Tiger Safari Bliss: Best Holiday Destinations in India

Whether you hail from the vast landscapes of the USA, the vibrant culture of Mexico, the historic charm of the UK, or the diverse terrains of Australia, the allure of a tiger safari transcends borders. India is an unparalleled destination for those seeking an extraordinary wildlife adventure. Encompassing a rich tapestry of landscapes, India is home to several national parks and tiger reserves where the majestic Bengal tiger reigns supreme.

Embarking on a tiger safari in India isn't just a journey through the wilderness; it's an immersion into a world where nature unfolds its wonders in the most enchanting manner. From the dense jungles of Ranthambore to the Himalayan foothills of Jim Corbett, each reserve offers a unique ecosystem, providing a glimpse into the lives of these magnificent creatures.

Join us on a virtual expedition as we explore India's best tiger safari destinations, tailored for wildlife enthusiasts worldwide. India, with its diverse landscapes and active tiger conservation initiatives, is the ideal destination for an exciting wildlife vacation.

8. Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the Eastern Madhya Pradesh (Central India) district of Umaria. It has a land area of 450 square kilometers and is recognized for its amazing flora and fauna collection. It is home to about 250 distinct bird species and 22 different mammal species. Bandhavgarh National Park's vegetation includes towering grasslands and dense Sal woodland.

There are approximately 50 tigers. This park was also well-known for its white tigers. There are also sambar, chital, wild boar, wild dog, Indian fox, leopard, bison, blue bull, antelope, nilgai, and other creatures to see in this park.

A jeep or elephant safari is the finest way to get up close and personal with tigers. This park has four zones to explore, and only a limited number of cars are permitted to enter the park through each zone every day. As a result, pre-booking is critical.

Ticket Price: 

Weekdays: INR 2000/Seat (Indian) | INR 7500/Jeep (Indian) | INR 3000/Seat (Foreigner) | INR 12000/Jeep (Foreigner)

Weekends: INR 2300/Seat (Indian) | INR 8500/Jeep (Indian) | INR 4000/Seat (Foreigner) | INR 15000/Jeep (Foreigner)

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – April to June; closed on all Wednesdays

Safari Timing – 

1 Oct to 31 Dec - Morning 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM | Evening 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM

1 Jan to 31 March - Morning 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM | Evening 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM

1 April to 30 June - Morning 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM | Evening 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Closest Airport – Jabalpur Airport, 197 km away from the park

7. Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Southeastern Rajasthan, 158 kilometers from Jaipur. It has an area of roughly 392 square kilometers and is flanked by other sanctuaries such as Mansingh Sanctuary and Kaila Devi Sanctuary. It is the largest National Park in Northern India and one of India's most popular wildlife tourist destinations and is well-known among wildlife photographers. 

This park, which was once a hunting ground, is now a tiger conservation area and a top tiger reserve. Other animals to look out for include jungle cats, Indian foxes, crocodiles, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and more. Tigers are typically sighted in the park's Bakaula section, which includes dense woodland and numerous watering holes.

Ranthambore has several fascinating tiger stories. The park is reported to have housed the world's longest-living tigress. Machli, the park's queen, was 20 years old when she died, much above the typical lifespan of 10-15 years. The tigress received a lifetime achievement award for her service as a major tourist attraction and conservationist. Ranthambore National Park includes eleven zones, with Zone 4 having the biggest tiger population.

Ticket Price: 

Jeep (6-Seater): INR 1800 per passenger for Indians, INR 3700 per passenger for Foreigner

Canter (20-Seater): INR 1200 per passenger for Indians, INR 2700 per passenger for Foreigner

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – October to February

Safari Timing – 

From 1st Oct to 31st Oct: 06:30 am - 10:00 am & 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm

From 1st Nov to 31st Jan: 07:00 am - 10:30 am & 02:00 pm - 05:30 pm

From 1st Feb to 31st Mar: 06:30 am - 10:00 am & 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm

From 1st April to 15th May: 06:00 am - 09:30 am & 03:00 pm - 06:30 pm

From 16th May to 30th June: 06:00 am - 09:30 am & 03:30 pm - 07:00 pm

Closest Airport – Sanganer Airport, 180 km away from the park

6. Jim Corbett National Park

Established in 1936, Jim Corbett National Park is India's first national park, dedicated to the legendary naturalist Jim Corbett. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas near Nainital, this expansive park spans 1318.54 sq km, with a main area of 520 sq km and the rest serving as a buffer zone across Pauri Garhwal, Almora, and Nainital. Renowned for its significant tiger population, it offers a must-experience jeep safari through dense forests, providing a chance to spot these majestic creatures. The safari showcases lush green landscapes, meandering streams, and occasional waterfalls. Accommodations within the park offer a unique opportunity for a night stay, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of the wilderness. Jim Corbett National Park is not just a destination; it's an enthralling journey into the heart of nature and wildlife.

Ticket Price: 

Jeep (6-Seater): INR 7200- upto 06 Visitors for Indians, INR 12000- upto 06 Visitors for Foreigner

Canter (20-Seater): INR 2250 for each Seat for Indians, INR 4500 for each Seat for Foreigner

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – November to June

Safari Timing – 

6:00 AM to 9:00 AM / 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Closest Airport – Pantnagar Airport, 80 km away from the park

5. Kanha National Park

With an area of more than 1,940 square kilometers, Kanha Tiger Reserve, also known as Kanha National Park, is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh and one of the many tiger reserves in India. Kanha National Park is well-known for its vibrant natural surroundings. More than 70 different species of trees and more than 200 species of flowering plants call it home.

With an area of more than 1,940 square kilometers, Kanha Tiger Reserve, also known as Kanha National Park, is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh and one of the many tiger reserves in India.

Ticket Price: 

• INR 3500 for Indians, INR 5000 for Foreigner
• Online booking charges for full vehicle: 6500

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – Mid-October to the end of June

Safari Timing – 

• 6:30 AM to 12:00 Noon
• In the evening from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Closest Airport – Jabalpur Airport, 160 km away from the park

4. Pench National Park (M.P.)

Madhya Pradesh, India's heritage heartland, boasts a rich blend of nature and history. Pench, located 201 km from Jabalpur and 93 km from Nagpur, is renowned for its Tiger Reserve, offering a unique holiday experience. The Pench region, famously known as the 'Land of The Jungle Book,' served as inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's iconic work. The Reserve's southern tropical vegetation supports a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, cheetahs, leopards, Indian bison, and various bird species. Pench's lush landscapes and captivating wildlife make it an unmissable destination for nature enthusiasts. Notably, the acclaimed wildlife series 'Tiger: Spy in the Jungle' was filmed in Pench National Park, showcasing its remarkable biodiversity.

Ticket Price: 

Jeep: Weekdays - INR 7500/Jeep (Indian) | Weekends - INR 8500/Jeep (Indian) & Weekdays - INR 12000/Jeep (Foreigner) | Weekends - INR 18000/Jeep (Foreigner)

Sharing Safari: Weekdays - INR 2000/Seat (Indian) | Weekends - INR 2300/Seat (Indian) & Weekdays - INR 3000/Seat (Foreigner) | Weekends - INR 4000/Seat (Foreigner)

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – March to June

Safari Timing – 

• Morning 06.00 AM to 11.00 AM 
• Evening 03.00 PM to 06.00 PM
• July to Sept Closed

Closest Airport – Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, 92 km away from the park

3. Tadoba National Park

The biggest and oldest parks in Maharashtra are both located in Tadoba. Tiger sightings from open-air gypsy are well known in this park. The Mohurli Gate and the Kolara Gate are the two entrance gates from which safaris depart. In addition to tigers, other well-known animals in the park include wolf spiders, small Indian civets, Indian pythons, barking deer, sambar, Indian leopards, and nilgai.

The Mohurli Gate region is the best place to spot tigers. This area offers quality lodging options as well. Summertime here will bring with it intense heat. It is best to visit this forest area in the height of summer if you are determined to see tigers.

Ticket Price: 

• Jeep: INR 7100 / Jeep (For Saturday & Sunday) | INR 6100 / Jeep (For Monday to Friday
• Sharing Safari: INR 1800 / Person (Only For Buffer Gate)
• Sharing Bench: INR 5000 / 3 Persons (Only For Buffer Gate)

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – March to May

Safari Timing – 

• 06:30 AM - 11:00 AM | 02:30 PM - 06:30 PM

Closest Airport – Nagpur International Airport, 122 km away from the park

2. Bandipur National Park

In Southern India, Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Mudumalai constitute a significant tiger population area. An estimated 1/4 of all tigers in the nation are thought to reside in the Western Ghats. This park offers bus safaris, elephant safaris, and jeep safaris. Elephant or jeep safaris are the best options if you want to see tigers.

Situated near the Ooty - Mysore highway, this park is well-known for its resident elephants and tigers. Stretching across two states is the park. This park is known as the Mudumalai Reserve in Tamil Nadu. During the summer months, tigers are frequently spotted in the park's northwest, which includes the Kabini region. Other than tigers, other wildlife includes the Nilgiri tahr, langur, Indian hare, leopard, and numerous others.

Ticket Price: 

• Jeep Safari: 3000 INR pax
• Bus Safari: 350 INR per person

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – March - May

Safari Timing – 

• Jeep Safari: Between 6:15 am-8 am, 8 am-9:45 am, 2:30 pm-4:30 pm and 4:30 pm-6:30 pm.
• Bus Safari: Between 6:15 am-9 am and 2:15 pm-5 pm.

Closest Airport – Coimbatore International Airport, 128 km away from the park

1. Periyar National Park

Kerala's Periyar National Park is a popular tourist destination and wildlife sanctuary. This area is abundant with Indian wild dogs, sambar, wild pigs, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Tahr, and other wildlife in addition to tigers and elephants.

You should get to the park early in the morning if you want to improve your chances of seeing tigers. Seeing thirsty tigers with cubs is best done from a boat in the Periyar Lake. That being said, there is very little chance of seeing tigers in this park. Better pack binoculars if you want to increase your chances of spotting tigers.

Ticket Price: For Indian adults, the price is INR 45. For Indian children, it is INR 15 per head. Foreign adult nationals can enter by paying INR 500 whereas foreign children are charged INR 180 each.

Best Time For Tiger Spotting – March - May

Safari Timing – 6:00 am – 7:00 pm

Closest Airport – Coimbatore International Airport, 128 km away from the park

Practical Tips for Wildlife Enthusiasts

A. Safari Booking and Permits

• Plan in Advance: Wildlife safaris are popular, and permits have limited availability. Plan your visit well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
• Research Safari Options: Different parks offer various safari experiences. Research the available safari options, including jeep safaris, walking safaris, and boat safaris, to choose the one that aligns with your preferences.
• Check Permit Requirements: Understand the permit requirements for each park. Some may require online bookings, while others may need permits obtained at the entry gate. Ensure compliance with all regulations.

B. Essential Packing List

• Comfortable Clothing: Wear neutral-colored, comfortable clothing suitable for the weather. Layering is advisable, as temperatures can vary during morning and evening safaris.
• Binoculars and Camera: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. Capture the mesmerizing moments while maintaining a respectful distance from the wildlife.
• Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun during safari hours.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle. Some parks may provide water, but it's essential to have your supply.
• Insect Repellent: Wildlife areas often have insects. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from bites.

C. Responsible Wildlife Tourism Practices

• Follow Park Guidelines: Adhere to the rules and guidelines set by the wildlife park. These guidelines are in place to protect both visitors and the wildlife.
• Maintain Silence: During safaris, keep noise to a minimum. This not only respects the animals' natural behavior but also enhances your chances of wildlife sightings.
• No Feeding or Provoking Wildlife: Refrain from feeding or attempting to provoke wildlife. Maintain a safe distance and observe their natural behavior without interference.
• Stay on Designated Paths: Stick to designated paths and trails. Straying off can disturb habitats and pose risks to both visitors and wildlife.

Embarking on a wildlife safari is a thrilling experience, and following these practical tips ensures a responsible and enjoyable adventure in the heart of nature.