Which National Parks in India Offer the Best Wildlife Safari Experiences?

India is a land of contrasts, ancient temples and bustling cities, serene backwaters and towering mountains, but for those craving raw, untamed nature, nothing compares to a wildlife safari through its national parks. With about 100 national parks, 450 wildlife sanctuaries, and 40 tiger reservers, India is a land that promises an adrenaline thumping experience by offering buzzing  wildlife safari. From the elusive Bengal Tiger to the majestic Asiatic Lion, India’s wilderness offers a front row seat to some of the planet’s most iconic creatures. No matter if you are a first time explorer, or seasoned wildlife enthusiast, here is your ultimate guide by Memorable India that gives the answer to; where to go for jungle safari in India that will leave you breathless? Roll your sleeves and get ready to rock and roll in the country’s flora and fauna:

Top National Parks in India For Safari

India is synonymous with its rich flora and fauna. Thousands of Indians and foreigners wish to explore, enjoy and enrich their holidays in the lap of India’s wilderness. Here is the list of some top national parks in India for safari that will leave you spell-bound with their rich diversity and species. Have a look:

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan:

Ranthambore, nestled in the heart of Rajasthan is an enthralling blend of history and wilderness. Once a royal hunting ground, this National Park, spanning over 1,334 square kilometers, now stands as the testament of India’s wildlife conservation. The park landscape is dotted with ancient ruins, including the majestic Ranthambore Fort, adding a historical charm to your safari. Home to a significant population of Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore National Park offers one of the best opportunities to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports Leopards, Sloth Bears, Wild Boars, Sambar, and a variety of bird species. Safaris are conducted in open-top jeeps, allowing for unobstructed views of the wildlife and the park’s scenic beauty. Your Ranthambore Tour is a unique combination of wildlife, history, and scenic beauty that makes it a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit this national park is during October to April when the weather is present and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are particularly rewarding as animals are more active during these times.

Safari Timings: 

• Morning Safaris: 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM or 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM
• Afternoon Safaris: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM or 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Entry Fee:

• Canter Safari: INR 1,400 (Indians), INR 3,000 (Foreigners)
• Jeep Safari:  INR 2,000 (Indians), INR 4,000 (Foreigners)
• Photography Fees: INR 600 (Indians), INR 900 (Foreigners)

Note: If you book last minute safari, it may be more heavy on your wallet; range up to INR 10,000 per jeep. 

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its successful conservation efforts, particularly for the largest largest population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park’s vast grasslands, wetlands, and forests provide a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife. Apart from the iconic rhinos, Kaziranga is home to elephants, panthers, bears, tigers, wild water buffalo, and a plethora of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Spread over 430 km², the park’s location along the Brahmaputra River adds to its scenic charm. Safaris in Kaziranga are conducted in jeeps and on elephants, offering different perspectives of the park’s rich biodiversity. The park’s commitment to conservation and its diverse wildlife make it one of the standout and popular wildlife destinations in India for nature lovers.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from November to April, as the park remains closed during the monsoon season (May-October) due to flood risks.

Safari Timings: 

Safari	Morning Timings	Afternoon Timings
Elephant Safari	5:30 AM – 7:30 AM	3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Jeep Safari	7:30 AM – 10:00 AM or 7:20 AM – 9:30 AM	1:30 PM – 3:30 PM or 2:35 PM – 4:35 PM

Entry Fee:  INR 100 (Indians), INR 650 (Foreigners)

• Elephant Safari: INR 1,200 (Indians), INR 2,500 (Foreigners)
• Jeep Safari: INR 1,500 – 2,200 (Indians), INR 2,500 – 3,500 (Foreigners)

Note: The park also offers an opportunity to enjoy river cruise with a toll of INR 1,000 per day.

Gir National Park, Gujarat:

Gir National Park is the only place in the world where you can spot Asian Lions in the wild. This unique distinction makes this park that is spread over 258.7 sq km, a significant destination for wildlife lovers. The park’s diverse habitats including deciduous forests, grasslands, and rocky hills; support a variety of wildlife; 40 species of mammals, 425 bird species and 26 varieties of reptiles. Gir’s conservation success story is remarkable with the Lion population increasing steadily over the years. Safaris in Gir are conducted in open jeep, providing ample opportunities to spot lions and other wildlife. Gir’s unique wildlife make it a must visit for those seeking for a distinctive safari experience. Book a Gir national park tour package with us and get lost in the serene ambience of this park.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is pleasant and animal sightseeings are more frequent.

Safari Timings:

Months	Morning Timings	Afternoon Timings
Winter (October 16th to February 28th/29th)	6:45 AM – 9:45 AM	3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Summer (March 1st to June 15th)	6:00 AM – 9:00 AM	4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Note: Devalia Safari Park (Interpretation Zone) will remain closed on every Wednesday.

Entry Fee: INR 800 (Indians on Weekdays), INR 1,000 (Indians on Weekend), INR 4,800 (Foreigners)

Safari Tickets (Per Jeep): INR 5,200 – 7,200 (Indian), INR 15,700 – 17,700 (Foreigners)

Note: Guides and camera charges are excluded. 

Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand:

Jim Corbett National Park, the first National Park of Asia established in 1974, is the haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled in the foothills of Himalayas, the park’s diverse landscapes include; grasslands, riverline belts, and dense forests. The park is home to a significant population of Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, goral, Himalayan tahr, serow, and various bird species. Its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty crown it the best Indian national parks to see tigers. Safaris in Corbett are conducted in open jeeps and the park offers different zones; each with unique landscapes and wildlife. Jim Corbett’s combination of rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes offers an unforgettable safari experience. For those who are interested in enjoying holidays here, the park brings a lot of fun activities and promises you have the best vacation ever.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cool and wildlife sightings are more common. While the high chances to spot tigers near water reservoirs is during March to Mid-June due to hot weather.

Safari Timings: 

Morning: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM

Afternoon: 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Note: In some zones like Dhikala the canter safari starts around 5:00 AM

Jeep Safari Tickets (per Jeep):

INR 7,200 (Indians), INR 15,000 (Foreigners)

Note: Each jeep has a capacity of 6 adults and two children of up to 12 years of age. 

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh:

Bandhavgarh National Park is renowned for having one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers in India and home to the first white tiger bred, Mohan. The park’s terrain of steep rigids, open meadows, and dense forests provide ideal habitat for these majestic predators in 1,536 square kilometers. Apart from tigers, Bandhavgarh is home for leopards, deer, and a variety of bird species. The park, declared as the tiger reserve in 1972, also features ancient ruins and caves adding a historical dimension to your Bandhavgarh Tour. Safaris are conducted in open jeeps, and the park is divided into different zones, each offering unique wildlife experiences. Bandhavgarh’s rich history and abundant wildlife make it a compelling destination for safari enthusiasts.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from October to June with peak tigers sightings from March to May. This is the best time due to its pleasant weather and chilly climate.

Safari Timings:

Months	Morning Timings	Afternoon Timings
April 1st – June 30th	5:30 AM – 10:00 AM	4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
October 15th – February 15th	6:30 AM to 11:00 AM	2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
February 16th – March 31st	6:00 AM – 11:00 AM	3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 2,500 (Indians), INR 4,500 (Foreigners)

• Jeep Safari: INR 2,000 – 7,500 (Indians), INR 3,000 – 12,000 (Foreigners)
• Canter Safari: INR 1,200 (Indians), INR 4,000 – 15,000  (Foreigners)

Note: The price of safaris differ on the basis of sharing or private bookings and weekdays and weekends.

Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra:

Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra’s oldest and largest national park is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers. The park’s dry deciduous forests and meadows are home to a thriving population of Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Wild Dogs, Gaurs, and various bird species. Tadoba’s relatively lesser-known status means fewer tourists, offering a more intimate and serene safari experience. This park is also home to the Marsh Crocodiles, Indian chameleon, and various snake species. The park’s rich biodiversity and tranquil environment make it a perfect destination to book your wildlife tour for those seeking a peaceful wildlife adventure. It is a bird lover’s paradise as you will be amazed by various residential and migratory birds like White-eyed buzzards, Oriental honey buzzards, Paradise flycatchers, Brown Fish owl, etc. Safaris are conducted in open jeeps and the park offers both core and buffer zones for exploration.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from October to June with the summer months providing higher chances of wildlife sightings near water sources.

Safari Timings:

Months	Morning Timings	Afternoon Timings
Oct 1st to Nov 30th	6:00 AM to 10:00 AM	2:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Dec 1st to Feb 28th	6:30 AM to 11:00 AM	2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Mar 1st to Apr 30th	5:30 AM to 10:00 AM	3:00 PM to 6:30 PM
May 1st to June 30th	5:00 AM to 9:30 AM	3:30 PM to 7:00 PM

 

Safari Tickets: 

Jeep Safari (per jeep): INR 8,500 (Indians), INR 12,000 (Foreigners)

Canter Safari (per person): INR 1,000 (Indians), INR 2,000 (Foreigners)

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and wildlife. The sanctuary spread in 192,000-acre is centered around the Periyar Lake, providing opportunities for boat safaris to observe wildlife along the water’s edge. It is renowned for its population of Asian elephants, which can often be seen bathing and playing in the lake. The sanctuary also hosts tigers, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Apart from boat safaris, Periyar offers trekking and bamboo rafting experiences, allowing for immersive exploration of its lush landscapes. Periyar’s combination of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems provides a diverse and enriching wildlife experience.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from October to June, with the winter months offering pleasant weather and increased wildlife activity and spotting chances.

Safari Timings:

Morning: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Afternoon: 11:15 AM – 12:45 PM, 1:45 AM – 3:15 PM

Evening: 3:30 PM- 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: 

Indians: INR 25 (Adults), INR 5 (Children)

Foreigners: INR 300 (Adults), INR 105 (Children)

Boat Ride Tickets: INR 150 (Adults), INR 50 (Children)

Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Satpura National Park offers a unique and off-beat safari experience. Unlike many other parks, Satpura allows for walking safaris, providing an intimate way to explore its diverse landscapes, including deep valleys, sandstone peaks, and dense forests. The park is home to Leopards, Spotted Deer, Sloth Bear, Black Buck, Sambar, Four Horned Antelopes, Porcupine, and a variety of bird species. Boat safaris on the Denwa River offer opportunities to spot crocodiles and aquatic birds. Night safaris in the buffer zones provide a chance to observe nocturnal wildlife adding an adventurous twist to your visit. Satpura’s diverse safari options and tranquil environment make it one of the popular wildlife destinations in India for those looking for unique wildlife adventure.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from October to June, with the cooler months offering comfortable conditions for exploration.

Safari Timings:

Months	Morning Timings	Afternoon Timings
Winter	6:30 AM to 10:30 AM	1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Summer	6:00 AM to 10:00 AM	2:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Safari Tickets:
Indians: 

Vehicle	Zone	Week (INR)	Weekends (INR)
Full Jeep	Core	9,500	10,500
Single Seat	Core	2,500	3,000
Full Jeep	Buffer	9,400	10,400

Foreigners:

Vehicle	Zone	Week (INR)	Weekends (INR)
Full Jeep	Core	13000	15500
Full Jeep	Buffer	13000	14000
Single Seat	Core	4500	5000

Note: Night safaris in the buffer zone have different pricing.

Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Pench National Park or Tiger Reserve, straddling the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, is famed for inspiring Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” The park’s undulating terrain and open forests in 464 sq. kms provide excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. Pench is home to a healthy population of tigers, nilgai, leopards, wild dogs, and various bird species. This park is not a glorious habitat for mammals but also shelters 285 species  residents and migratory birds. This is one of finest places to spot tigers playing around and creates a thrill. Safaris are conducted in open jeeps, and the park’s well-maintained trails enhance the holiday experience. This is one of the polar wildlife destinations that not only opens gates to explore wildlife but recharge your soul, give you moments to enjoy, and memories of lifetime.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is between October to May. This is the ideal time especially during March to May to spot tigers resting or playing around the water.

Safari Timings:

Morning: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Evening: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Note: The Park remains closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall.

Safari Tickets: 

Weekdays:

Indian: INR 7,500 (Full Jeep), INR 2,000 (Single Seat)

Foreigners: INR 12,000 (Full Jeep), INR 2,000 (Single Seat)

Weekends:

Indian: INR 8,500 (Full Jeep), INR 2,200 (Single Seat)

Foreigners: INR 18,000 (Full Jeep), INR 4,000 (Single Seat)

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal:

The Sunderbans, the world largest mangroves forest offers a distinctive safari experience. Navigating through its intricate networks of waterways, visitors can spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, which has adapted to this unique habitat. Apart from tigers, the Sunderbans are home to salt-water crocodile, spotted deer, Indian grey mongoos, macaques, wild boar, and a variety of bird species. Boat safaris provide a serene way to explore the park’s rich biodiversity. The Sundarbans area covers 4624 sq km with a unique ecosystem and adventurous safaris make it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

Timings:

Park Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Boat Safari Timings: 8:30 AM to 4 PM

Note: The park remains closed on Fridays.

Entry Fee: INR 180 (Indians), INR 1,000 (Foreigners)

Guide Fee: INR 800 (Indians), INR 2,000

Boat Entry: INR 500 (Indians), INR 2,000 (Foreigners)

Your Wild Journey Awaits With Memorable India!

Going on a wildlife safari tour in India with Memorable India is more than just a trip, it is an immersion into the heart of nature, a dance with the wild, and a story waiting to be told. Each park offers its own unique charm, from the dense mangroves of the Sundarbans to the open grasslands of Velavadar. Planning such an adventure can be overwhelming, but that is where Memorable India steps in. With our expertise and passion for crafting personalized journeys, we ensure that your safari experience is seamless, enriching and truly unforgettable. So, pack your bags, charge your cameras and let the wild call you. Your adventure of a lifetime awaits, book your package with us or contact us to enquire. We are happy to help!