From Jungles to Mountains: Wildlife Destinations You Can't Miss in India

India's diversity extends far beyond people, climate and landscapes - it also includes its remarkable wildlife. The country is home to a variety of flora and fauna. From the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers to the grand Asiatic Elephants, India's numerous national parks, biosphere reserves and wildlife sanctuaries offer travellers an unparalleled opportunity to explore its rich biodiversity. Starting in October, the season is ideal for witnessing India's wildlife at its best. Here, we present a selection of must-visit destinations renowned for their unique ecosystems and extraordinary species.

Gir National Park

Gir National Park, located 65 km southeast of Junagarh in Gujarat , is the only place outside Africa where lions can be seen in their natural habitat. Home to 40 species of mammals and 425 species of birds, the park’s dry, deciduous forest provides an ideal environment for Asiatic lions. In addition to lions and leopards, Gir hosts species such as the Sambar, India’s largest deer, the Chowsingha, the world's only four-horned antelope and smaller carnivores like jackals, striped hyenas and Indian foxes.

Gir is also a haven for birdlife like the endangered white-backed and long-billed vultures, Greater Spotted Eagles and Palla’s Fish Eagles.

The park is rich in reptilian life with over 40 species of reptiles and amphibians. The Kamleshwar reservoir is a prime spot for viewing Marsh Crocodiles while species like the King Cobra, Russell’s viper and freshwater turtles also inhabit the park. Apart from opting for guided safaris, travellers can visit nearby attractions like Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple - believed to be the place where the first of the twelve holy jyotirlingas emerged in India and Triveni Sangam – which marks the confluence of rivers Hiran, Kapila and the Saraswati, where they meet the Arabian Sea on the west coast of India. The jungle safari at Gir National Park is available from October to June.

Where to stay?

Aramness Gir, located on the edge of Gir National Park is a unique eco-lodge designed through a collaboration between Nicholas Plewman Architects and Fox Browne Creative both renowned for their work on luxury African lodges. The lodge combines traditional and contemporary elements, offering 18 elegantly designed kothis, each with a private plunge pool overlooking the surrounding jungle. The lodge's expert naturalists and skilled trackers provide guests not only with incredible wildlife sightings but also a deeper understanding of the Asiatic lions and other jungle inhabitants. Set within 18 square kilometers of teak forests, the property is home to chital deer, blue bulls and a rich variety of bird species. Guests can enjoy these sights on guided walks and trails or at times even from the comfort of their private kothis.

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s largest and most famous parks, is located in Rajasthan 's Sawai Madhopur district, about 130 km from Jaipur. Once a royal hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, it is now a popular wildlife destination, particularly known for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers. The park is also home to leopards, sloth bears, several deer species, marsh crocodiles, and a rich variety of reptiles and birds. In total, it hosts 40 mammal species, 35 reptile species and over 320 bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Given the substantial number of tigers that roam freely within the park, there is a good chance of spotting one during a visit.

The jungle safari at Ranthambore National Park runs twice daily from October to June and is a major tourist draw in Rajasthan . Managed by the Forest Department, two safari options are available: the Jeep Safari, which seats up to 6 people and the Canter Safari, which accommodates 20 people. While the Jeep Safari is slightly more expensive, visitors recommend it for its flexibility and ability to access areas that the Canter cannot.

Where to stay?

Nestled on the border of Ranthambore Forest, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort offers an immersive wildlife experience with luxury accommodations. Located just a few kms from Sawai Madhopur, it’s easily accessible by road, especially through the new Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, making the drive from Delhi and Gurgaon only four to four and a half hours. Jaipur, the nearest airport, is also just a four-hour drive away, enhancing connectivity. The resort’s architecture, inspired by local history and nature, adds to the charm with sustainable mud architecture, offering 360-degree views of the forest. Guests can explore the nearby Ranthambore National Park, famous for its majestic tigers, while enjoying the rich historical essence reflected in the resort’s dining and bar spaces, named after local legends. With signature dining experiences, sustainable practices, and luxurious accommodations overlooking the Aravalli hills, Aamaghati is a perfect blend of adventure, history, and comfort for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh is named after the historic Bandhavgarh Fort, derived from "Bandhav" (brother) and "Garh" (fort). According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama gifted this fort to his brother Lakshmana after the battle of Lanka. The park features steep ridges, forests and meadows. Bandhavgarh is renowned for its high density of Royal Bengal Tigers, the highest in India and globally. All white tigers worldwide are believed to trace their lineage to Bandhavgarh. The jungle safari at Bandhavgarh National Park can be experienced from October to June.

There is a lot to explore in Bandhavgarh. Visitors can enjoy an hour-long hike to the Bandhavgarh Fort starting from the Tala Zone. Sheesh Shaiya, a 65-foot statue of Lord Vishnu resting on the serpent Shesh Nag is another highlight. The place attracts birdwatchers in the winter season. Other attractions include the Baghel Museum, showcasing the Maharaja of Rewa’s artifacts and Village Tala, which provides a glimpse into rural life. Climber’s Point offers stunning views for photography enthusiasts while Cheshpur Waterfall - 50 km away from Bandhavgarh is a serene spot to unwind in nature.

Where to stay?

Samode Safari Lodge offers a luxurious safari experience in a serene and natural setting near the heart of Bandhavgarh forest. Strategically located slightly away from the main tourist zone, the lodge focuses on preserving the region’s cultural and natural heritage. Its interiors feature local tribal art, particularly the vibrant Gond artwork with hand-painted designs adorning the walls. The property spans 30 acres of wilderness but only 2 acres are occupied by the main lodge and 12 beautifully designed mustard-and-mud-coloured villas, each showcasing unique local craftsmanship. Samode Safari Lodge includes various amenities like a rim-flow pool, spa, library and a gym. A team of expert naturalists enriches the experience of guests with captivating wildlife stories and guided safaris in custom 4x4 jeeps along with nature walks in the buffer zone.  

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in the Western Ghats is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary's hilly terrains and dense valleys make it one of the most picturesque natural sites globally. Home to 45 species of mammals the sanctuary also hosts 203 bird species with several endemic and globally threatened. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of tree species including rosewood, anjili (Artocarpus), mullumurikku (Erythrina) and several types of cassia.

Wayanad has recorded sightings of the cinereous vulture (Eurasian black vulture), a large broad-winged species typically found in Eurasia and North India but rarely seen south of the Vindhyas. The sanctuary also provides habitat for Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, leopard cats, spotted deer, sambar deer, gaur, sloth bears, wild dogs, wild boars, Indian pangolins and stripe-necked mongooses. Notably, it is the only sanctuary in Kerala where the four-horned antelope (Ullaman) is spotted. Few of the tourist attractions near Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary include Seetha Devi Temple, Kuruva Island, Valmeekam Tribal Museum, Muneeswaran Kunnu Viewpoint and Irupu Falls.

Where to stay?

Wayanad Wild, CGH Earth is a tribute to the stunning beauty of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set amidst lush tropical surroundings, the resort offers spacious rooms with private balconies and modern amenities. The property is located in the lap of nature. While relaxing on your balcony, you may encounter the playful Malabar Giant Squirrel or enjoy the songs of the Orange Minivet. The resort offers a range of activities for all ages. Guests can hike through the hills, embark on night expeditions to spot elusive nocturnal creatures or join naturalists for engaging evening sessions. Children can participate in cooking classes while thrill-seekers can enjoy ziplining or bamboo rafting. Guided treks with naturalists provide opportunities to explore local flora and fauna. Birdwatchers can spot rare migratory species from the canopy. The recreation centre with indoor games ensures that you are well entertained even in the evening and as night falls, guests can unwind under a sky full of stars.

Dudhwa National Park

Dudhwa National Park, located in the Terai belt of northern Uttar Pradesh is renowned for its rich biodiversity including tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears and over 450 bird species. While the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, it is particularly known for its thriving populations of swamp deer and tigers as well as a significant number of one-horned rhinos. Other notable species include jackals, wild pigs, fishing cats, leopards, jungle cats and civets.

During winter, the park becomes a haven for migratory birds including painted storks, black and white-necked storks, sarus cranes, woodpeckers, barbets, kingfishers, bulbuls and birds of prey such as the great Indian horned owl and jungle owlet. Dudhwa’s unique ecosystem features a mix of grasslands, swamps and dense forests, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy safaris through the park, experiencing its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife firsthand. The jungle safari at the park is available from November to June.

Where to stay?

Jaagir Manor, Dudhwa, nestled in the untouched rainforests of the Terai Himalayas in Uttar Pradesh offers a blend of Victorian elegance and modern comforts amidst the wilderness. This IHCL SeleQtions property is a haven of luxury, surrounded by tranquil orchards and rugged forests that host a variety of mammals and bird species. The property is believed to be one of India's best-kept wildlife secrets. Guests can choose from a range of luxurious accommodations including heritage rooms dating back to the 1940s and charming, intimate villas. Jaagir Manor offers a range of unique experiences such as organic farm excursions, culinary and dining experiences, private game drives by jeep, boat, or elephant, cultural interactions with the Tharu Tribe, fishing trips, sundowners and excursions to the Nepal border.

Whether you are seeking the excitement of spotting a tiger in the wild or the serenity of watching migratory birds in a pristine setting, these wildlife destinations must be in your bucket list. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and discover these one-of-its-kind experiences for wildlife lovers.