Top 10 tiger-spotting destinations this winter: Ranthambore, Nagarhole, Similipal and other top Indian wildlife reserves
With the onset of winter, it’s time to travel, explore, and rediscover the vast land we proudly call home—India. For wildlife enthusiasts, this season offers the perfect opportunity to traverse the country’s diverse national parks. Among all the creatures that inspire awe and admiration, the majestic tiger—India’s national animal—stands unmatched. If spotting this magnificent predator in its natural habitat has long been on your list, winter is the ideal time to set out on that adventure. From Ranthambore in Rajasthan’s rugged landscapes to the lush Periyar in Kerala, the pristine Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, and the dense forests of Similipal in Odisha, these destinations promise thrilling encounters and unforgettable experiences amidst nature’s wild beauty. Pack your binoculars, head into the wilderness, and let India’s tiger trails awaken your explorer’s spirit.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan: Where the royals roam
Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is one of India’s most famous wildlife reserves, celebrated for its thriving tiger population. Once a royal hunting ground, it now offers visitors thrilling jungle safaris, ancient ruins, and picturesque lakes. The majestic Ranthambore Fort within the park adds a touch of history, making it a captivating blend of wildlife, heritage, and natural beauty—perfect for an adventurous winter getaway.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh: Heart of tiger country
Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is renowned for having one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers in India. Once the hunting grounds of Maharajas, this park is steeped in history and myth, with the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort overlooking dense forests and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating jeep safaris, spot diverse wildlife, and experience the raw, untamed charm of central India’s wilderness.
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand: Legacy of the wild
Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, India’s oldest national park, is a haven for wildlife lovers and photographers. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, it offers a stunning mix of grasslands, riverine belts, and dense forests. Famous for its tigers, elephants, and birdlife, Corbett promises thrilling safaris, scenic beauty, and a chance to witness nature’s grandeur in its purest form—an unforgettable winter adventure.
Similipal Tiger Reserve, (Odisha): Land of rare tigers
Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha is a spectacular wilderness famed for its dense forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It is the only place in India where the elusive black tigers, or melanistic tigers, can be spotted, making it a unique destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Alongside tigers, the reserve is home to elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species, offering thrilling safaris and an unforgettable encounter with nature’s rarest wonders.
Nagarhole Tiger Reserve (Karnataka): Wonders of southern wilderness
Nagarhole Tiger Reserve in Karnataka, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere, is a lush sanctuary teeming with wildlife. Known for its tigers, elephants, and leopards, the reserve offers a perfect blend of dense forests, rolling hills, and serene backwaters. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and boat rides while spotting diverse fauna and bird species. Nagarhole promises an immersive experience in southern India’s vibrant and untamed natural beauty.
Periyar Tiger Reserve (Kerala): Tranquillity in the forests
Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala is a verdant sanctuary nestled in the Western Ghats, famed for its tigers, elephants, and rich biodiversity. The serene Periyar Lake adds to the park’s charm, offering boat safaris that provide close encounters with wildlife. Dense forests, spice plantations, and rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop for nature lovers. A visit to Periyar promises unforgettable experiences of Kerala’s wilderness and tranquil beauty.
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (Tamil Nadu): Gateway to southern wilds
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu, located at the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills, is a captivating blend of forests, grasslands, and rivers. Home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species, the park offers thrilling jeep safaris and nature trails. Its diverse landscapes and rich wildlife make it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquillity amidst the pristine wilderness of southern India.
Pakke Tiger Reserve, (Arunachal Pradesh): Hidden gem of northeast
Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh is a pristine sanctuary nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, known for its rich biodiversity and dense tropical forests. Apart from tigers, it shelters elephants, hornbills, and rare species like the clouded leopard. Visitors can explore scenic trails, bamboo groves, and the Kameng River while experiencing the untouched beauty of northeastern India. Pakke offers an extraordinary wildlife adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Kaziranga National Park, (Assam): Land of the giants
Kaziranga National Park in Assam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros and rich wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and wild water buffalo. Spanning lush grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests, it offers thrilling jeep and elephant safaris. The park’s unique ecosystem and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking unforgettable encounters in the heart of India’s northeast.
Sunderbans, West Bengal: Mystery of the mangroves
The Sunderbans in West Bengal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking maze of tidal waterways, islands and dense mangrove forests. Home to the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, it offers a unique experience of wildlife and wilderness. Travelling through its creeks by boat, visitors can witness crocodiles, migratory birds, and the raw beauty of nature—where every ripple tells a story of mystery and survival.
Similar articles for you
Offbeat travel destinations in India that feel like abroad: Khajjiar like Switzerland, Coorg like Scotland; find 12 gems
Best beaches in Asia for Indian travellers: Top 10 picks in Bali, Phuket, Goa, Maldives, Langkawi and more
Best solo travel destinations for women in India: Explore 10 safe, scenic and culturally rich places for travel
Best places to visit in India during winter 2025: Explore Auli’s snow, Goa’s beaches, Munnar’s tea gardens and much more
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
For bookings, click here
