Wildlife Holidays in India promise excitement and variety. Track tigers in the wild for one of the ultimate wildlife experiences.
There can be few countries in the world of such diversity and contrast.
Encompassed within her borders are a wide range of landscapes including:
- The towering Himalayas
- Fertile floodplains
- Thick forests
- Arid desert
- Lush rolling hills
- Tropical beaches
These provide rich habitats for an abundance of animal and birdlife.
India is also a land of diverse cultures, a country steeped in history that embraces the modern, and a place of immense riches and abject poverty.
She is vibrant, brash and hectic, yet tranquil, mystical and spiritual.
India is unlike anywhere else in the world.
Where to go
Most wildlife holidays in India are based in the northern half of the country.
It is the chance to see tigers in the wild that is the biggest draw, but there are many other wonderful animals to see as well.
Expeditions searching for the elusive snow leopard are also popular.
We are going to look at four specific regions:
- Central India – Bandhavgarh and Kanha
- Rajasthan – Ranthambore
- The North East – Kaziranga and Sunderbans
- Ladakh
Within them are found most of the national parks where tigers are regularly sighted.
A few points to consider:
1) Just wildlife spotting or culture as well?
Whilst some trips concentrate almost solely on game viewing, many wildlife holidays in India include a significant element of sightseeing as well.
With so many incredible places to visit, and amazing cultural experiences to be had, it certainly makes a well rounded trip if you have time to do both.
2) Which area to choose?
With a reasonable chance of seeing tigers in all the national parks we’ll look at, you may want to think about what else you would like to see while in India if you decide on a trip that includes sightseeing.
With so many wonderful highlights across these diverse regions, this will take some careful thought. I will mention some of the most popular to help you in your choice.
Top Destinations
Central India
The geographical heart of India has within its bounds two of the top tiger reserves in the country, Bandhavgarh and Kanha.
Many people rate Bandhavgarh over Kanha but both offer some of the best opportunities to see tigers in the wild.
Rajasthan
This western region probably has more stunning palaces and forts, exciting festivals and coloured bazaars than any other part of the county.
The fact that it is also home to the famous Ranthambore National Park also means that it is a top destination for wildlife holidays in India.
The North East
A large area covering Assam, West Bengal and Sikkim, the north-east offers a very different experience of India.
These regions, parts of them very remote, have a rich mix of ethnic groups and some great opportunities to spot wildlife.
Ladakh
Finally we head way north to Ladakh, a dry, mountainous region bordering Pakistan and Tibet.
This is the realm of the elusive snow leopard. Sightings are far from guaranteed and tracking this beautiful, secretive animal involves considerable effort and a true sense of adventure.
Accommodation
The majority of wildlife holidays in India use standard hotels, with occasional lodge or village guest house accommodation and possibly a night on a sleeper train.
The main exception is on snow leopard treks in Ladakh as already noted.
Duration
You can visit India for as few as 6 days on a dedicated tiger spotting trip to Ranthambore.
Most holidays range from 9 to 16 days and include some touring.
The mix of wildlife viewing and sightseeing varies considerably, so it is worth comparing trips carefully to ensure you select the balance that is right for you.
Choosing your holiday
If you are ready to begin searching, you will find a wealth of choice with the companies listed below.