India, with its extraordinary array of cultures and landscapes, is a testament to diversity and heritage. Equally impressive is the country’s abundant wildlife, representing a spectrum of ecosystems. From the harsh, sun-baked deserts of Rajasthan to the dense, verdant jungles of Kerala, each region of India offers a distinctive wildlife narrative. With each passing month, these narratives evolve, turning a new page in the incredible saga of India’s natural world.
Embarking on a wildlife expedition in India is a matter of timing. Different seasons present different opportunities, making it crucial for travelers to know when to explore specific regions. In this guide, we’ll take a month-by-month walk through India’s wildlife calendar, revealing the most spectacular sights and experiences that await.
So grab your binoculars and hiking boots; we’re about to embark on a 12-month journey through the wildlife-rich landscapes of India!
January: A Frozen Wilderness
1. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan: In the cool climes of January, Ranthambore comes alive with the roaring of tigers. This is a prime time to spot these majestic predators as they prowl the park.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 800
- Safari Booking: Can be booked online through the official website or tour operators. Safari options include Canter (20 seater) and Jeep (6 seater) safaris.
- Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 10:00 am and 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Renowned for Bengal tigers, dry deciduous forests; also home to leopards, hyenas.
2. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan: January marks the peak season for migratory birds in Bharatpur. Witness thousands of birds, including Siberian Cranes, making their winter home here.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 75; Foreigners: INR 500
- Safari Booking: Cycle rickshaws, bicycles, and guided walking tours are available. Book on arrival or through tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for migratory birds like Siberian cranes, storks, herons, eagles, and hawks; also home to deer, sambar, and nilgai.
3. Gir National Park, Gujarat: This month offers an excellent opportunity to view the endangered Asiatic lion. The cooler weather means more activity among these magnificent creatures.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 200; Foreigners: INR 4,000
- Safari Booking: Online booking is available. Jeep safari for up to 6 people.
- Timing: Open mid-October to mid-June, 6:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Famous as the last refuge of the Asiatic lion; also home to leopards, hyenas.
February: The Dance of the Wild
1. Sundarbans, West Bengal: February is a fantastic time to explore the dense mangrove forests of the Sundarbans. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the elusive Royal Bengal tiger.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 60; Foreigners: INR 200
- Safari Booking: Boat safaris are common; booking through tour operators or Forest Department is recommended.
- Timing: Open September to March, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Unique mangrove forest; habitat of Royal Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and various birds.
2. Periyar National Park, Kerala: The gentle touch of spring arrives in Kerala, providing an excellent opportunity to view elephants in the wild. The moderate temperature enhances the beauty of the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 55; Foreigners: INR 500
- Safari Booking: Boat safaris on Periyar Lake, Jeep safaris, and trekking options are available through the official website or tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Home to elephant herds, a wide variety of endemic bird species, and rich aquatic life.
3. Kaziranga National Park, Assam: Home to two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses, February’s mild weather allows visitors to see these rare animals with ease.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 650
- Safari Booking: Elephant and Jeep safaris can be booked through official channels or tour operators.
- Timing: Open November to April, 7:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses.
March: A Symphony of Spring
1. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka: As summer begins to make its presence felt, March is a delightful time to spot elephants, leopards, and tigers in Bandipur.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 300
- Safari Booking: Jeep and Bus safaris are available; can be booked online or on arrival.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:30 am – 8:30 am and 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Rich biodiversity including tigers, elephants, and various birds.
2. Simlipal National Park, Odisha: Explore the diverse flora and fauna, including the captivating Melanistic tiger. March offers comfortable weather to traverse this enchanting forest.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 75
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked through local tour operators.
- Timing: Open November to June, 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Elephant reserve; home to Bengal tigers, gaur, and various bird species.
3. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra: Famous for its tiger sightings, March offers warmer weather, making wildlife more visible.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 600
- Safari Booking: Online booking for Jeep safaris is available.
- Timing: Open October to June, 5:30 am – 10:00 am and 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Known for tigers; also home to leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and various birds.
Tadoba Package:Â 2 Nights 3 Days Tadoba National Park Tour from Nagpur
April: Summer’s Stirring
1. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh: April’s dry climate allows tourists to spot a variety of wildlife, such as tigers, leopards, and wild dogs.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 90; Foreigners: INR 2,000
- Safari Booking: Online booking is available for Jeep safaris.
- Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 11:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: High density of royal Bengal tiger, leopards, barasingha; famous for its lush sal and bamboo forests.
2. Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka: With summer setting in, waterholes attract elephants, gaurs, and deer, creating perfect viewing opportunities.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 150
- Safari Booking: Jeep and Bus safaris are available, and bookable on site.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 8:00 am and 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Known for its tiger population; also home to leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species.
3. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh: The hot weather provides excellent chances to see tigers, who frequently visit the park’s watering holes.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 1,500
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked online.
- Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 9:30 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Known for its tiger population; home to leopards, wild dogs, and diverse bird species.
May: The Heat of Exploration
1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand: May is a hot month but ideal for wildlife enthusiasts to spot tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 200; Foreigners: INR 900
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris and Canter safaris are available. Online booking is advised.
- Timing: Open November to June, 6:00 am – 9:30 am and 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: India’s first national park; renowned for Bengal tigers, leopards, and elephants.
2. Sariska National Park, Rajasthan: Despite the soaring temperatures, May is considered a prime time to witness tigers.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 80; Foreigners: INR 470
- Safari Booking: Jeep and Canter safaris are available; can be booked online or on arrival.
- Timing: Open October to June, 6:30 am – 10:00 am and 2:00 pm – 6:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Prime tiger territory; also home to leopards, sambar, chital, and various birds.
Read Also: Top Reasons to Choose India for Your Safari Adventure
3. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh: This month offers fantastic opportunities to see tigers, especially around the Tala zone.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 2,000
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked online or through authorized tour operators.
- Timing: Open October to June, 6:00 am – 11:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: High density of tigers, including white tigers; also home to leopards, deer.
June: A Monsoon Prelude
1. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu: June is a great time to explore the Western Ghats and witness the region’s abundant wildlife.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 30; Foreigners: INR 250
- Safari Booking: Elephant safaris, Van safaris are available; book on arrival.
- Timing: Open year-round, 7:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Home to endangered and vulnerable species like the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and elephants.
2. Valmiki National Park, Bihar: Spot various wildlife species like tigers, leopards, and Indian bison in June before the monsoon sets in.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 500
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris are available; booking can be done on arrival.
- Timing: Open November to June, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Rich biodiversity; habitat of tigers, Indian rhinos, and black bears.
3. Dachigam National Park, Jammu & Kashmir: This period is an ideal time to spot the rare Kashmir stag or Hangul.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 10; Foreigners: INR 100
- Safari Booking: Options include guided tours; book through official channels or local tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 5:30 am – 6:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Famous for endangered Kashmir stag; also home to Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard.
July to September: Monsoon Magic
These months usher in India’s monsoon season, a time when many national parks close due to heavy rainfall. However, some places still offer unique wildlife experiences:
1. Agumbe, Karnataka: Known as India’s Cherrapunji, Agumbe offers a chance to explore the mesmerizing world of reptiles, especially the King Cobra.
- Entry Fee: No specific entry fee for reptile viewing.
- Safari Booking: Guided tours for reptile spotting can be arranged through specialized tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: A biodiversity hotspot; renowned for King Cobras, and other reptiles.
2. Kabini, Karnataka: Explore the lush green wilderness, which attracts elephants, leopards, and other fauna during the monsoon.
- Entry Fee: Packages including accommodation usually cover entry.
- Safari Booking: Boat and Jeep safaris are available through resorts or tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Rich aquatic wildlife; great chance of spotting leopards, elephants, and diverse bird life.
3. Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha: Witness the nesting of Olive Ridley turtles in the serene monsoon setting.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 2,000
- Safari Booking: Boat safaris can be booked on arrival or through tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Home to saltwater crocodile, Indian python, King Cobra, and migratory birds.
October: A Fresh Beginning
1. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh: Enjoy jeep, elephant, and even canoe safaris in October, with pleasant weather and lush landscapes.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 125; Foreigners: INR 2,500
- Safari Booking: Jeep, Elephant, and Canoe safaris can be booked online or through tour operators.
- Timing: Open October to April, 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Habitat of leopards, wild dogs, bears; unique central Indian highland ecosystem.
2. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala: The mild weather of October brings a plethora of opportunities to witness wildlife like the grizzled giant squirrel.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 10; Foreigners: INR 100
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris and guided trekking tours are available through local operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Known for its ecological, faunal, and floral diversity; home to grizzled giant squirrels, and tufted gray langur.
November: The Autumnal Affair
1. Sundarbans, West Bengal: Tigers, crocodiles, and spotted deer are commonly seen in the ethereal landscapes of Sundarbans in November.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 60; Foreigners: INR 200
- Safari Booking: Boat safaris are common; booking through tour operators or Forest Department is recommended.
- Timing: Open September to March, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Largest coastal mangrove forest; habitat of the Bengal tiger, spotted deer, and crocodiles.
2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam: Â Known as ‘Mini Kaziranga’, November marks the beginning of the rhino-spotting season.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 500
- Safari Booking: Elephant and Jeep safaris are available; can be booked through local tour operators.
- Timing: Open November to April, 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Rich in rhinoceros; also home to leopards, wild boar, and various migratory birds.
December: Winter’s Welcome
1. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan: December attracts migratory birds, making it a birder paradise.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 75; Foreigners: INR 500
- Safari Booking: Cycle rickshaws, bicycles, and guided walking tours are available. Book on arrival or through tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for migratory birds like Siberian cranes, storks, herons, eagles, and hawks; also home to deer, sambar, and nilgai.
2. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh: Explore the snow-laden wilderness, home to elusive species like the snow leopard.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 40; Foreigners: INR 400
- Safari Booking: Guided tours are available through local operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 6:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: The largest protected area in the Eastern Himalayas, offering diverse flora and fauna; harbors tigers, leopards, red pandas, and over 400 bird species.
3. Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh: A Symphony of Wildlife Wonders in Serene Landscapes.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 150; Foreigners: INR 600
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris are available; online booking or through local tour operators.
- Timing: Open October to June, 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and various bird species.
4. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh: Where Snow-Capped Peaks Embrace Breathtaking Biodiversity.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 200
- Safari Booking: Guided trekking tours; book through authorized operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears, and pheasants.
5. Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand: Nature’s Grand Theatre of Diverse Fauna and Flora.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 150; Foreigners: INR 600
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris are available; online booking is recommended.
- Timing: Open mid-November to mid-June, 6:00 am – 9:00 am and 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 300 bird species.
6. Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal: A Glimpse of Majestic Tigers in the Heart of Cultural Heritage.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50; Foreigners: INR 200
- Safari Booking: Elephant and Jeep safaris are available; booking through local operators.
- Timing: Open October to May, 6:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Tigers, elephants, Indian bison, and several bird species.
7. Mollem National Park, Goa: Discover the Hidden Wilderness in Goa’s Heartland.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 20; Foreigners: INR 100
- Safari Booking: Jeep safaris and guided walking tours are available.
- Timing: Open year-round, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Spotting of black panthers, sambars, spotted deer, and Malabar pit viper.
8. Manas National Park, Assam: A UNESCO Heritage Site: Where Rare and Exotic Wildlife Thrive.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 500
- Safari Booking: Jeep and Elephant safaris are available through authorized operators.
- Timing: Open October to April, 5:30 am – 6:30 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Tigers, rhinos, elephants, and various bird species.
9. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan: Where the Wild Roam Free Amidst Rajasthan’s Rugged Terrains.
- Entry Fee: Indians: INR 100; Foreigners: INR 300
- Safari Booking: Jeep and Horse safaris available; booking on arrival or through local tour operators.
- Timing: Open year-round, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Wildlife Highlights: Wolves, leopards, hyenas, and sloth bears.
Conclusion
India’s wildlife is a year-long festivity, a beautiful tapestry that changes with every passing month. Whether it’s the roaring of a tiger or the graceful flight of a bird, each moment offers a unique and thrilling experience.
Remember to plan your travels carefully, considering the local climate and park regulations. India’s wildlife is a treasure; it offers unparalleled beauty and excitement, but it also demands our respect and care.
Pack your bags, set your itinerary, and embark on an adventure that only India’s magnificent wildlife can offer. It’s a journey you will cherish forever!
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