When you think of India, wildlife may not be the first thing that comes to mind. In a country pulsating with 1.4 billion people, visions of chaotic street scenes, swirling with color, and the intricate architecture of palaces, temples, and forts may dominate.
But India is a big place, and there’s room for both vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. Its diverse ecosystems range from lush rainforests to vast deserts and snow-capped mountains. India is home to some of the world's most iconic and charismatic wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, rhinos, and leopards. It’s also home to the only lions found outside of Africa.
With so much to see, it can be difficult to narrow down your holiday plans. Below are some of the most popular species and where to find them, but don’t discount the excitement of seeing deer, wild boars, monkeys, or any of the other more common wildlife along the way.
Tigers
India is home to approximately 70% of the world's tiger population, making it an ideal destination for tiger safaris. National parks and tiger reserves, such as Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks in Madhya Pradesh, and Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand offer exceptional opportunities to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
You’ll embark on jeep safaris with experienced guides, tracking footprints, listening to alarm calls, and eagerly searching for glimpses of these elusive animals. Along the way, you’ll likely spot plenty of other animals as well, and may even see an Indian leopard, striped hyena, or sloth bear.
The best time to visit this part of India is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are common. This is also the best time to witness the grandeur of the nearby Himalayan ranges. If you can handle hotter temps, April and May offer increased chances of sightings during the dry season, when vegetation is sparse and animals are more likely to gather near watering holes.
Asiatic Lions
Asiatic lions were once on the brink of extinction, with a population of less than 20 individuals in the early 20th century. Thanks to successful conservation efforts, the population has gradually increased to over 500 lions today. Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Gujarat, is the only place in the world where you can spot these magnificent animals. While lions are the park's main attraction, Gir is also home to other fascinating wildlife, including leopards, Indian gaurs, spotted deer, and a variety of bird species.
The best time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Like many parks in India, Gir is closed during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-October).
Elephants
India is home to a significant population of Asian elephants, making it a great destination to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. With their immense size, intelligence, and social behavior, elephants captivate the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts around the world.
Although you may see elephants outside temples, involved in festivals, or on the streets of India, the best place to see them is, of course, in the wild. Some of the best destinations in the south are the lush forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala and the grasslands of Bandipur National Park in Karnataka. In the northeast, they can be found in Kaziranga National Park in Assam, which is known primarily for its one-horned rhinoceros.
As with tigers and lions, the best time to visit for elephant sightings is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During this period, the elephants gather around water sources, increasing the chances of encounters.
You may be offered the opportunity to feed, touch, or ride elephants while in India, but these encounters should always be declined. This is an incredibly abusive industry that significantly harms elephants. Seeing them in the wild, with a responsible tour operator, is the only way to go.
Sloth Bears
The sloth bear, known for its shaggy coat and long, curved claws, can be found in various forested regions of India. Places like Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, Satpura Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, and the Western Ghats region offer opportunities to spot sloth bears while exploring their diverse ecosystems.
The best time to spot bears in India varies depending on the region. In general, the dry season, which typically runs from November to May, offers better visibility due to thinner foliage and increased animal activity.
Snow Leopards
The snow leopard, an icon of the high-altitude regions, inhabits the rugged landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. Snow leopards are highly endangered, and responsible tourism is crucial for their conservation. It’s essential that tours and treks to spot this elusive big cat are led by experienced guides who prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. The search will require patience and persistence, as well as respect for their delicate ecosystem.
Hemis National Park in Ladakh is known as the best place in India to spot snow leopards. Another great option is the picturesque Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh.
The best time to visit for snow leopard sightings is typically December to March when they descend to lower elevations in search of prey. The cold winter months offer better visibility against the snowy backdrop.
Birdwatching
India's diverse habitats, ranging from wetlands and forests to grasslands and mountains, make it a birdwatcher's paradise. With over 1,300 bird species, including numerous endemics and rarities, India offers exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph a wide variety of avian life.
In the north, you can find Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major destination for migratory birds, with species such as Siberian cranes, painted storks, and various species of ducks and geese. Even further north, into the Himalayan region, is Nanda Devi National Park in Uttarakhand, which offers opportunities to spot rare and endemic bird species like the Himalayan Monal, Cheer Pheasant, and Snow Partridge.
To the east is Kaziranga National Park in Assam, famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and also offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. The park is home to the endangered Bengal Florican, Greater Adjutant Stork, and Pallas's Fish Eagle, among others.
In the south, the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, is home to a rich assortment of birdlife. Silent Valley National Park and Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala, and Bandipur National Park and Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka, offer opportunities to spot endemic species such as the Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and Malabar Grey Hornbill.
Known as the "Birding Paradise of Kerala," Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a 25 square kilometers safe haven for numerous species, including the rare Sri Lanka Frogmouth and the Malabar Parakeet.
Whether you are a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time traveler, India offers a truly unforgettable and immersive experience for all. Embark on an adventure, delve into the wild side of India, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
When you’re ready to find the trip that’s right for you, get in touch with us! We’d love to help. Whether you’re looking to join a group or fully customize your itinerary, we can help you maximize your Indian holiday.
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