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The 15 Best places for Jungle Safari in India in 2023

Jungle safari is one of the most riveting experiences that you can have in India. Blessed with an exceptional faunal diversity, India offers you a chance to live “The Jungle Book”.

Be it the Tiger trails of Karnataka, or Asiatic lion in the Gir Forest – a safari through the India’s forests is unforgettable. So, get ready to read about these thrilling escapades in the Indian Jungles.

I include affiliate links for the tours, hotels and products I recommend. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

A Quick Outline

Best Jungle Safaris in India – South Zone

South India is where you find the world’s hottest biodiversity hotspot – the Western Ghats . No wonder it is home to beautiful forests. Mainly famous for tiger sighting, South Indian jungles also offer you an opportunity to see many other endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-Tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Langur.

1. Bandipur Tiger Reserve

Bandipur, Nagarhole, Wayanad (Kerala) and Mudumalai (Tamil Nadu) are four national parks spread across 3 states of India. Together this interconnected group of national parks form the largest free habitat of tigers in India and the whole world. Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Mudumalai, aka Masinagudi are so close that they are almost like a continuous stretch of forest for a layman.

In the 6-hour jeep safari in Bandipur Tiger Reserve by Jungle Lodge & Resorts , you will enter deep into the forests in search of the evasive striped beauty. The safari is conducted in two phases. There is one 3-hour safari in the evening and one 3-hour safari in the next morning.

Besides tiger, you will come across many other indigenous species of Western Ghats. The thrill of riding through the dusty forest, watching the spectacular sunset amidst the sound of birds and looking out for peacocks, deer, monkeys and other members of the beautiful forest ecosystem of Karnataka is a memorable experience. 

Besides booking a stay in the JLR properties, you can also book a tour of Bandipur Safari from Mysore here . You can read more about it here .

Places to stay in Bandipur

• The Serai, Bandipur  – The most famous luxury stays in the region
• Dhole’s Den – A travel sustainable property in the cradle of nature in Bandipur

2. Nagarhole National Park

Also in Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is separated from the Bandipur Tiger Reserve by the resplendent Kabini river. Located at the border of Mysuru and Kodagu districts, Nagarhole is one of the most visited national parks in India. The forest of Nagarhole is home to spotted deer, sambal, monkeys, leopards and many other indegeneous animals.

Check out the best places to visit in Karnataka – one of the most beautiful states of India.

While the park itself id beautiful and you have almost as much probability of spotting a tiger while driving through the forests as in Bandipur, the jungle safari has scope of improvements. The timings of Jungle safari are 6am to 8 am in the morning and 3pm to 5pm in the evening.

The bookings are managed by the Forest Department, and you can only book a one-hour jeep safari pr bus safari in the forest. You will be greeted by a herd of deer at the ticket counter itself and it’s hard to resist the urge to pet those beauties.

3. Periyar Tiger Reserve – a Lake Safari

Located in Idukki district of Kerala, Periyar Tiger Reserve is a great place to go for jungle safari. It is the Best managed Tiger Reserve among 50+ Tiger Reserves in the country according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

The forest engulfs the beautiful Periyar Lake in Thekkady . Besides tiger, you get to see other indigenous species like the Sambhal Deer, elephants ,Nilgiri langur and the lion-tailed macaque.

There are a variety of jungle safari options in the Periyar reserve. The regular safari in the daytime can be on vans of jeeps. The highlight of a trip to Periyar Tiger Reserve is the opportunity to join the night patrol.

This is a regular night patrolling program in the fringes of the Eco development zone of the Tiger Reserve in the company of armed guards between 7 pm and 4 am (7pm-10, 10-1am, 1-4am).

You can also enjoy a relaxing safari in the lake or book a one-night or two-night camping at PTR. Check out all available activities for online booking here .

Places to Stay

• Cardamom Country by Xandari – A luxury resort 4km away from the jungle.
• Chrisie’s Hotel – A 3-star travel-sustainable property only 1.2 km away from Periyar National Park
• Noah’s Treehouse – A travel sustainable homestay close to the jungle, which has its fair share of wildlife like deer, hornbill etc.
• The Periyar House – Right across the Periyar Lake

4. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary – The Elephant Paradise

The second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, Muthanga is home to a huge variety of birds and animals. It is a Project Elephant site dedicated to rescue and conservation of the beautiful giants.

You can book a 2-hour jeep safari or a jungle camping excursion from the Sultan Bathery checkpost in Wayanad. You can also go there in your own car.

Places to stay:

Our stay at Sterling Wayanad at Sultan Bathery gave us an opportunity to explore the jungles by our car every day of our stay.

Rithu Holiday Cottages and tents gives you the most authentic jungle-camping experience in Muthanga.

5. Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu

Mudumalai National Park, also known as Masinagudi Tiger Reserve is located in Tamil Nadu. Besides tigers, these dense forests are home to giant elephants, antelopes and many indigenous species of the Western Ghats .  Living in a cottage in the forests amidst deer and peacocks and going on a tiger safari is an experience of a lifetime.

Spanning 321 square kilometers at an elevation range of 850m – 1250m, in the Nilgiris, Masinagudi will mesmerize you with its beauty.

Van / Bus safari is organized every morning (6 am to 10 am) and evening (2pm to 6pm), each safari lasting only 30 minutes.

To increase the chances of seeing interesting wildlife you should book jeep safaris that are longer. Elephant safari is also an option in Masinagudi. Private vehicles are not allowed in safari zones.

Check out the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu .

6. Eravikulam National Park Safari – to see the Nilgiri Tahr

Nestled in the hills of Munnar, Eravikulam National Park has a mystic charm that will bewitch you all. Anamudi, the highest peak in South India is located right inside the park.

The park’s mesmerizing beauty is because of the mountains, the waterfalls and the pristine natural ecosystem. An ecosystem which was unfortunately disturbed and replaced with the aggressive commercialization and tea plantations by the British.

The ticket counter is bustling with people all the time as it is one of the biggest attractions in the Idukki region. The safari bus simply takes you to the hilly forests and leaves you there to explore the park by yourself.

Vehicles are not allowed to enter beyond a point to maintain the sensitive biosphere.

So here you have the walking jungle safari. The 97 sq km park has three parts – the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed to stroll only in the tourist area. Trek in the Kurinji trails covered with blossoms to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and be awed at the sight of the majestic Lakkom Falls. 

Don’t miss the Eraviulam National Park in your Munnar itinerary .

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7. BR Hills

Biligiriranga Hills, popularly known as BR Hills is an elusive and enchanting forest in Karnataka. Located between Bangalore and Mysore , this could be one of the most visited jungles in India, but it is actually quite the opposite. Because tourism in the area is not as well-developed, footfall is less, and the jungle-feel is quite authentic.

Welcoming Ellis Veen from Backpack Adventures to share her experience at BR Hills

It was a rainy morning in BR hills . The wildlife sanctuary was lush and green and teeming with life. Our jeep was going slow on the muddy dirt roads through the dense forest. One time we even had to get out to remove fallen branches from the narrow jeep track. 

The rainy season is maybe not the best time to go on a safari in India, but it is when the jungle of BR Hills truly comes alive. The constant drizzle did not take away the natural beauty of the monsoon greenery and the joy of spotting wildlife.

I was lucky to see wild boars, barking deer and chital deer and just as I was leaving BR Hills there was a group of elephants by the side of the road.

BR Hills is one of the lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka. Although less popular than nearby Bandipur or Kabini, it is equally beautiful and with the same chances of spotting the elusive tiger or the Asian elephant that roams the forests. Being a bridge between the Eastern ghats and the Western ghats it is a biodiverse area of rich flora and fauna. 

BR Hills has culture and history too. The local Biligiri Ranganathaswamy temple is an important place of worship for the local Soliga people and a pilgrimage site for Hindus.

With its scenic location on top of a hill it offers sweeping views over the BR Hills Wildlife sanctuary. Safari s are organized by the K.Gudi wilderness camp where you can sleep as well. 

KSTDC Mayura Hotel – a government-run sustainable resort in B.R.Hills

Gorukana Eco Wellness Resort – a 4star eco-friendly stay near B.R. Hills

8. Dandeli Jungle Safari

Dandeli, located in the northern region of Karnataka is a great place for adventurists and nature-lovers. It is also very close to Goa and can be clubbed as at extension to your Goa itinerary.

Raksha shares her tips for Dandeli Jungle Safari

Designated as a tiger reserve, the town of Dandeli is a natural habitat for wildlife and is the second largest sanctuary in Karnataka state of India. Now called the Kali Tiger Reserve, the forest has abundant wild animals, reptiles, and birds.

Forests of Dandeli are made up of moist deciduous and semi-evergreen trees. The sanctuary is located on the banks of River Kali and is said to have about 13 to 14 tigers in the wild. It is also home for the rare black panthers.

The best time to visit Dandeli is between the months of October and May. Jungle safaris are operated twice during the day by the forest department.

The visitors can also take a coracle ride on the river to see freshwater crocodiles. And for adventure seekers, there is white water river rafting available with rapids of 3+ grades.

Dandeli has many accommodations catering for all kinds of travelers. There are home stays that provide amazing options for budget travelers and then there are resorts for luxury travelers.

Kali Wilderness Camp operated by Jungle Lodges is an excellent place to stay. As it is part of the government, preference for jungle safari rides is given to the guests of the camp.

Jungle Safari in India – Rest of India

I have only been to jungle safaris in the south. So, for the rest of India I reached out to the blogging community for their suggestions. North India has a diverse landscape with deserts, Himalayan forests, mangroves and more. The enriching experiences of these bloggers gave me new travel goals.

1. Jaldapara Jungle Safari

Welcome Soumya from Nature Diary to share his experiences:

The list of best  jungle   safari  in India is incomplete without mentioning Jaldapara National Park in West Bengal. After Kaziranga National Park in Assam, Jaldapara is the second-largest home for critically endangered one-horned rhinos in India.

At present, the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation Limited ( WBFDCL ) arranges jeep  safaris  on five routes and elephant  safaris  on two routes across the national park.

If you love to enjoy the wilderness at its best, choose the elephant  safari  route from Hollong, an  ecotourism destination  in North Bengal. There are three times when the  safari  commences in the early morning: 5:50-6:30 AM, 6:30-7:30 AM, and 7:30-8.30 AM.

It is preferable to book the 1st slot as the forest looks most beautiful at this time. Please note that the  jungle   safari  is open every day except Thursday.

During the  safari , you can see animals like rhinos, Asiatic elephants, sambars, hog deer, barking deer,  jungle  cats, giant squirrels, porcupines, pangolins, pythons, etc. Over 240 species of bird species, including peacocks, hornbills, green pigeons, barbets, and parakeets, can be seen on the  jungle   safari . Overall, a  jungle   safari  at Jaldapara National Park is worth every penny. To enjoy nature to its fullest, you can stay in the Hollong forest bungalow overnight and book the next morning’s  safari .

2. Ranthambore Jungle Safari

Located in Rajasthan, at the junction of two of the oldest mountain ranges – the Aravallis and Vindyas – Ranthambore forest offers the most picturesque setting for a wildlife safari. 

Ranthambore is famous for tiger safari, but it is also a home to a large variety of birds and animals. Some of these are the sloth bear, leopard, Indian wolf, deer, fox, hyena and mongoose.

Sakshi , blogger at Tripleamommy shares her experience.

My husband and I love going to National Parks. Ranthmabore is our favorite – both for its proximity to Delhi and the high chances of tiger sighting. The first time we went to Ranthambore was in April 2009 and we stayed at a government guest house.

The facilities were basic but that’s not really important when you are on an adventure trip. We were lucky to spot the tiger on our second trip and I can still feel the excitement of that moment!

We had been roaming the dry plains in our jeep when suddenly in a distance, there was a cacophony of birds and screeching of monkeys! A tiger was approaching! Our jeep joined at least 8-10 other jeeps and canters that scrambled to that area to sight the tiger, when it appeared majestically on the horizon. The second time we went was with our entire family and this time we stayed at the Taj Vivanta – it is a lovely property and other than the tiger safaris, just the stay at the property was great fun! ther than the safaris, Ranthambore has a lovely fort that history lovers would love to visit – the picturesque ruins and the temple make for a great visit.

You can reach Ranthambore by train – get off at the Sawai Madhopur station and in most cases the hotel will send their jeep to pick you up from the station. If you are in Jaipur or Delhi – NCR, you can also enjoy a lovely road trip to Ranthambore.

Book admission to Ranthambore Jungle Safari here . You can also book a complete day trip package from Jaipur

Places to stay in Ranthambore

Ranthambore Regency – a 4-star sustainable resort close to the national park

Sawai Madhopur Lodge – a 5-star sustainable romantic resort by Taj Vivanta, 12km from the national park

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. It encompasses an area of 940 sq km and is divided into two zones- Mandla and Balaghat.

Welcome Jon Duncan from Backpacking Man to share his tips for Kanha Tiger Reserve

The  Kanha Tiger Reserve  is one of the best places in India to spot tigers in the wild and also makes for a great  jungle  experience in India. In fact, the area was the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s “The  Jungle  Book”, which says it all.

The obvious main thing to do in the area is to go on a day jeep  safari  through the reserve keeping an eye out for tigers, as well as lots of other wildlife such as deer and, if lucky, packs of wild dogs.

The driver of the jeep is accompanied by an expert ranger/guide who will be able to track animal prints on the ground to try and find the wildlife.

Note that there are elephant  safaris available in the area which may seem adventurous, but these are not recommended as the elephants are not treated so well.

So, avoid that and promote ethical tourism and stick to going on a jeep safari  which is actually the best way to see a lot more of the reserve anyway.

• Camp Dev Vilas
• Club Mahindra Kanha

4. Bhandavgarh Jungle Safari

Located in the Umaira district of Madhya Pradesh, India, Bhandavgarh National Park is a fantastic place for tiger safari. The core area of the park is 100 square-kilometers and is home to approximately 50 tigers.

Like Bandipur, there are two slots for 3-hour Jeep safaris, once at dawn, and again in late afternoon. The National Park has three main safari zones, namely – Tala Zone ,  Magadhi Zone  and  Khitauli Zone .  

Tala Zone is the oldest and richest zone in terms of biodiversity.

One can chose between a jeep safari and an elephant safari at Bhandavgarh.

Once again, I could get Sakshi to share her experience in Bhandavgarh National Park.

In 2014, when the family was invited for a wedding in Jabalpur, we grabbed at the opportunity to stop at Bandhavgarh for a day. Took a train to Katni and then drove for about 2 hours to get to Bandhavgarh.

By the time we reached, it was late for the afternoon safari, so we took some time settling in and familiarizing ourselves with the property.

We turned in early as we had a very early morning safari. The slight chill at dawn combined with the hot chai and coffee served for the safari goers was a great start to the day.

And the sumptuous breakfast served after the safari was also very welcome. Even though we didn’t get to see the tiger, the safari ride itself was a lot of fun.

In the afternoon we left for Jabalpur, a lovely road trip and the most memorable for me were the blazing spring colors of the trees.

You can follow Sakshi on Instagram .

Places to stay for the safari

Tree House Hideaway – Built like an actual tree-house, it offers you a great opportunity for bird-watching. The property organizes a tiger safari every evening.

Bhandavgarh Tiger Lodge – This travel-sustainable property is located close to the maingate of the Bhandavgarh National Park from where you can book your safari.

5. Gir Forest Safari

The Sasan Gir Wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat is the only place in India where you can spot the rare Asiatic lions in the wild. The rough scrublands and dry forests enable tourists with an excellent opportunity to photograph the majestic animal in its natural habitat.

Ruma, blogger at The Holiday Story shares some tips.

Gir forest , also known as Sasan Gir, encompasses an area of 1.412 Km². At present, around 600 lions inhabit this forest land in Gujarat. Exploring this jungle through a safari is an exhilarating experience.

Early morning is the best time to go for a safari. Reporting time for the morning slot is 5:30 am. The IDs need to get verified first before boarding your choice of a safari vehicle. The gipsy or jeep will then take you through the Gir Jungle Trail .

 There are several routes on this trail. The safari explores these trails in search of a glimpse of the mighty lions. Other than lions, you can also see deer, monkeys, langurs, and many species of birds. On visiting the Kamleshwar dam, you can also see crocodiles and birds like pelicans.

Apart from safari, you can visit the Kankai Mata temple or Jamjir waterfall. Both of these attractions are within the forest vicinity. You can also shop from the souvenir shop located in this national park. Drop by the Durbar Hall Museum to learn a bit about the history of Gujarat.

You can book a Gir Safari here .

Recommended stays:

Gir Serai IHCL Seleqtions – a 5-star luxury resort by Taj 

The Fern Gir Forest – 5-star eco-friendly resort right next to Gir Forest

6. Jim Corbett National Park

Ipsita from Nomad Enroute shares her tips

Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, the first tiger reserve in India, is spread across a vast land of 520 square kilometers in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.

It came into being in 1936 while in 1973 the Project Tiger was first launched under which tiger and other endangered species were to be preserved in their natural habitat.

The rare species such as otters and the endemic fish-eating crocodile, along with a significant number of tigers have found their home in the dense forest of Jim Corbett .

On the road we spotted a sambar running towards the jungle . Several deer were gliding along the riverbed, among which we could recognize a swamp deer (barasingha), which is now extinct in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The booking is handled by the forest department following the strict guideline set by the department.

You can book the safari online, with the requisite documentation supporting your request. Full name, address, age, sex and ID card number. The time-slots for the safari are 6 am to 9:30 am and 3 pm to 6 pm.

For Indians, it costs Rs. 4500 to hire a jeep, which includes 6 adults and 2 children between the age group 5-12. For foreigners, it costs Rs. 9000 for 6 adults and 2 children. Remember that charges must be made in advance and in case your plan gets cancelled, you won’t be refunded.

Recommended Stays in Jim Corbett

The Hosteller Jim Corbett

Click Resort Corbett Tiger Den

7. Kaziranga Jungle Safari

Welcome Vidyut from Triplyzer who shares his experience in the Kaziranga Safari

Kaziranga National Park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. There are numerous tiger safaris in India, but safari here has something unique to offer – the one-horned rhino, a rare beast!

I visited Kaziranga as part of my  northeast India itinerary,  stayed overnight in the nearby town, and took the safari in the morning. For safari, you can either take a jeep or ride an elephant. I preferred the jeep for ethical reasons, but honestly, an elephant ride does sound fun.

Safaris start as early as 5.30 am in summer and it’s best to do it when it is still cool. The jeep safaris take about 2 hours, keep your DSLR with zoom lens ready as you will come across an abundance of wildlife.

There are four different safaris taking you to different zones in the park. If you start early, you can easily visit two of these. Central Range (Kohora) and the Western range (Bagori) are the two most popular, the former is known for the beautiful grassy landscape while the latter boasts of easy Rhino sightings.

The state government-run dedicated buses from the bus station at Paltan bazaar to Kaziranga, making it cheap and easy to get here. Since the journey is over 5 hours long, stay in Kohora as it has plenty of budget and premium options.

So here ends my post on the best jungle safaris in India – selected by travel bloggers. This was based on diversity of experiences and the endangered species that the forests preserve. I hope this will help you select your next holiday destination. Please share it and subscribe to the blog if you like the content.

So, are you thrilled to explore the wild Indian Jungles? I sure am. If you liked the post, save it so that you can plan your next jungle safari in India. This is the 10th post in the series “My Fabulous Five” for #BlogchatterA2Z . You can read other previous posts here . Subscribe for email updates and connect with me on Instagram for more travel stories.

Special thanks to the amazing wildlife photographers for making their photos available on Pixabay for free. The image sin the cover picture and two of the images in the Pinterest graphics are from Pixabay Creative Commons.

Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

Interesting read. Thanks for sharing!

Wow! A jungle safari in India sounds amazing! Thanks for the inspiration!

Ahhh! We were supposed to go in 2020 but it got cancelled. I would love to see these amazing animals in the wild! Thank you for inspiring me and let me travel through your pictures!

This sounds like such a cool experience! I didn’t realize safaris were a thing in India, but now I want to go on one.

Thanks a lot Maggie. India has some of the most thrilling and beautiful forest experiences.

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

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

1. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

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

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

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

2. Hemis National Park, Ladakh

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

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

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

3. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand

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

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

4. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

5. Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary , Gujarat

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

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

6. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

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

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

7. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

8. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

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

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

9. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam

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

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

10. Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal

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

Best time to visit -  October to April

11. Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra

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

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

12. Pench National Park , Madhya Pradesh

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

Best time to visit -  October to June

13. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

This post was published by Akriti Paracer

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Where to go for Jungle Safari in India

Behind the thick bamboo bushes lurks the ferocious tiger, waiting patiently for its prey. The meditative trance of the skies above is disturbed occasionally by the screeching of an eagle. Somewhere, in the distance, a herd of deer visits the local water hole to quench their thirst, even as the sly crocodile remains lifeless, waiting for the perfect moment to launch its attack. These are some of the scenes which await you as you embark on a jungle safari in India to the dense forests of India.

This is a safari unlike any other, full of surprises and thrills. It’s nothing short of a privilege to see nature’s inhabitants in their natural habitat, displaying raw emotions. This blog is for you if you have ever nurtured a desire to experience wildlife. Here, we tell you where to go for a jungle safari in India and come across the best sights and sounds of Nature.

Here are the best Places to Go for Jungle Safari in India

Jim corbett national park, uttarakhand, ranthambore national park, rajasthan, gir national park, gujarat, kanha national park, madhya pradesh, bandhavgarh national park, madhya pradesh, pench national park, madhya pradesh, sunderbans wildlife sanctuary, west bengal.

Corbett National Park, originally known as Hailey National Park, was established in 1936 and is India’s first national park. Visitors flock to this park to witness the tiger in all its majestic beauty. This park is also renowned for being home to various rare species of mammals, reptiles and birds. One can spot barking deer, spotted deer, sambar, and chinkara on a jungle safari in India to this national park. Crocodiles are another major attraction in Jim Corbett. But, its definitely the Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat  that lure for safari holidays in India.

Best time to visit:  November to June

[ Plan a trip to Corbett with these well-customized packages ]

One of the best places to experience a wildlife safari in India is Ranthambore Tiger Reserve . Although tiger spotting is the prime attraction here, one can also spot jackal, fox, leopard and mongoose. Embarking on a jungle safari to this tiger reserve lets you witness the nilgai, blue bull antelope, chital and sambar deer. Apart from the fauna, the flora too, is worth admiring here. The landscape is defined by rolling hills and crags, lakes and rivulets. Ranthambore offers the best forest tours in India to visit the Tigers. Explore best customized Golden Triangle Tour Package with Ranthambore .

Best time to visit:  October to June

[ Experience wildlife safari in Ranthambore with these customized packages ]

Also Read : Top Adventure activities in Rajasthan that you should not miss

The feeling of intruding into someone else’s territory upon entering Gir National Park is rather pronounced. This is the land of the lions, crocodiles, hyenas and leopards. The flora here is incredible, with half the area of the park being covered by teak forest, amla, timru and khair, besides others. Of course, the Asiatic Lions are the lords here, and they are a spectacular sight.

Apart from them, the other highly sighted spotter animal in the park is the Chital, or the Indian spotted deer. Striped hyenas and wild boars are other attractions. Here, one can also spot a fascinating variety of birds such as the Malabar whistling thrush to the Paradise flycatcher. Like the King of the Jungle, Gir is the kind of Indian jungle safari tours.

Best time to visit:  December to March

Also Read: Amazing Tourist Attractions And Places To Visit In Gujarat

Kanha National Park , spread across an area of 940sq. km, holds the distinction of being one of the largest national parks in Madhya Pradesh. This park is also respected globally for playing an important role in saving the Barasingha from extinction. A safari here gives you an opportunity for spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger, apart from the enormous Barasingha and wild dogs as well. This is also where National Geographic’s award winning “Land of the Tigers” was shot. In fact, a visit to Kanha ensures the best Tiger Safari in India.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to June end

[ Explore the wilderness  in Kanha National Park with these packages ]

No wildlife safari in India is complete without visiting the Bandhavgarh National Park . This place dates back to 2000 yrs, and is renowned for having the highest density of Royal Bengal tigers in the world. Tourists here are treated to sights of fascinating animals like chital, nilgais, Indian bison, chinkara, jackals and wild boars. Besides, if you are lucky, you may even spot several species of birds like gray Malabar hornbills, green pigeons and browed fantails. Bandhavgarh is undoubtedly a must visit place for Indian safari holidays.

[ Browse these well-planned Bandhavgarh tour packages ]

The exploits of Mowgli and his friends in The Jungle Book fascinated us during our childhood. However, Rudyard Kipling based Mowgli’s adventures on this fascinating place. Located in the southern ranges of the Satpura range, it’s divided by Pendi River into two equal parts. A safari to this park lets you witness an exotic variety of wildlife including the Nilgai, Cheetal, Sambha and Gaur (Indian Bison). Another particular fascination of wildlife jungle safari in Pench is the four species of endangered vultures, namely the white-rumped, long billed vulture, white scavenger and king vulture.

Best time to visit: February to April

Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary stands out among the places to go for wildlife safari in India . Sunderbans are part of the world’s largest delta, formed by the mighty Rivers Ganga, Brahmaputra and the Meghna. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the largest Tiger Reserve and National Park in India. The tiger is the legend here, and is the main subject of every conversation.

A wildlife safari here lets you come across the fabled tiger, apart from the other forms of wildlife including rhesus monkey and chital deer. However, Sunderbans National Park is also widely acknowledged for conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. In fact, it is totally correct to say that Sunderbans offers the most thrilling tiger safari in India.

Best time to visit:  September to March

Now you can plan your jungle safari in India with our exciting collection of wildlife holiday packages in India .

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Vishwajit Sharma

Vishwajit writes about all things Travel Places, Attractions and Tour Packages.He Is passionate about learning new things.

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Recent comments.

Amazing wildlife safari in India with its deep forest and beautiful endangered animals. I would like to visit soon.

Glad to know about your interest in wildlife safaris. Choose any of theses destinations for your wildlife expedition. For expert guidance, you contact us with the help of inquiry forum. Till then, do follow our blog for post on India tourism.

Corbett and Pench are awesome for Tiger spotting. Interesting info for wildlife enthusiasts

Thanks for your kind words. Keep on following our blogs for more such posts.

Catching a lion walking around is great whether you see it anywhere, so I feel all of the above Jungle safaris are a phenomenal option to Experience jungle safari. Though I’ve been to Corbett and I really liked the overall experience

Nice information for Jungle safari in India for frequent Travellers

Thanks for such a lovely comment. Keep following our blogs for more such content.

after reading this informative post got knowledge about we can plan jungle safari in india, such a amazing post

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• 15 Wildlife Safaris in India

Jungle Safaris in India

Here's the list of best wildlife safaris in india:, quick navigation, ranthambore national park.

Hemis National Park

Best of Rajasthan

Jim Corbett National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park

Best of Kerala

Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary

Kaziranga National Park

Best of Ladakh

Kanha National Park

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Best of Andaman and Nicobar

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

Sundarbans National Park

Best of Nepal

Tadoba National Park

Pench National Park

Best of Bhutan

Satpura National Park

Dudhwa National Park

Best of Spiti Valley

Panna National Park

People Also Ask About India

Which are the best national parks for wildlife safaris in india, what is the best time to go on safari in ranthambore national park, how much does jim corbett national park safari cost, what is gir wildlife sanctuary famous for, what is the best time to visit kaziranga national park, what type of safaris are available at pench national park.

India Top Attractions

Originally built under the dictatorship of Nicolae Ceauseșcu, this is a massive project that is today among the most important places to visit in Romania. Rich in Romanian history, this place is extensively decorated with embroidered carpets, patterned ceilings, handwoven drapes and marvelous marble floors.It was initially built as a protective measure from nuclear attacks and thus comprises eight underground levels including an atomic bunker apart from the 12 stories above ground. Standing tall as a reminder of the communist rule, this palace hosts the Parliament of Romania today. You can also see the famous National Museum of Contemporary Art here. Being one of the most important tourist spots in the city, you can also take a guided tour of the famous building that will give you a chance to learn more about the rich past of this place.

Discover the enchanting allure of Khecheopalri Lake, a hidden gem nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of Sikkim, India. Revered as a sacred site, this 'wishing lake' holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. Its pristine waters and surrounding lush forests create a serene sanctuary for visitors seeking tranquility and connection with nature.Legend has it that the lake fulfills the sincere wishes of those who visit with pure intentions. The rich biodiversity surrounding the lake adds to its charm, attracting nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.Embark on a spiritual and natural journey as you explore the cultural beliefs and ecological wonders of Khecheopalri Lake. Whether you seek introspection, photography opportunities, or simply a moment of peace, this mystical destination promises an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience amidst the splendor of the Himalayan foothills.

Laitlum Canyon, located near Shillong, Meghalaya, is a hidden gem and a nature lover's paradise. The name "Laitlum" translates to "end of hills," and the canyon lives up to its name with its breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing views. This scenic destination offers a stunning panorama of deep gorges, lush green valleys, and mist-covered hills that stretch as far as the eye can see.Laitlum Canyon is a relatively lesser-known tourist spot, which adds to its charm as it remains unspoiled and serene. Trekking enthusiasts can indulge in exciting trails that lead to the canyon, allowing them to witness the natural beauty up close. The experience of standing atop the cliffs, surrounded by the serene ambiance and awe-inspiring vistas, is truly unforgettable.Visitors can also soak in the local Khasi culture as they interact with the friendly villagers who reside in the nearby villages. Laitlum Canyon is a perfect escape from the bustling city life, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and experience tranquility in the lap of Meghalaya's pristine landscapes.

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Top Wildlife & Jungle Lodges

15 Top Wildlife and Jungle Lodges in India

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

Jawai Leopard Camp, Pali District, Rajasthan

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

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

Evolve Back, Kabini, Karnataka

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

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

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

Spice Village, Thekkady, Kerala

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

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

Singinawa Jungle Lodge, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

Chitvan Jungle Lodge, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

Kanha Earth Lodge, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

Mahua Kothi, Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

Forsyth Lodge, Satpura, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Satpura, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

Sherbagh, Ranthambhore, Rajasthan

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

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

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

The Blackbuck Lodge, Velavadar National Park, Gujarat

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

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

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

Asiatic Lion Lodge, Gir, Gujarat

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

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

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

Pench Jungle Camp, Pench, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

KTDC Lake Palace, Thekkady, Kerala

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

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

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

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8 jungle lodges for the best safari experiences in India

By Prachi Joshi

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

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

By Prabal Sharma

By Hasina Jeelani

By Hannah Jackson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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The Best Jungle Trekking Destination in India

India’s natural beauty can rival that of any other country in the world. But while the country’s beaches and mountains are already thoroughly explored, its jungles have come into sharp focus in recent years. With terms such as jungle trekking and forest bathing becoming tourism buzzwords, India’s jungles, national parks and forest reserves are now drawing more visitors than ever. So if jungle trekking is on your mind, here are some of the best places that deserve your attention.

View all trips, chembra trek, wayanad.

Located in the picturesque Wayanad Hills of Kerala , the Chembra Peak trek is one of the most popular treks in South India. Perched at a height of 2,100 metres above sea level, the Chembra peak is also one of the tallest peaks in the Western Ghats and is known for its greenery and natural beauty. The Wayanad region is famous for its thick jungles and the Chembra trek is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of this hill station. The trek takes about four hours to complete and one of the most famous features of the trail is the heart-shaped lake near the top called the Love Lake. The trekking route is best enjoyed in the monsoon months, however, the rainy season is also when the route is most slippery, so proper care must be taken.

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Cotigao and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa

Goa might be more popular for its pristine beaches, but that doesn’t mean the sunshine state lags behind in terms of green cover and terrestrial natural beauty. In fact, the interior region of Goa is full of thick jungles that boast of a wealth of flora and fauna. The state is home to two extremely popular and beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. Both are famous for their thick jungles and overall greenery, especially in the monsoons, and are extremely popular among trekkers. Along with the equally popular Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in the northern part of the state, these four locations form a contiguous protected area spanning the border of Goa with Karnataka , making it a perfect region for jungle trekking. The jungles of the region are known for their tall trees, with some reaching up to 30 metres.

Mudumalai, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu’s Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the greenest and most visited sanctuaries in South India, popular for its thick jungles and incredible wealth of wildlife. A notified tiger reserve, the jungles of Mudumalai are a part of the Nilgiri subcluster of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Mudumalai is extremely popular among trekkers, and primarily those interested in wildlife photography, owing to its overall greenery and the fact that it’s home to more than 330 species of mammals including elephants and tigers.

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Talle Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is one of the greenest states in India and home to some of the country’s best and most beautiful jungles. The most popular among these is the Talle Valley region, which has come up in recent years as a great jungle trekking destination. Known for its overwhelming diversity of plant and animal life, jungle treks in Talle Valley are characterised by dense vegetation and thick bamboo jungles unique to this part of the country. Jungle trekking in Talle Valley is a fairly nascent activity, meaning the jungles in the region are for the most part untouched by modern civilisation and therefore do not have much infrastructure. This makes it one of the most adventurous jungle treks in the country.

Agumbe Reserve Forest, Karnataka

The Agumbe region of southern Karnataka was immortalised in the popular Indian book and TV series, Malgudi Days by RK Narayanan , and is immensely popular for its thick jungles and vibrant wildlife. One of the most picturesque green regions in the country, the jungles of Agumbe truly come alive in the monsoon months. Characterised by its dense and wet tropical evergreen ecosystem, it’s a far less explored region of the country, making it perfect for thrill-seeking jungle trekkers. One of the most popular and highly rated trekking trails in the Agumbe region is the Narasimha Parvatha trek, a relatively easy route that attracts many visitors.

Kanha and Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh’s Kanha and Pench National Parks are counted among the most famous national parks in India, particularly as they are home to the jungles of Seoni, where Rudyard Kipling’s famous work The Jungle Book is set. These two national parks have been popular among trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts for decades now and feature among the top trekking destinations in India. The Kanha National Park, in particular, is the largest national park in India, stretching over 1,000 square kilometres and home to a large population of tigers and leopards. While the two national parks are more famous for safaris, jungle trekking has also become an immensely popular activity, especially after the release of the recent Jungle Book movie.

Tadoba, Maharashtra

Tadoba National Park is the oldest notified national park in Maharashtra and is best known for its wealth of wildlife, including a large population of tigers. One of the most popular regions in Maharashtra for jungle trekking, the Tadoba National Park is characterised by thick vegetation and predominantly features bamboo jungles. The best time to go trekking here is during the monsoon months of June to August when the temperature is a lot more bearable compared to the summer months when it can reach up to 47 degrees.

Mt. Harriet National Park, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Andaman & Nicobar Islands might be better known for their golden coasts and untouched beaches, but the archipelago is also home to some of the most fascinating and unique jungles in India. Of particular note are the jungles of the Mount Harriet National Park, which are characterised by their distinct flora. Extremely cut off from mainland India, the jungles in Mount Harriet National Park are very different from the jungles in mainland India , making trekking here a refreshing and unique affair. An added bonus of jungle trekking at Mount Harriet National Park is the fact that there are numerous viewpoints along the way offering gorgeous sea views.

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Best safari parks in India

Shivani Ashoka

Thursday January 12 2023, 17:00pm

Picture 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

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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.

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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.

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.

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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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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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10 Best Jungle Safaris in India to Experience Incredible Wildlife

With more than 99 national parks, 40 tiger reserves and 450 wildlife sanctuaries, India has sheltered enchanting species of fauna and flora. Be it the mountains of Uttarakhand or the deserts of Rajasthan, every corner and gap of India embraces rich wildlife. Especially, if you are eager to get a sight of the big striped cats the tigers, India is the ultimate destination to visit.

Check out these Top destinations in India for experiencing wildlife.

 Source: indiabycaranddriver

1) Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh:

Source: girnationalpark

Bandhavgarh National Park being a dry deciduous and tropical land brings amazing dense forest trails where one can discover many glittering species of wild creatures amidst the lush surroundings. Surrounded by the Eastern Satpura range, Bandhavgarh National Park’s sal and bamboo forest provides shelter to the sambar, Indian wolf, python, and tiger.

Open Jeeps with groups of tourists, individuals accompanied by naturalist are allowed into the park at fixed timings. Wildlife safari timing in Bandhavgarh National Park is just like most parks in the country. Timings for entry into, and exit from, the park vary according to the season. In winters, due to the shorter duration of daylight hours, the morning entry time is later and evening exit time is earlier.

Nearest Airport: Bandhavgarh can be visited by flying into Jabalpur or Khajurao.

Nearest Railway Station: Closest stations would be Jabalpur(170kms), Katni(102kms), Satna (112kms), Umaria (35kms).

When: October to June

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2) Gir, Gujarat:

 Source: journeymart

In Gir, you touch the history of India before humanity itself. Gir National Park is a restricted area in Asia and is the habitat of the pure Asiatic Lions. The next most important animal of the locality is the Leopard. The park is situated in the south west of Gujarat, India. Climate in Gir remains soothing round the year for you to have a comfortable visit to the Gir National Park in Sasangir, Gujarat. This beautiful park is dotted with an abundance of flora and fauna.

Nearest Airport: Keshod

Nearest Railway: Junagadh Amreli

3) Pench, Madhya Pradesh:

Source: 365hops

The inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s  The Jungle Book, nestling in the minor southern reaches of the Satpuda hills is named after Pench River, spread through the park from north to south. It is situated on the southern edge of Madhya Pradesh, bordering Maharashtra, in the states of Seoni and Chhindwara .In Pench, Sambar, Cheetal, Nilgai are usually seen grazing on the free land on roadsides and river banks & reservoir. Herds of gaur can be marked near streams and bamboo patches regularly in summer months. Sloth beer occupies hilly, stony out crops and Chinkara are rarely present and are mostly found near the open areas around Turia & Telia.

Pench Tiger Reserve is a nature's paradise. Visited it so many times and was always mesmerized by its serene beauty and calmness. It’s a must visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Nearest Airport & Railway station: Nagpur and Jabalpur

When:  November to June

4) Ranthambore, Rajasthan:

Source: tourmyindia

Being considered as one of the famous and former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, today the Ranthambore National Park terrain is major wildlife tourist attraction spot that has pulled the attention of many wildlife photographers and lovers in this destination. 

Ranthambore is a Tiger reserve, which is located in the district of Sawai Madhopur that is in the south-eastern part of the state of Rajasthan. Ranthambore National park is mainly famous for the Tigers living within this national park. Moreover, it is one of the finest locations within India to capture the majestic predators in a natural habitat. These Tigers can be easily spotted during the day busy in their daily quest of hunting and taking legitimate care of their budding ones. Ranthambore is also being counted as one of the famous world heritage sites because of the photographic ruins and the Historical fort that compliments the natural wildlife park.

If you go in the summer when the vegetation is dried up the chances of seeing a tiger are higher. The backdrops are jaw dropping.  Certainly, a visit to Ranthambore National Park is a treat for every wildlife and nature lover. The time spend on watching tigers roaming around, verdant greenery, a gamut of other species of chirpy birds and animals is priceless and worth enough to be explored at least once in a life.

Nearest Airport : Jaipur

Nearest railway station: Sawai Madhopur

5) Tadoba, Maharashtra:

Source: indiagetaways

Located in the Chandrapur District of Maharashtra, India, it is one of the prominent and unique tiger reserves in India and is also one among India's Project Tiger Reserves. Tadoba National Park is an abode of flora and fauna. A must see for every wildlife buff. There is surprise waiting for you at every nook and corner. Tadoba is often referred to as the jewel of Vidharbha because of its rich flora and fauna. A great variety of wildlife abounds in the deep valleys, grassy meadows and winding river beds besides, many other perennial water resources.

And, you might even have a date with the royal one in his/her royal paradise. A dry deciduous forest with a beautiful topography, Tadoba offers some of the best sightings of tigers, wild dogs, leopards, and other fauna. The jungle and areas surrounding the Lodge are excellent terrains for birding and walking safaris.

Nearest Aiport: Nagpur

Nearest Railway station: Chandrapur

When: October to June 

6) Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand:

 Source: mouthshut

The first recognised nature reserve in mainland Asia, Corbett National Park offers great sightings of Bengal tigers, bears and pythons. The Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most popular and travelled tourist spots of India. You can also enjoy the beautiful sound of birds at the Corbett. There are over 500 birds here and almost double the number migrate to the Jungles of Corbett every year. The Jim Corbett national park is a paradise for bird watchers. Right from the tiger’s roar that gives you goose bumps, to the chirping of the birds that is like music to the ears. Wildlife at its best can be found flourishing in Corbett. The wild beings not only reside here, they nurture here.

Nearest Airport: Phoolbagh in Pantnagar

Nearest Railway station: Ramnagar

When: November to June

7) Nagarhole, Karnataka:

Also known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park, this is a famous wildlife sanctuary located in Coorg. A Tiger Reserve, the Nagarhole National Park is also a place to see wild elephants. Apart from tigers and elephants, this national park is home to wild dogs, gore and deer. The park is essentially a dense tropical forest. Through the jungle, there are streams that run through. Where you can spots wildlife activity.

The best season to visit the park is during the summer. Wild animals are seen resting beside water bodies. Tigers are almost always seen near water bodies. Visiting Nagarhole National Park during the rainy season is a damp experience. The rain creates muddy roads. And animals are not seen out in the open.

Nearest Airport : Bangalore

Nearest Railway station: Mysore

8) Sunderbans, West Bengal:

Sunderbans National Park, the land where entire wildlife embroidered to the perfection, is situated in South 24 Parganas at the most charismatic location of Sunderban delta which is largest delta of the world. The Sunderbans are a part of the world's largest delta formed by the rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna. Sundarban is a vast area covering 4262 square kms in India alone, with a larger portion in Bangladesh. 2585 sq. kms of the Indian Sundarban forms the largest Tiger Reserve and National Park in India.

The four Sunderbans national parks have been lumped together as they all share common features of the estuarine mangrove ecosystem. The main attractions of the Sunderbans are the Tiger, of which the delta harbour large reptiles like the Monitor Lizard, Estuarine Crocodile and the Olive Ridley Turtle, for which there is a conservation programme in the Indian park. The Leopard, Indian Rhinoceros, Javan Rhinoceros, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer and Water Buffalo have all become locally extinct from the delta in recent decades.

Nearest Aiport:  Kolkatta

Nearest Railway station: Howrah

When: December to February

9) Kanha, Madhya Pradesh:

Kanha National Park is one of the best national parks of India and stretched across Banjar and Halon valleys within the Mandla and Balaghat districts of state of Madhya Pradesh. Kanha National Park offers great odds of a tiger sighting, as well as 300 species of bird, including crested serpent eagles.

A heightened attraction within the Park is Bamni Dadar, popularly known as Sunset Point that offers the most awe-inspiring backdrop of the sunset against grazing Sambhars and Gaurs, magnifying the natural splendour of the area. Aside from its diverse wildlife and bird population, the frequent sightings of Tigers roaming in the wild at Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary remain the most popular draw.

Nearest Airport and railway : Nagput and Jabalpur

10) Kaziranga, Assam

Stretching along the edge of the Brahmaputra River, Kaziranga National Park is a World Heritage site and one of the last unspoiled wildernesses in eastern India. Kaziranga National Park a world heritage site, the park hosts two-thirds of the world’s Great One-horned rhinoceros. Kaziranga also boasts the highest density of tigers among the protected areas in the world and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The park and its environs have been designated a tiger reserve and a Birdlife International Important Bird Area. Explore the varied landscapes by elephant and venture through fields of elephant grass, marshlands, and dense forests to find tigers, greater one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, water buffalo, and more than 300 species of birds. Buffalo and more than 300 species of birds.

Nearest Airport: Jorhat

Nearest Railway: Guwahati

When: November to April

Please note (Park Timings): All national park operate from 6:30am - 9:30am, 1:30pm - 5:30pm. But it is best to confirm with the national park directly before planning your trip.

Have you been to any of these national parks? How was your expirience ? Comment below and let us know! 

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• Ranthambore: Imagine going on a safari, scanning dense jungle bushland for a pair of curious cat eyes. Being close to Delhi, Ranthambore is the most popular destination in India to embark on a tiger safari .
• Bandhavgarh: This adventurous park is located in the foothills of the Himalayas with tigers roaming free, weaving through emerald-green forests. Picture perfect!
• Kaziranga: Known for its population of one-horned rhinos, Kaziranga boasts many majestic animals within its grasses such as elephants, buffalo and elusive leopards.
• Kanha: As Kipling's inspiration for the Jungle Book, Kanha features storybook bamboo forests filled with sleepy sloth bears and prowling tigers.
• Sasan Gir: As India's largest cat sanctuary, this reserve was created to conserve the Asiatic lion population. Today, an abundance of lions, crocodiles and jaguars call this sanctuary their home.
• How much does it cost to go on a safari in India? Gazing into the eyes of a tiger is a priceless experience, but where you stay, how long you stay for and when you go can vary the price of your safari. You should expect to spend anywhere from US $200 to $10K for an Indian safari.
• Are there safaris in India? While India may not have those quintessential African savannahs, it does have an array of national parks and jungles where majestic mammals and beautiful birdlife reside creating an unrivalled safari experience.
• Which is the best jungle safari in India? It's hard to pick one safari and label it the best when there are so many incredible adventures to be had in India. We try and make it easier for you by listing the most popular safaris as rated by past travellers, so feel free to browse and find the best safari for you!
• Which National Park is best in India? Jim Corbett National Park started it all as the oldest reserve in India that was created solely to protect Bengal tigers. Other parks followed in its trail and as a result due to it's convenient location and frequent tiger sightings, Ranthambore has earned the title of India's most popular national park.
• What animals can you see in India? Aside from the majestic Bengal tiger, India is home to many leopards, lions, sloths, elephants, rhinos and more. Although sporadic, these animals make India a prime safari destination.

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This minister says India will soon have largest Jungle Safari Park in Asia

The jungle safari park in haryana would help preserve the aravalli mountain range, boost tourism and employment in the region..

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India in Pics: 7 Best Jungle Safaris & Forest Tours You Shouldn’t Miss

Watch panthers closely, see rare birds fly about and track the trails of hungry jungle cats at these forest tours and national parks.

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1. Gir Forest, Gujarat

2. Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Valparai

3. Harisal Forest, Maharashtra

4. Kabini, Karnataka

5. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

6. Sundarbans, West Bengal

7. Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra

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Top 10 wildlife safaris in India for your 2022 getaway

Published by sharad vats on 16/12/2020 16/12/2020.

The start of a new year beckons the start of new adventures. For the seekers of beauty and wonder, a trip into the lap of nature is one that simply can’t be ignored. India is a country rich in cultural diversity, heritage, and history, however, one aspect that is often overlooked is its rich biodiversity. The incredible number of wildlife species you can encounter in the Indian subcontinent paired with the equally rich flora make it an unmatched destination for nature lovers.

And if there is one way to experience nature at its finest, it is through a wildlife safari in India . There are plenty of wildlife safaris in India to choose from, each of them offering unique experiences. Here are our top picks for your 2021 adventures.

About Wildlife Safaris in India

Wildlife sanctuaries and conservation centers have been in India for over a century, yet the concept of a wildlife safari took form after 1972 when the Wildlife Protection Act came into effect. This law served as the catalyst for more conservation centers to be established throughout the country and gave rise to tourism opportunities as a means of managing the conservation efforts.

As of 2020, there are 553 wildlife sanctuaries in India , which cover a total of 74425 sq. miles of land (3% of the subcontinent’s landmass). This astounding achievement is all thanks to the consistent emphasis put on conservation efforts and improved wildlife safari tours each year.

2020 may have seen a dip in worldwide tourism, but that hasn’t stopped wildlife enthusiasts and nature experts from visiting and revisiting some of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India. With 2021 on the horizon, there are 10 National Parks in India that are back on the tourism radar.

Top 10 Parks for a Wildlife Safari

Tiger safari in corbett national park.

Year in, year out, the Corbett National Park never fails to impress. Regarded as the ultimate tiger safari destination, this park only has more to offer in the coming months. The sprawling, lively park is teeming with exotic flora and fauna – most naturally endemic to the region and some settling in just fine.

Tigers of course, continue to be the chief attraction, and their numbers have only increased over the past year. Wear your best camo outfit and carry a pair of binoculars for the hundreds of birds you’re bound to catch a glimpse of.

Take up a 4 Nights/5 Days wildlife safari tour of Corbett National Park between November and June to experience the park in all its glory.

Tiger Safari in Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh was named after an ancient fort that rests on the hillock of the Vindhya range of Umaria. The place holds mythological significance, being referenced in the Ramayana epic.

Bandhavgarh’s wildlife is no less mystical. There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds. Among them all, the majestic tiger continues to be a chief attraction, with the park’s scenic landscapes offering an elegant framing for your photos.

Bandhavgarh has the highest density of royal Bengal tigers in the world. You will surely spot this majestic beast on a jeep safari. Conservation efforts have also led to an increase in the number of gaurs, a once extinct species in Bandhavgarh. The ideal time to book a Bandhavgarh tour is between October and June.

Tiger Safari in Ranthambore National Park

Rajasthan has for the longest time been a prime destination for tourism in India. Add a wildlife conservation zone to the mix, and you’ve got yourself one of the most exciting and challenging wildlife safaris the country has to offer. The Ranthambore National Park offers something for both wildlife enthusiasts and casual tourists.

If you’re looking for a challenge, try trekking across the rough terrains of the many forts found around Ranthambore. If you’ve got time to spare, chill by the glistening waters of the Chambal Lake. And most exciting of all, is the ease in which a tiger can be spotted. These majestic beasts have gotten so used to human activity in Ranthambore, that they don’t mind posing for a quick snap in the open, bright daylight.

A 4 Nights/5 Days wildlife safari tour of Ranthambore is ideal for you to cover the expanse of the park.

Tiger Safari Tour in Kanha National Park

124 years since it inspired the creation of the acclaimed Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling, the Kanha National Park still continues to mesmerize both young and experienced explorers. It is an example of top-level park management and conservation efforts, which have only paved greater paths for consistent tourism in and around Kanha.

Tigers are not the only majestic sighting in Kanha. The Barasingha or Swamp Deer is the park’s marquee sighting, and their grace epitomizes Kanha’s significance as a top wildlife sanctuary to pick for a safari tour.

The best time to plan your trip is between October to June. A 5 Nights/6 Days wildlife safari tour of Kanha National Park is ideal to get the best out of your experience here.

Tiger Safari in Dudhwa National Park

Can one man prove to be the difference-maker in a park’s transformation? If that man was a prince, then for sure! It was Prince Billy Arjan Singh of Kapurthala who propelled Dudhwa into establishing itself as a prime National Park. After he introduced a tigress into the wilderness, the park’s wildlife just blossomed.

Today, Dudhwa is famed for its numbers in the Rhino population. An increasing number of elephants can also be seen. It is a park not mapped by many explorers, so make sure to mark it in your 2021 calendar, as you may be the first of few to be lost in the sheer serenity of Dudhwa. The best time to visit Dudhwa National Park is between November and June.

Tiger Safari in Pench National Park

Pench National Park is one of the few which can be accessed from two different states, namely Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. It is a neighbor of Kanha national park, making it another ideal Wildlife Safari choice if you’re planning to hit two birds with the proverbial stone.

Pench may not have an abundance of tigers, but it makes up for that with healthy numbers of wild dogs, wolves and gaurs. You can even spot over 300 species of birds. The best time to visit Pench national park is between October and June.

Tiger Safari in Tadoba National Park

While most of the wildlife sanctuaries mentioned are best experienced in the colder months, Tadoba is a summer-friendly National Park. The vegetation flourishes during the hot summer months, and its fauna are mostly tropical species.

Tadoba’s tiger population was dwindling till conservation efforts took over and began the mission to reverse the downturn. Today, the numbers are back to healthy levels and it is slowly transforming back into a safe haven for tigers. . A close cousin of the tiger, the leopard, also roams about in healthy numbers. This sanctuary is big cat supreme! The best time to visit Tadoba National Park is between October and June.

Tiger Safari in Kaziranga National Park

The Kaziranga National Park is Assam’s oldest wildlife sanctuary. It is one of the few parks that can be experienced in its entirety all year round. It is also the best park to try your luck in an elephant safari.

Kaziranga is the land of incredible mammal species and is known to house the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos, Kaziranga is a sight to behold, especially if you get a good bird’s eye view.

The Kaziranga National Park can be visited any time of the year and a 5 day trip is ideal to explore the park’s beautiful trails.

Tiger Safari in Satpura National Park

Have a long weekend to spare? Opt for the Satpura National Park. Its rather small yet densely packed wilderness makes for an ideal weekend getaway from the urban hustle if you’re traveling from Indore or any place in Central India.

Satpura also offers the thrill of staying amongst the wild. The Churna campsite makes for a thrilling close encounter experience with tigers, sloth bears, leopards, and wild dogs. Another highlight of this short trip are canoe safaris.

Tiger Safari in Panna National Park

Last, but certainly, not least is the Panna National Park . This relatively unheard-of park is still making a name for itself and should feature in your 2021 list if you’re looking for a pristine wildlife park that’s off the beaten path. And one big reason is the incredible story of the tiger population – going from zero to healthy numbers in a span of a few years a testament to the tiger conservation efforts here. You can also sight Leopards here making it a great place to spot two big cats in a go. The best time to visit Panna national park is between November and May.

Planning Your Wildlife Safari

Now that you know the 10 wildlife safari hotspots for 2021, the big question is how to get there. Tiger Safari India offers curated Indian wildlife safari tours to each of these destinations. Get a detailed itinerary of your visit and tour highlights before booking. Browse through our tour packages, book your slot and get packing.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve taken all necessary steps to ensure that you are protected and safe on your tour. Our staff is regularly tested and our equipment and vehicles are sanitized to ensure a COVID-safe trip. For more information on our COVID-19 safety protocol, read more here .

Born and brought up in New Delhi, it was Sharad’s childhood passion to play cricket for India. While on a holiday in 1990, he saw his first tiger. Little did he know that this one sighting would immerse him into a realm where forests and tigers were all that mattered.

Sharad’s experiences as a wildlife photographer have inspired him to observe the tiger’s behavior for over 30 years and motivated him on his own journey as an entrepreneur. He started Nature Safari India Pvt Ltd, with a focus on “Conservation through Tourism.” to align himself to the mission of saving the regal species and repopulating them in India’s forests. In 2006, he set up one of India’s premier jungle lodges in Kanha National Park. Sharad believes that there are many lessons to be learned from a tiger that can be applied successfully to leadership—both in business and in life. Here’s a new book by Sharad Vats on management and leadership skills to learn from a Tiger.

Buy now on Amazon

Sharad Vats

Born and brought up in New Delhi, it was Sharad’s childhood passion to play cricket for India. While on a holiday in 1990, he saw his first tiger. Little did he know that this one sighting would immerse him into a realm where forests and tigers were all that mattered. Sharad’s experiences as a wildlife photographer have inspired him to observe the tiger’s behavior for over 30 years and motivated him on his own journey as an entrepreneur. He started Nature Safari India Pvt Ltd, with a focus on “Conservation through Tourism.” to align himself to the mission of saving the regal species and repopulating them in India’s forests. In 2006, he set up one of India’s premier jungle lodges in Kanha National Park. Sharad believes that there are many lessons to be learned from a tiger that can be applied successfully to leadership—both in business and in life. Here's a new book by Sharad Vats on management and leadership skills to learn from a Tiger. Buy now on Amazon

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Jungle safaris in India for the new year

Panchali Dey , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA Created : Nov 26, 2021, 07:00 IST

Start your new year with new adventures, a wild one at that. Those seeking to spend their time in the lap of nature, visiting national parks can be an exciting option for the new year. And, if there is any other way to experience nature at its finest, you should definitely try jungle safaris. If you are interested in such an activity, here are our top picks to kickstart your 2022 adventures.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The park boasts of an alluring number of Royal Bengal tiger, sloth bear, leopard, and barasingha . Don’t miss the most favourite part within the park, which is Bamni Dadar, known as Sunset Point where visitors gather at dusk to see the sun setting against the backdrop of grazing gaurs and sambhars. Further, with the enclosing meadows, and the heavily forested zone, this park is a paradise for sight-seeing lovers.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park is one of the country’s oldest, and is also huge in area. The best way to check out the beauty of this dense jungle is through various safaris. While crocodiles are one of the major attractions in Jim Corbett, the experience of spotting tigers and elephants in their natural habitat is definitely the highlight of this place.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Located in the Vindhya Hills of the Umaria district in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is known for its prodigious tiger population, and also for being the breeding ground of leopards and deer. This park has been divided into three major zones, Magdi, Tala, and Barmera. Visitors are treated to sights of animals like nilgais , chital , chinkara , Indian bison, and wild boars. And if you are lucky, you might even get to spot several species of birds, like brown fantails and gray Malabar.

Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat

Home to the last remaining wild Asian lions, Gir National Park is a spot that you should definitely visit. Beside lions, the other most common predator that can be spotted in these forests is the leopard. Moreover, the park offers many excellent opportunities to drive through scenic spots in jeeps.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Located in the Nagaon and Golaghat districts of Assam, this national park is famed for being home to one-horned rhinoceros. As per the records, it houses almost two-thirds of the world’s total rhino population. Apart from rhinos, the other animals that you can spot during your jungle safari are water buffaloes, elephants and their breeding ground, and swamp deer.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

It’s one of the biggest parks of northern India, and a Ranthambore National Park safari is perhaps one of the most interesting activities to indulge in here. While the spot is known to be one of the most attractive locations for those visiting Rajasthan, the best part of this park is that there are hotels in and around the park to take care of your stay. Also, this spot once served as a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, reason why it’s also known as a pride of Rajasthan.

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is known for being home to not only the Royal Bengal tiger, but also as the world’s largest mangrove forest. It’s interesting to note that the eastern part of the park lies in Bangladesh, and has an estimated population of tigers of around 400. A wildlife safari here will take you closer to the fabled tiger, apart from spotting other forms of wildlife, including chital deer and rhesus monkey.

Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh

Situated in the Terai of Uttar Pradesh, Dudhwa National Park is one of best examples of an extremely varied Terai ecosystem, which supports a huge number of endangered species. This park is also known for being India’s thickest and largest forest reserve. Today, this park is known for being home to the Rhino population, and an increasing number of elephants. Mark this one in your list to explore during 2022, and get lost in the serenity of Dudhwa.

Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Located on the southern boundary of Madhya Pradesh, the Pench National Park served as the original setting of Rudyard Kipling’s most famous work, The Jungle Book . The undulating landscape of this park creates a mosaic of vegetation that ranges from moist to open dry deciduous forest. One of the reasons why you should experience the jungle safari here.

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Start your new year with new adventures, a wild one at that. Those seeking to spend their time in the lap of nature, visiting national parks can be an exciting option for the new year. And, if there i...

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• March 14, 2022

JUNGLE SAFARIS – 11 BEST Jungle Safaris IN India

Besides the glory of colorful cultures and faces of people lit up with a smile of joy for celebrating several festivities nearly every month or second, India is a land that also lives in the heart of millions for its rich flora and fauna, breathtaking biodiversity, soothing wildlife, and beautiful birds in the sky. And therefore, it is also explored by many for its wildlife beauty and soothing greenery all around it. Instead of expecting the thrill of adventure activities in Shimla, Manali, etc, or curiosity to explore the exotic goa beaches and ancient places, why do not you try something new this time? How about witnessing jungle safaris in India? We are sure that this sounds more rejuvenating and refreshing to you so, here we are with a list of the best jungle safari in India.

Jungle Safaris in India – List of Best jungle Sfari State-wise

#1. Ranthambore National Park – Famous national Park in Rajasthan mostly visited for witnessing tigers

With a significant area of land for tigers, lions, and leopards, Ranthambore National Park is a renowned national park in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The wildlife park is spread over 300 sq km where a plethora of animals and lush green survive with no human intervention.

For those searching for the best jungle safari experience in Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is a great place for you. Tigers here in the park capture the major attention of wildlife photographers with the purity and beauty in their nature.

As many of us are aware that the national park of Rajasthan is a tiger reserve area, but the scene of birdwatching that fascinates people most could be beyond anyone’s imagination and comprehension.

You can also explore this breathtaking birdwatching activity on your own by paying a visit to this park once in a life.

#2. Jim Corbett National Park – Get the thrill of witnessing Bengal tigers in the national park encircled by mountains and natural beauty in Uttrakhand

The beauty of the natural habitat of rich flora and fauna in Jim Corbett National Park never leaves the chance of amazing and amusing tourists coming here from different parts of the world. Jungle Safari Jim Corbett fascinated tourists with a sense of peace and breath in the lap of nature while witnessing a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Inside the park, there is a plethora of animals and plants that catch the attention of tourists completely. Here are so many fascinating things one can do here to spend vacation time with their loved ones.

To enjoy the vacation time to the fullest in the wildlife park, you can do so many amazing things here such as – you can spot many animals here such as leopards, tigers, wild cats, lions, migrated birds, etc.  Pench Jungle Safari situated in Madhya Pradesh is also famous for its fascinating jungle safari.

Jungle Safari Jim Corbett is quite famous for its rich population of tigers and other endangered species. Make sure you make plans for Jim Corbet jungle safaris on this vacation and explore the soothing beauty of animals and nature.

#3.  Hemis National Park – Nestled in the lap of Ladakh quite famous for its more than 100 snow leopards in their natural habitat

Hemis National Park is a paradise in Ladakh famous for its snow leopards and endangered species. The wildlife sanctuary lies in the valley of a lush green area where tourists can also witness snowfall several times a year. It is really a breathtaking view created for tourists when the lush green beauty of this wildlife park is covered in snow.

You can capture the mesmeric view of the large trees, plants, and grass are seen covered with the blanket of snow. Spread over an area of 4400 sq km, the zoological park of snow leopards also conserves mammals and more than 70 birds in their natural habitat.

If you are looking for a place where you can both witness the animals and explore coolness in nature,  Hemis National Park in Ladak must be on your bucket list.

It is one of the best Jungle Safaris in India you should look forward to on this vacation. Between May to September is the best time to visit this park but make sure you avoid visiting the park during heavy monsoon season as this time there is no safari here.

#4. Bandhavgarh National Park –  A soothing green place in Madhya Pradesh to explore big cats and Bengal tigers

Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is a famous place for tiger safari and many tourists who come here enjoy a lot while capturing these animals on their camera. It is a charming place of lush green where wildlife photographers come around the world. If your residence is in Madhya Pradesh, this is counted as the best jungle safari near me where you can catch the glimpse of white Bengal tigers that are popular worldwide.

The wildlife park is renowned for its bird watching, boating, long walks in the lush green gardens. If you love tiger safari make sure you visit the park from March to May and October to June as this is time tiger safari is incredibly popular and available.

#5. Tadoba National Park – One of the oldest and largest parks in Maharashtra known as the tiger reserve area  

If you are planning to enjoy a jungle safari in Maharashtra , Tadoba National Park is the first choice of many nature and animals lovers, and should yours too. Tadoba Jungle is home to many tigers and other endangered species such as migrated birds, wild cats, donkeys, monkeys, rhinestones, etc.

Also, there are many large gardens of orchids inside the park that tourists explore for their photography and love for colors & fragrance. And if you are especially visiting the wildlife park for tiger spotting, you can plan your journey between March to May. To enjoy the wildlife in India to the fullest, Tadoba Jungle Safari is the best of everything.

#6.  Pench National Park – Home to deciduous forests and rich flora and fauna in Madhya Pradesh

Situated on the border of Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park is considered to be one of the best jungle safaris in India and most visited for Nilgai, Leopards, Wild Boars, and many other endangered species.

Inside this wildlife sanctuary, you can find many deciduous forests where you also spot many animals living in their natural habitat. You can plan your jungle sfari in this park with your friends and family.

This is one of the famous picnic spots in India where you have many chances to explore nature, watch animals, do fascinating fun activities in the lap of nature. October to June is the best time to visit the park.

#7. Kanha National Park – All known for green meadows, bamboo forest, and many endangered species such as bears, leopards, tigers, etc

Apart from endangered species living in green meadows and gardens, Kanha National Park has also been described well in Jungle Book written by Rudyard Kipling.

Many wildlife photographers and nature lovers enjoy a safari here between April and June. you can also visit the park in the winter season as well.

The freshness of lush green areas and the cool breeze of trees will set up a perfect spot for celebrating a picnic time with friends and family.

Between 10 am to 3 pm, is the best time to begin and enjoy Jungle Safari in Kanha National Park.

#8.Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary – It conserves more than 300 Asiatic lions and other endangered species in Gujarat

Gir Forest Safari in Gujarat is quite popular among bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. It is really going to have a lot of fun and enjoyment here being with animals and abundant greenery. In Jungle Safari Gir, tourists spot tigers, leopards, birds, beer, elephants, and other endangered species.

The national park of Gujarat has breathtaking flora and fauna that excites people of all ages to come and enjoy. December to April is the best time to visit the park and the jungle safari is here for 3 hours so make sure you are here early and enjoy yourself to the fullest.

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#9. Kaziranga National Park – Best known for its species of rhinoceros in Assam

In order to beat the boredom of daily life, visiting a zoo park full of animals and nature’s beauty is a great idea.

Kaziranga National Park is one such wildlife park in Assam famous for its endangered species and natural beauty. The Zoological Park is home to a rich population of rhinoceros and many other animals.

From bird watching to tiger safari, all tourists get here is fun and exciting at every step. With animals such as wild cats, dogs, tigers, lions, elephants, deers, foxes, it is a place to visit with kids in India.

The jungle sfari duration in the park is for 2 hours and the best to visit it is between November to April.

#10.  Sundarbans National Park – best Jungle Safaris in India in West Bengal

Sundarbans National Park is a beautiful tiger reserve area in the lap of the Indian state of West Bengal where many endangered species of animals flowers sustain peacefully with no human intervention.

The Jungle safari duration in the wildlife park is for 4 to 8 hours. Visiting the park between October to April is the best time to visit. If you live in West Bengal and want to spend some wonderful time with your loved ones, you have a golden opportunity to do so here in the park.

#11. Pin Valley National Park – Mainly known for safeguarding snow leopards in Himachal Pradesh

With the mesmeric beauty of mountains ranges and green valleys, Pin Valley National Park is a beautiful place of nature and animals in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Usually visited by many tourists and nature lovers. The park is home to snow leopards and many endangered species.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the biggest jungle safari in india.

Ranthambore National Park, Jim Corbett, Kanha National Park, Kaziranga National Park, 8-Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, 7-Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Gorewada Jungle Safari, etc.

Which jungle is best in India?

Here you can see the top forest in India where you can wildlife safari – Sundarbans, Namdapha National Park, Gir forest, Sacred Grove, Khasi Hills, Karhandla Jungle Safari, Jim Corbett National park, etc.

What is jungle safari?

A Jungle safari is a beautiful journey in which tourists have many opportunities to explore animals and nature. Above you can see the list of the best Jungle safari in India.

How many safaris are there in India?

India has  99 national parks and over 400 wildlife sanctuaries.

The Ending!

Listening to the melodious chirping of birds or watching them in the clear charming sky or exploring the wildlife safari with a new hope of creating some wonderful memories with your family and friends, jungle safaris are a great experience best of all on holidays. And therefore, we have made a list of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India where you can witness animals and nature in natural habitat.

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Go on an Adventure: Top 5 Jungle Safaris to Explore the Indian Wilderness

India is a treasure trove of diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Embarking on a jungle safari is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Indian wilderness. In this blog, we will take you on a thrilling journey through the top 5 jungle safaris in India. We will also explore the best time to visit each national park to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings.

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Jawai Leopard Reserve, Rajasthan

Located in the rugged landscape of Rajasthan, the Jawai Leopard Reserve is renowned for its thriving population of leopards. The best time to visit Jawai is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.

During this time, leopards can be spotted basking in the warm winter sun. The dry vegetation also enhances wildlife visibility, making it easier to spot other species such as hyenas, jackals, and various bird species.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park, the oldest national park in India, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is famous for its Bengal tigers and offers a wide array of flora and fauna. The best time to visit Jim Corbett is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are abundant.

During this period, tigers are often seen near water bodies, making it an ideal time for safari adventures. It’s worth noting that the park is closed during the monsoon season from July to October.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park, known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife, inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” The park is home to the majestic Royal Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and numerous other species.

The best time to visit Kanha National Park is from October to June , with the winter months of November to February being particularly favourable. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and animal sightings are frequent. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga National Park in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stronghold for the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. The park’s marshy grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests also support a significant population of tigers, elephants, and various bird species.

The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is from November to April when the park is open and easily accessible. The winter months of December and January offer excellent wildlife sightings, including the famous rhinos. However, it’s advisable to avoid the monsoon season from May to October due to heavy rainfall and park closures.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore National Park is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts, renowned for its tigers and picturesque landscapes. The best time to visit Ranthambore is from November to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are at their peak.

The dry deciduous forests during winter make it easier to spot animals around the water bodies. It’s important to plan your visit as Ranthambore experiences a high influx of visitors during this time.

Where to Enjoy Best Jungle Safari in India?

If you want us to recommend the best jungle safari in India from the above-mentioned wildlife reserves, we advise you to visit Jawai Leopard Reserve . We are recommending this place because the sighting of wildlife in this area is higher as compared to other reserves as here you will not experience the dense forests.

This region is having granite rocks where leopards relax during the day and hunt for their food during the night. There are around 50 to 60 leopards in Jawai which enhances the chances of spotting these big docile cats.

If you visit Jawai, plan your stay at Thour Nature Resort which is the best resort in Jawai . This hotel offers the best accommodation in luxurious tents along with the finest dining experience. Opt for their Jawai Leopard Safari Package and enjoy a thrilling & adventurous trip with their experienced driver cum guides.

Final Words

Embarking on a jungle safari in India will enhance the wilderness at the above-mentioned national parks or wildlife reserves is a captivating adventure that allows you to witness the rich biodiversity and untamed beauty of the country. By visiting during the recommended months, you can increase your chances of encountering magnificent creatures such as leopards, tigers, rhinoceroses, and more.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the Indian wilderness on an exhilarating jungle safari.

Book Your Wildlife Safari Call & Whatsapp : +919784559999  | Email:  [email protected]

Thour Nature Resorts

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India » Places

Introduction to The Top 15 Jungle Safaris in India

• Bhavya Singh
• Updated March 31, 2023

• A List of Must-Visit Jungle Safaris in India
• Enlisting Lesser-Known Wildlife Safari Gems of the Country
• What to Prepare For Your Wildlife Safari Experience?
• How to Ensure the Best Experience For You and Your Travel Companions During the Safari?

As experiential travel gains momentum as an emerging trend during the post-COVID times, the concept of experience-based travel is not a new one. Jungle Safari has been an evergreen travel choice for many travelers around the globe. In an abundantly environment-rich nation like India, there’s a plethora of options available to explore the jungles with the medium of safaris. Some of the earliest established jungle safari parks established in India date back to 1936. 

A country embedded with natural treasures from tip to toe has a wide-spread abundance of variety for wildlife safari opportunities dispersed in each state. Although mentioning safari parks from each state would be a hefty task, here’s still an attempt to curate a list of all the jungle safari you must add to your adventure bucket list today.

A List of Must-Visit Jungle Safaris in India 

As the saying goes, India is an embodiment of all the cultures of the world. It is also evident that the country is brimming with thriving wildlife in every direction. To suffice up to par with this claim, here’s a list of the most famous and well-known wildlife sanctuaries in India.

• Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand 

If there’s one true location that has immortalized the wildlife safari influence nationwide, it would be the OG, Jim Corbett National Park. Jim Corbett National Park is not only India’s safari gem, but it also is the first Asian National Park. 

The name of the park originates from the famous hunter and explorer Jim Corbett, the man who hunted only man-eating tigers in the region. Jim Corbett consists of 4 zones open for visitation – Dhikala, Jhirna, Bijrani, and Durga Devi. Animals such as Bengal Tigers, chitals, deer, Asiatic elephants and black bears, otters, gharial, Golden oriole, and a number of species of birds can be easily spotted throughout the property. It is seemingly one of the places that entail many top hill stations in India .

• National Park is open for jungle safari
• Best time to visit: March to May
• Duration: Schedule at least 5 hours for the safari ride 
• Jim Corbett safari price: Jeep safari charges – INR 4500 (Indians); INR 7500 (Foreigners); Canter safari charges – INR 1200 (Indians); INR 3000 (Foreigners); Elephant safari charges – INR 3500 (both Indian and Foreigners)
• Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Following suit the trail of popularity amidst the most prominent jungle safaris in India is the Ranthambore National Park, which is based in Rajasthan. This 1,300 square kilometers of land houses a dwindling population of tigers. The explorers of this park can easily spot these majestic beasts in their natural habitat.

Apart from tigers, Ranthambore also houses a wide range of wild animals, such as Sloth Bears, Wild Boards, Monitor lizards, Indian chameleons, Indian flying foxes, and Sambars. The national park is also famous amongst wildlife photography enthusiasts.

• Duration required for the Ranthambore safari: Approximately 3.5 hours, excluding pit stops for selfie sessions
• Price of Ranthambore jungle safari: Ranthambore jeep safari – INR 1500 per person (Indians); INR 2900 per person (foreigners); Ranthambore Canter safari – INR 1200 per person (Indians); INR 2300 per person (foreigners); Special safari half-day: INR 46,000 (Indians); INR 56,000 (Foreigners); Special safari for full-day: INR 57,000 (Indians); INR 72,000 (Foreigners)
• Gir National Park, Gujarat

The feeling of intruding into someone else’s territory upon entering Gir National Park is rather pronounced. This is the land of lions, crocodiles, hyenas, and leopards. The flora here is incredible, with half the park area covered by teak forest, amla, timru, and khair, among others. Of course, the Asiatic Lions are the lords here, and they are a spectacular sight.

Apart from them, the other highly sighted spotter animal in the park is the Chital or the Indian spotted deer. Striped hyenas and wild boars are other attractions. Here, one can also spot a fascinating variety of birds, such as the Malabar whistling thrush to the Paradise flycatcher. Like the King of the Jungle, Gir is the kind of Indian jungle safari tour.

• Best time to visit: December to March
• Duration required for the Gir safari: 3 hours
• Price of Gir jungle safari: For Indian residents for up to 6 people is Rs.800-1000. The extra Child Fee is Rs. 100 for normal days and Rs. 125 for festivals/Saturday/Sunday
• For foreigners, the entry fee for up to 6 people for normal days is Rs. 5600 – 7000. The extra Child Fee is Rs. 1400 for normal days and Rs. 1750 for festivals/Saturday/Sunday.
• Charges For Other Services
• The vehicle fee at Gir Jungle Trail is Rs.1700 per jeep.
• If you want to have a professional photo, then the charges per Camera are Rs.200 for Indians and Rs. 1400 for Foreigners.
• The service for professional guides who will be responsible for providing you with all the information about every single species charge between Rs.400-700.
• Up to 6 persons – Rs.3800 – 4800 (Indian resident)
• Up to 6 persons – Rs.14500 – 17500 (Foreign resident)
• Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Ever since the outstanding feature in ‘Mowgli,’ the Kanha National Park has garnered the attention of the world. As mentioned in the book and the movie, animals such as panthers, bears, pythons, and elephants can be spotted in this nature haven. The park is divided into four zones – Kanha, Sarahi, Kisli, and Mukki zone.

A visit to this park will have you reminiscing about one of your favorite childhood tales. Spot packs of tigers roam around the property, making it their habitat. This place is also renowned for housing one of the most unique and historical places in India , the Khajurao temple.

• Best time to visit: October to mid-June
• Duration of safari: 3 hours for jeep safari
• Kanha Safari Charges for Regular Safari Ride:
• For Full Vehicle Permit: Online booking charges for full vehicle: 6500
• For Single Seat Permit:
• Online booking charges for a single seat: Rs 250 + 10 online portal fees= Rs 260
• Total charges per person- Rs 655 per safari per gypsy per person.
• Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The Bandhavgarh National Park once served as a hunting ground for royal families in Madhya Pradesh. The area has now been cloistered as a protected reserve for the Royal Bengal Tiger.

This majestic reserve is one of the most densely populated tiger sanctuaries in the country ever since the population has thrived in the park. Likewise, animals other than tigers, such as leopards, Neelghai, barking deer, Bengal foxes, striped hyenas, and others, are sheltered in this sanctuary.

• Best time to visit: October to June
• Duration of safari: 3–4 hours
• Safari charges in Bandhavgarh National Park: Jeep safari prices – INR 6500/jeep
• Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh 

Encircling the outskirts of Madhya Pradesh is the Pench National Park. The serene park sprawls over 400 square kilometers and is mostly renowned for being a tiger reserve. However, apart from the tigers, the Pench is also home to nilgais, leopards, and wild boars.

The key attraction of this park entails its diverse vegetation. The flora is as important to this reserve as much as the fauna. The wide variety of plant life ranges from plants growing in moist areas to trees that grow in dry, arid regions. 

• Safari duration: 3–5 hours; one in the morning and one in the evening;
• Pench National Park safari charges: Approx INR 3000 per gypsy/jeep per safari, including guide fee of INR 300
• Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary, West Bengal 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the largest Tiger Reserve and National Park in India, it’s the only apt description to introduce the Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary with these remarkable renditions. This national park stands atop amidst the choices of places to visit for wildlife safari in India. Sunderbans partake in forming the world’s largest delta, formed by Rivers Ganga, the Brahmaputra, and the Meghna. 

A wildlife safari experience at this place acts as an opportunity for you to come across the fabled tiger alongside other forms of wildlife fauna, including the rhesus monkey and the chital deer. The Sunderbans National Park is also widely renowned for its Ridley Sea Turtles. 

• Best time to visit: September to March
• Duration of the Sundarbans Safari: Due to the unique landscape, Sundarbans National Park only offers boat safaris and no jeep safaris. The safari timings are usually between 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
• The entry fee: The entry fee to visit Sundarbans National Park is INR 60 for Indians and INR 200 for International Tourists.
• Periyar National reserve

The first South Indian wildlife reserve on this list is here. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a lush and beautiful reserve located in Kerala. The sanctuary is known for its picturesque scenic beauty, most of which comes from the western ghats enveloping it. 

This national reserve serves as a home to many tigers and elephants. Along with safaris, it also offers boat rides around the park.

• Best time to visit: September to January
• Safari duration: 4–5 hours
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary safari charges: Jeep safari – INR 2000 per person
• Kaziranga National Park, Assam

This North-Eastern gem of a place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kaziranga National Park in Assam embodies an area of 420 square kilometers and houses the one-horned rhinoceros.

The population of species of rhinoceros present at this location is the largest in the world. Apart from the rhinos, animals such as elephants, bears, and panthers on your safari can also be found here.

• Best time to visit: November to April
• Safari duration: 2 Hours
• Safari charges at Kaziranga National Park: INR 3800-4500 per jeep

Enlisting Lesser-Known Wildlife Safari Gems of The Country 

• Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka 

The Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Karnataka. It provides shelter to many species of animals like deer, cheetahs, elephants, panthers, leopards, and others. The sanctuary is also home to more than 250 species of birds, including migration birds.

• Best time to visit: October – February
• Safari duration for Kabini jungle safari: Approximately 3 hours
• Safari charges: The safari costs around Rs. 900 per person per safari
• Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra 

Located in Maharashtra, the Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is the nature’s museum for those who love wildlife. This enriching reserve offers a sanctuary to 34 species of mammals,166 species of birds, including migration birds, and many more animals. Needless to mention that this sanctuary is a renowned hub for bird spotting. Mostly sighted animals here are bison, tiger, deer, barking deer, wild dog, chital, Indian gaur, and others.

• Best time to visit: March to June
• Safari duration for Nagzira jungle safari: Between 4 and 5 hours
• Safari charges: Rs 50 onwards
• Dibru Saikhowa National Park, Assam 

Dimwitted by the limelight of Kaziranga, Dibru Saikhowa National Park is another hidden gem of a sanctuary that beautifies Assam. This park is bountiful with rare species of animals and fishes. This is the place that provides a home to the rare white-winged wood duck. Animals such as capped langur, parrotbill, water buffalo, tiger, and others can also be spotted here.

• Safari duration for Dibru Saikhowa Jungle safari: 
• Safari charges: As this safari is brimming with adventurous tasks that come with different modes of safaris, it would be wise to check this website for your reference:

http://www.dibrusaikhowaecocamp.com/ds_tour_packages.php

• Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat

The Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is a bird sanctuary located in Gujarat. It is well-known for more than 300 species of migratory birds during the season. This sanctuary is also known for its extraordinarily diverse landforms, such as marshlands, salt-water sources, freshwater lakes, dams, creeks, and many more.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Safari duration for Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary safari: 2-3 hours
• Safari charges as per the vehicle of choice: 
• Car & Jeep (up to 6 persons): Rs. 400 for Indians & USD 40 for Foreigners.
• Matador Car, Station Wagon, (4 up to 15 people): Rs. 1000 for Indians & USD 100 for Foreigners.
• Heavy Motor Vehicles-Bus (4 up to 60 people): Rs. 3500 for Indians & USD 350 for Foreigners.
• Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Rajasthan 

The Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is famous for its blackbuck reservation. It is located in Rajasthan. This sanctuary beholds an exceptional biosystem in this desert region. This thorny-sand forest sanctuary is famous for numerous species of migratory birds that visit during September. Animals that can be spotted other than blackbuck are desert cats, and desert foxes, among many others.

• Best time to visit: November to February
• Safari duration for Tal Chhapar safari: Between 8 AM to 5 PM
• Safari charges: Rs. 20 per person and Rs. 3500 per jeep safari trip
• Dachigam National Park, Srinagar 

This national park engulfed in the valleys of Srinagar is created on the regions that were once a collection of ten villages. The Dachigam national park is known for its varying altitude and sloping grasslands ending with rocky cliffs. Dagwan River flows through the park and is enriched with varied types of species of fish. Other than that, animals to spot here are black bear, brown bear, leopard cat, stag, langur, jackal, hill fox, marten, and marmot, among many others.

• Best time to visit: April to August
• Safari duration for Dachigam National Park safari: Invites visitors between 8 AM to 6 PM
• Safari charges:
• Entry Fee For Indians – per Person Rs.25/-.
• Entry is free for Children less than 10 years of age
• For Students and Teachers, Rs.2/-.
• For Still Camera shooting Rs.100/- per camera.
• For Foreigners – per person Rs.50/-.
• For Students and Teachers, Rs.10/-.
• For Still Camera shooting, Rs.200/- per camera.

What to Prepare For Your Wildlife Safari Experience? 

• Make sure to avoid planning your adventurous expeditions during rainy seasons, as the chances of a landslide always increase during that time of the year. This is the reason why most wildlife reserves do not even open during the monsoon season.
• Please check beforehand the allowed equipment by the safari organizers, in case you encapture your safari experience in photographs or videos.
• Always keep an extra pair of clothing with you as the weather in the forest is always unpredictable, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. 
• It is important for you to stay quiet and refrain from making any noises unless you want to have the wild animal’s attention on you.
• Refrain from offering eatables to the animals unless the safari guide allows it.
• Do not litter in the jungle while on a safari in India. The environment is precious; let’s keep it that way and practice the good habit of keeping our trash to ourselves before we can properly dispose of it.
• Please do not smoke in the jungle. Even the slightest sparks of fire can lead to a major wildfire accident, causing harm to both the animals and the environment.

How to Ensure The Best Experience For You and Your Travel Companions During the Safari? 

• Congratulations! You’re doing the first step already. Which is researching thoroughly about the destination and making your choice wisely.
• Consider the desirable duration of your safari journey and decipher if your choice of safari provides the said duration of services.
• Be careful and mindful while enjoying this expenditure.
• Ask about the ways you can make contributions to the wildlife of the sanctuary and the local communities.
• Share your experience with your community and generate awareness about how to make this planet a better place for wildlife creatures.

Although this one-step guide is an information tool for your reference, it is advisable to curate a list of deciding factors that are absolutely essential for you. After all, it will be most beneficial to make your experience as customized as possible. We sincerely hope you have the time of your life with experience. Adventure awaits you!

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Which One Comes Under The Best Safaris in India?

Ans: It is an undeniable fact that the Indian jungle safari diaspora is plentiful. This could be the reason behind getting the traveler confused about which one to pick for their next excursion. To help you choose the right options according to your requirements, there are plenty of lists in this article to guide you properly. 

Which is the best jungle safari?

Ans: It is a question that only you can answer yourself, as each person seeks a different experience based on their requirements and whereabouts. So, which is the best jungle safari for you?  

Which season is best for jungle safari?    

Ans: Between June and October, during the dry season of the year.

Which is the 1st safari park in India?

Ans: Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936.

Which jungle has the most tigers in India?

Ans: Again, Jim Corbett National Park.

Which city is known as a tiger city in India?

Ans: Nagpur

How much does jungle safari cost in India?

Ans: It depends on the location you choose for your next excursion.

What is a jungle safari short note?

Ans: It can be described as a forest trail that can be walked through, trekked upon, or explored with a jeep.

Which is the No 1 national park in India?

Ans: Kaziranga National Park.

Which district is famous for jungle safari?

Ans: Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

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15 Best Jungle Safari Destinations in South India

Wildlife sanctuaries, national parks and biosphere reserves are the places where animals as well as plants are protected from disturbance and provided a comfortable living. These places are established to protect and maintain natural habitats and wildlife populations. And, India has become one of the top countries in protecting the natural habitats of our planet. Being famous for its vast and varied geographical features, India is indeed a paradise for an incredible number of wildlife species.

You can find a huge number of national parks all across India. However, South India has been playing a crucial role in attracting hordes of wildlife enthusiasts throughout the year. The densely populated forests of the South Indian states (Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Telangana) located in the lap of the Eastern and Western Ghats mountains are the main reason behind this popularity.

Compared to North India, the national parks in South India are untouched and their beauty is unparalleled. These parks have been taking a major part in creating South India the best for wildlife tourism. We have created a list of the best national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in South India below. Without travelling to these places your South India wildlife tours could not be completed.

• Bandipur National Park
• Periyar National Park
• Silent Valley National Park
• Mathikettan Shola National Park
• Guindy National Park
• Eravikulam National Park
• Mudumalai National Park
• Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nagarhole National Park
• Bannerghatta National Park
• R. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kudremukh National Park
• Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Viralimalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Most Popular South India Jungle Wildlife Safari Tour Packages

Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

Previously treated as the private hunting grounds for Britishers and the kings, Bandipur National Park is now an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is located in the lap of Western Ghats and is regarded as one of the most popular national parks for Jungle Safari in South India. Bandipur National Park covers an area of around 872 square kilometres located in Karnataka on the Mysore-Ooty highway.

Bandipur National Park is the home to endangered Asiatic wild elephants, tigers, sloth bears, sambar, mouse bear, spotted deer, flying lizards and over 200 species of birds. You can explore the diverse flora and fauna of Bandipur National Park by availing of jeep safari tours.

How to Reach Bandipur National Park?

• The nearest airport to Bandipur is Mysore Airport from where you have to take a bus or car to cover a distance of 215 kilometres.
• The nearest railway station to Bandipur is Mysore City Junction (80 kilometres) and you have to hire a car to reach the national park.
• The park is located on the highway and can be reached via bus from various cities such as Bangalore, Coimbatore, Mangalore and Cochin.

Best Time to Visit Bandipur National Park for Jungle Safari

• Winter is the best time to visit Bandipur National Park during the months between November and February. It is the best time to watch migratory birds like Warblers, Peregrine Falcon and Flycatchers.
• However, for tigers sighting, the best time is during the months between March and June, because it is the best time tigers step out of their zones.

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• 12 National Parks, Sanctuaries & Wildlife Places to Visit During Monsoon Season
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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. Internationally acclaimed for its unfathomable natural beauty, it is blessed as being home to rich biodiversity across the country.

Periyar National Park is one of the popular national parks in South India and one of the places where you can avail your own jungle safari. There are several options for a river cruise, hiking trip and tiger safari and you must pay an entry fee when you arrive and take a guide along with you. The park is famed for over 30 species of mammals, especially Asian Elephants, Sambar, Gaur etc., butterflies, birds, fish and Royal Bengal Tigers.

How to Reach Periyar National Park?

• There are two nearest airports to Periyar National Park – Madurai and Kochi. The distance of the park from the airports is 146 kilometres and 190 kilometres, respectively.
• The nearest railway station is Kottayam and the distance between the park and the station is 114 kilometres.
• The park is also connected with the major cities of India by road. Travellers can take bus service to Thekkady from Kochi, Madurai and Kottayam.

Best Time to Visit Periyar National Park for Jungle Safari

• Summer (March to May) is the best time to visit Periyar National Park as it is the ideal time to spot various flora and fauna.
• Travellers can also choose one of the months between October and February as a preferred option owing to pleasant weather.
• 50 Top National Parks, Tiger Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries in India
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Silent Valley National Park, Kerala

Being the central part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Silent Valley National Park is famed for offering a perfect undisturbed ecosystem to a huge variety of flora and fauna. It is located in the Palakkad District of Kerala and bordered by Nilgiri Plateau in the north and Mannarkkad Plain in the south. An ideal place for trekkers and wildlife explorers, the national park was called Sairandhrivanam centuries ago as it was believed to be the hidden space for Sairandhiri along with her five husbands (the tale of Mahabharata).

It was declared a national park in 1984 for being home to a rich collection of biodiversity. A jungle safari in Silent Valley National Park will let you see animals from tigers, snakes, elephants, and leopards to more than 1,000 species of plants including 110 species of orchids. As per the official data, there are more than 400 species of moths and over 200 species of butterflies are found in the Silent Valley National Park.

How to Reach Silent Valley National Park?

• Peelamedu Airport is the nearest airport to Silent Valley National Park, located at a distance of around 155 kilometres.
• The nearest railway station is Olavakkode Railway Station at a distance of around 75 kilometres.
• Travellers can take a bus to Palakkad and reach Mukkali from where they have to take entrance tickets and a guide to enter the park.

Best Time to Visit Silent Valley National Park for Jungle Safari

• You can plan a jungle safari trip to the Silent Valley National Park during the period between December and February as the weather becomes pleasant this time.
• However, one can also visit the park in the months of March and April.

Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Kerala

Mathikettan Shola National Park, Kerala

Mathikettan Shola National Park is located in Poopara Village in Kerala. A tropical rainforest, and an important elephant strip, this park was declared a national park in 2008. Home to a wide variety of endangered species, Mathikettan Shola National Park is located about ten kilometres from Munnar.

The varying heights of the terrain house dense verdant forests, which are fed by the streams like Mathikettan Puzha, Uchillkuthi Puzha and Njandar. The aftermath is a perfect ecosystem as a shelter for a rich collection of flora and fauna. The wildlife enthusiasts love to visit the park for animals like gaur, sambar, langur, and many more birds.

How to Reach Mathikettan Shola National Park?

• The nearest airport to Mathikettan Shola National Park is Kochi International Airport, which is connected to all the major cities and countries across the globe. It is located at a distance of 142 kilometres from the park.
• The nearest railway station to the park is Theni Railway Station, which is connected to other cities in India via Madurai Railway Station.
• There are several state-run bus services available that connect the park with the cities like Cochin and Madurai.

Best Time to Visit Mathikettan Shola National Park for Jungle Safari

• The best time to visit Mathikettan Shola National Park is between April and September.
• However, you can also visit the park throughout the year.

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• The Best 10 Tiger Safari Holiday Destinations in India

Guindy National Park, Tamil Nadu

The eighth smallest national park in India, located in the middle of Chennai City, Guindy National Park was established back in the year 1978. It is 2.70 square kilometres protected area that houses a rich collection of biodiversity. The park is an extended part of the grounds enclosing Raj Bhavan (residence of the governor of Tamil Nadu), which was previously known as the ‘Guindy Lodge.’

The authority takes utmost care to protect the park and its ecosphere. A wide variety of flora and fauna found in Guindy National Park attract over seven lakhs of travellers throughout the year. The park houses 2,000 chitals, 400 blackbucks, various snakes and turtles. There are also more than 130 species of birds, over 60 species of butterflies and 14 species of mammals, which make the trip to the park memorable for a lifetime.

How to Reach Guindy National Park?

• The nearest airport to the Guindy National Park is Chennai Airport, which is eight kilometres away and has domestic and international terminals. It is connected with all the major cities in India as well as across the world.
• Guindy National Park can also be reached via train. The nearest railway station is just one kilometre away. Moreover, there are two stations near the park, Chennai Central Station and Chennai Egmore and respectively, they are 12 kilometres and 9 kilometres away.
• Guindy National Park in Chennai is also connected with the major cities via bus services. So, you can also reach the park by road.

Best Time to Visit Guindy National Park for Jungle Safari

• The best time to visit Guindy National Park is between October and May. You can expect soothing weather this time and see various animals in their habitat. Moreover, this is the time when migratory birds come to the park from different corners of the world.
• It is recommended not to visit the park during monsoon as the surroundings become muddy and slippery.

Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Tamil Nadu

Eravikulam National Park, Kerala

Kerala’s first-ever national park, also known as Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park is located in Idukki. Previously treated as a game reserve till 1971 under Kannan Devan Hill Company, the area was declared a national park in1975 in order to protect the endangered species of Nilgiri Tahr. It is situated at the top of a hill in the Western Ghat range, covered by verdant grasslands and shola forests.

Eravikulam National Park attracts thousands of scientists, ornithologists, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers throughout the year for being home to a plethora of flora and fauna. Apart from the Nilgiri Tahr, you can also see other animals like dhole, leopard, sambar, golden jackal, Nilgiri marten, Indian porcupine and many more. There are also more than 132 species of birds including Nilgiri pipit, black and orange flycatcher, Kerala laughingthrush and many more.

How to Reach Eravikulam National Park?

• The nearest airport to Eravikulam National Park is Kochi International Airport, which is 135 kilometres away from the park.
• The nearest railway station is Aluva Railway Station, which is 115 kilometres away from Munnar, from where you have to take a bus or taxi or private car to reach the park.
• The park is located at a distance of around 15 kilometres from Munnar City Centre, which is connected to the major cities of India via bus services. You can reach the entry point of the park, Rajamalai by road and then need to travel on foot.

Best Time to Visit Eravikulam National Park for Jungle Safari

• The months between September and October are the best time to visit Eravikulam National Park as it is the ideal time to spot Nilgiri Tahr amidst the full-blooming grasslands.
• April to May is also a preferred time to view various indigenous animals in the park.
• Top Tourist Places in Kerala

Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu

One of the best places to see tigers in South India, Mudumalai National Park is situated on the Northwest side of Nilgiri Hills. Being an important wildlife corridor in the Nilgiri Biosphere, the national park is adjoined by other parks and wildlife reserves such as Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, Bandipur National Park and Mukurthi National Park.

Mudumalai National Park offers a balanced ecosystem, which makes it a perfect place for being home to over 13 per cent of total mammal species and 8 per cent of bird species in India. It houses some rare medicinal plants like Mangifera indica, Terminalia arjuna, Pongamia glabra and many more. Moreover, you can expect to see various animals like leopards, tigers, jungle cats and many more species. This national park is also an amazing place for night safari. The connecting roads to the adjoining national parks and forests are the places where you can expect the wildlife during the safari.

How to Reach Mudumalai National Park?

• The nearest airport to the national park is Coimbatore International Airport, which is 127 kilometres away from the park.
• There are two railway stations near Mudumalai National Park, Mysore Railway Junction and Coimbatore Railway Junction. The stations are located at a distance of 90 kilometres and 120 kilometres away from the park, respectively and are well-connected with most of the major cities in India.
• There are several bus services operating between Thepakadu (the main bus stop for the park) and the cities such as Mysore, Coimbatore, Ooty, Bengaluru etc. So, you can also reach the park by road.

Best Time to Visit Mudumalai National Park for Jungle Safari

• The best time to visit Mudumalai National Park is between the months of October and May. The weather remains favourable this time and you can expect to spot various kinds of flora and fauna in the park.

Also Read: Anamalai Tiger Reserve Information

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary , located in the North Kannada District of Karnataka is an ideal place to experience the activities like river rafting, trekking, bird watching, and other water adventures. The sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, which attract thousands of bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts over the years.

Apart from the birds, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the places for tiger sighting in South India. As per the official data, there are around 40 tigers living in the core part of the sanctuary. Moreover, you can also spot animals like monkeys, leopards, elephants and birds like falcons and some exotic species in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to Reach Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary?

• The nearest airport to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is Belgaum. It is connected with cities like Mumbai and Bangalore.
• The nearest railway station is at Dharwad from where you have to travel 57 kilometres to reach Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.
• You can also travel to the sanctuary by road. There are several bus services operating between the sanctuary and the cities like Hubli, Dharwad, Belgaum, Goa, Bengaluru and Karwar.

Best Time to Visit Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary for Jungle Safari

• Similar to other popular national parks in South India, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is also surrounded by shola forests. Though it offers a moderate atmosphere throughout the year, October to May is the ideal time to visit the sanctuary.

Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Karnataka

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka

Previously known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole National Park and Tiger Reserve is a nationally acclaimed tiger reserve for its high-density tiger population in the country. The park is spread across an area of 850 square kilometres in Mysore and Kodagu districts in Karnataka. It is enclosed by Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to the south and Bandipur Tiger Reserve in the southeast.

Nagarhole National Park lies as a connecting corridor for tigers and elephants to the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats. It is one of the major hubs of conservation under Project Elephant and Project Tiger. The park is famous for being one of the best places for exploring wildlife. Apart from tigers and elephants, one can also see gaur, sambar, chital, antelope and other animals in Nagarhole National Park.

How to Reach Nagarhole National Park?

• The nearest airport to the Nagarhole National Park is Bangalore Airport, at a distance of 220 kilometres.
• You can also reach the park via rail. The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction, located at a distance of 89 kilometres away from the park.
• There are regular bus services available to reach the national park from nearby major cities like Bangalore, Mysore etc.

Best Time to Visit Nagarhole National Park for Jungle Safari

• Summer, during the months of April and May, is the best time to visit Nagarhole National Park as the waterholes in the park are dry and the animals come out for water at the lake.
• However, to explore in a better weather condition, one can also visit the park between November and February.

Also Check Out: Complete Karnataka Tourism Guide

Bannerghatta National Park, Karnataka

Bannerghatta National Park is undoubtedly one of the best national parks to explore in South India. The park is located near Bangalore (25 kilometres south) in the Anekal range, Karnataka and is regarded as home to a wide variety of wildlife. It was declared a national park in 1974 and in 2002, a small portion of the park was turned into a biological park or zoo.

Bannerghatta National Park spreads across an area of around 261 square kilometres and is bordered by 16 villages. Being a part of the wildlife corridor for elephants connecting Sathyamangalam Forest and BR Hills, the Bannerghatta National Park is one of the ideal places for a jungle safari tour. It offers a guided bus tour along a six-kilometre stretch to spot various species of animals such as elephants, leopards, gaur, peacock, Royal Bengal Tiger and many more.

How to Reach Bannerghatta National Park?

• The nearest airport to Bannerghatta National Park is Bengaluru or Bangalore Airport, which is around 46 kilometres away.
• The nearest railway station to the park is Yeshwantpur Junction, which is connected to all major cities via rail.
• You can also reach the park via metro railway. The nearest metro railway station is Yelachenahalli.
• There are also bus services available to reach Bannerghatta National Park from cities like Bengaluru, Mysore etc.

Best Time to Visit Bannerghatta National Park for Jungle Safari

• The best time to visit the park is during the months between October and June owing to the perfect weather conditions.
• Best Places for Wildlife Safari Tours in Karnataka

B.R. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve, Karnataka

BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, also popular as BR Tiger Reserve is considered to be the wildlife corridor that connects the Western Ghats to the Eastern Ghats. It is located at a height of about 1,551 metres from sea level and spread across an area of 540 square kilometres in a hill range in Karnataka (Chamarajanagar District).

The sanctuary was declared a tiger reserve by the Karnataka State Government in 2010. Apart from being a tiger reserve in South India, B.R. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to a huge variety of animals. Some of them are elephants, deer, bison, sloth bears etc. A place for tiger sighting in South India, BR Tiger Reserve is also covered with more than 250 species of birds. It is one of the best places in South India to experience bird watching, elephant bathing and jungle safari in one place.

How to Reach B.R. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary?

• The nearest airport to the wildlife sanctuary is the Mysore airport, which is about 80 kilometres away.
• One can also reach the sanctuary by rail. The nearest railway station is Mysore Railway station (around 89 kilometres).
• You can also reach BR Tiger Reserve by road. Bus service is available from cities like Bangalore and Mysore.

Best Time to Visit B.R. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary for Jungle Safari

• The best time to visit BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is between the months of October and March as the weather this time becomes pleasant and perfect to enjoy various adventurous activities.
• Best Wildlife Jungle Resorts Near Bangalore for Weekend Breaks

Kudremukh National Park, Karnataka

Home to a wide variety of wildlife, spread across an area of around 600 square kilometres, Kudremukh National Park is located at a junction of Chikkamagaluru, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts in Karnataka. The park has derived its name from a hilltop which looks like the shape of the head of a horse. Entirely covered by dense forests, the park includes four ranges, named Kudremukh, Kalasa, Kerekatte and Shimoga.

Being a popular wildlife destination in South India, Kudremukh National Park is home to several species of birds like the imperial pigeon, Malabar trogon, great pied hornbill and many more. There are several options for bird-watching available here. Apart from the birds, Kudremukh National Park is also a renowned ecospace for jungle safari in India, as well as South India. You can get some glimpses of leopards, tigers, common langurs, sloth bears, Malabar giant squirrels and many more species in the park.

How to Reach Kudremukh National Park?

• Travellers can reach Kudremukh National Park by air. The nearest airport to the park is Mangalore International Airport, which is 95 kilometres away from the park.
• The nearest railway station is also 95 kilometres away, Mangalore Railway Station.
• One can also travel to Kudremukh National Park via bus from nearby cities.

Best Time to Visit Kudremukh National Park for Jungle Safari

• The best time to visit the park is during the months between October and May, after the monsoon.
• Best Places to Visit Near Bandipur National Park

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

The largest bird sanctuary of Karnataka, Ranganathittu is located in the district of Mandya, in the historic town of Srirangapatna. The bird sanctuary, comprising six islets, situated on the bank of River Kaveri, is popularly known as ‘Pakshi Kashi,’ which means birds’ paradise. Due to the ideal location of the islets and the presence of aqua insects in abundance, the bird sanctuary has become a perfect place for the migratory birds that come from countries like Siberia, Australia and North America. The place has been referred to as one of the popular tourist attractions in South India.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary was declared a sanctuary after famous ornithologist Dr Salim Ali pressured the government to do so in the year 1940. It has been regarded as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts across the globe. The sanctuary is home to the largest population of marsh crocodiles in Karnataka. Apart from the crocodiles, you can also get glimpses of about 170 avian species such as Oriental darter, river tern, Indian shag, painted stork and kingfishers.

How to Reach Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary?

• The nearest airport to the bird sanctuary is Mysore International Airport, which is around 30 kilometres away.
• The nearest railway station to Ranganathittu is Srirangapatna at a distance of five kilometres.
• You can also reach the sanctuary by bus from cities like Bangalore and Mysore.

Best Time to Visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary for Jungle Safari

• The best time to go to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is between the months of June and November. These months are the best time for bird-watching as these are the nesting months for the birds.
• Most Popular Bird Sanctuaries in India

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

The second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the important regions of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is located between Bandipur, Nagarhole and Mudumalai reserve forests and is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. The perfect environment in an evergreen setting along with a favourable climatic condition has made this place a perfect place for the species.

Home to several species of mammals, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers love to explore Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. You can easily spot elephants, deer, panthers, jungle cats and especially tigers here. It is also popular as a home to a large number of endangered species of birds. There are several options for jungle safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. One must pay an entry fee and take a forest guide for the safari.

How to Reach Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?

• The nearest airport to the sanctuary is Karipur International Airport in Kozhikode at a distance of 125 kilometres. There are several bus services available between the airport and the sanctuary.
• Travellers can also reach the sanctuary via rail. The nearest railway station is Kozhikode at a distance of 100 kilometres.
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is also connected to other cities via bus service. One can avail buses from cities like Kasargod, Calicut, Cochin and Trivandrum.

Best Time to Visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for Jungle Safari

• The ideal time to visit the best jungle safari destination in South India is between August and February. However, the place remains open throughout the year.

Top 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

Viralimalai wildlife sanctuary, tamil nadu.

Viralimalai Wildlife Park is one of the best places to explore our national bird, the peacock. It is a renowned wildlife destination in Tamil Nadu and attracts a huge number of tourists to watch varied species of peacocks closely in their natural habitat. It is located in a town at a distance of 30 kilometres from Trichy.

Apart from the peacock sanctuaries, there is also a Murugan temple, where the eminent form of dance, Bharatnatyam flourished. The temple is located at the top of a hill and travellers need to climb about 210 steps to reach there. There are a total of six species of peacocks in Viralimalai and the Murugan temple along with its surroundings is the main region where they are found mostly.

How to Reach Viralimalai Wildlife Sanctuary

• The nearest airport to Viralimalai Wildlife Park is Tiruchirappalli International Airport at a distance of 30 kilometres.
• The nearest railway station is Tiruchirappalli Junction, which is connected to all the major cities of South India, as well as India.

Best Time to Visit Viralimalai Wildlife Sanctuary

• The best time to visit the wildlife park is during the months of October to April because one can find pleasant weather at this time.
• However, if you want to see the peacocks tapping their feet in the rain, then the monsoon (July to September) is the best time to go.
• Top 20 Wildlife Safari Destinations in Asia
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• 12 Best National Parks for Jungle Safari Experience in India – Love and Conserve Our Wildlife

Wildlife holidays in South India cannot be completed if you do not add one of these places to your itinerary. These are some of the places where you will have the best jungle safari experience of your life. However, one needs to take permission, book rooms in hotels or resorts, safari cars and many more in advance to plan South India Jungle Safari wildlife holidays. This might become hectic for you.

So, if you need any assistance in booking your holidays, you can call us or browse our website for some best packages for the best jungle safari experiences in South India.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the best places for jungle safari tours in south india.

South India is home to some amazing untouched forests filled with a rich collection of flora and fauna. Some of them are the best places for jungle safari tours. The best time for jungle safari in South India is between September and November or from April to June.

Some of the best places for jungle safari tours are:

Which is the best destination for Tiger Safari in Karnataka?

Wildlife tourism in South India has been getting popular over the years. Tiger safari is one of the reasons behind this popularity. South India, especially Karnataka boasts of around 524 Royal Bengal Tigers and it has some of the best places to see tigers in South India. Some of them are:

• Bandipur National Park and Tiger Reserve
• Nagarhole National Park and Tiger Reserve
• Bhadra Tiger Reserve
• Kali Tiger Reserve
• BRT Tiger Reserve

Which are the top destinations for Wildlife safari tours in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu has some of the best wildlife sanctuaries in South India. A wildlife tour in South India cannot be completed without visiting these parks and sanctuaries. The top destinations for wildlife safari tours in Tamil Nadu are:

• Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
• Anamalai Tiger Reserve
• Mukurthi National Park
• Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

Which are the best destinations for night jungle safari in South India?

There are some wildlife sanctuaries in South India which can also be explored at night. The authorities allow night safari tours and it is worth experiencing. Some of the best destinations for night jungle safari are:

• Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

Published: 17 Jun, 2022

About the author

Nandini Bhattacharya

From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.

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• Experience the Best Wildlife Safari in India

India is blessed with diverse nature and a rich landscape. Many communities and cultures live here. This diversity is also seen in wildlife around the country. A jungle safari is the closest way of experiencing the wildlife of India. So, if you are looking for an adventure trip, read on to know the best places to experience Jungle Safari.

1. Ranthambore National Park

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The Ranthambore National Park is stretched for about 13,000 square kilometers which is home to many tigers. You can see the majestic beasts living in their natural habitat making this national park regal and royal. The best time to visit Ranthambore National Park is from March to May as you can easily find jungle safaris. For a particular safari, 3-4 hours will cost you from Rs. 1500 (Jeep Safari) to Rs. 57,000/- (Special Safari for the entire day). People come from all over the world to see the tigers. Apart from the tigers, you can also witness Sloth Bears, Wild Boars, Monitor Lizards, Flying Foxes, Sambars, etc. Plan this adventurous trip now.

2. Hemis National Park

Snow Leopards! Sounds Great! Right? The Hemis National Park located in Ladakh is one of the highest altitude wildlife safaris of all time. The chilly weather and massive snowfall will make you fall in love with nature and wildlife. Here you will find primarily snow leopards , along with Ibex, Blue Sheep, Tibetan Argali Sheep, and Snowcocks. Well, the park remains closed during November due to the heavy rainfall in the area. The best time to visit this national park is from May to September. The entry fee is Rs. 20/- for Indians and Rs. 100/- for foreigners.

3. Jim Corbett

This is one of the most visited national parks of all time. Jim Corbett National Park is Asia’s first national park to be named after a tiger hunter and explorer, Jim Corbett, who hunted man-eating tigers at that point in time. To protect tigers from getting extinct, Jim Corbett National Park was made wherein there are four areas to visit, i.e., Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, and Durga Devi. Here you can see Bengal Tigers, Chital, Deer, Asiatic Elephants, Gharial, Black Bear, and much more. Plan this trip between March and May to get an amazing experience.

4. Bandhavgarh National Park

Being a hunting ground for Royal Families for many years, the ground in Madhya Pradesh has now become a protected reserve for the Royal Bengal Tiger. Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the densely populated tiger reserves in India. The officials conduct guided safaris where you can see and learn about these majestic beasts. You can see leopards, barking deers, nilgai , Bengal fox, Striped Hyena, etc. The best time to visit this place is in October. A four-hour jungle safari costs you Rs. 6500/-.

5. Kanha National Park

Featured in children’s famous book ‘Mowgli’, this park has gained a lot of population. Staying true to the book, you can spot panthers, bears, elephants, pythons, and many other animals. The park is divided into four sections, namely Kanha, Kisli, Sarahi, and Mukki Zone. A visit to this park will have you reminiscing about your favorite tales. Plant this trip between October and mid-June. The three-hour jeep safari will cost you Rs. 6500/-.

6. Pench National Park

Located on the borders of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, this national park stretches up to 400 square kilometers and is known as a protected reserve for tigers. The key feature of this reserve is the diverse vegetation that grows here. You can find the trees and plants growing in moist, dry, and arid regions. Apart from the tigers, you can also find Nilgais, Leopards, Wild Boars, etc. The 3-5 hours of safari costs you Rs. 3000/-. The best time to visit the Pench National Park is from October to June.

7. Satpura National Park

Satpura National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its distinguished topography. The lush green forests make it a perfect breeding ground for various species of animals. If you are enthusiastic about wildlife, adventures, and animals, then Satpura National Park is your go-to place. Species like Spotted Deer, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Blackbucks, Antelopes, and many others can be found here. Plan your trip in months like October, December, and May for the best safari experience. The four-hour safari costs you Rs. 2750 – 6700/- per person.

8. Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the Western Region of Gujarat, the Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary has rough scrublands and dry forests. The sanctuary is home to Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Jackals, Indian Foxes, etc. Asiatic Lions can only be found in this sanctuary. Plan a jungle safari in December as it is a very exciting and exhilarating experience. The duration of the safari is four hours that will cost you Rs. 4300/- (Indians) and Rs. 13,800/- (Foreigners).

9. Tadoba National Park

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then this place is for you. Located in Maharashtra, the Tadoba National Park is surrounded by massive hills, a lake, and beautiful forests. The attractive point about this national park is that the lake is a watering hole for all the animals there. It is a famous safari spot. You can see Barking Deers, Hyenas, and many other animals here. Visit this park from October to June and book a jungle safari for Rs. 750/- on weekdays and Rs. 1000/- on weekends.

10. Kaziranga National Park

Situated in the beautiful valleys of Assam, the Kaziranga National Park has a surface area of about 420 square kilometers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a home for One-Horned Rhinoceros. The largest number of Rhinoceros reside here. Apart from them, Elephants, Bears, and Panthers can also be seen here. November to April are the best months for visiting their national park. The two-hour jungle safari costs you 3800/-.

11. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sanctuary is also located upon the borders of Assam and Bhutan. You can find Pygmy Hog and Indian Elephant here. Guided safari tours are conducted to spot these animals. Rafting excursions and wildlife camps can also be done here. October to April are the best months to visit this sanctuary. The fee charged for jungle safari is Rs. 120/-.

12. Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans National Park is a marshy swampland located in West Bengal. The 4000 square kilometers stretched national park is home to Royal Bengal Tigers, Leopard Cats, Macaques, Wild Boars, etc. The best time to visit this national park is from October to April. The duration of jungle safari ranges from four to eight hours. The fee for tourism here is Rs. 2600/- per person.

13. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the beautiful landscape of Kerala, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary has scenic beauty which comes from the Western Ghats. The sanctuary stretches out to the length of 192,000 acres of land having lush green forests and dense vegetation. Tigers and Elephants are majorly seen here. Along with wildlife safaris, you can also experience boat rides for the best experience. The months from September to January are the best months to visit this place. The four-hour jungle safari costs you Rs. 2000/- per person.

So, these are some of the best wildlife safaris that you must visit this year. Get an amazing experience by visiting these natural habitats, wildlife, and jungle safaris. Dive deep into the diverse lands of India this year with EaseMyTrip. EaseMyTrip provides you with the best packages for traveling to various parts of the country. Whether you are planning a short trip or a long one, we are here to help you. Book your next holiday with us and experience your life’s best trip. For more information, visit our official website.

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October 12, 2023, 10 jungle safari in india, known for its population of bengal tigers, jim corbett is india's oldest national park and offers an excellent chance to spot these magnificent big cats in their natural habitat, jim corbett national park, uttarakhand:, image: pexels , experience the royal allure of ranthambore and witness the tigers of rajasthan against the backdrop of historic forts and palaces, ranthambore national park, rajasthan:, venture into the world's largest mangrove forest, home to the elusive royal bengal tiger and a rich variety of aquatic life, sundarbans, west bengal:, kaziranga is a unesco world heritage site and a sanctuary for the one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephants, and a wide array of bird species, kaziranga national park, assam:, the last abode of the asiatic lion, gir is a unique destination for those looking to witness these incredible big cats in their natural habitat, gir forest national park, gujarat:, cruise along the serene periyar lake while spotting elephants, sambar deer, and perhaps even a nilgiri tahr in the lush western ghats, periyar wildlife sanctuary, kerala:, image: pexels, an essential stop for wildlife enthusiasts, bandipur offers an excellent opportunity to witness the south indian tiger and numerous other species, bandipur national park, karnataka:, follow in the footsteps of mowgli from "the jungle book" in the scenic pench, known for its diverse flora and fauna, pench national park, madhya pradesh and maharashtra:, explore the enchanting landscapes that inspired rudyard kipling's "the jungle book" and encounter tigers, leopards, and sloth bears, kanha national park, madhya pradesh:, tadoba is often referred to as the "jewel of vidarbha" and is celebrated for its high tiger density, offering thrilling encounters with these magnificent creatures, tadoba andhari tiger reserve, maharashtra:, for more updates, follow pinkvilla..

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Save 72% with an annual subscription of india today magazine, order your copy of india today diary - 2024, why maharashtra launched two ‘grassland safari’ trails in pune district, safari tourism usually involves jungle trails through tiger territories. a new initiative by the maharashtra forest department is looking to broaden that mindset.

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The eco-tourism trails covering these grasslands were launched last week at Shirsuphal in Baramati range and Kadbanwadi in Indapur range. While the Shirsuphal trail covers a roughly 40-km track, the other treks a 30-km trail. They are located around 130-km from Pune. The costs for each vehicle will be around Rs 2,000 and a trail will take around three hours to cover. The grasslands comprise reserve forests and also private lands.

Grassland habitats are crucial breeding grounds for birds and mammals and support herbivores and ungulates like chinkaras and black bucks. They are known for resident and breeding populations of leopards, striped hyenas, grey wolves, golden jackals, foxes, rusty spotted cats, and birds like raptors. However, the grasslands are increasingly coming under pressure due to urbanisation and are also being converted to woodlands via tree plantation programs.

Mahadev Mohite, Pune’s deputy conservator of forests, said that this was the first grassland safari in Maharashtra outside a protected area. The safari would help bring the focus on grasslands, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and also regulate the tourist traffic in the region.

The members of the joint forest management committee (JFMC) had been trained and the committee will get the revenue from the ticket sales. The growth in tourist footfalls and the regulation of the sector is expected to boost employment for the local communities. Mohite added that more eco-tourism grassland trails would be started in places like Bhigwan, Solapur and Phaltan, once local guides were trained.

“Earlier, illegal activities like tourists coming to these areas at night and sitting around the dens of hyenas for photography used to take place. They also photographed these animals from close quarters... They used to take their vehicles near these dens and used floodlights to photograph them. Now, precautions will be taken to ensure that these animals are not disturbed and are photographed in a manner that is eco-friendly,” said Mohite. “The tourists used to get guides from outside. Now, local guides will be provided, which will generate employment for local villagers,” he explained.

The Pune forest division includes 12 forest ranges. Of the 10,38,618 hectare geographical area of this division, forests comprise 1,21,229 hectare. Grasslands are spread over the eastern part of the division like the Saswad, Baramati, Daund and Indapur ranges.

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