Quick answer
India's best wildlife safaris are Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh (tigers), Kaziranga (one-horned rhinos), Kanha & Pench (tigers), Gir (Asiatic lions) and Periyar (Kerala). Most parks are best October–June and often close in the monsoon. Sightings peak in the hotter pre-monsoon months.
India is one of the world's great wildlife destinations, above all for the tiger. Here's where to go.
Top wildlife parks
- Ranthambore (Rajasthan) — famous, photogenic tigers.
- Bandhavgarh & Kanha (Madhya Pradesh) — high tiger density.
- Kaziranga (Assam) — one-horned rhinos.
- Gir (Gujarat) — the only Asiatic lions.
- Periyar (Kerala) — elephants and a lake safari.
What you can see
Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, Asiatic lions, sloth bears, deer and superb birdlife, depending on the park.
Best time
| Park | Best time |
|---|---|
| Ranthambore / Bandhavgarh / Kanha | Oct–Jun (Apr–Jun best for sightings) |
| Kaziranga | Nov–Apr |
| Gir | Dec–Mar (best), open Oct–Jun |
| Periyar | Oct–Mar |
Planning a safari
Safaris require advance permits and the right zone and lodge. We arrange private jeep safaris, expert naturalists and comfortable lodges, and pair parks with nearby highlights. Enquire.
Frequently asked questions
Plan your journey with us
Private, tailor-made and timed to the season that suits you best — with a real travel designer and no hidden charges. See also our guide to India's best national parks.
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