Tiger Safari in Monsoon
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Tiger Safari in Monsoon – India
Want to visit India’s best National Parks but it is already the monsoon season? Don’t worry, we have got you covered! It is indeed tempting to get on a rainy season wildlife safari because of the low rates and less crowd.
The dense foliage in these jungles provide a lush green effect that is extremely calming to the eyes. Spot wildlife including tigers as you drench in the raindrops. These jungles that are otherwise thin, transform into green shades and the park looks alive.
Contrary to the opinion that you can only visit these parks in the peak dry season, there are adventures waiting for you from July to September.Just a selection of the best park and zone for doing tiger safari in monsoon season is needed, and we are there to help you out for this.
In this article we are concentrating on “how you can plan a wildlife trip during the monsoon, which parks to target and why.
Why should you plan Tiger Safari in Monsoon?
If your intention is to have an intimate nature and tiger viewing experience in a lush green background, a monsoon tiger safari is a great fit for you.
As the rains are likely to wash away usual scents, it makes it hard for big cats to detect prey and roam around for longer hours for hunting. Another upside to these safaris is for nature lovers. Be prepared to see vibrant colours and waterfalls along hillsides.
Along with the upside of safaris in monsoon, there are some drawbacks for doing safaris in monsoon, like the core gates, most of the parks are closed during the monsoon, heavy rain may interrupt the safari drives or some track may be closed because of heavy rainfall.
Which national parks are open during Monsoon?
When it comes to Monsoon season, most of the national park’s buffer zones are open for the safaris. Whereas some national parks in southern India are completely open throughout the year.
The buffer zones of the parks like Tadoba, Pench, Kanha, Ranthambore, Nagarhole are pretty good in tiger sighting and we always recommend doing monsoon safaris in one of these parks.
Parks to plan during Monsoon?
Tadoba National Park
Get ready to explore the emerald embrace of Tadoba in the monsoon. The jeep safaris that are tightly packed during other seasons are now available relatively easily. You will hear a variety of birds chirping all around as you roam on green lands.
Listen for the calls of crested serpent eagles or spot colourful flycatchers flitting on trees. While tiger sightings are common, the rains bring herbivores like gaur and spotted deer out in the open searching for fresh green pockets, making them easier to observe.
Pench National Park
Pench offers a serene experience of the wild in the rains. Although core zones are closed during the monsoon, the buffers of Pench like Khawasa, Rukhad and Teliya are some of the prominent safari gates to do safari in Monsoon season. During monsoon you witness the park erupt in green as the Pench River churns with renewed life.
The hush of the monsoon allows you to pick up the calls of rare birds like the Malabar pied hornbill. Other fascinating creatures like sloth bears and barking deer emerge for the rejuvenated vegetation.
Kabini/Nagarhole National Park
Life explodes with the fresh smell of soil and abundant flora and fauna at Nagarhole. The Kabini River outbursts into a safe haven, and kingfishers, herons, and other birds make the most of it.
The thick foliage might yield mysterious creatures like dholes, leopards and the tiger will make rare appearances in the open. Colors replace dust, and there is a different kind of beauty in a monsoon-jungle.
Kanha National Park
Get ready to witness the beauty of the buffer zones of Kanha! The park is also a haven of diverse avian species, including hunters like kingfishers and egrets resting on tree branches bejewelled with raindrops.
Although tiger sightings are less frequent due to thick jungles during the monsoon, the park is abundant with other wildlife. It is truly a captivating park for nature enthusiasts.
Ranthambore National Park
Enjoy the serenity of this season and behold Ranthambore’s unadorned magnificence.
However, during monsoon there are few jeep safaris available at Ranthambore, but one can go on nature trails accompanied by naturalists from there.
Prepare yourself for walking in the rain through the park with its fresh vegetation and buzzing insects.
How are monsoon safaris different from regular safaris?
Monsoon safaris are different from the regular peak or shoulder season safaris in several ways. It is a very peaceful, silent and enjoyable experience in the forest without worrying about securing a permit too much in advance due to the number of tourists.
Despite the general consensus, tigers are extremely active in the monsoons. They are very likely to be spotted because of the cool climate and luxuriant vegetation.
The rains turn these dusty, dry jungles into a beautiful green paradise. It is also a blessing for birdwatchers because migratory birds from the north arrive at these parks. Resident birds are also typically active.
Also explore our detailed post on “How to Plan Tiger Safari in India“
How to plan for monsoon tiger safaris?
Despite being off season, it is better to book early to avoid last minute hurry. Concentrate on buffer zones while core zones may be closed. In this case we still recommend checking the park’s official website and contacting the park authorities before planning your visit.
This follows variations in opening dates as well as unpredicted forest conditions that change every year. Be prepared for the rains. Pack wet-weather gears, a tough raincoat, waterproof shoes, and a camera cover with zoom lens.
Carry essentials like insect repellent, reusable water bottles and used plastic bags for wet clothes. Finally, anticipate delays caused by slippery roads and small closures. Appreciate this lovable time of the year and make your trip very worthwhile.