Hoping to see a tiger in the wild? Here are few tips to increase your chances of Tiger spotting on a tour to India
Pick the right park
It’s difficult for any safari operator to promise tiger sightings, but if you pick the right location you’ll definitely boost your chances. India is the best country to see tigers, but you’ll also find them in other Asian nations like China, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, as well as Siberia in Russia.
India’s best national parks for spotting tigers are: Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, Tadoba, Kanha, Pench, Corbett, and Satpura. There are pretty good populations of tigers in the Sunderbans but they’re hard to see.
Get the timing right
Early in the season (November-January) is colder and the tigers will be much more active; however, remaining monsoon water means they have fewer reasons to be out in the open.
February-March is peak time– the vegetation is in national parks and temperatures are still tolerable. The tiger experts go later to try to spot them by watering holes, but even the most passionate fans will wilt in 40 °C+ heat.
Accept that you’ll pay more
Foreigners often pay multiple times more than Indian citizens to enter India’s tiger parks. Get over it. Tip your safari driver and guide properly; if they do a great job, perhaps Rs700 a day.
Consider your transport
Most trips in tiger parks are by larger canter trucks & gypsy jeep. Book an exclusive gypsy vehicle to yourself if you need more control of your safari. Elephant-back safaris are available in Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Kanha.
Put your camera down
Tigers are all about witnessing: During your first tiger spotting, instead of rushing for photographs, see the majestic animal with eyes first and enjoy the moment.
Think beyond tigers
There’s a lot more to see in India’s wonderful parks, including wild cats, leopards, jackals, sloth bears, wolves. The birdlife, particularly in the warmer months, is fantastic.