interesting Blog to Read

  • Gir National Park- Meet Majestic Asiatic Lion

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

MP Kanha National Park Tiger

Listen to the music of nature, wild gaze of animals and soothing picturesque vistas will take you in the world of serenity and tranquillity. For a refreshing holiday experience, the wildlife Safari of Kanha National Park is one of the best jungle safari experiences in India. Match your heart beat with the rhythm of nature.

Kanha National Park is an enchanting wilderness for wildlife and nature lovers. It was used by famous novelist Rudyard Kipling as a background for his novel -Jungle Book. The verdant green vistas of the picturesque landscapes of this park will take your breath away.

  • Flora in Kanha National Park- Sal, Saja, Lendia, Dhawa, Tendu, Palas, Bija, Mahua, Aonla, Achar and Bamboo.
  • Fauna in Kanha National Park- Tiger, Leopard, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, Foxes, Jackals, Panther, Chital, Sambhar, Black Buck, Barking Deer, Barahsingha and Gaur etc.

Best Time to Visit- October to June

  • Top 10 Activities to Enjoy in and around Kanha National Park
  • What is the Best Time to Visit Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh?

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga Jeep Safari

The enchanting world of wilderness in Kaziranga National Park , its Eden- like beauty, lush greenery- Stop and let it embrace your tired spirit with its healing touch and sing you a lullaby to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Spot amazing wild animals who roam freely will brace you up with vitality.

Kaziranga National Park Located in Nagao district of Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is very popular for One- horned Rhino sightings which is one of the most endangered rhino species in the world. The Brahmaputra River at the fringes, stunning grasslands, beautiful meadows and breath-taking migratory birds attracts lots of wildlife lovers every year.  It is one of the top jungle Safari destinations to visit in India for amazing wildlife adventures.

  • Flora in Kaziranga Park – Albizia procera, Duabanga Grandiflora, Lagerstroemia Speciosa, Crateva Unilocularis, Sterculia Urens, Grewia Serrulata, Mallotus Philippensis etc.
  • Fauna in Kaziranga Park – One-Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Wild Water Buffalo and Swamp Deer etc.

Best Time to Visit- November to April

  • Top Activities to Enjoy in and around Kaziranga National Park
  • When is the Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park in Assam?

Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Satpura National Park

When you come to contemplate the beauty of Satpura National Park ; in its picturesque landscape you will find the richness in its quality of ambiance. Wild animals roam freely here and will gaze at you with excitement and the thrill of Jungle Safari at every moment here will never make you feel dull for a moment.

Located in the south of river Narmada, the stunning ranges of Pachmarhi plateau, dense teak forests, exotic animals from Nilgiri areas will captivate your heart. It offers one of the best Jungle Safaris in India.

  • Flora in Satpura National Park- Sal, Teak, Tendu, Phyllanthus Emblica, Mahua, Bel, Bamboo, and Grasses etc.
  • Fauna in Satpura National Park- Giant Squirrel, Indian Skimmer, Black Bellied Tern, Leaf-nosed Bat, leopard, sloth Bear, tigers, Wild boar, Wild Dog and Black Buck etc.
  • Best Places to Explore in Madhya Pradesh

Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Pench National Park

Visiting Pench National Park is like a doorway to a new world full of enchantment and thrill. It is one of the best National Parks for an amazing Wildlife Safari experience in India. Exotic wild creatures with their wild calls makes the entire habitat alive which gives thrill to the spirit in abundance.

Pench National Park is a treasure trove of amazing exotic wildlife species and floral species. Come here to admire the greenery all around and listen to the wild calls of animals to understand them better.

  • Flora in Pench National Park- Moyan, Mahua, Mokha, Skiras, Tendu, Bija, achar, Garari, Aonla, Ghont, Baranga, Aonla,Khair, Bhirra, Palas, Skiras and Khamali etc.
  • Fauna in Pench National Park- Sloth Bear, Chousingha, Chinkara, Barking Deer, Jackal, Fox, Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Jungle Cat and Hyena etc.

Best Time to Visit- October to February

Also Read: Wildlife of Madhya Pradesh

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Periyar National Park Kerala

Your Holidays will make you feel a lot better when you add thrill and excitement to it. What’s a better way than spending it in Periyar wildlife Sanctuary? It’s wonderful wildlife experience will make your holidays in India awesome.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best national parks for tiger jungle safaris in India. Located in Kerala, the beauty of this park will mesmerise your soul. You will witness alluring sights of wild elephants, deers and delightful birds. The natural vistas and soothing ambiance of calm nature will refresh your mind.

  • Flora in Periyar National Park- Teak, Rosewood, Tamarind, Mango, Jamun, Pipal, Gulmohar, Plumeria, Banyan, Sandalwood and Eucalyptus etc.
  • Fauna in Periyar National Park – Leopard, Sambar Deer, Indian Bison, Indian Wild Dog, Asian Elephant, and Barking Deer, Long-Tailed Macaque, Bonnet Macaque, and Nilgiri Langur etc
  • Birds in Periyar National Park- Malabar grey hornbill, Indian Pied Hornbill, White-Bellied Treepie and Malabar Trogon etc

Also Read: Wildlife of Kerala

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

Sunderban National Park

One must visit Sundarbans National Park once in a lifetime. It is a UNESCO world Heritage Site. Its awe-inspiring landscape will evoke the artist in you. Nature and the wild is a journey here to the most perfect kind of refreshment which you will not be able to get anywhere else.

It is the largest mangrove forest in the world which covers an area of 10, 00 sq. km. Various creeks and tributaries offer delightful wildlife sightings and nature vistas. It is one of the most popular wildlife destinations to visit in India. Wildlife lovers come here for awesome Royal Bengal Sightings and it also houses around 260 species of birds which makes it a best bird watching paradise in India.

  • Flora in Sunderban- Sundari Tree, Goran, Keora, Gewa, Dhundul, Kankra, Khagra and Spear Grass etc.
  • Fauna in Sunderban- Royal Bengal Tiger, Wild Boars, Fishing Cats, Macaques, Common Grey Mongooses, Foxes, Jungle Cats, Flying Foxes, Pangolins, and Spotted Deer etc.

Best Time to Visit- October to March

  • Best Places to Explore & Top Things to Do in Sundarban National Park

Tadoba Andhari National Park, Maharashtra

Tadoba Wildlife Tourism

Tadoba Andhari National Park’s landscapes will give you surprises each moment. It will enchant you with its amazing floral and faunal species. Sometimes decked in simplicity, sometimes with the vitality of the wild nature changes here every moment. It is one of the best places to enjoy Wildlife Safari.

Being the largest national parks for tiger sightings in Maharashtra it is very popular among wildlife lovers. The deep valleys and dense forests of the park are quite a scenic sight to behold for nature photography. Indeed, one must visit here for thrilling Jungle Safaris in India.

  • Flora in Tadoba Park- Teak, Bamboo, Hald, Salai, Semal, Beheda, Hirda, Karaya Gum, Mahua Madhuca, Lannea and Tendu
  • Fauna in Tadoba Park- Roya lBengal Tigers , Sloth Bears, Leopards, Gaurs, Nilgais, Civets, Striped Hyenas, Sambars, Barking Deers, Chitals and Wild Dogs etc.
  • Best Time to Visit Tadoba Tiger Reserve
  • Best Hotels & Resorts to Stay in Tadoba National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Corbett National Park Royal Bengal Tiger

Come here and get lost in its picturesque landscapes, refreshing vibes and soothing ambiance forever. Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most popular National Parks of India for tiger jungle safari.  It is a place where the first tiger project was launched in 1973. The boundless sides of the forests will reveal amazing floral and wildlife species which will make your soul blossom with thrill and joy.

Eye captivating grasslands, soulful migratory birds, alluring hills and stunning ravine belts offers mind boggling experience of wildlife holidays to the tourists.

  • Flora in Corbett Park- Trees, Shrubs, Narkul, Tiger Grass, Herbs, Bamboos, Grasses, Climbers, Bel, Kusum, Mahua, Bakli, Amla, Dhak, White Flowers, Big Red Blooms and Ferns etc.
  • Fauna in Corbett Park- Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Hog Deer, Walking Deer, Sambar, Sloth Beer, Yellow-throated marten, Otters and Asiatic Black Bear etc.

Best Time to Visit- October to Mid-June

Visiting all these enchanting National Parks is in itself a mind-boggling experience for a lifetime. Why are you still waiting for a perfect time?  Now that you have the best list, Plan an amazing wildlife vacation in India.

Other Important Wildlife Tourism Links

  • Famous National Parks of India
  • Popular Bird Sanctuaries in India
  • Top Places for Snow Leopard Sighting in India

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the top jungle safaris destinations in north india.

Top Jungle Safari destinations in North India are –

  • Ranthambore National Park
  • Jim Corbett National Park
  • Dachigam National Park
  • Dudhwa National Park
  • Great Himalayan National Park
  • Rajaji National Park
  • Sariska National Park
  • Kishtwar National Park
  • Salim Ali National Park

Which are the best jungle safaris destinations in South India?

Best jungle safaris destinations in South India are-

  • Bandipur National Park
  • Periyar National Park
  • Mudumalai National Park
  • Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Nagarhole National Park
  • Bannerghatta National Park
  • R Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Kudremukh National Park
  • Eravikulam National Park
  • Guindy National Park
  • Silent Valley National Park
  • Mukurthi National Park
  • Sri Venkateshwara National Park

Which are the best jungle safari places in Gujarat?

Best Jungle Safari Places in Gujarat are-

  • Marine National Park
  • Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary
  • Gaga Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Pania Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Purna Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Wild Ass Sanctuary
  • Nal Sarovar Birds Sanctuary
  • Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary
  • Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Rampara Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

Which are the best national parks in India to explore Lions, Tigers, Leopards & Bears?

The best national parks in India to explore Lions, Tigers, Leopards & Bears are –

  • Bandhavgarh National Park
  • Gir National Park (For Lions)
  • Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
  • Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Panna Tiger Reserve
  • Jhalana Leopard Safari Park
  • Kanha Tiger Reserve
  • Sundarbans National Park
  • The Great Himalayan National Park
  • Dandeli wildlife Sanctuary
  • Pench National Park

Which is the best time to plan jungle safari holidays in India?

The best time to plan an awesome Jungle Safari in India between the months of October to Mid-June. If you want to explore nature and wildlife in amazing weather then plan your visit in Winter months but if you really want to catch the sight of wild tigers then summer time is the best for this. During summer Tigers and other wild creatures come near water bodies to quench their thirst and you can click their pictures at that time.

Published: 23 Apr, 2022

About the author

Pallavi Roy

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

By Prachi Joshi

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

With the monsoon more or less behind us (discounting the recent unseasonal showers), national parks across India have opened shop for the safari season. The lush jungles beckon, teeming with flora and fauna, and the promise of a tranquil stay—not to forget a big cat sighting if you’re lucky. From Corbett and Kaziranga to Kanha and Kabini, here is Vogue's edit of the most luxurious jungle lodges that make the perfect base for enthralling wildlife safaris.

Banjaar Tola, Kanha

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

Located along the banks of the Banjar River overlooking the heart of Kanha National Park, Banjaar Tola offers an unparalleled Taj Safaris experience. Two intimate camps, each with nine tented suites and a private pool, are spread over 90 acres of sal forest. Ensuite tents feature bamboo floors, handcrafted driftwood furniture, Gondi artwork and Bastar bell metalwork, and wide glass doors opening onto private decks with river views. Get a taste of local tribal cuisine in scenic outdoor dining settings.

Diphlu River Lodge

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

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If it’s good enough for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, it’s good enough for us. Perched on the fringe of Kaziranga National Park, Diphlu River Lodge offers 12 semi-detached cottages . Inspired by the architecture of local Mishing tribal homes, the cottages are raised on stilts and made of bamboo and wood, topped with thatched roofs. Head out on a jeep safari to spot the one-horned rhinoceros or hop on board a specially designed country boat that cruises down the Brahmaputra where you might catch a glimpse of the endangered Gangetic dolphins.

Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Kabini

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

Inspired in design by the Hadis (hamlets) or tribal villages, the picturesque Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge is bordered on two sides by the Kabini River. Splurge on the Pool Reserve Hut, which comes with lavish living areas, an indulgent bathroom, a temperature-controlled pool and a unique Star Bed (an open-air berth that’s perfect for stargazing). The resort offers jeep safaris in Nagarhole National Park, boat safaris on the Kabini River and even a ride down the river on a traditional round boat called a coracle.

Jim’s Jungle Retreat, Corbett

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

Soak in the forest experience at Jim’s Jungle Retreat located on the periphery of Jim Corbett National Park. 18 independent cottages channel the architectural style of the local pastoral Van Gujjar tribe with a generous sprinkling of British Raj flair. We recommend the Jungle Lodge, which offers spectacular views at a 15-foot elevation. Experiences include jeep safaris, cycling expeditions, heritage walks and even an overnight stay in the forest. After a long safari, lounge by the pool, relax in the library or rejuvenate yourself in the jungle spa.

Pench Tree Lodge, Pench

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

Pench in Madhya Pradesh is quintessential Jungle Book territory where, like Mowgli, you can run into Shere Khan (the tiger) and Baloo (the sloth bear). And Pugdundee Safaris’ Pench Tree Lodge with six treehouses and luxury cottages is the ideal base for your adventures. Perched at 18 feet above the ground, the spacious treehouses are made of local sal wood and come with a private sit-out deck and bay window lounger. Pench National Park is only 20 minutes away; apart from jungle safaris, there’s a host of activities to choose from like cycling, night trails , village walks and more.

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Satpura

Image may contain Interior Design Indoors Building Furniture Bed Housing Hotel Home Decor Room Bedroom and Wood

Live amidst true wilderness at Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, located in the Satpura National Park & Tiger Reserve. This exquisitely designed conservation and wildlife-focused lodge allows you to choose from 12 cottages and four luxury tents, all of which come with the creature comforts you’d expect. To really immerse yourself in nature, book one of the tents where you can observe animals as they drink from a nearby waterhole. Apart from jeep and motorboat excursions, you can also opt for walking, canoeing, cycling and camping safaris.

Sujan Jawai, Jawai Bandh

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

Dramatic granite rock formations make a spectacular backdrop for Sujan Jawai, a luxury wilderness camp that blends sophistication with ecology. The 10 tented suites have been recently upgraded and the new ensuite bathrooms now include a bathtub and a marble shower. For ultimate privacy, book the new Eden at Jawai, a two double-bedroom suite with a private entrance, jeep and butler, as well as a heated pool and a large deck. Track leopards on wilderness drives, explore the landscape on horseback and immerse yourself in the local culture on a guided walk with the Rabari tribespeople.

The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, Ranthambore

8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places in India to spot a tiger and The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort offers a luxurious setting for this experience. Spacious tents come with teak wood floors, king beds, plush armchairs, claw-footed bathtubs and private gardens. Head out on an exciting jungle drive to track tigers or on a Chambal river safari to spot crocodiles. Experience a rejuvenating spa session and then wind down with a sundowner at the observation tower.

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Best 7 National Parks for Tiger Safaris in India (Tips & Location Map)

India is the best place to see wild tigers. It enjoys 70% of the world's tiger population and has over 50 tiger reserves.

If you are a wildlife and nature lover, don't miss a wildlife safari tour in one of India's national parks.

The majestic Bengal tigers are the main stars — one of the top-draw animals for safari-goers, but you will also enjoy an array of other wild animals and the grasslands.

Jeep safaris, the most popular way to see the Bengal tigers in their natural habitat, are available in almost all of the national parks across India.

Read on for more information about tiger safaris in India covering the best national parks, best times, and other tips.

  • Best 7 National Parks for Tiger Safaris

How to Choose a Tiger Safari

A sample india itinerary with a tiger safari, the best time for a tiger safari in india, 1. ranthambore national park — most popular.

Ranthambore National Park is one of the biggest and best national parks for spotting wild tigers and other animals, such as jungle cats and Indian foxes.

It is close to Agra and Jaipur. The convenient location makes it easy to include in a classic golden triangle trip (of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur).

Moreover, Ranthambore National Park features sparse forest cover and open grassy meadows. A wider and unobstructed view increases the chance of seeing a tiger .

  • How to get there: about 170 km from Jaipur (3½ hours' driving)
  • Location: Rajasthan (a state in northwest India)

2. Kanha National Park — Most Wildlife

Kanha National Park is considered the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh (central India).

if you are interested in seeing more varied wildlife and a scenic jungle landscape, Kanha National Park is a good choice.

The dense forest, which provides good shelter for its tigers, may lead to less chance to spot a tiger.

  • How to get there: 2 hours' flying form Delhi to Swami Vivekananda International Airport and 4½–5 hours' driving from the airport
  • Location: Madhya Pradesh (a state in central India)

3. Bandhavgarh National Park — Highest Density of Tigers

Bandhavgarh National Park is another popular national park for tiger safaris in Madhya Pradesh.

Bandhavgarh National Park offers the best chance of seeing tigers  as it has a higher density of tigers. So, it is also a good choice if you are aiming at spotting tigers (and quickly). It is more remotely located than Ranthambhore and Kandha.

Besides Bengal tigers, it boasts a tremendous amount of species like the Indian guar, the world's largest bovine. You can also enjoy a guided walking safari to explore nature (not the tigers!) from up close.

  • How to get there: 1½ hours' flying from Delhi to Jabalpur Airport and 3½–4 hours' driving from the airport
  • Location: Madhya Pradesh (the state in central India)

4. Jim Corbett National Park — Rich Activities

Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park, where you can find every geographical landscape , from marshy swamps to hills, from riverine belts to lakes.

Though it has over 200 tigers, it is not easy to see them in the dense foliage. It is more for wildlife and nature lovers than tiger sightseeing.

It is also the one of the only national parks in India where you have the opportunity to stay inside the park in over-100-year-old forest lodges.

Apart from tiger safaris, you can enjoy other outdoor activities like nature walks, cycling, river rafting, and rope courses.

  • How to get there: about 250 km from Delhi (5 hours' driving)
  • Location: Uttarakhand (a state in central north India)

5. Tadoba National Park — Night Safaris

Satpura National Park is notably Maharashtra's (the state in central west India's) oldest and largest national park.

Tadoba National Park is not as big, but has one of the highest populations of tigers in India . This means you would have a good chance of seeing a tiger.

Tadoba National Park also offers a night safari experience, which allows you to observe nighttime wildlife like rusty-spotted cats, civets, and a variety of owls.

There is also good chance to see the shy sloth bear and wild dogs. You can also find some of the Central India's best native woodland bird species in this forest.

  • How to get there: 1½-2 hours' flying from Delhi to Nagpur and 2½ hours' driving from the airport
  • Location: Maharashtra (a state in central west India)

6. Satpura National Park — Less Crowded

Satpura National Park is a relatively less-crowded park for tiger safaris, so it is no struggle to get safari tickets, except during festivals or New Year weekends.

The tiger population in the park is thought to be around 50, but they are sometimes more elusive. Leopards, gaurs (the largest of oxes), wild dogs, and sloth bears are seen more frequently.

There you can also do a walking safari, canoeing, birding, etc.

  • How to get there: 1½ hours' flying from Delhi to Bhopal Airport and about 3½-4 hours' driving (190 km)

7. Sasan Gir National Park — for Lion Safaris

What makes Gir National Park special is that it is the only place in the world outside Africa where a lion can be seen in its natural habitat.

There you can go on a lion safari by jeep to spot lions roaming free in the wild. You can also see leopards, different species of deer, Chowsingha — the world's only four-horned antelope, jackals, and many other animals, though no tigers.

  • How to get there: about 2 hours' flying from Delhi to Rajkot Airport and about 2 hours' driving (100 km)
  • Location: Gujarat (westernmost state in India)

There are three main factors you should consider when choosing a park for a tiger safari — the ease of getting there, the possibility of seeing a tiger, and the scenery of the park.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Ranthambore National Park, and Tadoba National Park will give you a better chance to see a tiger. Among them, Ranthambore is most recommended as it is easier to get to.

If you'd enjoy dense forest scenery more than the sighting of a tiger in open grassland scenery, with rivers, lush greenery, and other outdoor activities, Jim Corbett National Park, Kanha National Park, and Satpura National Park could be better choices for you.

If you would like a uniquely special experience (and if you are already in the Gujarat area of west India), an Indian lion safari in Sasan Gir National Park may be perfect for you.

We can help you book a tiger safari tour and arrange the transport for you. Just contact us .

For first-timers, the classic route with a tiger safari includes Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Ranthambore National Park, covering India's most iconic monuments and mesmerizing landscapes with a search for wild tigers on the way.

The trip usually takes about 9 days. Here is the sample itinerary:

  • Days 1–2: Delhi sightseeing (the iconic temples, tombs, and local markets)
  • Days 3–4: Head to Agra; Agra sightseeing (the Taj Mahal, baby Taj, Agra Fort)
  • Day 5: Drive from Agra to Ranthambore; see the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri on the way
  • Day 6: A tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park
  • Days 7–8: Head to Jaipur; Jaipur sightseeing (the ancient palaces and a cooking class)
  • Day 9: Back to Delhi for your departure

If you are interested in the itinerary, check out our 9-Day India Golden Triangle with Tiger Safari Tour  for more details. You can also contact us for any questions or needs. All our tours can be adjusted to your requirements.

Most national parks are open from mid-October to June and are closed during the monsoon season from July to early October.

For those who are especially interested in a tiger safari , the best time to visit the national parks is from April to June . This is due to drier weather conditions, making it easier for you to have the chance to spot the tigers, as they come out searching for water.

The cooler months from late November to February are the most comfortable time to visit, with pleasant midday temperatures, but vegetation remains dense and can make wildlife spotting challenging.

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Experience an adventure and feel your adrenaline rush on a tiger safari with us. See the magnificent striped felines in their natural habitat, and learn about their lives in a national park in India.

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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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sundarban 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 wildlife sanctuary 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

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

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.

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India’s best wildlife stays

From luxe camps to earthy lodges to comfy hotels, we list the 50 most luxurious stays for your next safari holiday.

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India's best wildlife stays.

Luxury camps that redefine roughing it out, eco-friendly resorts that offer absolute comfort amid nature, resorts furnished with greenery and wildlife—here’s a round-up of the finest stays across India that assure the best base to launch your wildlife-safari discoveries:

BEST STAYS IN JAMMU & KASHMIR The Ultimate Travelling Camp’s Chamba Camp, Thiksey

Glamping packages in Ladakh.

An oasis of luxury 
in an unforgiving landscape, this camp offers 360° views of the Stok Kangri and Ladakh mountain ranges from its comfortably appointed, well-furnished tents. Choose from activities such as archery, river rafting, polo and birdwatching. It’s a glamping experience you don’t want to miss. Website ; 4D package doubles from Rs1.02 lakh. Getting there: The   Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is 20km away. Closest national park:  Hemis National Park is approx. 1hr away.

The Grand Dragon Ladakh

granddragonladakh

A local landmark in Leh , this hotel has rooms with spectacular views—snow-capped Stok Kangri Mountains, Khardung La Pass, Leh Palace and the Shanti Stupa. Enjoy indoor yoga and barbecues or head outdoors to spot
 the elusive snow leopard , blue sheep and mountain
 wolf. In the summers, take a Himalayan safari on a double-humped Bactrian camel. Website ; doubles from Rs14,200 . Getting there: The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is 5km away. Closest national park:  Hemis National Park is approx. 1hr away.

UTTARAKHAND Namah Located on the banks of River Kosi, this earthy lodge is perfect for a family holiday or a corporate offsite. Its 48 rooms and suites, dedicated business centre and more than 3,100sqft of event space are an urban counterpoint to the wild neighbourhood. An enthusiastic staff is at hand to coordinate activities for your entire crew. Website ; doubles from Rs13,000. Getting there: It’s a 6hr drive from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. Closest national park: The lodge is located within
  Corbett Tiger Reserve , which is open between mid-November and mid-June.

Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness

aahana

Just outside Corbett Tiger Reserve, this luxury eco-resort is set in a property landscaped in greenery, which provides strolling room for the park’s wildlife that can be seen from your room. Opt for the jungle safari on elephant back, and when you’ve had your fill, check out the naturopathy centre and restore your body and mind. Website ; doubles from Rs8,000. Getting there: You’ll take 6hrs by car from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. Closest National Park:   Corbett Tiger Reserve is adjacent to the lodge.

Binsar Forest Retreat The lodge has a historic lineage, sitting as it does on land once owned by a major from the British Raj. This gorgeous yet rustic retreat inside the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for birders. Run entirely on solar power and harvested rainwater, the vegetarian plus smoke- and alcohol-free hideaway serves buffet meals and has plug points only in the common dining areas. The minimalist but comfortable interiors offer the luxury of panoramic Himalayan views from the comfort of your bed. Website ; doubles from Rs7,000.  Getting there: The retreat is a 10hr drive from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. It’s 8km into Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and accessible only via a check post that is closed from sunset to sunrise. Closest national park: It’s close to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is open all year round. But if you enjoy the snow, visit between December and March.

Mary Budden Estate This boutique Himalayan lodge tucked away inside the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is nearly 8,000ft above sea level. A birdwatchers’ paradise, this area is also home to animals such as the Himalayan black bear and Indian red fox. Apart from its 17 rooms, the estate also offers a homestay experience within the sanctuary at the Dalar Village Homestay. Open from September to June, the estate hosts yoga , culinary, pottery and photography retreats. Website ; doubles from Rs23,000. Getting there: The drive from Delhi is about 10hrs. Pantnagar, the closest local airport, is a 4½hr drive away. You can also charter private helicopters, which will take about 1hr. Closest national park: It is situated within Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

RAJASTHAN Bera Safari Lodge In the heart of leopard country , tucked away in the Aravalis in the Bera village, this safari lodge is outdoor luxury at its best. Private, isolated and meant specifically for big-cat enthusiasts interested in spotting the leopard, the lodge offers five standalone cottages, all with their own sit-outs. Website ; doubles from Rs19,000. Getting there: It’s a 2½hr drive from Jodhpur Airport and a little under 3hrs from Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur. Closest national park: The sprawling wilderness of Jawai, which lies between Udaipur and Jodhpur, is not part of any national park or sanctuary, but wild, untamed land where the leopards roam free. Visit between November and early March, when the big cats are easier to sight.

The Oberoi Vanyavilas

oberoivanyavilas

Close to Ranthambore National Park, this five-star tented property offers a luxurious base from which 
to launch a visit into the wildlife sanctuary. Take an early-morning trip to Ranthambore Fort or stay back and enjoy the hotel’s many attractions. Spend time at the spa, stroll around the lake or head to the observation tower to sip Champagne and admire panoramic views of the bordering jungle. Website ; doubles from Rs65,000. Getting there: It is 3hrs from Jaipur Airport. Closest national park:  Ranthambore National Park is
a 20min drive. The park is operational from October–June, but the chances of tiger spotting are higher from April–June.

Aman-i-Khás

Aman-i-Khás

This Mughal-style camp sits within a brushwood forest and is close to Ranthambore National Park. The 10 spacious air-conditioned tents raised on concrete plinths ensure complete privacy. Be sure to go on the tiger safari organised by the hotel or take a camel ride to Ranthambore Fort. Website ; doubles from Rs65,000. Getting there: From Jaipur Airport, the lodge is a little over 3hrs away. Closest national park: Ranthambore National Park is about 20min by car.

Sher Bagh

One of the 
first camps of its kind, this SUJÁN Luxury property is reminiscent of the 1920s safari encampments that used to be frequented by erstwhile royalty. The hotel provides personalised service and a fantastic safari experience, with newly furbished jeeps and excellent guides. There are 12 hand-stitched canvas tents spread across the property. While the Royal Suite comes with its own private heated pool, the Luxury Suite has an open-air tree shower and a garden. Be sure to avail of the hotel’s signature outdoor spa treatment under the shade of a peepul tree. Website ; doubles from Rs46,000. Getting there: It takes just a little over 3hrs to reach from Jaipur Airport. Closest national park: Ranthambore National Park is 12km away.

Khem Villas

Khem Villas in Ranthambhore

Developed by the son of India’s leading tiger expert, Fateh Singh Rathore, the camp is synonymous
 with the first family of tiger conservation in Ranthambore. The hotel grasslands often
play host to a variety of park residents—jungle cats, hyenas, jackals, foxes and crocodiles. The simply designed cottages, suites and rooms are decorated using locally sourced materials. There’s a lot to do here—nature walks around the 3km track, a jungle safari to Ranthambore, or the Chambal River Safari. The ecologically responsible hotel is active in conservation, poacher rehabilitation and afforestation efforts. For a bit of downtime, head to the Age Veda Spa. Website ; doubles from Rs13,000. Getting there: The camp is a little over 3hrs away from Jaipur Airport. Closest national park: Ranthambore National Park is 20min by car.

Amanbagh

Nestled amid the rugged Aravalis and surrounded by the ruins of an ancient
 city, Amanbagh is a small palace-style hotel. All of its 40 pavilion suites come with a terrace or balcony that looks out to great views. Dining here should be an unforgettable experience, with a restaurant that overlooks an outdoor
 pool built beneath a canopy of trees. The seasonal menu is created using vegetables from the resort’s private garden. When you find some time from spotting wildlife at the nearby Sariska National Park, explore the neighbourhood—take a camel ride to the fort and temple in the village of Ajabgarh nestled in the mountains. For a truly spiritual experience, attend
 the yoga sessions, which are conducted against the backdrop of the ruins. Website ; doubles from Rs38,500. Getting there: Amanbagh is a little over 2hrs by car from Jaipur Airport. Closest national
 park: It takes approx. 1hr by car to reach Sariska National Park, which is operational from August–May.

Jawai Leopard Camp

jawaileopardcamp

In the heart of untamed wilderness amidst granite formations, caves and sandy river beds, Jawai Leopard Camp is India’s most exclusive abode to see the hard-to-spot wild cat. The property by SUJÁN Luxury group has nine luxury tents and one royal suite. Choose a wilderness drive, a bicycle ride or a hike to see the area’s birdlife, villages, forts and temples. Website ; doubles from Rs65,000. Getting there: It is a 2½hr drive from Jodhpur Airport and a little under 3hrs from Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur. Closest national park: The Jawai area, which lies between Udaipur and Jodhpur, is close by. The camp is closed from 20 September—31 March.

Laxmi Vilas Palace The period décor, antique furniture and four-poster beds in the 30 rooms and suites at this heritage palace-lodge transport you back in time. Once you’ve had your fill of birdlife at the neighbourhood sanctuary, head to the famous forts
 and monuments in the area, including the famous Deeg Palace. You can also plan a trip to view the Mughal ruins in Fatehpur Sikri, around 22km from the hotel. And between all that sightseeing, spend some alone time at the spa. Website ; doubles from Rs5,000. Getting there: The Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, is 4hrs by car. The airport at Agra is a 1½hr drive, and Jaipur Airport is 3hrs away. Closest national park: The Keoladeo Ghana National Park (the former Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is just 10min by car and is open all year round, November–March is ideal to see migratory birds.

MADHYA PRADESH Ken River Lodge Perched 
on the banks of River Ken, this 20-room property shares space with crocodiles, birds and the occasional tiger from the neighbouring Panna reserve. If nocturnal fauna is more your thing, opt for the night safari to spot animals such as jackals, hyenas and porcupines. Be sure to have a meal at the treehouse restaurant overlooking the river. Website ; doubles from Rs10,000. Getting there: Khajuraho Airport is the closest (27km). Closest national park: The gate to Panna Tiger Reserve is 1km away. The park stays open from mid-October–end-June.

Pashan Garh Wilderness Lodge

Stone cottage at Taj Safaris' Pashan Garh, Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Surrounded by 200 acres of private jungle, this lodge has 12 stone cottages with forest views. The unique dining experiences include picnics in the jungle, against a backdrop of a beautifully lit deck, or sitting in an ox wagon. Website ; doubles from Rs17,500. Getting there: Khajuraho Airport is 1hr away. Closest national park: It is 45min from the Hinota and Madla gates of Panna Tiger Reserve .

V Resorts – Mahua Vann Pench This 11-acre property within a forest features rooms and cottages, some with open-to-sky bathrooms and private decks. The Survey lounge and library is a perfect retreat after an exhausting day for your fix of wildlife documentaries. Website ; doubles from Rs8,000. Getting there: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur, is 1½hrs away. Closest national park: Pench National Park is 15min away. The park is open from October–June. February–April is great for wildlife sightings.

Pench Tree Lodge You
 get a bird’s-eye view of
 the surrounding forest 
from the lodge’s treetop accommodations. Enjoy the bush dinner, go on village
 walks, or farm in the organic garden. Website ; doubles from Rs16,000. Getting there: Nagpur has the nearest airport (88km). Closest national park: The lodge is within Pench National Park.

Baghvan

The lodge’s colonial-style bungalows have outdoor machans for those who wish to sleep under the stars . The hotel offers incomparable backdrops for your meals—a shaded deck along the outdoor pool. In your bid to spy on some wildlife, don’t forget to spend time at the spa. Website ; doubles from Rs28,000. Getting there: The closest airport is at Nagpur, 88km away. Closest national park: Pench National Park is 10min away.

Mahua Kothi

Mahua Kothi

Twelve village-hut-style suites surround the main kothi on this 40-acre property. For your jaunts into wildlife territory, choose an elephant or a 4×4 jungle drive. Spend your evenings indulging in live tandoor dinners and round it off with some stargazing . Website ; doubles from Rs38,000. Getting there: The closest airport is Jabalpur (4hrs). Closest national park: Bandhavgarh National Park is a 20min drive and stays open from mid-October–June. March–May is good for tiger spotting.

Samode Safari Lodge & Spa

Samode Safari Lodge & Spa

The lodge’s 12 villas feature outdoor showers and private decks. Swim in the outdoor pool, relax at the spa, or go on a safari in 4x4s or elephant back. Website ; doubles from Rs66,500. Getting there: Jabalpur Airport is about 2hrs away. Closest national park: The camp is adjacent to Bandhavgarh National Park.

Tree House Hideaway

Tree House Hideaway, Bandavgarh

Expect to share the premises
of this treehouse -only lodge
 in Bandhavgarh with birds, reptiles and animals. If you’re
 in the mood for a languid stay, park yourself on the machan that overlooks a watering hole frequented by the neighbouring fauna. Website ; doubles from Rs16,000. Getting there: Jabalpur Airport is 4hrs away. Closest national park: It’s located within Bandhavgarh National Park.

Bagh Tola, Bandhavgarh If you’re looking for a personal wildlife experience, this lodge within Bandhavgarh has what you need, with air-conditioned tents that ensure complete comfort. Keep your ears peeled for the langur and chital’s alarm calls—it’s a sign that a big cat’s on the prowl. Website ; doubles from Rs12,000. Getting there: Jabalpur Airport is 4hrs away. Closest national park: The park’s Gorhi Gate is a short walk away.

Banjaar Tola

Banjaar Tola

On the banks of River Banjaar, this property has tented suites with glass doors opening out to floating verandas. The lodge has a Wild Kids’ Club, where children can enjoy picnics, get a naturalist crash course, or bike around
 the property. Website ; doubles from Rs38,000. Getting there: It’s 4hrs from Jabalpur Airport. Closest national park: It’s about 10min from the Mukki zone of Kanha National Park, which is open from mid-October–June. November–February is great for birds, and March–May, for tigers.

Kanha Earth Lodge Located within Kanha’s buffer zone, this lodge has 12 open-front bungalows made using recycled wood and local stone. Take a dip in the infinity pool between mahua trees or learn about local wildlife from naturalists . Website ; doubles from Rs14,000. Getting there: Drive from Jabalpur Airport or charter flights from Birwa and Mandla airports, both 1hr away. Closest national park: The lodge is 10min from Kanha National Park.

Bagh Tola, Kanha A throwback to the British Raj, Bagh Tola’s Kanha property
 is an elegant base for your forays into the park. The eight rooms have been designed as
a space to retreat to in comfort after a day spent in the wild. Dining is an informal affair, with home-cooked local food. If you’re lucky, you might get an expert’s perspective on the local fauna from the wildlife writers and experts who are known
 to frequent the place. Website ; doubles from Rs12,000. Getting there: It’s 4hrs from Jabalpur Airport. Closest national park: It is a short drive from Kanha National Park’s Mukki Gate.

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge

Located in Satpura Tiger Reserve, this conservation-and-wildlife-focused lodge is spread over 30 acres. Its 12 luxury cottages are located along a seasonal stream, atop a hill and in the forest. In addition to canoe, jeep, elephant and boat safaris, Satpura is the only national park in India that offers walking safaris into its core. Catch a glimpse of leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer, tigers, birds and butterflies while you’re out on a stroll. Website ; doubles from Rs22,000. Getting there: The closest airport is at Bhopal (159km). Closest national park: Satpura Tiger Reserve is open from October–mid-June. The best time to visit is October–April.

GOA Swapnagandha Resort Located in the Chorla Ghats of the Sahyadri mountain range, this resort is great for birders
 to explore the rich avian variety found here. All the rooms 
come with beautiful views. With Swapnagandha known 
for supporting local troupes, you can be assured of getting
 a glimpse of local culture
 during your stay here. Website ; doubles from Rs7,200. Getting there: From Panjim , it is under 2hrs by car. Closest national park:  Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Chorla Ghats
 is home to a variety of flora and wildlife apart from birds and is 1hr away from the resort. Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary in Belgaum, approx. 50km away, is also worth a visit.

Wildernest Goa

Just 1.5km away from Swapnagandha Resort, this ecotel offers stunning views
 of waterfalls and valleys. The property has a cosy garden bar, an infinity pool and eco-cottages with sit-out verandas. Transfers between the two sister properties are also possible. Website ; doubles from Rs6,800. Getting there: From Panjim , it is less than 2hrs. Closest national park:  Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a 1hr drive, while Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is 2hrs away.

MAHARASHTRA Svasara Jungle Lodge This 12-suite eco-friendly hotel is located within 10 acres of forest and is a stone’s throw from Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve . The lodge offers different kinds of cuisines, but for that local flavour, taste the Varadi food served here. Be prepared for a great safari experience, courtesy of the custom-fit jeeps. And for
 a reel-life journey into the wild, head to the open-air Jungle Cinema to watch documentaries on Tadoba. Website ; doubles from Rs9,000. Getting there: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur, is 2hrs away. Closest national park: The lodge is 300m away from the reserve’s Kolara Gate. Most of the park is open from mid-October–end-June, but visit between February and May to spot tigers. For the birds, September–October is a good time to visit.

Tiger Trails Jungle Lodge Situated along the western border of the Tadoba–Andhari reserve, this jungle lodge
 has rooms looking out at the grasslands and watering holes that dot this area. Its hidden machans offer a great opportunity to indulge in some wildlife photography . Apart 
from the jeep to head into the reserve, you can also opt for 
the canoe or electric pontoon safari on Tadoba Lake, which runs through the lodge. Website ; from Rs6,500. Getting there: The airport at Nagpur is 2hrs away. Closest national park: The lodge is alongside the Khutwanda Gate of the Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve.

Irai Safari Retreat Overlooking the Irai dam’s backwaters, this retreat features cottages and tents finished with natural fabrics and rich wood—and equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi. Find some time to cycle around the grounds or take bullock-cart rides for a rustic experience in a luxury setting. If you’re there with children, there’s a kiddie pool attached to the main outdoor pool, complete with life jackets and floats. Website ; doubles from Rs6,000. Getting there: It’s a 2hr drive from Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. Closest national park: The lodge is 1.5km from the reserve’s Mohurli Gate.

The Bamboo Forest Experience luxury in the wild here, with nine lake-facing villas and three four-room chalets, which are ideal for big families. At this lodge, surrounded by 
an abundance of greenery, you get to view the animal and birdlife from nearby Tadoba in their natural habitat. The hotel’s naturalists will enhance your encounter with wildlife. Website ; doubles from Rs15,000. Getting there: The closest airport is at Nagpur,
 2hrs away. Closest national park: It is 6km from the reserve’s Kolara Gate.

GUJARAT The Fern Gir Forest Resort This luxury lodge offers the perfect base to explore Gir National Park, the only home of the Asiatic lion. On the fringes of the park, this resort has 40 suites, cottages, tents and villas with private gardens. When not preoccupied looking for the king of the jungle, spend time at the spa or pool and indulge your taste for the finer things in life at the restaurants. Website ; doubles from Rs4,000. Getting there: The drive from Diu Airport
is about 2hrs. Closest national park: Gir National Park is located just 5min away from the lodge. While the park stays open between mid-October and mid-June, December–March has great weather.

Gir Birding Lodge If you are interested in seeing more than just the lion, this is the place for you. Surrounded by the mango groves of Gir Hills, the lodge attracts a number of bird species, which you 
can view from the lodge itself. Park yourself on the veranda 
for a spot of birdwatching. Alternatively, step up and pay close attention to in-house naturalists. They can show you the spots most sought after
 by the birds and the preferred hangouts of the big cat, crocodiles, wolves and hyenas. Website ; doubles from Rs6,500 . Getting there: From Diu Airport, the lodge is 2hrs away. Closest national park: The lodge is adjacent to one of Gir National Park’s gates.

The Gateway Hotel
 Gir Forest

The Gateway Hotel
 Gir Forest

This property promises reliable luxury with 28 well-designed rooms, a
 spa, banquet facilities and a 24hr restaurant. It’s popular with families, honeymooners and business travellers as well. The deluxe suites have sit-out balconies overlooking the forest and a watering hole—an unmissable chance to spot 
the lion in its territory. Website ; doubles from Rs4,500. Getting there: From Diu Airport, you can reach the lodge in 2hrs. Closest national park: The hotel is situated at the edge of Gir National Park and is within easy walking distance.

Blackbuck Lodge This 70-acre property is situated along the Velavadar National Park. Each of its 14 luxury cottages comes with a veranda and deck chairs ideal for sunbathing. Apart from the Indian antelope, after which the lodge gets its name, you can also spot the park’s other animals and its rich birdlife. Apart from nature walks and wildlife viewing, find the time to enjoy the Kathiawadi specialities at the restaurant. Website ; doubles from Rs13,500. Getting there: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad , is 3hrs by car. Closest national park: The Velavadar National Park is located alongside the lodge. While the park is closed from June–October, December–March is the best time for a visit.

ASSAM Diphlu River Lodge

Diphlu River Lodge Cottage in Assam

Stay 
at this lodge and follow in the footsteps of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge , who were recent guests here. Set on the banks of the river that gives it its name, the lodge is located close to Kaziranga National Park, home to the endangered one-horned rhino. The standalone, semi-detached cottages can accommodate only 24 guests. A machan overlooking the river is great
 for birdwatching. The lodge’s naturalists accompany you on jeep and elephant safaris. Website ; doubles from Rs36,000. Getting there: The closest major airport is at Guwahati (a 4hr drive). Jorhat is 2½hrs by car, and Tezpur is 1hr away. Closest national park: The lodge is 8km away from Kaziranga National Park, which is open from November–April.

IORA Located off the national highway, this 42-room property is spread over 20 acres of green tea gardens, with a smaller tea garden that offers an authentic tea-drinking experience . The Assamese-speciality restaurant is a must-try. Spend time at the spa when you’re not wildlife watching. Website ; doubles from Rs7,400. Getting there: Guwahati has the closest major airport, 4hrs away. Jorhat is 2½hrs by car, while Tezpur is 1hr away. Closest national park:  Kaziranga National Park is just ½hr by car.

Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino Nestled in 48 acres of forested land, this five-star hotel in Gangtok is perfect for some entertainment before heading into the mountains to discover Sikkim’s wildlife. Pamper yourself at their award-winning spa, check out the local cuisine and try your luck at their 24hr casino. Website ; doubles from Rs16,000. Getting there: The nearest airport is Bagdogra, West Bengal (about 124km away). From there, you can charter a helicopter 
to Gangtok (35min ride). Closest national park: Khangchendzonga National Park and Bioreserve, Sikkim , is about 50km away. One of the world’s highest ecosystems, the park is home to the snow leopard and the great Tibetan sheep. Plan your trip during March–May or mid-September–December.

Ri Kynjai

Overlooking Umiam Lake and set against a backdrop of Khasi Hills, this 45-acre resort is just outside Shillong . Soak in the surroundings on nature walks
 or surrender to the luxury of a Khasi massage treatment at
 the spa. For trekkers, the two peaks, Lumsohpetbheng and Lumdiengiei, are a few kilometres away. For golf lovers, the Sikkim Golf Course is 1hr away. Website ; doubles from Rs8,500. Getting there: While it’s a 4hr drive from the airport at Guwahati, Jorhat 
is 2½hrs by car, and Tezpur is just a 1hr drive. Closest national park: Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a little under 1hr away, is perfect for nature lovers.

WEST BENGAL M.V. Paramhamsa This four-deck cruise liner offers trips between Kolkata and the Sunderbans. The world-renowned mangrove forest
 is part of the delta formed by 
Rivers Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna. The 30 river-facing rooms are well designed and are great for wildlife spotting. Expect to see a variety of fauna, from tree-climbing crabs, swimming tigers, sunbathing crocodiles and inert monitor lizards. The rooftop sun deck is meant for nature viewing, lounging, stargazing and open-air conferences—if you can get in some work. Website ; 4D package from Rs14,800 per person. Getting there: Embark at Gadkhali Jetty (110km from Kolkata)
 or Vivada Jetty at Millennium Park, Kolkata. Closest national park: The cruise takes you to the Sunderbans, which is open from September–March. The best time to visit is between December and February.

KARNATAKA The Serai Kabini

The Serai Kabini

Standing on River Kabini’s banks, the resort is located at the confluence of three national parks. You can go kayaking and cycling and enjoy romantic dinners. Website ; doubles from Rs16,000. Getting there: The airport at Mysuru is 80km away. Closest national park: The Bandipur and Mudumalai tiger reserves and Nagarhole National Park are all a couple of hours away. The parks are open all year round, but November–February offers better chances to spot wildlife.

Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Kabini

Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Kabini

Formerly the Orange County, Kabini, this resort offers vehicle and boat safaris and rides on a coracle (a round palm-and-bamboo vessel). Accommodation is 
in Jacuzzi or Pool huts. Go
on nature walks (also offered at night), and spend time at the ayurvedic spa. Website ; doubles from Rs33,000. Getting there: It 
is at a distance of 80km from
 the airport at Mysuru. Closest national park: It’s near Bandipur and Mudumalai tiger reserves, as well as Nagarhole National Park .

The Bison Located within Nagarhole National Park, The Bison offers accommodation 
in tents, all of which have forest views. If you’re lucky, you’ll 
spot the local fauna from the comfort of your four-poster, but in case you don’t, the resort’s naturalists will make sure you do, either on vehicle or boat safaris. Website ; doubles from Rs15,600. Getting there: Mysuru has the closest airport, 80km away. Closest national park: It’s in Nagarhole National Park .

The Serai Bandipur

The Serai Bandipur

This resort occupies half the property, with the other half meant 
for animals from the nearby reserve. Apart from the safaris, go on treks or cycle around the mountains. Website ; doubles from Rs17,000. Getting there: From Mysuru airport, it is 80km away. Closest national park: It is 20min from Bandipur Tiger Reserve .

KERALA Wild Planet Resort In the heart of Nilgiris’ rainforest, this resort borders the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Accommodation is in hilltop cottages, log houses on stilts, and cabins facing an elephant hangout. Website ; doubles from Rs9,000. Getting there: Kozhikode Airport is 125km away. Closest national park: Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is 23km away from the resort.

Aanavilasam Luxury Plantation House Cardamom and pepper aromas greet you 
at this resort set in a seven-acre plantation land. Take a tour of the property, indulge in ayurvedic treatments or visit the cow byre. Website ; doubles from Rs6,500. Getting there: It is about 3hrs away from Madurai Airport and 4hrs from Cochin International Airport. Closest national park: Periyar Tiger Reserve is 8km away. March–June offers higher chances of spotting elephants and tigers.

Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club

Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Thekkady, Kerala

Bordering the Periyar Tiger Reserve, this resort has 13 cottages with either mountain or garden views. Opportunities for unwinding include an infinity pool under a canopy of trees and the Niraamaya Spa. Website ; doubles from Rs10,000. Getting there: Madurai Airport is around 3hrs and Cochin International Airport is 4½hrs away. Closest national park: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is ½hr away.

Wayanad Silverwoods On the banks of Banasura dam, this luxury resort is a great place from which to launch local excursions, including
 trips to the nearby wildlife sanctuary, megalithic caves, temples and mountains. Website ; doubles from Rs7,500. Getting there: Kozhikode Airport is 2½hrs by car. Closest national park: Visit Tholpetty and Muthanga forests in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary , which is 1hr away and closed from 11 February–10 April.

This story was originally published in September 2017

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Safari in India

Find the perfect Safari adventure in India. There are 260 India safaris to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 30 days. The most popular month for these tours is April.

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250+ india safari tour packages with 1,564 reviews.

Bandhavgarh Kanha Pench Tour Tour

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Bandhavgarh Kanha Pench Tour

Our family had a customized tour that included all three national parks for tiger safaris as well as the traditional golden triangle tour. We had 2 different drivers during the tour that picked us up at the airport or drove us to the next location. The drivers were always early, extremely friendly and helpful, and the cars were immaculate. We stayed at six different hotels that were picked out for us. They were all very nice and I would stay at them again. The guides at each location were very knowledgeable and friendly. The company itself stayed in contact with me throughout the trip to make sure I did not need anything. I would highly recommend this company. This tour was much more flexible and convenient than participating in a group tour where everyone has to keep up with a group pace.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best North India Wildlife Tour Tour

  • Wildlife & Nature Photography

Best North India Wildlife Tour

Many thanks to Yolo India Tours for organizing my dream holiday of experiencing the Indian wildlife. Our 10 days wildlife holiday ranks high among our all time favorite holiday. This tour is a treat for every wildlife lover and offer the best wildlife experience of India. From our first informational emails, to being personally dropped at the airport to go home everything was perfect. The hotels were wonderful and safaris to the national park organised very well. I will always remember this wild life experience of India.

Taj, Tigers & Lakes - Golden Triangle Delhi Agra Jaipur with Ranthambore & Udaipur Tour

Taj, Tigers & Lakes - Golden Triangle Delhi Agra Jaipur with Ranthambore & Udaipur

Great trip .Friendly guides and driver ram shared lots of knowledge throughout the day and we came away having learnt a lot about India . We especially liked the boat ride in Udaipur .

Golden Triangle & Ranthambhore Tour with 4-Star Accommodation Tour

Golden Triangle & Ranthambhore Tour with 4-Star Accommodation

I am a regular wildlife photographer and chose this trip to see free tigers in their own territory. Everything was curated and managed with a high level of care and Manish and his team was always in touch to take care of each and every aspect of the tour. I would recommend them if you wish to travel to India with a tension free attitude. Thanks a lot to MTA and their team who made our trip successful.

10-Day Wildlife Safaris And Cultural Experiences In Central India Tour

10-Day Wildlife Safaris And Cultural Experiences In Central India

Very well planned and executed tour. The temples at Khajuraho are so amazing. So big cats during the safaris. The guides were knowledgeable. Enjoyed every moment. Highly recommended.

For The Love of Taj & Tiger - Golden Triangle of India & Ranthambore with 3 Tiger Safaris Tour

For The Love of Taj & Tiger - Golden Triangle of India & Ranthambore with 3 Tiger Safaris

Everything worked just perfect!

Central India Wildlife Tour Tour

Central India Wildlife Tour

Bandhavgarh Ranthambore Tiger Tour Tour

Bandhavgarh Ranthambore Tiger Tour

8 Days GOLDEN TRIANGLE EXCURSION WITH RANTHAMBORE WILDLIFE SAFARI Tour

8 Days GOLDEN TRIANGLE EXCURSION WITH RANTHAMBORE WILDLIFE SAFARI

This tour was very good and great way to get to learn about the India offerings of culture heritage & wildlife. My driver, Bablu, was very good and offered excellent service from start to finish. The guides from each city knew and spoke very good English and provided a lot of interesting detail. In addition, Mohd Kasif checked in to inquire as to my satisfaction several times during the tour, which was greatly appreciated. All in all, I had a great time and would recommend this operator and my driver, Bablu, to everyone.

Tailor Made India: The Golden Triangle and Wildlife Tour

Tailor Made India: The Golden Triangle and Wildlife

Mystic Trails of the Northeast: Temples, Tigers, and Tribes Expedition Tour

Mystic Trails of the Northeast: Temples, Tigers, and Tribes Expedition

India Golden Triangle Tour with Tigers & Asiatic Lions Tour

India Golden Triangle Tour with Tigers & Asiatic Lions

Everything was made easy and managed the time and travelling well,guide made me feel comfortable and relaxed throughout please choose best tour company as i did for first time traveller

Golden Triangle Delhi Agra Jaipur With Ranthambore National Park Tour

Golden Triangle Delhi Agra Jaipur With Ranthambore National Park

We had great experience - nice, comfortable car with the super professional driver Vijay . Highly recommend this company if you willing to travel India

Tiger Safari Tour Delhi-Agra- Ranthambore-Jaipur-Delhi Tour

Tiger Safari Tour Delhi-Agra- Ranthambore-Jaipur-Delhi

The tour was very enjoyable. The driver, guides and reps couldn’t do enough for us. The online booking was good and all queries answered very quickly. The hotels were good all were 4/5 star. Everything Went smoothly. I would definitely use Tour Radar again.Thank You Memorable India

India\'s Golden Triangle with Ranthambore - Tigers and Tal Mahal Sunrise/Sunset Tour

India's Golden Triangle with Ranthambore - Tigers and Tal Mahal Sunrise/Sunset

Highly recommended. Everything that I hoped and expected, plus more. From the warm and hospitable welcome of Ms Sonia and Ms Shilpi, through the expert and safe driving of Mr Shiv, on to the knowledgeable and companionable local guides, I have nothing but gratitude and praise. A concise and well-constructed itinerary that delivered a memorable Golden Triangle experience. Plus tigers! Tremendous value for money.

Indian Wildlife Safari Reviews

Pushpendre our guide was extremely helpful polite and informative He was keen to accommodate our needs and explain any issues we did not understand He was always pointing out things we may find interesting and to stop for photos We were very impressed by his driving skills Overall he enhanced our enjoyment of the trip Maureen and Alexandra

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Best safari parks in India

Discover the best safari parks to visit during a trip to india, from tiger-spotting in bandhavgarh to the snow-capped himalayas in ladakh.

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P icture this: waking up in a treehouse surrounded by dense jungle, with the smoky tangerine sun rising in the distance, before heading off to spot a pack of majestic Bengal tigers prowling for breakfast on the perimeter. Such can be life, as the otherworldly beauty of India ’s national parks — teeming with rare wildlife, whether it’s the endangered Asiatic elephant or the elusive snow leopard — not only sets the stage for an utterly unforgettable safari, but gears you up for the adventure of a lifetime. Whether it’s bringing a scene to life from The Jungle Book , for which Kipling was said to have taken inspiration from Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh, or learning about conservation at a zero-impact luxury camp in Ranthambore, we’ve got you covered with our pick of India’s best safari parks.

Main photo: Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge

SUJAN Sher Bagh (Booking.com)

1. Ranthambore National Park

Best for a quick trip Once the hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur (a three-hour drive away), today Ranthambore is one of the largest national parks in northern India and is arguably the country’s most famous. While its Royal Bengal tigers draw the biggest crowds to their reserve, make sure you keep your binoculars handy for other wild animals — anything from sloth bears to Indian wild boar — cooling off in the park’s numerous lakes and water bodies, as well as over 320 species of birds. Don’t miss sunset at Ranthambore Fort; as well as some of the best-preserved examples of Rajasthani architecture, you’ll get an unmissable panorama of the park itself.

Where to stay SUJAN Sher Bagh; a zero-impact tented camp, on the border of the park, which balances luxury safaris with conservation.

The Driftwood Ladakh (Expedia)

2. Hemis National Park

Best for hikers The only Indian national park situated north of the Himalayas, this high-altitude protected area is believed to have the highest density of snow leopards of any in the world. Located in Ladakh on the banks of the Indus River, it takes its name from the Hemis Monastery — which houses an important collection of Buddhist books and artefacts — and is also home to the Tibetan wolf and blue sheep, as well as myriad birds of prey. Just pack hiking boots if you want to explore, as vehicles are only allowed to the park’s perimeter. Where to stay While there are no hotels in the park itself, the Driftwood Ladakh is an affordable bet with stupendous views of the snow-capped Himalayas, just an hour’s drive away.

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A Bengal tiger in Satpura National Park (Getty Images)

3. Satpura National Park

Best for adventure One of the benefits of visiting a park off the tourist trail, such as this hilly Central Indian gem in Madhya Pradesh, is that you’re distinctly unbothered by other people’s camera lenses. It also means that, while tiger sightings are less common, you’ll be able to see their habitat in a way others won’t: by canoe or kayak and in carefully calculated hideouts — as well as the usual Jeeps. Plus, the scenery here feels otherworldly; all craggy sandstone peaks and thick forest, lit up by the shimmering waters of the Tawa reservoir. Where to stay Don’t miss Reni Pani Jungle Lodge; as well as 12 air-conditioned cottages, made from indigenous materials, its four naturalists in residence help guests organise excellent safaris.

jehannuma.com

Diphlu River Lodge

4. Kaziranga National Park

Best for conservation This Unesco world heritage site in Assam is one of the most renowned wildlife and biodiversity spots in India. While also scattered with the breeding grounds of elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer and tigers, Kaziranga is most notably home to over 2,200 endangered one-horned rhinoceros, a number that has grown thanks to the park’s dedicated wildlife conservation efforts. Flora is abundant here, too, as well as varied, thanks to the difference in altitude between the eastern and western areas of the park. Where to stay Diphlu River Lodge is the best-located joint in Kaziranga; expect thatched cottages on stilts that blend into the environment, right on the border of the park.

diphluriverlodge.com

Pench Tree Lodge

5. Pench National Park

Best for literary buffs If you’re familiar with The Jungle Book , this gorgeous spot in Madhya Pradesh will likely need little introduction. Home to Kipling’s beloved characters — including the sloth bear (Baloo), the Indian wolf (Akela), the female Indian wolf (Raksha) and Royal Bengal tiger (Shere Khan) — you’ll also see striped hyenas, four-horned antelopes, chittering monkeys and barking deer. Sure, it’s best known as a wildlife reserve, but it’s also one of the most quietly beautiful places in the country; all teak jungle, fast-flowing rivers and deciduous forest, shadowed by the undulating peaks of the Satpura Hills. Where to stay We love the offbeat Pench Tree Lodge, an eco-friendly spot in a quiet corner of the park. Its elegantly carved treehouses serve up truly show-stopping sunsets.

Jim’s Jungle Retreat (Booking.com)

6. Jim Corbett National Park

Best for families Known for its abundant population of tigers, this national park — India’s oldest and arguably most prestigious — is the only one in the country which permits overnight stays inside. Located in Uttarakhand, visitors tend to explore the hills, grasslands and picturesque lake in Asia’s first conservation effort either by four-wheel drive or atop an elephant. There’s more to see beyond its famed tiger reserve, too; wildlife buffs can spot otters and rare fish-eating crocodiles. Where to stay Don’t miss the sustainable and family-owned resort, Jim’s Jungle Lodge, tucked away in the thick jungle; there’s everything from photography and conservation workshops to a chemical-free spa.

An Indian roller at Bandhavgarh National Park (Alamy)

7. Bandhavgarh National Park

Best for tiger spotting One of the most popular national parks in India, Bandhavgarh is not only the best place to spot a Royal Bengal tiger — it has the highest density of them in the world — but, dating back over 2,000 years, is also said to be the origin of every white tiger on the planet. The protected area’s famed fort is well worth a visit (as are its inscripted caves) but keep an eye out for leopards, as well as more than 250 species of birds and 80 species of butterflies. You can also get a bird’s-eye view of the park’s restricted zones by way of a hot-air balloon. Where to stay Just 20 minutes from the park’s gate, the 12 luxury cottages at Mahua Kothi — named after the revered Mahua trees that dot the property — blend into 45 acres of forest.

Shergarh Tented Camp is near a river and watering hole

8. Kanha National Park

Best for birding The largest park in Madhya Pradesh may be ripe for tiger-spotting, but it’s main allure is to birders; there are over 350 species of birds and over a thousand species of flora. Conservation has long been high on the agenda here; the park is known for saving barasingha (large deer that now roam freely) from near extinction. It’s also home to the protected Baiga tribe, who offer workshops to visitors wanting to emulate their unique silver jewellery. Where to stay Each of the six exquisite tents at Shergarh Tented Camp is decked out with locally made furniture, as well as a pretty veranda. The real draw, though? The camp’s river and watering hole, which attracts various rare birds.

shergarh.com

The Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge

Best for tranquillity Maharashtra’s largest national park may be home to a tiger reserve, but it’s also densely populated with leopards, golden jackals and foxes, as well as nightjars, crested eagles and owls. It’s one of the country’s more peaceful protected areas; there’s comparatively little tourism here, so the animals are left to their natural habitat; roaming largely undisturbed in the area’s smooth meadows, deep valleys and dense teak forest. Just be aware that it’s closed on Tuesdays. Where to stay If you can bring yourself to leave the tranquil lake-facing villas at the Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge, the resort provides night safaris of the park as well as quietly lavish wild picnics.

bambooforest.in

Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge

10. Bandipur National Park

Best for luxury Located on the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Bandipur is a key part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve; not only has it long been a cornerstone of India’s tiger conservation efforts, it’s also one of the last remaining sanctuaries of the Asiatic wild elephant. You’ll find other endangered species here, too, such as sloth bears, Indian rock pythons and the rare flying lizard — as well as over 200 species of birds. Plus, it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty; all bamboo forest, rolling hills and four sparkling rivers. Where to stay Few do it better than Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, which straddles both Bandipur and Nagerhole national parks; it’s one of the best camps in the country for animal lovers and bird-watchers alike.

An Asiatic lion at Sasan Gir National Park (Alamy)

11. Sasan Gir National Park

Best for lion spotting Outside the African continent, Gujurat’s Gir National Park is the only other place in the world where you can spot rare Asiatic lions roaming freely. You’ll also find other hard-to-find wild animals and birds, such as chital deer, Gir foxes, the Egyptian vulture and the endangered Palla’s Fish Eagle. To reduce human interference, 30-minute safari tours run via minibus from the Gir Interpretation Zone at Devaliya — and get you as close to those elusive lions as safely possible. Where to stay Aramness, a hybrid of two Gujurati words, ‘aram’ (peace/rest) and ‘ness’ (village), is a quiet boutique hotel resort on the edge of the park, built according to the village culture; the area is inhabited by the semi-nomadic Maldhari tribe, which the property helps to support.

Mary Budden Estate (Booking.com)

12. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Best for flora Over in Uttarakhand, this wildlife sanctuary in the Binsar forest looks so picture-perfect you’d be forgiven for assuming you’d stumbled into some kind of earthly utopia. The former summer capital of the region’s Chand royals, here you can see the forested peaks of Kedarnath, Shivling, Trisul and Nanda Devi — and, if you’re lucky, the leopards, grey langur monkeys and chital that reside nearby, among a host of rare butterflies and birds. Don’t miss the Mayolikhan; arguably the most beautiful trail, where cedar and oak trees lead through a rocky waterfall into a quiet and seemingly hidden village. Where to stay While the colourful thatched cottages at Mary Budden Estate belong in the pages of an interiors magazine, it’s the relaxed hospitality that draws a repeat crowd; think picnics on the Mayolikhan and dinners under the stars.

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best safari south india

6 Best Resorts In South India Where Wilderness Is At Your Doorstep

Photo of Aakanksha Magan

A country as huge as India has a diverse wildlife that makes it a heaven for nature and animal enthusiasts. From the magnificent Bengal tigers to the gigantic elephants, from the flighty deer to the imposing leopards, you can find almost all exotic animals here. From the Siberian tiger in the Himalayas to the dolphins in the Ganges plains, from the lions in the grasslands of Gujarat to the elephants in the hills of Kerala, from the camels in the deserts of Rajasthan to the rhinos in the wetlands of Assam, every corner of India has exotic and stunning wildlife. And if you've explored the beautiful flora and fauna of Northern India, let's move south and explore some of the most fascinating national parks and best resorts in south India.

Emerald backwaters, gushing silvery waterfalls, tranquil hill-stations and lush green surroundings make Kerala one of the most popular destination in India. Kerala is blessed with a varied landscape, resulting in many national parks in the tiny coastal state. And, this tiny state holds a treasure of wildlife. From tigers to elephants to bisons, sambars and even wild boars, the number of reserves and sanctuaries here that a wildlife enthusiast can explore at length.

Here are the 6 best resorts in south India for wildlife spotting:

Periyar tiger reserve.

Located atop of Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills in the Idukki district of Kerala, Periyar National Park is spread across 777 sq km. There are 35 species of mammals in the park, including bisons, sambars, wild boars, langurs, elephants and tigers. It is also one among the 48 tiger reserves in India.

Shalimar Spice Garden - An Amritara Private Hideaway

Shalimar Spice Garden is a perfect blend of Indian and European living amidst the traditional Kerala heritage. This theme-based tourist lodge is designed in a traditional manner with lush foliage of cardamom, coffee and other spices growing around the resort. To choose your pick from varieties of staying options, the resort offers eight elegant rooms, eight family cottages and two pool cottages, all of which are tastefully furnished and have sit-out areas.

Ideal for: Families with kids of all ages and couples looking for a nature retreat.

Price: The rooms start from ₹13,500 per night for double occupancy, inclusive of breakfast. The family cottages start from ₹16,000 and the cottages with pool start from ₹19,500.

What to do here and around: The resort is on the fringes of Periyar Tiger Reserve and offers safaris to the reserve. Additionally, it also offers nature walks, Ayurveda massages, spice plantation tours, cultural tours of nearby tribal villages and much more, making it a perfect holiday destination. You can have a look at all the activities offered by them here .

How to reach: The resort is located at a distance of 100km (3.5 hours) from Kottayam, 185km (4.5 hours) from Kochi and 140km (3 hours) from Madurai. The nearest domestic airport is Madurai, international airport is Kochi and railway station is Kottayam. Local buses, private buses available from the airport/railway station to the resort?

Photo of Shalimar Spice Garden - An Amritara Private Hideaway, Kumily Alady Road, Kumily, Kerala, India by Aakanksha Magan

Eravikulam National Park Road

Eravikulam National Park was established for the conservation of Nilgiri tahr, the endangered mountain goat of South India and the park today is home to the largest number of Nilgiri tahr in the world. The wildlife sanctuary houses many other animals like gaurs, elephants, langurs, leopards, tigers, and lion-tailed macaque.

Nature Zone Resort

Nature Zone Resort is picturesquely located on the top of a hill amidst evergreen mountains, with the view of the entire Munnar laid out in front of it. The place is designed keeping in mind the environment and it shows in every corner of the property. A well-manicured lawn with multi-coloured blooms, a kitchen garden laid out on the slopes growing veggies and fruits, accommodation in tents or tree-houses, every inch of the property screams nature conservation. They have five tree-houses made of bamboo and wood and luxurious tents spread all across the property. With so much to offer, it is one of the best resorts in south India.

Ideal for: Families with kids of all ages looking for fun and adventure.

Price: The tents start from ₹9,000 per person for double occupancy, which includes breakfast and dinner. The tree-house prices are available on request.

What to do here and around the property: The property offers a wide range of activities in and around the area to keep the guests busy. Rock-climbing, trekking, nature walks and many more such activities can be booked by the guests at the resort. They do not have packages for the safari to Eravikulam National Park but can arrange transportation and entry tickets on request.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Kochi, 106km (3 hours) away and the nearest railway station is Ernakulam, 130km (3.5 hours) away. A taxi from both can be easily hired to reach Nature Zone Resort.

Photo of Nature Zone Resort, Idukki, Kerala, India by Aakanksha Magan

Towering temples, developing cities and forested hill-stations make Tamil Nadu an eclectic mix of modernisation and tradition. It is a land where history and modernity exist hand in hand. The best wildlife resorts in Tamil Nadu, to experience the wide variety of it's fauna, are:

Mudumalai National Park

Mudumalai National Park is 321 sq km forest reserve with thin, spindly trees and light-slotted leaves concealing spotted chital deer and grunting wild boar. The reserve is the best place to spot wildlife in Tamil Nadu. The creatures you are most likely to see are deer, peacocks, wild boar, langurs and giant Malabar squirrels. There’s also a significant chance of sighting wild elephants (the park has several hundred) and gaur or the Indian bison. The showstopper is the Bengal tiger, however, it is rare to actually spot one in these jungles.

Wild Planet Jungle Resort

Situated at the edge of Mudumalai, Wild Planet Resort is an intimate, secluded and luxurious resort. Nestled in the natural beauty of the wild, Wild Planet Jungle resort can't be left out from the list of best resorts in south India. Set in 100 acres of land, hidden inside the secluded 3,300 sq km of tropical rain forest in the midst of Nilgiris mountain range, this resort is a heaven for nature lovers. Mountains and forests combine to create numerous outback trails, trekking routes and opportunities for other adventure sports like hiking, birding and more.

Ideal for: Families looking for an adventurous time.

Price: The price for a cottage starts from ₹10,990 per night, for double occupancy. The price is inclusive of all meals.

What to do here and around the property: The resort is in the middle of a tropical rain-forest and, therefore, offers a natural refuge to many animals. It is here where you can spot animals in their natural habitat, and the resort arranges for amazing safaris into the jungle. Other than jungle safaris, there are some activities like river floating, hiking, birding and more on offer.

How to reach: Nearest domestic airport is Calicut, 125km away and the nearest international airport is Kochi, 240km away. The nearest railway station is Calicut.

Photo of Wild Planet Jungle Resort, Devala, Kerala, India by Aakanksha Magan

Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

Gulf of Mannar Marine Park comprises of 21 small islands and coral reefs, about 8km off the coast of Tamil Nadu. Dominated by mangroves, this marine national park is a protected area with high diversity of plants and animals, such as the green turtle, clownfish, bottlenose dolphin and sperm whale. It is also an important feeding ground for dugongs. The voyage to all the islands takes about three days and permissions are required by the tourists prior to visiting these islands. The park is a marine biosphere encompassing the coasts of Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) and Ramanathapuram districts.

Cabana Coral Reef

Cabana Coral Reef is located on a pristine beach, 36km from the Gulf of Mannar Marine Park, at Mandapam, a fishing hamlet in Rameshwaram. The property is eco-friendly and built completely by recycling and reusing whatever available. The cabanas are built by refurbishing used cargo containers and the beach showers are fashioned out of disposed water and beer bottles. Each room comes with a sun terrace and a patio with dedicated seating.

Ideal for: Families looking for some beach fun and learning about marine life.

Price: The prices start from ₹5,000 for a night for double occupancy, inclusive of all meals.

What to do here and around the property: Cabana Coral Reef offers various fun and relaxing water sports and activities to make your sea side holiday complete. They do not offer any trip to the marine park but you can arrange one on request.

How to reach: Nearest airport is Chennai, 544km away. Nearest railway station is Rameshwaram, 36km away. The best way to reach is to fly to Chennai, and then take an overnight train to Rameshwaram and a taxi from the railway station to Cabana Coral Reef.

Photo of Cabana Coral Reef, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, India by Aakanksha Magan

Karnataka is a compelling state with beaches, urban cities, glittering palaces and thriving national parks. The evergreen rolling hills, the thick forests, the never-ending spice plantations, coupled with the ever-developing Bangalore, the regal splendour of Mysore and the cultural trip offered by Hampi, Karnataka offers the best of all worlds. The best wildlife resorts in Karnataka to enjoy the wildlife are:

An enchanting forest, that offers you a chance to surrender completely to nature, and spot some of India's most captivating wildlife, Bandipur National Park is Karnataka's jewel. A part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Bandipur National Park covers 880 sq km, and was once the Mysore Maharaja's private hunting reserve. Now Bandipur is a protected zone for over 100 species of animals, including tigers, elephants, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), chital or spotted deer, sambars, sloth bears and langurs. It’s also home to 350 species of birds.

The Windflower Jungle Resort & Spa Bandipur

The Windflower Jungle Resort & Spa, Bandipur is an off the grid, true jungle experience. There is a disconnect from the outside world, and an instant connection to Mother Nature. The comfort and luxury offered are fashioned from the ways of the jungle and the resort features an outdoor pool, pampering spa treatments and an outdoor barbecue lounge. There are various activities on offer as well, like a jungle safari, indoor and outdoor games and a delightful open air earthly designed jungle restaurant.

Ideal for: Families looking to disconnect from modern inventions and connect with each other.

Price: The prices start from ₹12,600 for a night for double occupancy, with all meals.

What to do here and around the property: Daily trips to the Bandipur National Park are organised by the resort. In addition, there are also day trips to the nearby tribal villages that can be arranged. They also conduct plantation tours. In addition to this, the resort has many indoor and outdoor games on the property like archery, badminton, board games etc.

How to reach: Bandipur is about 220 kms from Bangalore, 80 kms from Mysore, 80 kms from Ooty and 170 kms from Coimbatore. The closest railway station is in Bandipur only while the nearest domestic airport is Mysore and the closest international airport is Bangalore.

Photo of The Windflower Jungle Resort & Spa Bandipur, चामाराजानगर जिला, कर्नाटक, भारत by Aakanksha Magan

Nagarahole National Park

Located on the foothills of the Western Ghats, Nagarhole is one among the most visited national parks in the country. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park is rich in wildlife, scenic beauty and has a stunning lake inside it. Flanking the Kabini River, the small streams criss-crossing the entire park attracts leopards, elephants, tigers and bisons out of the jungles. It is currently under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.

The Kings Sanctuary

Kings Sanctuary Nagarhole is nestled in 34 acres of mango orchards and natural greenery. Equipped with the modern day facilities, each type of accommodation is designed to cater to the needs of an urban traveller, while still taking care of the serenity and natural calm of the jungle. There are abode-style cottage structures, built around a central courtyard with a private verandah in each cottage. Whereas the suites have a dining table, a lobby and huge bedroom with en-suite washrooms and a private verandah where you can sit and enjoy the jungle. The resort has a gym, games room and outdoor pool for recreation options. Tribal dance performances, camp fires and jungle safari tours can be enjoyed.

Ideal for: Families looking for a fun time as well as spotting some exotic wildlife.

Price: Cottages start from ₹15,000 per night for double occupancy that includes all meals.

What to do here and around the property: They arrange wildlife safaris on a daily basis. Apart from that they also conduct tours to Iruppu waterfalls and nearby Tibetan monasteries. You can also enjoy cricket, badminton and other outdoor sports on the property. For those who like to be indoors, there are board games, table-tennis and many such options.

How to reach: Kings Sanctuary is 60 km from Mysore and 200 km away from Bangalore. The nearest domestic airport is Mysore and the nearest international airport is Bangalore. The nearest railway station is also Mysore.

Photo of The Kings Sanctuary, Bharathavadi, Karnataka, India by Aakanksha Magan

Have you been to any of these best resorts in south India? Or do you have a special place in any of these parks that offer the best of both nature and wildlife? Then write all about your adventure right here on Tripoto .

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The Best Tiger Safaris In India

India’s wildlife journey with our experts.

One of the greatest reasons wildlife and nature lovers are drawn to India is the wildlife safaris that explore the rich range of biodiversity (jungles, rivers, and magnificent wildlife). The main attraction of these safaris is the Royal Bengal Tiger,  an awesome creature unlike any other.

Tigers are notoriously elusive. Masters of disguise and stealth, these majestic animals are hard to spot in the wild. 

Our local wildlife experts, therefore, compiled a  list of National Parks and Tiger Reserves that give you the best shot at spotting tigers out in the wild. Our list covers all regions of India.

So, if you are traveling in only one particular region of India (say the Rajasthan in North or Kerala/Karnataka in South India), we have got you covered with a whole host of options. The list has been arranged in order of probability of tiger sighting. We begin with the best tiger-spotting places.

NOTE: Please note that during the Monsoon Months (Mid-June to September/Early October) , most National Parks shut down for maintenance and fear of flash floods. So, plan your wildlife trips to India accordingly.

Summer in India (April-June) is quite intense and the mercury can rise up to 37-40°C. But that is also the best time for tiger safaris because the tigers have to stick close to water holes and reservoirs to stay hydrated. This makes spotting them easier than at other times of the year. So braving the heat is well worth the challenge.

Let our local travel experts help you make a  non-obligatory travel and completely transparent plan  that shows you the route, places to stay, transport modes and gives you an idea of the cost of the tour with a complete breakup.

Customize Your Trip

Top 12 Tiger Safaris In India

With 106 National Parks and over 500 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India, you are really spoiled for choice and figuring out where to go can get quite confusing.

(Which is why) We have narrowed the list down to 12 places where you are almost guaranteed to spot tigers out on the prowl.

 1. Ranthambore National Park (Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan)

2. bandhavgarh national park (madhya pradesh), 3. jim corbett national park (uttarakhand), 4. kanha national park (madhya pradesh), 5. kaziranga national park (assam), 6. bandipur national park (karnataka), 7. nagarhole national park (karnataka), 8. pench tiger reserve (maharashtra), 9. tadoba andhari tiger reserve (maharashtra), 10. periyar national park (kerala), 11. satpura national park (maharashtra), 12. gir national park (gujarat).

Ranthambore

Abode of the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Ranthambore National Park is hands down the best place in all of India to go on a tiger-spotting safari. This wild outback in the Sawai Madhopur region of Rajasthan used to be the private hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur.

Sprawling over 400 sq. km. this north Indian national park is considered to be the most popular in the country, and features in almost all itineraries of trips to Rajasthan. It is named after an ancient fort of the same name that’s located on its premises.

Ranthambore is the perfect second fiddle act to the cultural immersions of Rajasthan (in “Pink City” Jaipur , “Venice in the East” Udaipur , “Golden City” Jaisalmer, “Blue City” Jodhpur and Pushkar ).

Best Time to Visit : March to June

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve : 80 as per the latest count in 2022 (25 tigers, 31 tigresses and 24 cubs)

Chance Of Spotting Tigers : One of the highest in the country.

Big City Nearby : Chandrapur (District Sawai Madhupur).

Tiger Safari Zones :  Zone 01 to 06 and 10 have had the best sighting lately.

Plan A Trip

BANDHAVGARH

The Central Indian State of Madhya Pradesh is one of the primary destinations in the country for wildlife and tiger safaris.

Why? Because, of all the states in India, Madhya Pradesh has the highest density of tigers per square mile on the planet. And, Bandhavgarh is only one of its many Tiger Reserves—albeit the best of the lot. (We will cover the rest later).

The Bandhavgarh National Park is nestled in the Vindhya Hills of the state. The landscape is characterized by a dense deciduous forest cover, steep ridges, meandering hills and vast meadows —making it an ideal habitat for tigers and a wide range of other wild species.

This erstwhile hunting ground of the Maharaja of Rewa gives Ranthambore a run for its money for the title of the best destination for a tiger safari in India. The first white tiger to ever be hunted (hunted by the Maharaja) is now on display on the property.

Best Time to Visit: November to June

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve: 60-70

Chance Of Spotting Tigers: Good

Big City Nearby : Umaria, Jabal Pur, Mandla

Tiger Safari Zones : Tala, Bamera and Magdi.

Other Tourist Attractions in The Regions : Khajuraho Temples (UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Jim Corbett

The Jim Corbett National Park is among the highest altitude national parks in India.

Nestled at a height of 1300-1400 feet above sea level in the Northern Himalayan State of Uttarakhand, this park is home to tigers and a whole range of exciting wildlife like Indian elephants, Himalayan Black Bears, Pangolins, jungle cats, leopards, fishing cats and langurs.

This pioneering National Park was established in 1936 (the oldest in India) under the British Raj and has been a model for other national parks to emulate on account of its trend-setting wildlife conservation efforts .

In 1956, the Indian Government named the park after the renowned naturalist and conservationist, Jim Corbett (it was previously named after Governor of United Provinces William Malcolm Hailey).

Best Time to Visit: December to June

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve: 252

Chance Of Spotting Tigers: High

Big City Nearby: Nainital (a popular Uttarakhand hill station known as “Lake Capital of India”)

Tiger Safari Zones: Durga Devi, Dhela, Bijarani, Dhikala and Jhirna.

Other Activities In The Region: Hill stations holiday in Nainital (Boat rides in the lake. Lakeside picnics). Rishikesh “Yoga Capital of the World” (famous for yoga, meditation and white water adventure sports in the Ganga River). Other hill stations of Uttarakhand like Mussoorie, Auli, Almora, Dhanualti etc)

Kanha

Located in the dense Maikal Moutain Range in a topography that can be characterized as a highland, Kanha is a magnificent habitat for Bengal Tiger.

Comprising a thick forest cover, vast grasslands, and abundant water reservoirs, Kanha is a great place for tigers to thrive and on a predatory hunting prowl for prey.

Other exotic creatures like Dhole (Indian Wild Dogs), sloth bears, Barasingha (swamp deer) and leopards also find their home in Kanha.

Aside from tigers, the BARASINGHA (Swamp Deer) is one of crown jewels of Kanha.

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve: 500

Chance Of Spotting Tigers:  Very High.

Big City Nearby : Jabalpur

Tiger Safari Zones: Kanha, Mukki, Kisli, Sarhi

Other Activities In The Region : Kanha Museum, Mandla, Kowardha Palace, Jabalpur, Pachmarhi (Hill Station). Panna National Park, Raneh Water Falls, Ajigarh Fort, Khajuraho Temples.

Kaziranga

So far we have covered mostly Tiger-centric destinations where the primary attraction is (of course) the Royal Bengal Tiger. In this national Park, however, tigers share their abode with another magnificently exotic animal— the rare one-horned rhinoceros.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kaziranga National Park is home to the world’s two-thirds population of one-horned rhinos (their name stands at 2,613 as per the latest count).

Located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of the North-Eastern state of ASSAM , Kaziranga is also home to a large number of tigers and has been declared by UNESCO as “ an Important Bird Area” due to a rich variety of indigenous and migratory birds found here.

Four rivers (including the sacred Brahmaputra ), a large number of smaller water bodies, and a landscape of marshlands, swamps, tropical moist broadleaf forests and elephant grass make for an excellent habitat for a rich variety of mammals, reptiles, and avian creatures.

Best Time to Visit : November to April

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve : 118

Chance Of Spotting Tigers : Good

Big City Nearby : Guwahati (47 Miles), Dimapur and Jorhat.

Tiger Safari Zones: The Central (Bagori) Zone, Western (Agaratoli) Zone And Eastern Range (Ghorakati Range).

BANDIPUR

The erstwhile hunting ground of for the Nizam and Maharajas of Mysore (the “City of Palaces” —now the Bandipur National— in the southern Indian state of Karnataka is a major wildlife destination in the region.

The magnificent Kabini river snakes it way through this national park and provides sustenance to the wildlife and other species here. Bandipur is home to tigers, lions, antelopes, Indian Gaurs, Asiatic Elephants and many other species.

Together with Nagarhole National Park which is located on the other side of the Kabini River, it provides visitors with an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone i.e., you can go on two different wildlife safaris in one go in Karnataka.

Best Time To Visit : October To March.

Number Of Tigers In The Reserve: 231

Big City Nearby : Bandipur, Masingudi, Gunlupet.

Tiger Safari Zones: East, North East And Central.

Other Tourist Attractions Nearby : Nagarhole National Park. Mudumalai National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajiv Gandhi National Park. Ooty (One Of The Best Hill Stations In South India).

Nagarhole

Bandipur’s twin on the other side of the Kabini river, the Nagarhole National Park is a land of exotic Teak and Sandalwood forest trees. There is a fragrant aroma of Sandalwood when you are in the midst of its foliage.

Nestled in the Brahmagiri mountains , the landscape of Nagarhole features lush green forest cover, cascading waterfalls and ridges.

Aside from providing tigers the perfect habitat to make a home and find prey in, this topography also makes Nagarhole a great destination for river adventures like white-water rafting, boating, and fishing.

Best Time to Visit : October to April

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve : 125

Chance Of Spotting Tigers: Very Good

Big City Nearby: Mysore, Bengaluru,

Tiger Safari Zones: Zone A And B

Other Tourist Attractions Nearby: Mysore “The City of Palaces”/ Bandipur National Park, Coorg (Hill Station),

Pench

Have you read Rudyard’s Kipling story “The Jungle Book” —or watched the several movies, TV shows, cartoons and animations it spawned —and wondered if the wild exciting world Kipling creates is real?

We are happy to break it you to that the Jungle Book World is real and it exists in the PENCH NATIONAL PARK in MAHARASHTRA .

Kipling was born and grew up in this part of India, where his father worked. The Jungle Book was inspired by this region.

The Pench Baghvan (“Bagh” means a tiger, and “van” means the home of) in located a mere 60 miles (two hours drive) from the city of Nagpur in the state of Maharashtra.

This “Home of Tiger” is another great place to go on a wildlife encounter in Maharashtra.

Best Time to Visit : February to April

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve : 44 As Per the Latest Count In 2017.

Chance Of Spotting Tigers :  Fair

Big City Nearby: Seoni, Nagpur

Tiger Safari Zones : Jamtara, Teliya, Rukhad, Turia and Karmajhiri

Other Tourist Attractions Nearby: Kanha National Park, Sanchi (Buddhist Ancient Temples), Ramtek (Ancient Temple Town of Jain Origin). Pachmarhi Hill Station.

tadoba

Having covered national Parks in North and North East India (Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Assam), we now move to Maharashtra, the economic hub of India (home to some of India’s well-known cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur).

As per the latest count carried out in 2020, the Tadoba Tiger Reserve (located in the Chandrapur district) is home to 88 Bengal Tigers.

Stretching over 577 sq. km. of area, Tadoba gets its name from the deity “Tadoba” worshipped by the tribes of the region. The tribe believes that the deity resides in its awe-inspiring and jaw-droppingly dense foliage.

Aside from tigers, Tadoba is also home to creatures like Indian Gaurs (Bisons), Sambar (stags), Indian Cobra, honey badgers, Dhole (wild dogs), Russell Vipers, and the endangered Indian python.

With a range of creatures like these, the reverence of the tribes for this magnificent makes a lot of sense.

Best Time to Visit : February to June

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve : 43

Big City Nearby : Chandrapur

Tiger Safari Zones: Kolsa, Moharli And Tadoba

Other Tourist Attractions Nearby : Pench National Park, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Raipur (City), Raigarh Fort, Kanha National Park, Erai Dam. Nevegaon National Park, Mahkali Mandir (Temple) In Chandrapur.

Periyar

The Southern Indian state of KERALA “GOD’S OWN COUNTRY” is one of the most visited parts of India (second only perhaps to Rajasthan).

This coastal region of India is famous for its pristine beaches , relaxing backwaters , Ayurveda-inspired luxury resorts and spas, delectable cuisine and lots of cultural attractions .

But Kerala is not without its wildlife allure. The Periyar National Park in the Idukki region spans over 357 sq miles of tropical evergreen deciduous jungles and montane grasslands.

If you are in town in Kerala for the beaches, Ayurveda and the backwaters, it is a wonderful idea to add a wildlife safari at the Periyar National Park to your itinerary.

Periyar is home to Bengal Tigers (including the mythical White Tiger ), 45 species of reptiles, 40 species of fish and a wide range of other mammals. These include  Indian Gaurs (bisons), Asiatic Elephants, sloth bears, Indian Wild Dogs and 266 species of birds.

Best Time to Visit: September to June

Number Of Tigers in The Reserve: 35

Chance Of Spotting Tigers: Fair

Big City Nearby : Kottayam, Kochi.

Other Attractions Near Periyar: Ayyappa Swamy Temple, Thekkady (Hill Station Famous for Its Beauty and Tea Plantation Tours, Yodha Village (Immersions).

satpura

Located in the Narmadapuram District of Madhya Pradesh the Satpura Tiger Reserve (also known as the Satpura National Park) is another less-crowded and offbeat safari destination in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

The National Park gets its name from the Satpura Mountain Range it is nestled in. Spanning over an area of 534 sq km (202 sq miles) features a highland ecosystem (average height 1,000-1,352 meters).

With a topography of sandstone peaks, ravines, and dense forest cover, Satpura is home to tiers, Sambar Deer, Chital, four-horned antelope, flying squirrels, foxes and porcupines.

Best Time To Visit: Feb To June

Number Of Tigers In The Reserve: 50

Big City Nearby : Pachmarhi (Hill Station And Town, Considered To Be A Very Popular Tourist Destination In Madhya Pradesh).

Other Attractions Near Periyar:   Bori Wildlife Sanctuary. Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary.

gir

According to statistics, there are only 674 Asiatic lions left on the planet . These creatures (also known as Persian Lions) are native to India and used to prowl the hunting grounds from Central India to as far as the Middle East and Mesopotamia (Iraq, Syria) and Persia as late as the 19th century.

Their numbers have shrunk due to merciless hunting and the shrinking of their natural habitat. The Gir National Park in Gujarat (districts of Junagadh, Gir, Somnath and Amreli) is the last-standing natural habitat of these lions .

This National Park in the Western State of Gujarat (the former hunting ground of the Nawab of Junagarh) is the only place in the world lions and tigers have historically lived in coexistence.

Best Time to Visit: December to March.

Number Of Lions in The Reserve: 674 Lions (As Of 2020)

Estimated Cost Per Person :

Big City Nearby : Talala (Gir)

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Sunil Gupta

Sunil Gupta is a travel professional for the last 15 years, providing immense knowledge and consulting services in India and other Asian subcontinents. He has worked for several renowned brands worldwide to curate the best travel experiences for their clients.

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Madumalai National Park

10 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries and Parks in South India for Adventurous Road Trips

From basking under the sun at the beaches to enjoying the views of the coffee plantation, from taking a tour of the age-old forts to visiting the various tourist attractions, South India has many things to offer to the tourists. If you want to add some excitement to your trip, especially when you are with your family and kids, you can plan road trips to the wildlife sanctuaries in South India. Here are some of the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in South India that you can take a tour of.

10 Famous National Parks in South India

  • Periyar National Park
  • Madumalai National Park
  • Nagarhole National Park
  • Bandipur National Park
  • Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Kudremukh National Park
  • Bannerghatta National Park
  • Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Periyar National Park

Periyar National park trip

If you plan your trip to Periyar National Park, try visiting the place early in the morning and taking a boat ride. You will be able to spot animals like bison, elephants, wild boars, and various species of birds in the early morning hours. There is also the facility of Bamboo rafting which you can avail at this national park. It is an ideal place to choose the activity of trekking.

  • Where: Kerala
  • Best time to travel: All through the year

2. Madumalai National Park

Madumalai National Park

Established in 1940, Madumalai National Park was the first national park in South India. There are several varieties of animals that you can find in this national forest including leopards, tigers, sloth bears, striped hyenas, dholes, golden jackals, and Asian elephants. Some of the birds that can be spotted here include the crested serpent eagle, crested hawk-eagle, the Malabar grey hornbill, and the Malabar trogon.

  • Where: Tamil Nadu
  • Best time to travel: December to June

3. Nagarhole National Park

best safari south india

Nagarhole National Park is known for being rich in flora and fauna. This is the perfect place for taking a trip with the family as you can enjoy the solitude here, while your kids can feel the thrill of witnessing animals like tigers, hyenas, elephants, jackals, civet cats, panthers, spotted deers, gaurs, sambars, mongoose, sloth bears, etc. You will also be able to spot various species of birds and several reptiles here.

  • Where: Karnataka
  • Best time to travel: October to May

4. Bandipur National Park

best safari south india

Once the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Mysore, Bandipur National Park is today one of the best national parks in South India . Covering an area of 874 sq km, Bandipur National Park is the first Biosphere Reserve in the country. From animals to reptiles and birds, you will be able to find several creatures of the wild here.

5. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in South India and the largest in the state of Karnataka. There is a wide variety of flora as well as fauna in this wildlife sanctuary. Apart from this, there are various other activities to take part in here such as trekking, fishing, crocodile sighting, and white water rafting.

  • Best time to travel: October to April

6. Kudremukh National Park

Bangalore to Kudremukh trip  

Kudremukh National Park covers an area of 600 sq km and is admired for its natural beauty. There is a plethora of flora and fauna in this national park, and you can even opt for trekking. You will very easily spot leopards, tigers, and wild dogs in this national park.

7. Bannerghatta National Park

Bannerghatta National Park

If you are in Bangalore and want to spend a weekend amidst the wildlife, head to Bannerghatta National Park. Spread across an area of 104.27 sq km, this national park is the house of several types of flora and fauna. Within the park, there is a Butterfly Park where you can find a wide variety of butterflies. The other attractions in this national park include Children’s park, Crocodile farm, an aquarium, a zoo, Snake park, and Prehistoric Animals’ park. To see the wild animals from a closer distance, you can opt for jungle safari.

  • Best time to travel: Any time of the year

8. Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary

Kabini River and wildlife sanctuary

If you are looking for one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in South India, you must visit the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is one of the most beautiful sanctuaries in the country and you will come across varied flora and fauna here. One of the rarest animals you will find here is the Black Panther. Apart from the panther, there are several animals and birds that you can spot here. You can also opt for boating, jungle safari and trekking here.

9. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

best safari south india

Surrounded by coffee and cardamom plantations, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is known for housing varied types of reptiles and birds. You can also easily spot various types of animals such as tigers, gaurs, elephants, leopard, Nilgiri langurs, cats, wild pigs, and sloth bears, etc.

  • Where: Coorg
  • Best time to travel: October to March

10. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

This is the right place for wildlife lovers in Kerala as they can witness 43 species of mammals, 46 species of reptiles, 233 species of birds, 13 amphibian species, and 27 species of fish, here.

  • Best time to travel: November to May

Seeing the animals in their natural habitat is an amazing experience that no visits to the zoos can match. If you too want to have this experience, you can opt for taking a car subscription by Revv and use it for short outdoor trips, thanks to their unlimited kilometers plan. The experience will surely make for a rich adventure for you and your loved ones.

  • ← Seek the Thrill of Adventure at East India’s National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
  • Explore The Top 10 Wilderness in West India at These Wildlife Sanctuaries and Parks →

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Top 7 Best Elephant Camps in South India - A Comprehensive Guide

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by Avathi Outdoors | Elephant Camps in South India

April 11, 2024.

Top 7 Best Elephant Camps in South India - A Comprehensive Guide

South India is blessed with awe-inspiring landscapes and a vibrant cultural heritage. But what truly touches the heart is its deep-rooted connection with elephants. Elephant camps in this region offer a unique chance to experience the majestic creatures up close. These camps serve as sanctuaries where elephants are cared for, protected, and, in some cases, rehabilitated. 

Elephant camps in South India have become essential centres for conservation and rescue efforts. These camps often house elephants that have been rescued from injury due to accidents, traps, or being orphaned at a young age. State Forest Departments play a vital role in implementing broad measures to safeguard elephants and prevent unlawful activities that endanger elephant numbers. These gentle giants hold a special place in the hearts of the local communities. The Oscar-winning documentary "The Elephant Whisperers" tells the captivating story of Bomman and Bellie, an indigenous couple entrusted with the care of Raghu, an orphaned infant Indian elephant. The documentary is set in India's stunning Mudumalai National Park , which is located on the border of the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Are you ready to embark on a mesmerising journey into the world of gentle giants? In this article, we explore the elephant camps of South India in detail. At these camps, tourists have the freedom to observe and interact with elephants up close, under the supervision of trained mahouts. 

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Instant Book Kabini River Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book  Bandipur Safari Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bandipur Safari Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Dubare Elephant Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Dubare Elephant Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book K Gudi Wilderness Camp - BR Hills | Jungle Lodges & Resorts B.R. Hills | B.R.T Wildlife Sanctuary

Instant Book K Gudi Wilderness Camp - BR Hills | Jungle Lodges & Resorts B.R. Hills | B.R.T Wildlife Sanctuary

Container Homes and Camping in Kodaikanal

Container Homes and Camping in Kodaikanal

Stay in an Estonian Hut in South Coorg

Stay in an Estonian Hut in South Coorg

Pleasant Stay at a Jungle Retreat in Kodaikanal

Pleasant Stay at a Jungle Retreat in Kodaikanal

Adventure and nature resort near Nandi hills, Bangalore

Adventure and nature resort near Nandi hills, Bangalore

Instant Book Devbagh Beach Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Devbagh Beach Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Hemmadaga Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Hemmadaga Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Container Cabins Near Bangalore

Container Cabins Near Bangalore

Cottage stays at a Riverside Resort in Dandeli

Cottage stays at a Riverside Resort in Dandeli

Hampi’s Feathers Resort

Hampi’s Feathers Resort

A Fun Day Out at a Naturistic Amusement Park

A Fun Day Out at a Naturistic Amusement Park

Instant Book Sadashivgad Sea View Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Sadashivgad Sea View Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Mysore Tour Packages

Mysore Tour Packages

Day Outing at Devbagh Adventure Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing at Devbagh Adventure Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Out at an Adventure Resort near Bangalore!

Day Out at an Adventure Resort near Bangalore!

1N/2D at a Jungle Camp in Wayanad

1N/2D at a Jungle Camp in Wayanad

Day Outing and Glamping in Mysore

Day Outing and Glamping in Mysore

Day Outing at Dubare Elephant Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing at Dubare Elephant Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

1N/2D at a Rustic Homestay in Kabini

1N/2D at a Rustic Homestay in Kabini

Stay at the Chigarimala Nature Camp

Stay at the Chigarimala Nature Camp

Instant Book  Bhagawathi Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bhagawathi Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing in Bannerghatta Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing in Bannerghatta Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Jungle stay in Coorg

Jungle stay in Coorg

Elegant Homestay in Vagamon

Elegant Homestay in Vagamon

The Bison, Kabini

The Bison, Kabini

1N/2D at a Cozy Homestay in Dandeli

1N/2D at a Cozy Homestay in Dandeli

Stay at a Charming Treehouse in Coorg

Stay at a Charming Treehouse in Coorg

Go wild at an Elegant Campsite in Coorg

Go wild at an Elegant Campsite in Coorg

Stay at an A-Frame Cottage in Coorg

Stay at an A-Frame Cottage in Coorg

Luxurious stays in Munnar

Luxurious stays in Munnar

1N/2D Trekking Adventure at the Elephant Lodge

1N/2D Trekking Adventure at the Elephant Lodge

Stay at a Wilderness Lodge, Nagarhole

Stay at a Wilderness Lodge, Nagarhole

1N/2D at the Coffee Estate Homestay

1N/2D at the Coffee Estate Homestay

Jungle Stay in Mollem

Jungle Stay in Mollem

Adventure Camp Near Kanakapura

Adventure Camp Near Kanakapura

Make your Stay unique at Jungle Inn

Make your Stay unique at Jungle Inn

Sunrise Adventure Camp

Sunrise Adventure Camp

Day Outing at Sharavathi Adventure Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing at Sharavathi Adventure Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

A Fun Day Out at the Lakeside Camp!

A Fun Day Out at the Lakeside Camp!

Glamping in the hills of Munnar

Glamping in the hills of Munnar

Perfect weekend getaway at an eco-friendly resort in Bangalore

Perfect weekend getaway at an eco-friendly resort in Bangalore

Stay at Charming Hillside Cottage near B.R. Hills

Stay at Charming Hillside Cottage near B.R. Hills

1N/2D at a Nature Camp in Chikmagalur

1N/2D at a Nature Camp in Chikmagalur

Private Team Outing for Corporates and Large Groups at the Fine Odes

Private Team Outing for Corporates and Large Groups at the Fine Odes

Instant Book River Tern Lodge - Bhadra, Jungle Lodges and Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book River Tern Lodge - Bhadra, Jungle Lodges and Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book JLR Kings Sanctuary Resort, Nagarhole - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book JLR Kings Sanctuary Resort, Nagarhole - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Unique Stays at a Riverside Resort in Dandeli

Unique Stays at a Riverside Resort in Dandeli

Instant Book Gopinatham Mystery Trails - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Gopinatham Mystery Trails - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

The Kaav Safari Lodge

The Kaav Safari Lodge

Instant Book  Galibore Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Galibore Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Stay at the Waterwoods Kabini

Stay at the Waterwoods Kabini

Instant Book Kali Adventure Camp, Dandeli - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Kali Adventure Camp, Dandeli - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book  Sharavathi Adventure Camp, Jog Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Sharavathi Adventure Camp, Jog Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing at the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Day Outing at the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Evolve Back, Kabini

Evolve Back, Kabini

Instant Book Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Sakrebyle Elephant Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Sakrebyle Elephant Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

The Tamara Coorg

The Tamara Coorg

Instant Book Blackbuck Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Blackbuck Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Kemmangundi Hill Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Kemmangundi Hill Resort - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Wildlife Resort Kabini

Wildlife Resort Kabini

Jungle Stay at Red Earth, Kabini

Jungle Stay at Red Earth, Kabini

Instant book Seethanadi Nature Camp, Agumbe Ghats - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant book Seethanadi Nature Camp, Agumbe Ghats - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bhimgad Adventure Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bhimgad Adventure Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Old Magazine House, Ganeshgudi - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Old Magazine House, Ganeshgudi - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book  Anejhari Butterfly Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Anejhari Butterfly Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bannerghatta Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Instant Book Bannerghatta Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

best safari south india

Experience the ultimate adventure at South India's Best Elephant Camps- a haven for elephant lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With Avathi as your official booking partner, rest assured of the best deals and discounts to make your journey unforgettable. Book now and discover the hidden gems of South India!

1. Sakrebyle Elephant Camp, Shivamogga

Sakrebyle Elephant Camp , located 14 km from Shivamogga on the Shivamogga-Thirthahalli main road, is a dedicated elephant training and conservation camp. It offers visitors an opportunity to interact with the elephants on a personal level. The camp is situated near the Tunga River, where elephants bathe on the banks of the Gajanur Dam Backwaters. It is recommended to arrive early to watch the elephants indulge in a river bath. You can scrub and wash them with water and brushes. This bathing session can be enjoyed for a generous duration of 2 to 3 hours. Elephants are nurtured and cared for by skilled mahouts who have dedicated their lives to them. 

Elephant interactions allow visitors to admire the beauty of these majestic creatures. Kids will have an unforgettable day at Sakrebyle! The camp also offers a variety of accommodation options, including wooden cottages, tent cottages, and dormitories. These eco-friendly accommodations are managed by Jungle Lodges and Resorts. Rooms with a private bathroom, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, elephant interaction at the camp, a nature walk in the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, bird watching, and forest entry charges are included in the package, providing guests with a peaceful stay in nature. Call us at +91 8971202915 to book your stay at Sakrebyle Elephant Camp. 

The camp is open from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM on all days of the week. Entry charges are ₹50 per head. If you wish to partake in bathing these jumbos, an additional fee of ₹100 per individual applies. 

best safari south india

2. Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg

Dubare Elephant Camp , located in the scenic Dubare Forest on the banks of the river Kaveri, plays a vital role in conserving and protecting elephants in Karnataka. Historically, the trained elephants of Dubare participated in the grand Mysore Dussehra festival, representing the rich heritage and culture of the region. Elephant interaction, feeding, bathing, and taking pictures are the activities at the camp. Visitors can get up close to these majestic creatures, learn about their behaviour, and participate in activities like bathing and feeding them. In the evening, guests can gear up for a Jeep Safari arranged by Jungle Lodges and Resorts. Accommodation options like the River View cottage and the Forest View cottage are provided to guests who would like an overnight stay amidst nature. Call us at +91 8971202915 to book your stay at Dubare Elephant Camp. 

Camp opening times for tourists are from 9 AM to 11 AM and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. The entry charge is ₹100 per person. There is an extra cost of ₹250 if you want to participate in the elephant bathing activity. Additionally, there is also a ₹50 charge for people who want to feed the elephants. The best time to visit Dubare Elephant Camp is during the post-monsoon season, which runs from October to March.

best safari south india

3. Phansoli Elephant Camp, Kali Tiger Reserve

Phansoli Elephant Camp is situated within the Kali Tiger Reserve in Phansoli. The camp is around 14 kilometres from Dandeli, South India's Adventure Capital. The camp's skilled and experienced mahouts share unique elephant insights, making the trip even more enjoyable.  

The camp is a beautiful place to spend some quality time with these jumbos. Entry timings are from 8 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 6 PM. During other times, the elephants go into the forest for feeding. Visitors' safety is ensured since the elephants are well-trained. This excellent opportunity is accessible for an entry charge of ₹ 50 for adults and ₹ 25 for children. This elephant camp is regarded as a great tourist attraction in Phansoli. Kali Adventure Camp by Jungle Lodges & Resorts, which is only 11 kilometres away, would be an excellent place to stay. The resort offers River Rafting and a Jungle Safari.  

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4. Balle Elephant Camp, Balle

The charming Balle Elephant Camp is situated in Balle, amid the beautiful Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. This extraordinary camp gives visitors a chance to interact with majestic elephants in their natural habitat. Every morning, at about 9 AM, the elephants get bathed and fed, making for a lovely show as they gobble up their snacks. The gentle giants are then released into the untamed forests, where they can roam freely until called back in the evening. This camp is only 10.5 kilometres from the famed Kabini River Lodges, making it the finest option for your stay in Kabini. 

The elephants in the camp are very impressive, notably the massive Arjuna. Arjuna is the Asian elephant who is known for carrying the Golden Ambari at the procession of the Mysore Dasara festival. The mahouts at the camp are incredibly kind and concerned about the elephants' well-being. These gentle giants are properly cared for, with frequent baths, nutritious food, and the freedom to roam the beautiful forest, only to return in the evening. Currently, the camp is home to 12 elephants. A visit to Balle Elephant Camp is a must for wildlife enthusiasts vacationing in Kabini.

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5. Harangi Elephant Camp and Tree Park, Kushalnagar

Harangi Elephant Camp, situated in Kushalnagar, Karnataka, is a recently established facility inaugurated in 2022. Spanning 40 acres within the forest department, this new elephant camp is nestled alongside the Harangi reservoir. The camp currently houses a limited number of elephants, which were shifted from Dubare. One of the highlights is the breathtaking view of the River Kaveri that overlooks the camp. The sunset viewpoint gives you an immersive sunset experience.

This place provides a serene and less-crowded alternative to the popular Dubare Elephant Camp. The camp is open in the morning from 9 AM to 11 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM. If you arrive early, there's a chance to witness the delightful sight of elephants bathing. Visitors are required to purchase an entry ticket for ₹50, as well as a parking ticket for their vehicle. From the main gate, a pleasant 800-metre walk leads to the elephant camp. To feed the elephants, you can purchase a bundle of hay for ₹50 each. Along the way, you can enjoy paddle boating in the backwater for ten minutes for ₹100. Children can also enjoy the small games provided at the park. Within the park, visitors can also indulge in a captivating musical fountain, commencing at 7 PM. Harangi Elephant Camp offers a serene and enriching experience, inviting you to connect with nature and witness the majestic elephants. 

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6. Theppakadu Elephant Camp, Mudumalai National Park

Theppakadu Elephant Camp, located in Mudumalai National Park, is a popular tourist spot owing to the Academy Award-winning documentary 'The Elephant Whisperers'. Established in 1923, the camp houses 24 elephants at present and serves as a training and rehabilitation centre for these majestic creatures. The camp was initially founded to manage and train elephants used for forestry tasks like logging and timber transportation. The Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nilgiri District and spans Tamil Nadu and its neighbouring state, Karnataka. 

Mahouts play a crucial role in being emotionally available for their elephants, bathing them, feeding them, and allowing them to graze and rest. The camp's daily routine includes an hour-long bath at the Moyar River, followed by breakfast and a relaxing day at the camp. The respective mahouts provide a balanced diet to elephants using millet balls made from ragi, rice, jaggery, and dried coconut, following a ration chart. On special occasions, elephant calves are taken to seek their blessings from Lord Ganesha (in the temple inside the camp).

Visitors can visit the camp from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:30 to 6:00 PM, with an entry fee of INR 25 per person. The camp offers tourists the opportunity to witness elephants being fed and bathed by the mahouts. It provides training programs for mahouts and there's a small education centre for visitors. 

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7. Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary, Thrissur

Punnathur Kotta is located near Guruvayoor temple in the district of Thrissur, Kerala. It is an elephant sanctuary that offers food, treatment, and proper care for elephants. Managed by the Guruvayur Devasam Board, the camp is a peaceful and beautiful place for elephant lovers. With around 40 elephants, visitors can observe them cleaning and feeding, as well as take photos and videos. The walkway for tourists is well-maintained, and the Elephant Kotta is kept clean and tidy. It is located 3–4 km from the Guruvayoor temple. The premises have many trees, so elephants can enjoy the shade and breeze during the summer. Kids will love this place.

Visitors can purchase tickets for ₹ 20 for one adult and ₹ 30 for parking. Mobile photography is charged at ₹ 25. You can click pictures of elephants from a distance. The timings for the camp are from 8 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week. If you go early in the morning, you can see how the mahouts bathe the jumbos. You can spend around an hour inside, which makes it a must-visit destination for families and children. The park is a sanctuary for elephants belonging to Guruvayur Devasam, providing a safe and nurturing environment for feeding and resting them. It is a treat to see these elephants eating, bathing, and just lazing around.

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Which is the No 1 elephant camp in India?

While opinions may vary, one of the most renowned and well-loved elephant camps in India is the Dubare Elephant Camp. Located in Karnataka, amidst the lush landscapes of the Western Ghats, Dubare Elephant Camp offers a unique and immersive experience with these majestic creatures.

Managed by the Karnataka Forest Department, Dubare Elephant Camp focuses on both conservation and responsible tourism. Here, you can engage in a range of activities that allow you to closely interact with elephants while respecting their natural behaviors. Some highlights of the Dubare Elephant Camp experience include:

Bathing and Feeding: Visitors have the opportunity to participate in the daily bathing ritual of the elephants in the nearby river. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with these gentle giants and learn about their care.

Elephant Interaction: You can observe and engage with elephants as they are fed, groomed, and tended to by their mahouts (caretakers). This provides insight into the close bond between the mahouts and their elephants.

Elephant Rides: While riding elephants is a common activity, Dubare focuses on making these rides more responsible and comfortable for the animals. You can enjoy a serene ride through the scenic forest trails.

Learning and Awareness: The camp offers educational programs that emphasize elephant conservation and the importance of their protection in the wild. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges these animals face and how to contribute to their well-being.

Natural Setting: Set against the backdrop of the Dubare Reserve Forest, the camp provides an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the region while being in close proximity to the elephants.

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Animals Around the Globe

Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

best safari south india

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://www.animalsaroundtheglobe.com/mammals/" title="mammal">mammal</a> species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.</p> <p>Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.</p>

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

best safari south india

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

best safari south india

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

best safari south india

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

best safari south india

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

best safari south india

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.</p> <p>Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.</p>

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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COMMENTS

  1. 15 Best Jungle Safari Destinations in South India

    Periyar National Park, Kerala. Periyar National Park, Thekkady, is surrounded by the banks of a huge lake and located in a dense hilly forest, famous for serving as a haven for a diverse variety of flora and fauna. Also known as a tiger reserve, the park is one of the best places for jungle safari in South India.

  2. 10 Best Wildlife Safaris in South India

    By this article, you will get to know about the 10 Best Wildlife Safari in South India. 1. Bandipur National Park. Bandipur National Park is a famous one in India and a part of "Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve" in Karnataka. This beautiful national park is home to nearly 100 mammal species and 350 bird species.

  3. 12 Stunning Nature Destinations to Visit in South India (2023)

    Wayanad is the essence of being in the heart of nature. It will for sure be one of the most memorable places you visit on your trip through South India. 5. IDUKKI, KERALA. Cascading waterfall in Idukki. Idukki is a beautiful haven for nature lovers to connect with the natural world.

  4. Best Wildlife Safari in South India

    Here are some of the best wildlife safari options in South India: 1. Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka: Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris through lush forests, grasslands, and water bodies ...

  5. 7 Best Tiger Reserves in South India

    It is a mystery that we will unravel as we go forward. Here is the list of 7 Best tiger reserves in South India for every wildlife lover. Periyar Tiger Reserve. Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Dandi Anshi Tiger Reserve. Bhadra Tiger Reserve. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Anamalai Tiger Reserve.

  6. Best Nature Resorts in South India

    Bandipur Safari Lodge. Bandipur Safari Lodge, situated in the prestigious Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, India, is the epitome of a remarkable wildlife retreat. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park boasts an impressive population of majestic Bengal tigers, drawing nature enthusiasts from far and wide.

  7. 5 best wildlife safari destinations in South India that you must check out

    The Kabini, also called Kapila, is one of the major tributaries of the river Cauvery in southern India. Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a wildlife reserve in the South Indian state of Karnataka. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park is backed by the Brahamagiri Mountains and filled with sandalwood ...

  8. India's best jungle safari destinations for the season

    Kabini, Karnataka. Kabini is one of the best places in south India where you can have unforgettable safari experiences. There are jeep, bus and elephant safaris available, but the jeep safari is ...

  9. India's top 6 safari parks

    The best place for seeing tigers is still India, with almost half the world's wild tigers, but there are 39 tiger sanctuaries here. To help you decide where to get your big-cat kicks, here's my pick of India's safari parks: Bandavgarh, Madhya Pradesh. This is your best chance in all of India of seeing a wild tiger.

  10. South India Wildlife Tour

    Eravikulam National Park is probably the best wildlife park of India to view Nilgiri Thar. While taking a boat ride over Lake Periyar in Periyar National Park, one can easily witness Wild Elephants, birds and wild boars. Nilgiri Hills are full with spice and coffee plantations, which increase the overall nature experience of South India tour.

  11. 12 Best Jungle Safari Experiences in India

    Wildlife lovers from all across the globe come here for the best wildlife tourism experience of India. Flora in Gir National Park - Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus, Amli, Tendu, Dhak, Zizyphas and Jamun etc. Fauna in Gir National Park- Sambar deer, Chousingha, Jackal, India Fox, Hyena, Four-Horned Antelope and Asiatic Lions etc.

  12. 8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

    Pench Tree Lodge, Pench. Pench in Madhya Pradesh is quintessential Jungle Book territory where, like Mowgli, you can run into Shere Khan (the tiger) and Baloo (the sloth bear). And Pugdundee Safaris' Pench Tree Lodge with six treehouses and luxury cottages is the ideal base for your adventures. Perched at 18 feet above the ground, the ...

  13. The 15 Best places for Jungle Safari in India in 2024

    Six Senses Fort Barwara - a fort transformed into a 5-star resort, 30-minute drive from the national park. 3. Kanha Tiger Reserve Jungle Safari. Kanha tiger Reserve also known as the Kanha -Kisli National Park is the largest national park in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

  14. Best 7 National Parks for Tiger Safaris in India (Tips & Location Map)

    6. Satpura National Park — Less Crowded. Satpura National Park is a relatively less-crowded park for tiger safaris, so it is no struggle to get safari tickets, except during festivals or New Year weekends. The tiger population in the park is thought to be around 50, but they are sometimes more elusive.

  15. 13 Best Wildlife Safaris in India to Visit in 2024

    3. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand. Source. 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.

  16. India's best wildlife stays

    In addition to canoe, jeep, elephant and boat safaris, Satpura is the only national park in India that offers walking safaris into its core. Catch a glimpse of leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer, tigers, birds and butterflies while you're out on a stroll. Website; doubles from Rs22,000.

  17. 10 Best India Safari Tours 2024/2025

    Find the best India Safari tours in 2024/2025 with TourRadar. Choose from 267 safaris with 1564 tour reviews. Book now and save up to 49% with TourRadar.com! ... 14 Days Rice Terrace Trail And Homestay XXL Sea Voyage to Exotic Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean Hiking Three Passes Trek (Everest) Guide Virtual Travel: Best of Asia.

  18. Best safari parks in India

    Discover the best safari parks to visit during a trip to India, from tiger-spotting in Bandhavgarh to the snow-capped Himalayas in Ladakh Shivani Ashoka Thursday January 12 2023, 5.00pm , The Times

  19. The Big 5 of the South Indian Jungle Safari

    The "Big 5" of South Indian Jungle Safari. In Africa, the big five animals are the African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and White/Black rhinoceros. The term big five (sometimes capitalized or quoted as "Big Five") was coined by big-game hunters and refers to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on ...

  20. Resorts in South India: Relax and Rejuvenate in Nature

    Here are the 6 best resorts in south India for wildlife spotting: ... Other than jungle safaris, there are some activities like river floating, hiking, birding and more on offer. How to reach: Nearest domestic airport is Calicut, 125km away and the nearest international airport is Kochi, 240km away. The nearest railway station is Calicut.

  21. 12 Best Tiger Safaris In India to Explore

    10. Periyar National Park (Kerala) 11. Satpura National Park (Maharashtra) 12. Gir National Park (Gujarat) 1. Ranthambore National Park (Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan) Abode of the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Ranthambore National Park is hands down the best place in all of India to go on a tiger-spotting safari.

  22. 10 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries and Parks in South India

    To see the wild animals from a closer distance, you can opt for jungle safari. Where: Karnataka; Best time to travel: Any time of the year; 8. Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. If you are looking for one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in South India, you must visit the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is one of the most beautiful ...

  23. Top 7 Best Elephant Camps in South India

    Additionally, there is also a ₹50 charge for people who want to feed the elephants. The best time to visit Dubare Elephant Camp is during the post-monsoon season, which runs from October to March. 3. Phansoli Elephant Camp, Kali Tiger Reserve. Phansoli Elephant Camp is situated within the Kali Tiger Reserve in Phansoli.

  24. 10 Best African Countries for Safari

    Recommended Tours: But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it.

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    A total solar eclipse created a celestial spectacle Monday in the skies over parts of Mexico, the United States and Canada after a nearly seven-year wait.