From Bandipur National Park To Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Places To Visit In South India For Jungle Safari

Discover North India’s winter wonders, where snow-covered peaks, serene valleys, and vibrant traditions create the perfect escape for the chilly season.

South Indian National Parks And Wildlife Sanctuaries

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South India's forests are populated with diverse flora and fauna, creating a paradise for wildlife lovers. The Western and Eastern Ghats contribute to its natural beauty, which is significant in the forest growth of India. South India has the potential to be the ultimate jungle safari as it boasts not only a thriving elephant population but also some unique wildlife species.

As winter approaches, it's time to shift these interests to the beautiful locations beyond South India, here are some places for unforgettable winter holiday vacations.

1. Bandipur National Park: 

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This park in Karnataka is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and according to many, it's a place where the forest smells end and life begins. On nearly 100 species of mammal and around 350 species of birds, endangered species mainly include tigers, sambhar, and four-horned antelopes. Jungle-fowl and green pigeons and a few other extremely rare species can be seen here. 

2. Periyar National Park:

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Located at Thekkady, Kerala, the tiger and elephant reserve is better known for its evergreen forests, scenic rivers like the Periyar and Pamba. The diverse wildlife of monitor lizards, lion-tailed macaques, and Nilgiri langurs can also be found here. Birders can get glimpses of darters and kingfishers amidst 260 other bird species found in these forests. The best period to visit this place is between September and April for enjoying the weather.

3. Mudumalai National Park:

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With a biography covering span over states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, Mudumalai National Park is endowed with many beautiful aspects of nature. It provides many lush green swamps and grasslands for which this park is famous among Bengal tigers, white-rumped vultures, and Indian elephants. The delightful aspect is further enriched by the Moyar River, which separates Mudumalai from Bandipur. The entire visit can be performed any day from October to May to experience the kind of colourful ecology.

4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary:

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Situated on the banks of Kaveri river, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, this place is paradise for a bird lover. The place has about 170 bird species which are mostly migratory, including painted storks and black-headed ibis. The sanctuary also has a small population of animals, other than birds, like flying foxes and bonnet macaques. 

5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:

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Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in Kerala, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary preserves the endangered germplasm flora and fauna in India. The place is home to tigers, elephants, langurs, and some very rare fish, including Malabar catopra. Amateurs birdwatching can spot several species, such as jungle fowl and black woodpecker. The best time when the cool climate is experienced is from October to February.