Summary

India’s wildlife safaris offer an incredible chance to explore dense forests, diverse flora, and rare fauna, including the majestic tiger. Travelers can choose between jeep safaris for private exploration or canter safaris for group adventures, with morning and evening slots giving the best chances of spotting wildlife. Costs vary but remain accessible for both Indian and foreign tourists. Accommodation options near safari zones range from luxury resorts to budget lodges, ensuring comfort for every traveler. The ideal time to visit is from September to November, when the weather is pleasant, animals are more active, and sightings are frequent. Top Wildlife Safari Destinations in India

1. Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)

Safari Options: Jeep Safari, Canter Safari
Zones Open: Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, and Sitabani
Safari Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM
• Evening: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Safari Pricing:
Jeep Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs4,500 per vehicle (up to 6 persons)
• Foreign Nationals: Rs6,500 per vehicle (up to 2 persons)

Canter Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs1,800 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs3,600 per person
  

Entry Fee:

• Indian Nationals: Rs200 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs1,000 per person
• Guide Charges: Rs700 per safari
  

Accommodation:

• The Riverview Retreat: A riverside resort offering comfortable stays with easy access to the park.
• Corbett Riverside Resort: Nestled along the Kosi River, providing a serene environment close to nature.
• Corbett Machaan Resort: Enjoy a stay in elegant tents and cozy cottages, equipped with modern comforts for a relaxing wildlife getaway.

2. Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan)

Safari Options: Jeep Safari, Canter Safari

Zones Open: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 (Closed on Tuesdays)

Safari Timings:

• Morning: 6:30 AM – 10:00 A
• Evening: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Safari Pricing:

Jeep Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs2,000 per perso
• Foreign Nationals: Rs4,200 per person

Canter Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs1,300 per perso
• Foreign Nationals: Rs3,000 per person

Entry Fee:

• Indian Nationals: Rs200 per perso
• Foreign Nationals: Rs1,000 per perso
• Guide Charges: Rs700 per safari

Accommodation:

• The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort: A luxurious resort offering tented accommodations with private decks and plunge pools.
• Ranthambore Regency: A boutique hotel providing comfortable rooms and a swimming pool.
• Tiger Moon Resort: Offers spacious cottages and is located near the park entrance.

3. Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh)

Safari Options: Jeep Safari
Zones Open: Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, Sarhi
Safari Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Evening: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
  

Safari Pricing:
Weekdays:

• Indian Nationals: Rs8,500 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs13,000 per person
  

Weekends:

• Indian Nationals: Rs9,500 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs15,000 per person
  

Entry Fee:

• Indian Nationals: Rs200 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs1,000 per person
• Guide Charges: Rs700 per safari
  

Accommodation:

• Kanha Earth Lodge: Eco-friendly lodge offering luxurious cottages and guided safaris.
• Kanha Jungle Lodge: Provides comfortable rooms with a swimming pool and nature walks.
• Tuli Tiger Corridor: Offers spacious rooms and is located close to the park entrance.

4. Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh)

Safari Options: Jeep Safari
Zones Open: Tala, Magadhi, Khitauli
Safari Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Evening: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Safari Pricing:
Jeep Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs4,700 per jeep (up to 6 persons)
• Foreign Nationals: Rs5,700 per jeep (up to 6 persons)

Entry Fee:

• Indian Nationals: Rs200 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs1,000 per person
• Guide Charges: Rs700 per safari

Accommodation:

• Mahua Kothi: A luxury lodge offering traditional cottages and personalized services.
• Bandhav Vilas: Provides spacious villas with private pools and a spa.
• Tiger’s Den Resort: Provides spacious, well-furnished rooms with modern amenities and is conveniently located close to the park’s main entrance.

5. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra)

Safari Options: Jeep Safari, Canter Safari
Zones Open: Kolara, Moharli, Pangdi, Zari, and Buffer Zones
Safari Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Evening: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
  

Safari Pricing:
Jeep Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs5,500 per vehicle (up to 6 persons)
• Foreign Nationals: Rs8,000 per vehicle (up to 6 persons)
  

Canter Safari:

• Indian Nationals: Rs1,400 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs3,000 per person

Entry Fee:

• Indian Nationals: Rs200 per person
• Foreign Nationals: Rs1,000 per person
• Guide Charges: Rs700 per safari
  

Accommodation:

• Svasara Jungle Lodge: A luxury lodge offering comfortable rooms and guided safaris.
• Tadoba Tiger King Resort offers comfortable, spacious cottages with a rustic charm, situated close to the main entrance for easy access to the safari.
• MTDC Tadoba Resort: Offers basic amenities and is suitable for budget travelers.

Tips for Planning Your Safari

Advance Booking: Safaris get sold out quickly during the busy season, so it’s best to reserve your safari slots and hotels well ahead of time.
Best Time to Visit: The months from September to November are ideal for wildlife sightings as the weather is pleasant, and animals are more active.
Safari Etiquette: Maintain silence during the safari, avoid using flash photography, and follow the instructions of your guide to ensure safety and minimal disturbance to wildlife.
Packing Essentials: Carry binoculars, a camera (with extra batteries), sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing, and insect repellent.

FAQs– Top Wildlife Safari Destinations in India

1. Which is the best wildlife safari park to visit between September and November 2025?
Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Tadoba are among the top choices during these months because the weather is pleasant and sightings are frequent.

2. What is the average cost of a safari in India?
Safari prices vary by park and type. A jeep safari usually costs between Rs2,000 – Rs6,000 per jeep for Indian visitors and Rs4,000 – Rs8,000 per jeep for foreign tourists. For larger groups, a canter safari is more budget-friendly, ranging from Rs1,300 – Rs3,000 per person.

3. Is advance booking required for safaris?
Yes, most parks require advance booking as seats are limited and get sold out quickly, especially during the festive and holiday season.

4. When is the best time to spot tigers during a safari?
Early mornings are considered ideal, as tigers and other wildlife are more active in the cool, calm hours of dawn compared to the hotter parts of the day.

5. Are children allowed on safaris?
Yes, children are allowed, but it is advised for them to be at least 5 years or older. Parents should ensure kids remain quiet during the ride.

6. Which safari should I choose – Jeep or Canter?
A Jeep Safari is ideal if you prefer a private, flexible experience with fewer people and better chances of exploring deeper zones. A Canter Safari, on the other hand, is more affordable, perfect for larger groups, and still offers good wildlife sightings.

7. What types of accommodations are available near wildlife parks?
Near most wildlife parks, you can find options ranging from cozy budget lodges to luxurious resorts. Popular choices include The Riverview Retreat in Corbett, Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambore, and Kanha Earth Lodge, all offering comfortable stays with easy access to safari zones.

8. What should I carry for a wildlife safari?
Binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, light cotton clothes, and a water bottle are must-haves. Avoid bright-colored clothes.

9. Are safaris safe for tourists?
Yes, safaris are generally safe. By following park rules, staying quiet, and listening to your guide, you can enjoy the experience without any risk. Animals naturally avoid vehicles if left undisturbed.

10. Can I spot tigers on every safari?
Tiger sightings are based on luck. While parks like Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore have higher chances, spotting depends on the day, season, and animal movement.