Safaris in November & December | Tips and Trips To Plan

Picture this: the crisp morning air, a golden sunrise painting the horizon, and the hauntingly beautiful call of the wild reverberating through dense forests. That’s not just an Instagram-worthy daydream—it’s the real magic of safaris in November and December in India. This time of year is when the wilderness transforms into a living canvas. And, if you’ve been longing to step out of the mundane and immerse yourself in nature, let the extraordinary wildlife destinations in India lead the way.

November and December mark the sweet spot for safari trips. Did you know that – India features around 40 tiger reserves, 100 national parks and 450 wildlife sanctuaries. Whether it’s the thrill of spotting a majestic Bengal tiger in Ranthambore—the best tiger safari in India—or catching a glimpse of rare migratory birds in Kaziranga, these months are ideal for an unforgettable safari excursion. Moreover, national parks like Bandhavgarh, Jim Corbett, and Kanha throw open their gates for enthusiasts ready to uncover their well-guarded secrets. With fewer crowds (if you plan your safari trip well) and abundant sightings, it’s not just a trip; it’s an experience awaiting to be discovered.

Why should you plan safaris in November and December?

The charm of planning your travel to national parks during these winter months lies in their accessibility and appeal. As the festive season dwindles and the year edges toward its close, trips in November and travel in December feel like a reward—a chance to pause and reconnect with the world beyond screens and schedules. Fortunately for you, these months also host some of the best safari experiences in December. For those new to India wildlife tours, a handy national parks travel guide will set you on the right path. From planning the ultimate safari in India to choosing the park that suits your adventure style, these months have it all. So, pack those binoculars, lace up your boots, and head out for the best tiger safari in India or explore lesser-known national parks in November and December brimming with biodiversity. After all, nothing beats the thrill of locking eyes with the wild beasts in their purest form.

Picture Credits: Avel Chuklanov via Unsplash

1. Ranthambore Safari

Ranthambore National Park—a majestic realm where the queens of the jungle, the elusive Bengal tigers, roam freely amidst ancient ruins and dense forests. If you’re planning safaris in November or safaris in December, Ranthambore tops the list for a rendezvous with the wild. From the thrill of spotting a tiger to exploring the park’s vibrant flora and fauna, this is your gateway to the best tiger safari in India.

Picture Credits: Kartik Iyer via Unsplash

The best time to visit Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan is undeniably in November and December. The cooler climate makes it perfect for a Ranthambore jeep safari, and the park’s zones—each unique in its biodiversity—promise an adventure in every corner. While Ranthambore zones 1 to 5 are known for frequent tiger sightings, zones 6 to 10 boast picturesque landscapes and rare wildlife. Pro tip: Check the Ranthambore safari official website for the latest updates on zones and availability before booking your excursion.

Planning a luxury tiger safari India? Ranthambore delivers with style. From lavish villas to curated experiences that redefine wilderness travel, every detail is designed for indulgence. With the Ranthambore safari booking price detailed on the official website, planning is a breeze. So, pack your camera, channel your inner explorer, and head to one of the best tiger reserves in India for a safari experience you’ll never forget.

Ranthambore Safari Timings:

1. November – January: 7:00 – 10:30 AM | 2:00 – 5:30 PM
2. February – March: 6:30 – 10:30 AM | 2:30 – 6:00 PM

Tips & Tricks:

• Wear khaki coloured clothes or something that easily blends you and doesn’t let you stand out
• Carefully select your safari company
• Carry sunscreen and Odomos with you
• Don’t forget your camera and binoculars

2. Pench National Park – One of the best safari destinations in India

If you’ve ever been enchanted by the tales of The Jungle Book, Pench National Park might feel like a childhood dream come true. This vibrant wildlife destination in India served as Rudyard Kipling’s inspiration for the legendary tale of Mowgli and Sher Khan. As the year-end chill settles in, there’s no better time to embark on a jungle safari in India than during safaris in November and December. With its dense teak forests, meandering rivers, and a thriving population of wildlife, Pench offers one of the best animal safari experiences in India. The park spans the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, with each side offering unique safari experiences. The Madhya Pradesh side is home to the Pench core zone, accessible through popular entry points like the Khawasa gate and Pench Khursapar gate. For a more organised adventure, consider exploring Pench jungle safari packages, which include guided tours and accommodation options. This best jungle safari in Madhya Pradesh offers sightings of not just the majestic tiger but also a vibrant array of bird species, deer, and sloth bears. So, if you’re venturing from Nagpur – this jungle safari in Maharashtra promises an unforgettable dive into the wild.

Picture Credits: UPASANA SAIGAL via Unsplash

Pench Safari Timings:

1. For winter: 7:30 – 10:30 AM, 3:00 – 5:30 PM
2. For summer: 6:30 – 9:30 AM, 4:00 – 6:30 PM

Tips & Tricks for this jungle safari!

• Refrain from choosing safaris in monsoon
• Opt for safari tours in the morning
• Avoid applying strong perfumes

3. Kaziranga National Park in Assam

Welcome to Kaziranga National Park in Assam, where the iconic one-horned rhinoceros reigns supreme and wildlife thrives in a natural paradise. If you’re looking for the ultimate jungle safari in India, Kaziranga is a must-visit, especially during safaris in November and safaris in December. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and co-incidently the best time to see tiger in India during the winter months! For those planning a safari excursion, options abound: hop on a jeep for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the wilderness or opt for the iconic elephant safari in Kaziranga. Curious about the Kaziranga elephant safari price or the Kaziranga safari timings? The Kaziranga National Park official website is your go-to resource for up-to-date information. Kaziranga isn’t just another stop on the India wildlife tours map. The Kaziranga National Park project has transformed this area into a thriving haven for the Big Five of Indian wildlife: tigers, rhinos, elephants, wild buffaloes, and swamp deer. he park’s diverse zones cater to all kinds of adventurers. From riverine forests to grasslands teeming with life, every corner has a story to tell. And for the ultimate convenience, look out for India wildlife tour packages that include accommodation, guided safaris, and local insights! It for sure promises to be the best safari in December you’ll ever embark on.

Kaziranga Safari Tour Timings:

1. For Jeep Safari: Morning: 7:00 – 9:30 AM, 1:30 – 3:30 PM
2. For Elephant Safari: 5:30 – 7:30 AM, 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Tips & Tricks:

• Like any other safari tours, wear clothing that blends you with the foliage around
• Consult forest authorities before moving to remote areas.

4. Tadoba National Park in Maharashtra

Tadoba is also known as Maharashtra’s crown jewel and a favourite for those seeking the best tiger safari in India. Known as the “Jewel of Vidarbha,” this enchanting forest promises the perfect mix of wilderness and comfort, making it ideal for both seasoned wildlife enthusiasts and first-timers. If you’re planning safaris in December, Tadoba should be on your list!

Picture Credits: thebimblebee via Unsplash

The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve Maharashtra boasts a thriving population of tigers, leopards, and sloth bears, making it one of the best wildlife safari destinations in India. Start your journey by booking your jungle safari via Tadoba’s online booking site, or the convenient TATR booking platforms. Entry points such as Kolara Gate safari’s booking and Moharli Gate’s safari booking offer access to the park’s most vibrant zones. For an immersive experience, check out the charming Tadoba Jungle Camp. There are a few budget-friendly options through MTDC Tadoba safari booking as well. The Tadoba Jeep Safari cost is worth every penny when you’re face-to-face with the majestic striped king of the jungle. For up-to-date information, visit the Tadoba safari booking official website and plan your perfect winter escape.

Tadoba isn’t just a safari; it’s a rendezvous with nature.

Tadoba National Park Safari Timings:

1. Morning Timings: 06:30 – 11:00 AM
2. Evening Timings: 02:30 – 06:30 PM
3. Night Safari Timings: 7.30 to 10.30 PM

The Park opens from October to June and the best time to spot tigers is March to May.

5. Bandipur National Park in South India

Welcome to Bandipur National Park, the wild heart of Karnataka and home to one of the best jungle safaris in South India. Known for its serene landscapes and thriving wildlife, Bandipur is the perfect spot for safaris in November, when the weather is crisp, and the forest is lush from the monsoons. A safari in India isn’t complete without exploring the rich biodiversity of the Bandipur forest, a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. From spotting elephants roaming gracefully to catching a glimpse of the elusive tiger, the Bandipur National Park animals never fail to amaze. Whether you’re booking a short Bandipur safari for a quick weekend adventure or opting for a comprehensive Bandipur National Park safari package, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.

Picture Credits: Prerna Prasad via Unsplash

For those seeking the best jungle safari in South India, Bandipur delivers both adventure and tranquility in equal measure.

Bandipur Safari Tour Timings:

1. For Jeep Safari: 6:00 – 9:00 AM, 4:00 – 6:00 PM
2. For Bus Safari: 6:30 – 9:00 AM, 3:30 – 5:30 PM
3. For Elephant Safari: 10:00 – 11:00 AM

6. Bandhavgarh Safaris in November

Ever wondered what it’s like to step into a real-life jungle book? Located in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is the stage for the best tiger safari in India, and the stars of the show—the majestic Bengal tigers—never disappoint. For those planning safaris in November or seeking the best safari in December, this tiger haven promises adventure! The best time to see tigers in Bandhavgarh is during the cooler months. With an impressive tiger population, the park offers exceptional chances to spot the striped predator in its natural habitat. Booking your Bandhavgarh tiger reserve safari is easy, thanks to the convenient Bandhavgarh tiger reserve booking system. Whether you’re opting for a jeep ride through the dense forest or exploring the park’s core zones, every safari brings a mix of anticipation and exhilaration.

Picture Credits: beingtiger24 via Unsplash

For a truly memorable safari in India, Bandhavgarh blends history, wildlife, and raw beauty like no other. Bandhavgarh National Park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including langurs, deer, barking deer, wild boars, Indian bison, and sambars. Once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Rewa, this park also holds a fascinating link to the great Hindu epic, the Ramayana. However, its star attraction remains the majestic tigers, drawing visitors from near and far. The ancient fort that looms over the park adds a sense of mystery to your adventure, while the vibrant biodiversity ensures every moment is picture-worthy. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this tiger paradise—start planning your tiger safari in Bandhavgarh now!

Bandhavgarh Safari Timings:

1. For mid-October to mid-February: 6:30 – 11:00 AM, 2:30 – 5:30 PM
2. From mid-February to March: 6:00 – 11:00 AM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM
3. From April – June: 5:30 – 10:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM

7. Jim Corbett National Park

Ever dreamt of sipping your morning coffee while a tiger casually strolls by? While that might sound like a plot twist in a wildlife thriller, a trip to Jim Corbett National Park could bring you surprisingly close to such magical moments. Located in Uttarakhand, this iconic wildlife destination isn’t just India’s first; it’s also the gold standard for a safari in India, attracting adventurers from across the globe. Planning safaris in November is perfect here. With a variety of zones to explore, the Jim Corbett Dhikala Zone stands out as the ultimate spot for the best jungle safari in Jim Corbett. This core area teems with wildlife, from the elusive Bengal tiger to herds of elephants and diverse birdlife. Booking your Jim Corbett safari is simple, thanks to the park’s streamlined process on the Jim Corbett official site. With competitive customizable Jim Corbett packages, there’s something for every kind of explorer.

Picture Credits: lokeshkaushikwfc via Unsplash

Jim Corbett Safari Timings:

1. Morning Safari timings during winters: 6:30 to 9:30 AM
2. Morning Safari timings during summers: 5:30 to 8:30 AM
3. Evening safari timings during winters: 2:30 to 5:30 PM
4. Evening safari timings during summers: 3:30 to 6:30 PM

8. Panna Tiger Reserve Safari

Think of Panna Tiger Reserve as the unsung hero in the league of national parks in India. While others might steal the limelight, Panna quietly impresses with its raw beauty, rich biodiversity, and thrilling tiger sightings. If you’re planning safaris in November, this national park in Madhya Pradesh is a must-visit! Booking your Panna Tiger Reserve Safari is as easy as clicking a button, thanks to the seamless Panna Tiger Reserve online booking process. Whether you’re aiming to explore the dense forests, spot majestic big cats, or marvel at the cascading Pandav Falls, this park guarantees an experience that’s nothing short of magical. The Panna National Park Safari online booking also offers flexibility with timings and zones, ensuring you don’t miss out on the best of this tiger reserve.

Picture Credits: Rijul Chaturvedi via Unsplash

Recognized as one of the top 5 national parks in India, Panna is home to more than just tigers. With leopards, sloth bears, and over 200 species of birds, every corner of the park teems with life.

Panna National Park Safari Timings:

1. For summer: 5:30 – 9:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
2. For winter: 6:30 – 9:30 AM, 2:30 – 5:30 PM

Safari Like A Pro: Tips & Hacks

Embarking on a wildlife safari? It’s not just about showing up with a camera; it’s about immersing yourself in the wild and ensuring every moment is as thrilling as spotting a tiger. Whether you’re planning safaris in November or gearing up for safaris in December, these tips and hacks will make your safari trips seamless and memorable.

1. Research, Book, Repeat
   Before you travel to national parks, research the best places to see tigers in India. Parks like Gir National Park Gujarat and other reserves are seasonal gems. Plan ahead and choose reputable safari trip packages to save time and secure the best experiences.
2. Dress the Part
   Opt for neutral tones like khaki and green to blend in. Avoid bright colors—they might scare off the wildlife (or make you a peacock’s target!). Comfortable shoes and a hat are your best allies during those long national park drives.
3. Essentials to Pack
   Binoculars and a high-zoom camera for that perfect tiger shot. Snacks and water, because safaris can be long and exhilarating.
4. Best Times, Best Zones
   The dry months of safaris in November and safaris in December are ideal for spotting big cats. For the best tiger reserve in India, inquire about zones known for sightings, whether it’s the Dhikala zone in Corbett or the core zone in Bandhavgarh.
5. Respect the Wild
   Keep noise levels low and don’t feed the animals. Remember, you’re in their home.

Also Read these safari blogs to know more:

1. Trip to Ranthambore in November & December: Complete Guide

2. Things to do in Jim Corbett: Safaris, Photography and more

3. From Treehouse to Safari: Discover Nature’s Best at Exotica Kabini