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Thanks to its sheer size, India has some of the world’s most diverse landscapes, climates, wildlife and natural attractions. Amongst its natural marvels are over 100 protected and authorized National Parks, many of which are home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger; and there’s no feeling quite as amazing as spotting a tiger in its natural habitat. With so much ground to cover in India, it may be a bit difficult to know where to begin your search. From the north to the south and India’s central and coastal regions, here is a Safari guide to the best tiger-spotting National Parks in India.
Northern India
If you find yourself in northeastern India and are trying to spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, Sunderbans National Park is the place to go. Located in the state of West Bengal, this National Park is one of the largest tiger reserves, covering rainforest and mangrove jungles that truly give off a “Jungle Book” feel. Take a boat ride into this dense National Park for one of India’s most unforgettable experiences.
Just north of the Sunderbans is the Indian state of Assam, where the Kaziranga National Park is found. Home to the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world (as well as the great One-Horned Rhino, Indian Elephant and Wild Water Buffalo) this park is one of India’s finest (and most protected). Though Assam is a bit out of the way from most Indian tours, a trip to Kaziranga is well worth the trek out. When to go to Kaziranga National Park? September/October & February/March when the park is most accessible.
Farther west from these two parks is another northern Indian gem, the Corbett National Park. India’s first established National Park, this 520 square kilometer area in the state of Uttarakhand was initially established to protect the Bengal Tiger. Though it can be a bit tricky to spot one of these elusive animals here, other animals and activities (elephant safaris are popular) are prevalent. The zeal and enthusiasm of the Indian nature guides in maintaining Corbett close to nature as well as providing travellers with the ultimate experience ensures an unforgettable time around this wildlife haven.
A final northern destination to spot tigers is Ranthambore National Park. Located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan, this Tiger Reserve has been one of the largest national parks in the north since it’s founding in 1955. One of the best areas in the country to spot tigers in the jungle, it’s reported that these majestic creatures can be quite easily seen in the park during the daytime.
Central India
Travelling through Central India in search for sightings of the national animal points to the direction of Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh. A Tiger Reserve Park, Kanha is also home to leopards, sloth bears and wild dogs inside its vast, sprawling forests. If you’re looking for a park with the best chance of seeing wild animals, this may be your best bet.
Bandhavgarh National Park lies in the vicinity, and though small, it is not unusual to be rewarded with a tiger sighting. The Bandhavgarh fort ruins, temples and caves in the background, and a forest abounding in wildlife set the tones for a memorable Indian tiger Safari.
When is the best time to visit? October to June, when the weather is (somewhat) bearable.
Southern India
The southwest coast of India is also one of the country’s most beautiful regions; take some time off to visit Kerala’s Periyar National Park. Home to beautiful, tropical forests, Giant King Cobras (India’s largest snake), Indian Elephants and, of course, Royal Bengal Tigers, a stop into Kerala’s finest National Park is a must. Two more excellent southwestern National Parks are Karnataka’s Nagarhole and Bandipur. Both protected under the government’s Project Tiger, these refuges are an excellent place to spot tigers as well as other endangered and vulnerable animal species.
Half of the world’s tiger population can be found in India. Based on which part of the country you are headed towards, plan a visit to any of these unforgettable reserves, forests and protected parks with your India Tour Guide; it may just be the best experience you have during your stay!