Tigers and Other Treasures of India

India is arguably the best place in the world to see Tigers in the wild. These stunning animals are an endangered species, which has led to reserves being set up to monitor and protect them. Confining them to reserves means that they can be closely followed and studied and, as such, appropriate steps can be taken to ensure the survival of one of the planet’s most beautiful big cats.

Tiger tours are a popular way for visitors to get close to these intriguing animals and spend time observing them in their natural environment. Several reputable travel companies offer excellent dedicated Tiger tours to various reserves throughout India. The best accommodate only small groups of clients so your chances of seeing the big cats is maximised. Usually, accommodation is in one of a number of reserves’ comfortable lodges – all of which provide a good standard of service and excellent game drives.

The game drives normally take place in the early morning and/or late afternoon when the chance of sightings is increased. These majestic animals are habitually elusive and the first sighting is always a breathtaking, thrilling and unforgettable experience. Although the main focus of Tiger tours is self-explanatory, there are many other fascinating species of wildlife living alongside them in the reserves. Spending time in this fascinating and complex environment allows you to really experience the jungle in its entirety. Every animal has its place and you will get used to the warning calls of the Sambar, indicating the presence of a Tiger; the nocturnal shrieking of the Jackals; and the incredible array of birdsong in the mornings. These reserves are a wildlife lover’s paradise.

Add-Ons to your Tiger Tours

India is synonymous with these majestic animals and many people’s prime reason for coming but, if you want to extend your tour and explore more of what this fantastic continent has to offer, consider one or more of the many other wonderful excursions.

The reserves of Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore are within an easy overnight train journey of Delhi, one of the world’s most populated cities. Its Moghul history offers endless sightseeing opportunities; heading into Old Delhi will give you a real taste of local Indian life today. Delhi exudes tradition and religion and its heritage raises many poignant questions regarding the opportunities of the continent becoming the next superpower. You can take a tour of Delhi on a rickshaw and lose yourself in one of the most intense cultural experiences imaginable. India is a feast for the senses and Delhi is one of the best places to absorb the real Indian culture.

From Delhi you can take a trip to Agra and marvel in the glory that is the Taj Mahal. Definitely best seen at sunrise, this exquisite Moghul legacy deserves its place as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. On to Rajasthan, with its colourful streets, wandering camels and grand fortresses, to visit Udaipur, Jaipur and Jaisalmer. Rajasthan is also home to Bharatpur, one of northern India’s best wetland bird sanctuaries.

India has much to offer in terms of culture, history and, or course, wildlife; by extending your Tiger tours and integrating some other excursions into your holiday you can create the experience of a lifetime.

By Suzana