“It was not a blind approach, but to use the tiger to save something more valuable — its habitat. I don’t judge Project Tiger by only their numbers. That, in my opinion, is what led to several shortcomings. Tiger population numbers are a matter of survival to every field director. Tiger is not the ‘be all and end all’ of the project but definitely the frontrunner. People visiting reserves solely to view tigers and having other vehicles zoom past them to see the animal is a failure. This was not the vision, Ranjitsinh continued.
Photo Credit- Harsh Agarwal
In addition, India is home to over 70% of the world’s tigers. Thus, it is India’s duty to the rest of the world to protect them, according to Uma Ramakrishnan, a professor and molecular ecologist from India who works at the National Centre for Biological Sciences. Maintaining connection, controlling unfavorable interactions between tigers and people, and better understanding the impacts of inbreeding on subsequent generations of tigers are all important for the future of tiger populations, in addition to growing numbers.
India and Cambodia struck into an arrangement last year to translocate a few tigers to that nation. “Providing tigers to Cambodia is a possibility. Both their officials and our group have visited,” Yadav added. “We must ascertain the reason for the tiger decimation there and make sure that all contributing elements, such as prey base, poaching, and patrols, are addressed.” He claimed that the final tiger to be seen in Cambodia was photographed in 2009.
Yadav recognized that many tiger sanctuaries, including Corbett, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Tadoba, have an issue with abundance. “These reserves ought to be managed actively. For instance, we are transporting tigers from the Corbett refuge to the Rajaji Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, he said. “We are developing management strategies. Because it’s a dynamic process, we can’t put a limit on the number of tigers.
Best destinations for spotting black panthers in India
If the mere mention of the Black Panther excites you, then this blog will surely pump your adrenaline rush. Hold your breath as you’re about to spot your favorite ‘Bagheera’ aka the black panther at these best wildlife destinations in India. Imagine dense woods, ultimate serenity and that mysterious look from the black beauty who has noticed you while you might not have yet! The thrill and the feelings to spot a black panther are undoubtedly beyond description.
From Kabini to Tadoba and Pench, my list covers all the possible wildlife sanctuaries where you can end your quest to find a black panther in India. Although rare in the country, these wild cats can be surely found at the following wildlife safari destinations in India. Take a look!
You will be visibly excited and overjoyed to spot a black panther in Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary. For many years, black panthers were believed to be extremely rare or more mythical. But the latest photography evidence shows the presence of the elusive black beauty in the deep jungles of Kabini. Famous as ‘The Ghost of Kabini’, this wild creature presents a sight to behold when spotted. An integral part of the Nagarhole National Park, this forest reserve along the Kabini River is sure to make your wildlife holidays in India a memorable affair.
Other attractions:
Fauna – herds of elephants, jaguars, tigers, various species of birds
Also visit – Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabini River, Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time to Visit Kabini Wildlife Reserve: From November till May
How to Reach Kabini Forest Reserve: An 80 km drive from Mysore leads you straight to Kabini.
No wonder finding a black panther in India is a special experience but their presence in Tadoba makes it extraordinary. Making sudden appearances out of nowhere, these melanistic leopards make your jungle safari experience a surreal one. The dense bushes in this oldest and largest national park in Maharashtra make it a perfect hideout for this black creature to stay. Whenever on a jungle safari in Tadoba in hunt of the black panther do carefully listen to the sound of animals around as they raise an alarm and start making noises. Take it as a special cue that you’re lucky enough that the big wild cat is somewhere nearby and you might spot him soon.
Black Panther- Tadoba (Image courtesy- Google)
Other attractions:
Fauna – tigers, wild dogs, sloth bear, small Indian civet, and a variety of avifaunal species
Also visit – Kolsa Lake, Tadoba Lake and Tadoba River
Best Time to Visit Tadoba Andhari National Park: From mid-October to June end
How to Reach Tadoba: The park is 140 km away from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. Also, a 45 km drive from Chandrapur helps one to reach the park easily.
Spotting a black panther in the jungles of Pench is one of the best things to do in India for wildlife lovers and avid photographers. Hop on a train, leave the hustle and bustle of the cities behind and enjoy a real wildlife trip at this park. Besides spotting the elusive big cat, one can raise the fun quotient by partaking in rafting which is quite popular here. Also, at this park feel free and take your time to observe the wildlife behavior in their natural habitat. To do so, simply embark on a jungle safari and explore every nook and cranny thoroughly. You can rest assure that you will be able to spot the ‘Bagheera’ from the famous Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book here at this ‘Mowgli’s Land’.
Other attractions:
Fauna – Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards, hyenas, porcupine, different amphibian species, four-horned antelope, peafowl, magpie robin
Also visit – Pench River, Sitaghat, Kalapahad
Best Time to Visit Pench National Park: October to March
How to Reach Pench Tiger Reserve: Nagpur lies in close proximity to Pench. It is at a distance of 77.8 km from the park.
These are just three. But there are also some sanctuaries where the black panther is spotted from time to time. The list includes Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, both in Karnataka. However, no such pieces of evidence are available. Yet one should not lose hope and keep on following the wild trails. So, pick your ranger’s hat, choose from the aforementioned wildlife destinations in India and take one step closer to the country’s exotic wild.
Feel the thrill at these popular jungle safari destinations in India
As a 90s kid, I remember the famous ‘The Jungle Book’ by Rudyard Kipling and the associated characters whenever I hear the word ‘Jungle’. And the excitement to spot my favorite creature takes me to the best tiger reserves in India that recreate the same magic. With numerous wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves, and national parks across the length and breadth of the country, you can rest assured of incredible wildlife holidays in India.
Home to snow leopard, royal Bengal tigers, black-spotted dear, one-horned rhino, and many more, India flaunts diverse faunal species. From Jim Corbett in the North to Periyar in the South, take your pick from the following list and embark on a wildlife safari in India.
Nestled in the heart of India, Bandhavgarh National Park presents one of the most dramatic landscapes in the country and ranks #1 as the best tiger reserve for tiger safaris in India. Reckoned one of the best destinations for tiger safari in India, the park is home to ferocious royal Bengal tigers. Besides those big cats, you can spot elephants, nilgais, chital, deer, jackals, etc. Additionally, you can opt for a birding tour. When you’ve traveled so far, it would be the icing on the cake if you visit the Bandhavgarh Fort too.
Mystic beyond description, Kanha National Park is the place that inspired Rudyard Kipling to pen down his famous book The ‘Jungle Book’. Although you will find a wide variety of faunal species like python, leopard, barasingha, etc. alive here Sher Khan (Bengal Tiger) steals the limelight. Undoubtedly it is one of the best places for a tiger safari in India. Embark on an exhilarating jeep safari and witness your children excited to the next level as they spot wild creatures up close in their natural habitat. While on the trip don’t forget to observe the Sal trees that add charm to the place.
Flaunting unique natural scenic beauty, Tadoba National Park beguiles visitors for many reasons. Also famed as Todoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, this national park is the oldest and the largest in Maharashtra. Plan an exciting safari to spot wild denizens like a rusty-spotted cat, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, barking deer, etc. Additionally, rare ones like a flying squirrel, ratel, and pangolin also share space with other faunal species. Not to forget, the presence of those wild tigers makes this park one of the best tiger safari destinations in India.
Once a royal hunting preserve, Ranthambore National Park sets the standards for exceptional wildlife safari holidays in India. Known for bird-watching tours and tiger trails, the park is the best place to sight an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy watching the vultures soaring in circles high above or spotting the crocodile basking in the sunshine. From the elusive Indian wolf to the blue bull antelope, you will find them all here. But it is the elusive tiger that remains the highlight of Best Jungle safari in India. Don’t forget to listen to the historical legends associated with the noteworthy Ranthambore Fort located nearby.
Early October till June is the time when the park remains open for Jungle Safaris in India. However, the summer season is the best time for tiger sighting in Ranthambore.
How to reach:
By Air – Jaipur Airport (180 km)
By Train – Sawai Madhopur Railway Station (14.6 km),
Entitled as Asia’s very first National Park, Jim Corbett is a distinguished resident of the Tigers. For this reason, it is one of the most visited tourist places for Tiger Safaris In India. Inheriting its name from very popular British naturalist and writer Edward James Corbett, the park lures visitors from far and near. Apart from Bengal Tiger, the park accommodates 488 different species of plants and other faunal species as well. Notably, yellow-throated martens, crested serpent eagle, barking deer, blossom-headed parakeet, Indian elephants, sambar deer, and Indian python can also be spotted here. Gharials and crocodiles can be sighted lazing along the Ramganga River.
Treat your eyes, ears, and nose to some of the best sights, sounds, and smell at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Dive into this wonderful and wild place to behold the sight of elephants which is the main attraction and tigers as well. The ethereal beauty of the Western Ghats that surrounds the sanctuary adds to its charm. To put it differently, the park is a heaven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. When here taking a boat ride on Periyar Lake is an absolute must.
Your quest for those big cats will surely lead you to Bandipur National Park. Inhabiting rich biodiversity, the park is obviously one of the best destinations for wildlife safari in India. Offering a lifetime of experiences, the tiger reserves keeps you busy not just with jungle safaris but also with bird watchingin India. If the sighting of vulnerable and endangered species like gaurs, Indian elephants, changeable hawk-eagle, tigers, Indian rock pythons, etc. excites you then Bandipur is definitely the right place for you.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sunderbans is a place where tigers are a hot topic. Rumors are whether you might have spotted a tiger or not but he has surely spotted you. Besides those elusive cats swimming in the water, you will sight macaques, fishing cats, Olive Ridley turtles, wild boar, etc. while crossing the dense mangroves. Counted as one of the best tiger reserves of India, the marshland is part of the Ganges delta, the world’s largest delta. Thus, no wonder beautiful estuaries and roaring rivers make the place more magical.
Nestled in the heart of Assam, Kaziranga National Park holds the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surprisingly, the place is renowned for inhabiting the largest population of the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros in the world. Furthermore, the park is the best place to pacify your adrenaline rush for wildlife safaris. Numerous water bodies in the park provide exciting opportunities for wildlife sightseeing. In addition to rhinos, you can spot elephants, Asiatic water buffaloes, tigers, swamp deer, and many avifaunal species among others.
Last but not least in the list of best wildlife safari destinations in India, Gir National Park is a place to be if you want to hear the roar of the Asiatic Lions. A sparkling gem in the crown of Gujarat, the park is blessed with rich biodiversity. So, grab an opportunity to go for a wildlife safari to see jackals, leopards, hyenas, the Indian fox and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Add to it the amazing floral species that you’re going to witness here. A wide variety of birds also flock here to amuse the guests.
So these were some of the best destinations for wildlife safari in India in a nutshell. There are a lot many. But as for now, without much ado, book your tickets and get ready to admire the Indian wilderness like never before.
Enjoy your next escape into the wilderness at the top 10 resorts in Bandhavgarh
Heaven for wildlife lovers, Bandhavgarh is not only known for Royal Bengal Tigers but also for offering a memorable stay. Located in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is also known as the ‘Tiger Capital of India‘. The best resorts in Bandhavgarh help you retreat into the lap of nature while cherishing unmatched hospitality. Featuring comfortable accommodation options and top-notch facilities, these resorts will surely pamper you to the core.
Imagine waking up to the sound of nature and feeling the adrenaline rush to spot those ‘big cats’! In other words, these best places to stay in Bandhavgarh enable you to take home a bag full of memories. Here’s a list of handpicked resorts where you can plan your next much-awaited holiday to enjoy pure jungle bliss.
Once famed as the ChurhatKothi, Taj MahuaKothi is considered as a high-end resort in Bandhavgarh and top in our list of 10 Best resorts in Bandhavgarh. Sprawled across a whopping area of 40 acres, this property is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay during your family holidays. From design to the location, everything about the resort will make you fall in love with it. Delight in a wonderful stay in jungle village huts offering authentic yet a matchless experience.
What’s special?
Pick from a wide range of dining options which is the signature feature of this resort. From eating under the shade of a Mahua tree to the star-lit sky, you are going to love this for sure.
Adding to the experience is the breakfast which is served on the bonnet of the 4X4 tour jeep.
Rejuvenate your senses availing relaxing massages at the spa.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
True to its name, the Kings Lodge allows you to experience royalty at its best. King’s Lodge ranks 2nd in the list of 10 Best Resorts in Bandhavgarh Set amidst the Ranch village, this property is known to engage its guests in several things. First, the modern facilities will leave you spoilt for your choice. Second, the soothing surroundings will make you forget the chaotic city life immediately. Add to this first-hand experience of the wildlife in their natural habitat. For these reasons, it is considered one of the best luxury resorts in Bandhavgarh National Park.
What’s special?
A multi-cuisine dining hall featuring a fireplace that overlooks the expanses of wild grasslands.
Enjoy directly from ‘Farm to table’ culture.
Pacify your adrenaline rush for spotting rare species of birds as you go for bird watching from the Machan.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Outstanding amongst the rest, Samode Safari Lodgeassures make your wildlife tour exceptional at unbeatable prices. Equipped with the latest amenities, the resort gives you a feel of home away from home. Your comfort is their utmost priority and hence they leave no stone unturned for the same. Reckoned as the world’s 50 best honeymoon hotels and destinations, this wonderful place delights your senses with an unparalleled experience.
What’s special?
Massages offered at the Spa here are sure to refresh your mind, body, and soul.
Indulge in a thrilling experience as you get introduced to the sounds and sights of the Jungle.
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in your tranquil, spacious, and comfortable villa.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Nestled in close proximity to the Tala gate of the park, Bandhav Vilas serves as the perfect base for a memorable wildlife safari. Equipped with modern amenities, this place tops the list of best luxury resorts in Bandhavgarh. After your exciting tour, spend a leisurely evening sipping a perfect cup of coffee at the sun-kissed sit-out. Moreover, the luxurious ambiance and heritage settings are sure to mesmerize you.
What’s special?
They serve homemade vegetarian only and also the vegetables are harvested on their own.
You can spot innumerable varieties of birds and varieties of butterflies in the vegetable garden.
They allow you to participate in classical music performances held here in the evening.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Featuring gracefully furnished cottages, Nature Heritage Resort is one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts in Madhya Pradesh and makes in our list of 10 Best resorts in Bandhavgarh. Designed to allow it to blend itself with its beautiful environs, this resort is indeed a nature lover’s paradise. Additionally, with experienced tiger experts by your side, you can rest assured that you will track one of those big cats. Adorning the heart of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, this resort will lure you to visit here again and again.
What’s special?
Treat your taste buds not only with Indian but also continental delicacies under a thatched roof or open restaurants.
Soak in the tranquillity while unwinding yourself in your personal verandah.
Relax your tired muscles by availing soothing massages at the spa.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
If there is a way out to experience nature at its best, it’s only by blending harmoniously with it. With this in mind, you should undoubtedly choose Tree House Hideaway Resort. If you want to give your family a holiday of a lifetime, just bring them here. Exclusively crafted treehouses eagerly await your presence to make your stay equally enthralling.
What’s special?
Roam around the place to sight resident fauna in their natural habitat.
Treat your eyes to the astounding views of the Bandhavgarh Fort and Tiger Reserve.
Gather your friends, sing songs, chit-chat, dine and remember good old days as you take time out for a bonfire.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Situated amidst the dramatic settings, Mogli Jungle Resort will make your visit a joyful one. Ranked as one of the best budget-friendly resorts in Bandhavgarh, this lavish property has something for everyone. Start your day praising the dreamlike views outside and thereafter get ready for the adventure you were longing for. Go for a nature walk or just spend the day reading a book in the library. The choice is yours!
What’s special?
Tribal Dance performance is sure to transform your evening into a memorable one.
Attend the photography workshop to know the tricks to capture candid shots during the safari.
Enjoy fine dining while overlooking Bandhavgarh Fort.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
If you think of getting the most out of your holidays without spending a fortune then Bagh Sarai Resort is for you. The property is located in the village of Parasi. For this reason, it not only makes your jungle trip memorable but also gives you a chance to live a village life. Furthermore, the stunning getaway features rustic ambiance, modern amenities, and a natural environment all under a single roof.
What’s special?
Here you will learn how they have maintained to make everything out of wood but without actually cutting any tree.
They consider their guests as family members.
The traditional look is given to the Bungalows also known ‘Jhopri’ will surely spellbind you.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
Outstanding amongst the rest, Lemon Tree Wildlife Resort assures you to make your wildlife tour exceptional at unbeatable prices. Equipped with the latest amenities, the resort gives you a feel of home away from home. Your comfort is their utmost priority and hence they leave no stone unturned for the same. Bounded by the Sal tree forest, this wonderful place delights your senses with an unparalleled experience.
What’s special?
Be it a central fireplace or outdoor shower area, they have it just right.
Indulge in an unwinding experience while getting close to Mother Nature.
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in your spacious and comfortable room.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
A fresh breeze is sure to greet you the moment you enter WelcomHeritageJukasoSalvan Resort. With air-conditioned cottages, the property soothes your senses like no other. Morning dew and the chirping of birds will make you forget about the hustle and bustle of the fast pacing world. Time seems to stop here and nature appears to be a permanent guest.
What’s special?
Relish delicious dishes served at the multi-cuisine restaurant here.
Go for a morning or evening walk in the garden.
The swimming pool is always ready to refresh you with its crystal clear water.
Please check the Trip Advisor Rating before booking
The list of best resorts in Bandhavgarh is quite elaborate. These are just a few. Pick your favorite or feel free to suggest or add yours! Check out our Destination Guide to Bandhavgarh for more interesting details.
What’s the best time to see tigers? I believe in regards to wildlife Tours in India; this is a most asked question.
For Tiger Safari Tour 1st National Park I visited was Ranthambore National Park in 2006. Since then for Wildlife Tours In India Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh became by 2nd home. For 5 consecutive years, I attended a census in Ranthambore. After spending 14 years in different National parks during Wildlife Tour in India and other Asian countries, following some famous tigers of India, I am sharing what my experience taught me.
According to the new finding of 2015, the global population of Royal Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris) in the wild is estimated around 3982 mature tigers. As per the census of 2018, the total number of tigers in India is around 3000, which is approx 70% of the entire tiger’s population in the world. India is the most significant home for Royal Bengal tigers. Thanks to the “Project Tiger” and our conservationist and real heroes in the forest, whom day & night safeguarded our majestic cats from poachers. In less than a decade, the population of Tigers in India has risen by 33%.
If you are short of time then can jump to the conclusion directly.
A Tiger safari in India encompasses the real meaning of wildlife photography and is high on the list for any photographer or nature lover passionate about wildlife Tours. Unlike a wildlife safari in other countries where there seems to be a cat around every turn, one has to work very hard for tigers, which creates excitement, a deeper level of satisfaction, and appreciation for every encounters with a tiger in a jungle.
Best time to see Tigers in India on Tiger Safaris depends on various aspects- forest or reserve you are visiting, season, and even time of the day you are choosing for your safari. Apart from the above factors, the success rate also depends on your naturalist and driver during Wildlife Tour. They should be familiar with the route on which they are placed. The Tigers have their favorite hideout, where they often rest in the morning or rise from there in the afternoon. Your trackers should know their favorite water body where they go to cool themselves. Tigers are territorial and nocturnal animals, which makes them highly elusive. The size of Tiger territory can be 40-60 sq km for male tigers and 25-40 sq km for female tigers. A lot more depends than just choosing the right national park or reserve for Tiger Safari in India, but of course, it’s also a 1st step in the process.
From a tourist perspective, we can say that sighting a tiger during a Wildlife Tour In India is usually not just a click away. Indian Maharaja Tours (www.indianmaharajatours.com ) under our subsidiary travel company, www.thewildlifetour.com has tried to sum up some of the significant factors that need to be considered before signing up for any tours for sighting tigers in the wild on Tiger Safari in India.
Based on the purpose of your visit and your expectations from a jungle visit, I am categorizing our visitors in 2 groups-
Tourists/wildlife lovers/ Amateur photographers and phone photographers
Semi-professional and professional photographers
Tourists/wildlife lovers /Amateur photographers and phone photographers
This category is meant for visitors whose purpose is to get a glimpse of these majestic cats on Wildlife Tours in India. They are on a tight schedule have limited time to spend in the Jungle, and want to utilize most out of their visit. Some of them may be amateur photographers or hobbyists and can spend just a few days in the forest doing Tiger Safari in India. For tourists who are traveling in India, leaving the country without following these stripes will make their visit incomplete. Keeping all the factors in mind, we have to sum up conditions that can be considered before you plan your Wildlife Tour India to sight these majestic striped cats.
National Park and Tiger Reserves
Choosing the right national park should be the first choice. We have 100’s of National parks and tiger reserves which offer Tiger Safari in India. But do you think the possibility of sighting tigers in all the parks is high..? There are many tiger reserves in India where tigers have not been sighted for years, at least to the tourists during regular Tiger safaris. Even there are many jungles where tigers are not used to of tourist vehicles. They are too shy to appear. Many national parks yet don’t have online portals to reserve tickets for Tiger Safari. Some of them are located off the route. Before choosing the national park, the points mentioned earlier should be considered to filter the list. We believe Ranthambore National Park, Sariska, Bandhavgarh, Panna, Kanha, Pench, and Corbett are a few reserves that should top the list for Wildlife tours in India in the Northern and Central Sector. Among all the National Parks mentioned above, Bandhavgarh has the highest density of tigers. Ranthambore is among the most visited National parks for tigers and used to be the home of legendary tigress Machhli.
In northern India, almost all game parks are closed for Tiger Safari during monsoon, i.e., from 1st July to 30th September. So the Tiger season is from Oct- June. Immediately after the monsoon, it takes a week sometimes to fix the tracks damaged during the monsoon. Jungles are green and fertile, bushes are longer, and water is plentiful. So tigers camouflage themselves perfectly. That’s why you might need little more patience to sight them on your Wildlife Tour India. But landscapes are scenic, The Tiger’s coat is saturated and it’s a treat to sight a tiger in this natural paradise. Forest still remain scenic during Winters for Wildlife Tour in India i.e from Nov till Feb.
After February mid it’s the first leg of summer, the forest starts to shrink to small water holes. So, sighting tigers get secure, and the success rate can be 7-8 times out of 10 during Tiger Safari. Once it starts raining, which is usually after May, then it’s hard again. Also, avoid weekends and festival times. Jungles are overcrowded by local people.
Young Cub Clicked in Ranthambore in May.
Time of the Day
Almost in all the game reserves in India, you can enjoy Tiger Safari in the morning and afternoon. Sometimes people prefer to make one visit in a day and take the rest of the day at leisure. In that case, afternoons are more predictable for sighting Tigers. Tigers are nocturnal animals; they are more active after sunset until the next morning. In Wildlife Tour India drivers and naturalists sometimes know the exact locations of tigers when they enter for the afternoon Tiger safari. In noon tigers might seem pretty lazy and lying in the shade, doing nothing but chances are always very high that they will wake before sunset and walk to the nearest water hole.
Adult Male clicked in Bandhavgarh during Afternoon Safari
Choosing the right zone
While booking Wildlife Tour India, either you are nature lover, tourist, or wildlife photographer, you should always check the zones you are booked in. In India, approximately 30% of the forest is open for visitors, further divided into zones. Some of the zones are much in the outer area and are not an excellent habitat for tigers. During high season, weekends, or festival time when seats for Tiger Safari India in popular zones are full, the forest department starts diverting the crowd in less popular zones. Most of the time, in Wildlife Tour India it’s not worth visiting these zones until news of the tiger has made any kill. So while booking your Tiger safari always checks your tour operator for zones he is choosing for you. It’s highly recommended to book your wildlife Tours in India at least 3 to 4 months ahead to have a better zone. Otherwise, you might end up visiting the buffer area or have to pay a hefty amount for current booking in premium zones.
View of Padam Talab in zone 3 of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve after Monsoon.
Naturalist
Tigers are highly elusive animals. They are not seen so quickly, and they need to be tracked most of the time during Wildlife Tour in India. It’s always teamwork of naturalists, drivers, and sometimes by patrolling staff to track them when you are on Tiger Safari. Starting from paying attention to the alarm call, moving in the right direction at the right time, positioning the vehicle in chaos for better visibility, or following the pug marks, everything needs perfect coordination between driver and naturalist, which, of course, pays at the end. So it’s essential to hire the best trackers for Tiger Safari. Who is willing to give 100% and can hold the patience until last second. I have seen several times that many jeeps are lined up in the hope of a tiger to appear, but after a small wait slowly jeeps start moving in search of better opportunity and the one hanging out till last get rewarded.
On this side, we had only 2 Jeeps of our group. This was possible just because of our driver.
Semi-professional and professional photographers
This category is for visitors planning Wild Tours in India to capture some fantastic shots of tigers at a different time of the day and in different moods. Visitors are expected to have a sense of landscape, background, and foreground they are planning with tigers. Just for an Example- Cubs playing in lake at sunrise, Tigers walking around the lakeside with the fort at the background etc. Workshop leaders and photographers who sell high-quality prints come in the same category.
These types of visitors usually prefer to spend more time in each forest on Tiger safaris to maximize the possibilities of encounters with tigers.
Here are some of the factors that should be considered before planning your Tigers safaris in India.
National Parks and Reserve
As mentioned before, for wildlife Tours the choice of best national parks in India always tops the list. For professional photographers, it’s more important to choose the national park, which is less touristy. So while shooting the tigers, they can have peace of mind and not bothered by tourists trying to jump in between to take selfies or recording video with mobile phones. Going out of the route for Tigers safari won’t hurt if it pays you with high-quality images.
Subadult cub clicked in the Maghdi zone of Bandhavgarh.
Time of the year
During the Wildlife Tour In India, the sighting of the Tiger is better in the summer season when jungles are bright and animals are expected to come near water holes. There will be more than 10-12 Jeeps and canters lined up to take their shots. For professional photographers what’s the point for capturing the same images that everyone is clicking..? The bitter truth is that a novice can capture better images of tigers with his phone than us having a professional camera (writing from my personal experience). I believe Jungle looks stunning in winter. The scenery is fantastic, and the flowers are blooming, and the trees are blossoming. Mist can be seen on plains, sunlight filtering through trees, and sun rays appearing like a beam of light. Capturing these majestic tigers can be an experience of once in a lifetime. Though sighting is not high, it’s more productive.
The Queen of the lake. Clicked in Bandhavgarh after the monsoon season.
Time of the Day
Whether in winters or summer, I believe that tigers are more active in the morning before going for rest. Cubs are more playful in water; you can follow them for hours until they walk to the waterholes. In the afternoon, you will find them hiding in bushes, lying on their back, waiting for tourists to leave. Most of the time, you only get a window of 30 mins when they finally decide to rise and walk to the waterhole, and your driver will insist on leaving as its closing time. Otherwise, they have to bear the penalty of suspensions or fine, sometimes both. If you are not short of time, then I will advise you to plan more morning visits and take some afternoon off, copy your images, and go through them, some leisure time is essential because back to back safaris can be tiring.
Naturalist
Another factor to be considered before booking Tiger safari in India is choosing your team. You need to have someone who knows his job well. He must understand what you are looking for. Sometimes photographers are equipped with heavy gadgets; therefore need some extra space in the jeep. It might include some modifications in the jeep, like removing the centre row of seats for more leg space or for installing tripods, etc. This makes it essential to have the same vehicle for all your Tiger safaris in a forest. Tracking the tigers not merely includes rushing your jeep and covering the whole forest. Instead, it’s much more than that. Sometimes it needs the patience to hold your paddle from escalator for hours. Hearing of alarm call, moving in the direction, anticipate the tiger movement, route he might take, tracking the pug marks, and many more. Naturalists and drivers should have perfect coordination. Basic knowledge of English is essential for drivers and naturalists so that they can understand your need and also can make themselves understand to you. During the WIldlife tour in India, Some resorts provide the services of professional naturalists who are well versed in English during Tiger Safari. I have seen some cases when photographers plan their trips based on the availability of some best naturalist.
For a wildlife photographer, it’s essential to know the zone they will be entering in for Tiger safari in India. Approx 30% of the forest is open for visitors for wildlife Tour, which is further divided into zones. Some of the zones are much in outer and don’t have any natural lake. All the zones are not equally scenic. So, it’s essential to know the zone you are visiting during Tiger Safari In India to have scenic foreground and background.
We have tried to cover most of the factors that should be considered before planning your visit to India to sight tigers. If you have any other points that should have been included but missed, please feel free to write to us.
Recently we have noticed that many tour operators claim to have the best wildlife tours on their brochures, but the reality is they are far away from ground reality. Sitting in an air-conditioned cabin on an office chair cannot bring you close to Jungle’s real world.
My experience
Once upon a time when I worked as a freelancer for some known travel companies for their Wildlife Tour and Tiger safari in India, I was tired of facing the anger and disappointment of guests for things that were not in my controls. In the name of the Jungle, guests were put on zones where possibilities of sighting tigers are very less. Vehicles were arriving pretty late for pick up, and guests are not getting comfortable seats, etc. It didn’t take much time to understand that these big travel companies are fooled by local handlers easily for some extra bucks.
This is why we at Indian Maharaja Tours have put lots of effort, time, and energy into scouting every forest, scheduling our time allocations to increase your chances, employing some of the best trackers, and planning the logistics, etc. to avoid any last-minute surprises. We have handpicked some of India’s most breathtaking eco-lodges and resorts deep in the sights and sounds of Indian woods for your Wildlife Tour in India.
Conclusion
For the first-timer, regular tourist, Amature photographer and nature lovers best time to see tigers are from February till early of June. Professional photographers should plan their Wildlife Tour in India from October till Feb early for most creative shots.
Indian Maharaja Tours
We at Indian Maharaja Tours with two Subsidiary companies “Photography Tours In India” and “The Wildlife Tour” operate photography tours, wildlife tours, and cultural tours in India and other Asian countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, etc. Most of the tours are led by the founders of Indian Maharaja Tours, the famous Travel duo Harsh and Arti. Harsh with his amusing tales and tips on photography stays in front. All logistics and quality control are at Arti’s work. You can always find her running from one corner to another. The most important thing is that she is a money person.
various aspects- forest or reserve you are visiting, season, and even time of the day you are choosing for your safari. Apart from the above factors, the success rate also depends on your naturalist and driver during Wildlife Tour. They should be familiar with the route on which they are placed. The Tigers have their favorite hideout, where they often rest in the morning or rise from there in the afternoon. Your trackers should know their favorite water body where they go to cool themselves. Tigers are territorial and nocturnal animals, which makes them highly elusive. The size of Tiger territory can be 40-60 sq km for male tigers and 25-40 sq km for female tigers. A lot more depends than just choosing the right national park or reserve for Tiger Safari in India, but of course, it’s also a 1st step in the process.
