India is best known for its rich culture, yet its rich environment and diverse wildlife offer a tantalizing draw for any traveler interested in animals. India even has its own “big five,” akin to the famed species sought on African safaris. The Big Five of India – the Indian elephant, one-horned rhino, tiger, Indian leopard, and Asiatic lion – are spectacular creatures. They can be elusive, but searching the best places, at the best time of year, with one of India’s best naturalists, increases your chances greatly. Your guide, Avijit Sarkhel, has led Journeys’ safaris throughout India for the past ten years. He is one of India’s leading birders and is active in several ornithological societies. Avi’s passion for birds and other wildlife has made him one of the most insightful and qualified naturalist guides in the country. He is always on the lookout for the best opportunities to observe India’s great wildlife. Avi always travels well-equipped with a spotting scope, binoculars, audio recordings, playback equipment, and identification guides. He is also extremely well-read on Indian history and literature. He is fluent in English, Hindi, and Bengali. Avijit is Journeys’ senior naturalist in South Asia.

If you find tigers, you will also find a rich diversity of other mammals and birds. Expect this trip to be full of nature and wildlife experiences in Manas and Kanha Parks. This trip also takes you to some less frequently-visited tiger habitats that still offer excellent chances to see wild tigers and many other unique species, with the added benefit of encountering far fewer fellow tourists. Starting in Delhi, you’ll fly into the city, Guwahati, and then enter the land of Manas. Manas is a unique forest with marshy swamps, elephant grass, and damp forests and home not only to tigers, but also India’s greatest diversity and numbers of large mammals. Your safari by jeep will reach deep into the huge park. Later, spend a few days among the hustle of Kolkata and then fly to Raipur and on to Kanha for the Rajastan area and excellent chances of seeing a tiger. Kanha brings tigers out in the open and possibilities of sighting tigers goes up significantly as summer begins. Also look for Asiatic Elephant, One Horned Rhinoceros, Swamp Deer, Wild Buffalo, and Hog Deer.