Our Top 9 Exclusive Wildlife Safaris in India

Corbett National Park has a great mix of rugged wilderness and refined luxury. Stay at high-end lodges where you can enjoy plush accommodations, gourmet dining, and spa treatments amidst the Himalayan foothills. Begin your day with a steaming cup of masala chai on your private balcony as the jungle awakens with bird calls.

Private Jeep safaris led by expert guides will take you deep into tiger territory, where fresh pugmarks hint at the presence of a tigress and her cubs. The thrill of spotting the elusive Bengal tiger is heightened by the park’s diverse Himalayan foothills, which provide a dramatic backdrop of dense sal forests and winding riverbeds. Corbett’s unique terrain allows for sightings of tigers navigating rocky streams or basking near waterholes surrounded by chirping birds. After your safari, unwind with a riverside dinner under a canopy of stars, savoring thalis that feature an array of vibrant dishes, each with its own distinct aromas and flavors.

Highlights: Luxurious riverside lodges • Private safaris with expert guides • Serene Himalayan landscapes enhanced by personalized service

In Bandhavgarh, opulence meets adventure. Elegant villas with private pools and al fresco dining create an indulgent retreat after a day in the wild. Private Jeep safaris led by experienced trackers offer unparalleled opportunities to witness Bandhavgarh’s famed tigers. Known for having one of the highest densities of tigers in India, the park’s golden grasslands and bamboo thickets create an ideal setting for spotting these majestic predators.

The sight of a dominant male tiger emerging from the shadows and stalking prey through open meadows is unforgettable, making Bandhavgarh a top destination if you are a tiger enthusiast. Back at your lodge, enjoy a curated wine selection and a multi-course dinner while listening to the distant roar of tigers echoing through the night. Your appetite may lead you to try grilled river fish with a herb marinade or aloo ke gutke, a simple yet flavorful dish of boiled potatoes sautéed in mustard oil and seasoned with local spices like cumin.

Highlights: Ultra-luxury lodges with private pools • Intimate tiger-tracking safaris guided by experts • Golden grassland vistas steeped in legend

Kanha’s rolling meadows and dense sal forests transport you to Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Stay at eco-luxury lodges where tented suites feature handcrafted furniture and panoramic views of the Banjaar River. Private safaris here are an immersive experience as expert naturalists guide you through enchanting landscapes full of barasingha deer, langurs, and tiger trails. Kanha stands out for its rolling meadows and dense sal forests, which will transport you to Kipling’s The Jungle Book.

The thrill of spotting a tiger here is enhanced by the park’s beauty, with sightings often occurring near the Banjar River or amidst tall grasslands where these apex predators blend seamlessly into their surroundings. After an exhilarating day in the wild, return to your lodge for a sunset cocktail overlooking the river as you tuck into dal bafla, perfectly spiced wheat balls that are baked and served with a tomato relish, or green garlic relish with local breads, all served under ancient trees adorned with lanterns.

Highlights: Eco-luxe accommodations • Exclusive safaris led by knowledgeable guides • Enchanting landscapes that bring Kipling’s world to life

Kaziranga’s wetlands are alive with vibrant hues of green and blue. Stay in stilted cottages with stunning views of the river and surrounding wilderness. Begin your day with a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River as mist swirls around you and water birds take flight.

Private Jeep safaris bring you face-to-face with Kaziranga's iconic one-horned rhinoceroses while expert naturalists share fascinating insights into this prehistoric creature’s behavior. Evenings are spent enjoying Assamese cuisine like aloo pitika, a mashed potato dish seasoned with raw onions, salt, mustard oil, and green chilies, while you soak in views of lush elephant grasslands.

Highlights: Boutique lodges offering personalized service • Tranquil boat rides at sunrise • Immersive wildlife experiences guided by experts

In Ranthambore, history intertwines seamlessly with wildlife. Stay at an ultra-luxury tented camp that redefines glamping, its spacious accommodations featuring soaking tubs and private dining areas. The sight of a tiger prowling against Ranthambore’s historic backdrop is nothing short of spectacular. This park is uniquely distinguished by its rugged terrain intertwined with ancient fort ruins.

Locals and visitors often spot tigers lounging near Hammir Palace or stalking prey across rocky outcrops framed by crumbling stone walls, offering you a rare fusion of history and nature. The sight of a tiger prowling against this historic backdrop is nothing short of spectacular. As twilight descends over the desert hills, enjoy sundowners by a roaring campfire while listening to tales of Ranthambore’s royal past.

Highlights: Tented luxury camps offering exclusivity • Private tiger-tracking safaris amidst ancient ruins • Glorious desert sunsets

Periyar combines rainforest adventures with Kerala’s famed hospitality. Stay in villas nestled among aromatic spice plantations that offer panoramic views of lush greenery. Private boat rides on Periyar Lake provide encounters with elephants grazing along its shores while kingfishers dart above the water, while guided treks into the rainforest will introduce you to a vibrant ecosystem featuring flora like teak and rosewood, and fauna such as sambar deer and lion-tailed macaques.

The treks also offer opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, including the Malabar grey hornbill and Brahminy kite. Later, indulge in ayurvedic spa treatments or savor culinary delights like appam with stew, a combination of soft, lacy-edged rice pancakes served with a creamy coconut-based vegetable or meat stew infused with locally sourced spices.

Highlights: Luxury lodges surrounded by spice gardens • Tranquil lake safaris • Guided rainforest treks • Rejuvenating ayurvedic experiences

Tadoba’s beauty is best experienced from high-end lodges located near the park gates. These accommodations offer luxurious suites adorned with traditional Indian decor alongside gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients. Your private safaris will provide an intimate glimpse into Tadoba’s pristine wilderness as skilled guides lead you through teak forests alive with bird calls and rustling leaves.

Tadoba is renowned for its thriving tiger population, with sightings often occurring in sun-dappled clearings or along forest trails bordered by dense vegetation. The park’s tranquil lakes also offer unique opportunities to observe tigers cooling off in the water during warmer months. In the evenings, spend time around bonfires under starry skies while listening to nature’s nocturnal symphony and sharing stories of your day in the wild with other guests.

Highlights: Remote luxury lodges offering exclusivity • Thrilling tiger sightings on private safaris • Immersive wilderness experiences

Nagarhole is a sanctuary if you are seeking serenity alongside wildlife encounters. Stay in riverside cottages with infinity pools overlooking tranquil backwaters teeming with life, where you might spot herds of Asiatic elephants grazing near the water's edge or flocks of vibrant Malabar grey hornbills darting through the trees. Early-morning safaris will take you through mist-laden forests alive with bird calls as Bengal tigers prowl stealthily through the undergrowth.

What sets Nagarhole apart is its tranquil backwaters and lush landscapes within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, where tigers are often spotted wading near riverbanks or moving gracefully through open meadows alongside Indian gaurs and herds of deer. Your expert guides will ensure every safari is educational and thrilling, while evenings offer opportunities to unwind with yoga sessions or candlelit dinners on floating decks, surrounded by the sounds of nature

Highlights: Riverside luxury accommodations • Peaceful sunrise safaris led by experts • Rejuvenating wellness experiences in nature

Gir’s dry scrublands are home to the endangered Asiatic lion, a rare sight best explored from premium resorts that combine eco-conscious design with modern comforts like spa treatments and organic dining options. Private Jeep safaris are led by seasoned trackers who specialize in lion behavior, ensuring you unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures as they lounge under acacia trees or stalk prey through golden grasslands.

Beyond lions, the park’s diverse ecosystem hosts other fascinating wildlife, such as leopards stealthily navigating rocky terrain, jackals darting through the underbrush, and herds of chital and sambar deer grazing peacefully near waterholes. Rich birdlife that includes crested serpent eagles and painted sandgrouse adds an upbeat soundtrack to the wilderness.

Highlights: Eco-luxury accommodations emphasizing sustainability • Exclusive lion-tracking safaris guided by experts • Awe-inspiring conservation success stories

These exclusive wildlife safaris in India offer more than just a glimpse of majestic creatures; they provide an immersive journey into nature's grandeur, complemented by the finest luxuries and gourmet cuisine. With expert-led adventures, bespoke accommodations, and unparalleled opportunities for intimate wildlife encounters, these destinations cater to the most discerning travelers seeking transformative experiences.

Discover even more detailed insights in our comprehensive India travel guide, where you'll find a wealth of resources to plan your dream safari. Further inspiration can be found in our India tours and vacations.