India is famous for its incredible wildlife and is home to several majestic animals, with the Bengal tiger being the most impressive of all. India is where the world comes to see tigers in their natural habitat. If you’re planning to go on a tiger safari in India, here are five of the best destinations to explore:
- Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the most popular tiger safari destinations in India. The park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh and is home to the highest density of tigers in the country. Apart from tigers, you can also spot leopards, deer, and antelopes.
- Best time to visit: The park remains open for tourists from October to June, with the best time to spot tigers being from April to June.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is in Jabalpur, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The park is also accessible by road from nearby towns and cities.
- Tiger population count: Bandhavgarh National Park has a significant population of Bengal tigers, with regular tiger sightings reported by visitors.
- Safari types: Jeep safaris and canter safaris are available in Bandhavgarh National Park. Jeep safaris are the most common and convenient way to explore the park.
- What’s unique: Bandhavgarh has the highest density of tigers in India, making it an excellent destination for tiger sightings. The park also has ancient ruins and a hilltop fort that adds to its charm.
- Pench National Park
Pench National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh near the Maharashtra border and is named after the Pench River. The park is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna including Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and several species of birds.
- Best time to visit: The park remains open from October to June. The months of February to April are considered the best time to visit for tiger sightings.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Nagpur, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Pench National Park can be reached by road from Nagpur or other nearby cities.
- Tiger population count: Pench National Park is known for its healthy population of Bengal tigers, with regular tiger sightings reported.
- Safari types: Jeep safaris are the primary mode of safari in Pench National Park. Walking safaris and boat safaris are also available in certain zones.
- What’s unique: Pench National Park is said to have inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” It offers a diverse landscape with teak forests, open grasslands, and a picturesque river, providing a unique wildlife experience.
- Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh and is one of the largest national parks in India. The park is known for its dense forests, wide-open grasslands, and is also home to the endangered species of the Vulture.
- Best time to visit: The park remains open from October to June. The months of April to June are considered the best time to spot tigers.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jabalpur, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Kanha National Park can be reached by road from Jabalpur or other nearby towns.
- Tiger population count: Kanha National Park is known for its healthy population of Bengal tigers, with regular tiger sightings reported.
- Safari types: Jeep tiger safaris in India are the primary mode of safari in Kanha National Park. Canter safaris are also available for a unique and elevated wildlife viewing experience.
- What’s unique: Kanha National Park is known for its extensive grasslands, which provide an ideal habitat for tigers and other wildlife. It is also home to the endangered species of the Vulture, making it a significant conservation area.
- Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is located in the state of Rajasthan and is known for its fort which is located within the park. The park is a natural habitat for the magnificent Bengal Tigers and is a must-visit destination for all wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
- Best time to visit: The park remains open from October to June. The months of April to June and November to March are considered the best time for tiger sightings.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jaipur, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Ranthambore National Park can be reached by road from Jaipur or nearby towns.
- Tiger population count: Ranthambore National Park is known for its tiger population, and it has been one of the best places in India for tiger sightings.
- Safari types: Jeep safaris and canter safaris (open-air bus safaris) are available in Ranthambore National Park. Both options offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
- What’s unique: Ranthambore National Park is known for its historical significance, with the majestic Ranthambore Fort located within the park. The blend of wildlife and heritage makes it a captivating destination.
- Corbett National Park
Corbett National Park, India’s oldest national park, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Located in Uttarakhand, it offers a diverse landscape of dense forests, rivers, and grasslands. Known for its Bengal tiger population, it also houses elephants, leopards, deer, and a variety of bird species. A paradise for nature lovers.
- Best time to visit: The park remains open from November to June. The months of March to June are considered the best time to visit for tiger sightings.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Corbett National Park can be reached by road from Pantnagar or other nearby towns.
- Tiger population count: Corbett National Park is known for its significant population of Bengal tigers, offering good opportunities for tiger sightings.
- Safari types: Jeep safaris are the primary mode of safari in Corbett National Park. Elephant safaris are also available for a unique and elevated wildlife viewing experience.
- What’s unique: Corbett National Park is India’s oldest national park and holds the distinction of being the first tiger reserve in the country. It offers a diverse landscape, including hills, riverine belts, grasslands, and dense forests, providing a varied habitat for wildlife.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your cameras, and head out to explore these incredible tiger safari destinations in India.
