Complete Guide on Night Safaris in India
India is known to the world for its scenic beauty that homes a variety of wildlife from fiercest tigers to deadliest reptiles to magnificent lions to gracious elephants to a wide range of birds. Wildlife safaris in India have found local and international tourists crowding to catch a glimpse of these wild beauties. Now, some of the sanctuaries are offering night safaris in India. Yes! The experience of witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat under the starry night with a quiet ambiance filled with sweet sounds is simply astonishing. Let’s explore what a night safari is and how to plan one:
What is a night safari in India?
It’s a safari organized at night to witness majestic nocturnal animals otherwise hiding during the day. One may even sight non-nocturnal animals and birds who prefer to venture freely at night. They start after sunset and go into midnight, lasting 3 to 4 hours. As the time of night safari is limited, people usually book the safari months in advance. It is organized in the buffer area of the park. Madhya Pradesh Tourism introduced it, and many national parks across India are offering this service over a period.
Spotting animals at night has a special thrill that is memorable for a lifetime.
Why should you do a wildlife safari at night?
Many wildlife enthusiasts believe that nighttime safaris are dangerous and not many wild animals can be spotted at night. Firstly, the night safaris in India are organized in safe zones where you can spot the animals, but they don’t come into those areas to attack. Additionally, they are carried out in safe vehicles. Secondly, many wild animals like tigers, bears, civets, nightjars, variety of nocturnal birds like owls. Here are some reasons we feel one must check out a wildlife safari:
- Avoid the crowds of the day safari. Night safari groups are smaller and few; this ensures a stress-free safari where you can spot some animals easily.
- The cool ambiance of the night is very relaxing. However, during the day heat and dust can lower your energy levels making the whole safari experience unpleasant.
- The beauty of nocturnal beasts and birds is underappreciated. Yet, those who have seen them close experience a mesmerizing thrill that a day safari can’t match.
- A day safari of 3-4 hours can take away the whole day. But, with a night wildlife safari, you can enjoy the day by exploring what you like and unwind at night by taking nature’s purity.
Who is the night wildlife safari for?
It is for every tourist, wildlife and adventure enthusiast. Anyone who is open to exploring off-beat nature must explore a natural park at night. However, it is not for photographers who wish to click great pictures. It is for those who love wildlife and its conservation.
Which popular wildlife sanctuaries in India offer night safari?
Only a few national parks in India have the permission and capacity to offer nighttime wildlife safari. The popular ones that one must explore are:
Tadoba
Nestled in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve offers a scheduled night safari between 7 PM to 9 PM. There have been tiger sightings that were difficult to spot during the day; hence, some visitors repeat their visits at night. Additionally, the sounds of the insects and viewing different types of owls and bats can make an exciting mix.
Pench
The famous Jungle Book is based on this national park where most of the year is covered in sweltering heat during the day. Night safaris are a huge relief in this region, where you can explore the wildlife on cool starry nights. Sighting of these beasts is easier at night as even they venture freely in as cool freeze flows. The safari here lasts 2 hrs, and timings are between 5.30 PM to 8.30 PM. This national park is famous for sighting tigers, jackals, deer, wild boars, owls, etc.
Satpura
The peaceful atmosphere of total darkness in the forest at Satpura sanctuary is a surreal experience. Night safari is an ideal time to spot sloth bears, leopards, rust-spotted cats (the smallest wildcat in the world), and even tigers. Satpura night safari is 3 hrs long and very relaxed as the buffer zones are serene and close to waterbodies where animals come at night.
Preparing for a Night Safari:
Just like a day safari, you will need to prepare in advance with a few things so that you can make the most of your visit, here we share some of the key things:
- Insect repellent: It will protect you from bites from any mosquitoes or unknown jungle insects.
- Water bottle: There is no filtered water in the jungle and it is important to stay hydrated, so carry a few bottles of water.
- Raincoat: Depending upon the weather, carry a raincoat or poncho to shield yourself from rain.
- Torch: In the night safari, the torch is your guide. It will help you spot the animals.
- Night binoculars: It is an investment worth making to catch wild animals even at a distance.
Are you ready for an adventure in the dark? The beauty of the night forest is rare and unmatched. Korners of India organises such memorable wildlife night safaris that you will remember for a lifetime.