Who goes on a monsoon safari? No one, you would think. But given the geographic spread of the country and the different weather conditions in these geographic areas, many nature parks and wildlife sanctuaries across the country are open year round, including during the monsoon. Granted, some animals may be harder to spot during the rainy months, but others live to dance in the rain. There are also many other reasons to go on safari this time of year. Prices are reduced and since most people are unaware that some parks are actually open, crowds are at a minimum. There is another more important reason why some parks stay open all year round. Because closing them off to visitors and shutting them down completely would give poachers a free hand to do as much harm as possible. So, not only is it a good idea to go on a safari after spending months indoors, but it’s a good idea just. These are the national parks you can visit during the monsoon:
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
While most of the park is closed because heavy rains make the way muddy and hard to explore even by 4×4, you are welcome to take a safari in the Jhirna area and the buffer zone known as the Sitabani area. during this time of year. Nature is in full lush bloom and you will easily spot wild animals such as deer, antelopes and wild boars coming out to play in the rain. This is also a great time for bird watchers, so train your binoculars to spot Asiatic barbets, owls, partridges, pheasants, quails, parakeets and raptors on the hunt for prey. While tigers can be a bit difficult to spot this time of year, your presence in the park helps deter poachers who would otherwise use this season to destroy wildlife. (Safari duration: 3.5 hours, Rs4,500/vehicle)
Periyar National Park, Kerala
Located on the shores of Lake Periyar, this park is popular for its elephant population. From the herds of elephants gathered together, the many species of monkeys swinging from the trees, and the blooming wild orchids growing everywhere, this is the perfect time of year to explore nature here. And if you’re worried about not spotting a tiger here (the 40 that roam these areas are elusive) keep your eyes peeled for barking deer, sambar, and avian life like darts, cormorant, kingfisher, the great Malabar hornbill and the snowshoe-tailed drongo. In addition to a safari aboard a 4×4, you can also take an early morning boat ride on the lake and spot herds of elephants socializing along the shore. (Safari duration: 2 hours, Rs4,000/vehicle)
Also Read: 5 Best Wildlife Safari Destinations In India
Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Located just outside Leh, this park is home to the cagey snow leopard. And the monsoon might be the best time to visit, especially if you’ve already had enough rainfall. This region of Ladakh doesn’t get much rainfall, making it a great time to visit the park. Named after a monastery within the perimeter of the park, Hemis is home to around 200 snow leopards, but you’ll have to be very patient to spot one. It is much easier to see the large Tibetan sheep, blue sheep and Ladakhi urials which the big cats feast on. The region is also home to red foxes, Tibetan wolves, Eurasian brown bears, mountain weasels, Himalayan marmots, and mouse hares. The only way to see the wildlife is to walk the many designated trails in the park, as vehicles are not allowed inside. The hike usually takes around two days and you can camp in one of the six village communities that live inside the park. (Duration of the safari: 2 days; Rs20)
Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
Just four hours from Bangalore is this perfect monsoon getaway. The rain-soaked wilderness takes on a whole new look, shedding the million earthy tones of brown and decorating the greens to welcome guests during the monsoon. While the tiger is cagey, this is the season to see the park’s many elephants who love nothing better than playing in the rain. The waterholes are full and around them you are sure to view wild boars and bison and when it starts to rain look out for the resident peacocks that greet the weather with a dance. (Safari duration: 3 hours, Rs4,000/vehicle)
Kali Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
Three hours east of Goa is this natural park which takes its name from the Kali River flowing through it. You pass through teak forests to enter forests that are home to tigers, spotted and black panthers, barking deer, elephants, Indian bison, monkeys and langurs, sloth bears, small Indian civets, reptiles like the king cobra, Russel’s viper and countless bird species. And recently, scientists have discovered more than 4,500 butterflies, including species such as the blue nawab, onyx, and golden butterfly that live in the forest. The reserve has several lakes and water points that should teem with life during the monsoon. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the many viewpoints where you can step out of your safari vehicle and snap photos of the lush vistas. (Duration of the safari: 2 hours, Rs450/person)
Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
90 kilometers from Mysuru, you will arrive at the gates of this park which is home to the largest number of elephants in Asia. The forestry department organizes galloping safaris four times a day, even during the monsoon. The reserve is home to over 300 species of wildlife and flora, including flying squirrels, leopards, palm civets, tigers, and general otters. And if you like elephants, you should head to the backwaters along the Kabini River at the southwest end of the park. You cannot purchase tickets in advance, so we recommend that you show up at the ticket office an hour before the safari to reserve a seat yourself. (Duration of the safari: 2 hours, Rs250/person)
