5 Best Winter Wildlife Safaris in India

"The first time someone asked me to go on a safari, I thought it was the lamest thing to do, but having done it once, it became an addiction” said Darshan Shah who now makes at least 3 safaris every year.  He says there is something about seeing animals in their habitat, watching them gracefully live out life as mother nature intended them to, and feeling so connected and one with creation in dense forests that keeps one coming back for more.   India is blessed with a variety of wildlife and natural habitats. Here are five of the best wildlife safaris in India, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience for the outdoor lovers  

1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand: 
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett National Park is one of India's oldest and most famous national parks. The winter season (Nov to Feb) is considered one of the best times to visit Jim Corbett National Park. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. It is known for its population of Bengal tigers and offers opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot not only tigers but also leopards, elephants, and a wide range of bird species. Jeep safaris and elephant safaris are popular ways to explore the park. 

2. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan: 
Ranthambore is renowned for its population of Bengal tigers and its historical landmarks, including the Ranthambore Fort. The park is set amidst the Aravalli and Vindhya hill ranges and offers a chance to spot not only tigers but also leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of deer and bird species. Open-roofed canter safaris and jeep safaris are available for wildlife viewing. The best time to be in Ranthambore from (Oct to Mar) The weather during these months is cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. 

3. Kaziranga National Park, Assam: 
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It is also known for its tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, and various bird species. The weather during the period (Nov to April) is cooler and more pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. The park's lush vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. The park is located in the northeastern state of Assam and offers elephant safaris and jeep safaris for wildlife enthusiasts.  

4. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh: 
Kanha National Park in central India inspired Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book" with its lush sal and bamboo forests. It is one of the best places to spot the majestic Bengal tiger. The park also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, deer, and Indian gaur. Jeep safaris and elephant safaris are popular ways to explore the park. Birdwatching is also excellent during the winter months. The daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. (Dec to Jan) are often considered the peak months for tiger sightings so if you are a tiger lover and would want to experience a live one Kanha National Park is a no-brainer  

5. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal: 
Last but not least the Sundarbans National Park. A is a unique mangrove forest that stretches across India and Bangladesh. It is the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the elusive Bengal tiger, as well as saltwater crocodiles and various species of birds. The best time to visit (Dec to Feb) and the temperatures ranging from 12°C to 28°C during that time.  Exploring the waterways of the Sundarbans on a boat safari is the primary way to observe wildlife in this unique ecosystem. 

Darshan who shared his recommended list of winter safaris above also recommends being well prepared with the right clothing and gear when embarking on winter safaris and expeditions, it's crucial to be well-prepared for the cold and potentially harsh conditions.  Other than a great pair of binoculars, Here are some items for your winter wild life safari  

1. T-shirts 
While good quality tshirts are essential for any safari, one must remember that bright reds, oranges, and yellows are not the best picks – one must aim to blend in with mother nature on a safari, you can do browns, greens, olive, camouflage.  If the weather is pleasant enough for a no jacket kind of day one might still want to wear a collared polo Tshirt or a long sleeve top to protect the hands and neck from the sun.  For colder days the merino t-shirt under a jacket works for the perfect level of warmth. 

2. Light/ heavy jacket depending on the location of the safari: 
A windproof jacket is essential for keeping you warm and dry in cold conditions. A light weighted jacket ensures ease of movement while offering the protection needed to keep you warm and comfortable in the cool outdoors. A versatile jacket that gives you the freedom to engage with the outdoor elements, ensuring an enjoyable and cozy outdoor experience   

3. Bottoms  
On a safari, it's crucial to have pants that accommodate all your gear and essentials while allowing freedom of movement. Cargo pants offer the perfect solution, providing space to stow necessities like maps, compasses, and snacks, ensuring you're fully equipped for your adventure. Additionally, consider utilizing hiking and trekking pants in nature-blending colors like green, olive, black, or gray, which not only blend with the environment but also keep you dry and cool throughout your journey.  If your not the cargos kind of person and your there to enjoy nature without your wallet, phone and other accessories then track pants will work fine  

4. Footwear  
If your feet are covered your not being troubled by the bugs or the heat or the cold.    To ensure your comfort and readiness for any safari -  good quality socks and shoes are required.  It is essential that whatever footwear you choose  you are comfortable, you’ll be sitting or standing in a vehicle itself so no specific specialized shoes are required but being comfortable helps the overall experience  

5. Accessories   
A baseball hat or bucket hat will prevent the glare directly in your eyes and helps you see wildlife better and also protect your head from the scorching sunlight.  A beanie is a must-have for a morning safari when dew is still in the atmosphere and you don’t want to end up with a cold.  For afternoon and evening safaris even in the winter, the sunlight burns your neck which is why a lot of safari enthusiasts prefer caps with neck protection 

6. Sunscreen & insect repellents  
During a safari, uninvited outdoor guests like insects can appear at any time, so it's our responsibility to be prepared for such situations. Therefore, insect repellent is a must for any safari adventure. Consider using insect repellent oil made from organic and 100% natural hemp seed for its gentle properties on the skin. When on a safari, opt for non-fragranced bug and insect repellents that are easily absorbed into the skin. Fragrance-free options are preferable, as you certainly wouldn't want to attract insects with scents while trying to enjoy your safari experience. 

Why would you need sunscreen on a winter safari is probably what you’re thinking – when your stationed for 2 –3 hours on relatively breezy yet sunny days, more often than not you'll find yourself back with skin peeling from sunburn – so make sure you also grab yourself a non-fragranced sunscreen. Try and pick something sensitive on your skin, paraben-free, 100% natural, and organic.  

These are just a few of the many incredible wildlife safaris and gear you can experience in India. Each experience offers a chance to see different species of wildlife in diverse natural environments, making India a fantastic destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Be sure to check the availability of safaris, permits, and any seasonal variations in wildlife sightings when planning your visit and please don’t forget to carry your essentials during your next winter outdoor safari.