Best Night Safaris In India For An Adventurous Experience

India boasts stunning flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. While traditional safaris were limited to daylight hours, the forest department has now embraced night safari in some places. This innovation helps monitor illegal activities in the forest and enhances the overall safari experience. Imagine the thrill of spotting elusive nocturnal animals like rusty-spotted cats, civets, nightjars, and various owls that remain hidden during the day. Night safaris are available only in buffer zones, never in the core areas. Here are some night safaris to experience in India.

Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhubaneswar

The Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhubaneswar has introduced a night safari this year in the Bharatpur section. This initiative, announced recently by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Susanta Nanda, will run daily from 6 PM to 9 PM. The safari offers a unique wildlife experience in the heart of Bhubaneswar. To support this night safari, a fleet of at least 12 vehicles has been arranged to transport visitors into the jungle after dark.

Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Book a night safari in the enchanting buffer forest of Parsapani, nestled within Satpura National Park. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the forest department, these forests have been beautifully restored and rewilded, creating a truly captivating environment. As twilight descends and the blue hour begins, embark on a two-and-a-half-hour adventure from 5:30 PM to 8 PM that will immerse you in the mystery of the wild terrain.

Bandhavgarh-Kanha-Pench, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park, renowned for having the highest density of Royal Bengal tigers and spotted deer globally. The night safari here is in Dhamokhar and Panpatha buffer zones only. It runs from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, providing an incredible opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Winter timings are 5.30 PM to 8 PM, and summer timings are 6.30 PM to 9.30 PM. Don’t miss out on exploring Pench National Park where night safaris are available in Khawasa/Teliya buffer zones. The safari is less than three hours in the winters and it starts around 6 PM to 6.30 PM, depending on season, and gets over by 8.30 PM to 9 PM. In Kanha National Park, you can go on night safaris in the Khapa buffer zone, from 6 PM to 9 PM.

Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur

If you are considering a trip to Jaipur this winter, you are in for an exciting experience. Nahargarh Biological Park has introduced the newest attraction in Jaipur in the form of a tiger safari which promises to enthrall wildlife aficionados. Situated on the outskirts of Jaipur near Amer along the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, this wildlife park presents a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore the park and have some tiger sightings. The initial phase will introduce three big cats into the safari area: tigress Bhakti from Pune, Chameli and Gulab from Nagpur. To facilitate this experience, the safari area will accommodate four tourist vehicles, each equipped with secure safety cages, providing visitors with an up-close encounter with these majestic tigers.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Discover the beauty of nature at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe a variety of flora and fauna against a backdrop of breathtaking peaks. This sanctuary provides a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal weekend getaway for visitors of all ages eager to explore one of India's famed wildlife habitats. Covering an area of 90.44 square kilometres in the Western Ghats, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich vegetation. Consider opting for the night safari for an unforgettable experience; the jeep safari takes approximately two hours to complete.

Pro Tips

Embarking on a nighttime wildlife adventure is an incredible opportunity to witness the nocturnal lives of wild animals in their natural habitat. To ensure a respectful encounter, it’s vital to adhere to certain rules. For instance, keep noise levels low and use spotlights judiciously to prevent causing distress. Join guided night safaris led by expert naturalists and forest department staff who will enrich your experience with fascinating insights into the intriguing behaviour and ecology of nocturnal animals.

Embarking on a safari is a thrilling adventure, but respecting the specific timings and guidelines set by the forest department is essential. These rules are not just bureaucratic but vital in protecting wildlife and ensuring safety. Always take the time to familiarise yourself with these regulations.

For wildlife photographers, remember that night safaris have particular requirements. Use dim or infrared lights, as flash photography is strictly prohibited. Additionally, maintaining silence is crucial to avoid scaring the animals away. By respecting these guidelines, you enhance your experience and contribute to a peaceful atmosphere that benefits both you and the wildlife. Enjoy this extraordinary opportunity to connect with nature!