Best Tiger Reserves in India - Safari, Stay Options, Best Time to Visit & More

Jungle Lodges & Resorts (JLR) is the eco-tourism wing of the Tourism Department in Karnataka. They actively work in the field of forest conservation. They encourage you to explore the abundance of wildlife Karnataka has. Their experiences, camps, and services can be found across Karnataka, with popular locations being Chikmagalur, Kabini, Mysore, Dandeli, Coorg, and Bangalore. The green hills, sandstone rocks, and vast plantations here will tempt you to take deep breaths of fresh air over and over, but also help you engage in a much-needed mind cleanse.  

Jungle Lodges & Resorts allows you to connect with the untamed beauty of the wild, giving you eco-luxury lodges to stay in that blend in harmoniously with its surroundings. We’re all guilty of daydreaming about the hills while we look out of our windows, stuck at work or in our homes. The locations of the Jungle Resorts are at the nexus of beautiful spots rife with exotic species of wildlife that thrive in their undisturbed natural habitat.   

Taking a step closer to sharing the same space as the rich, varied fauna spread across the undergrowth gives us an opportunity to understand the importance of preserving and conserving the lands they inhabit. To get a sense of this, a trip to the Jungle Lodge Resorts properties is much required and lets you take off from the city, into the wilderness. There are naturalists here that will be delighted to help you uncover the mysteries of the jungles and will leave you with little trivia about the wonders here. If you were unaware of this so far, explore the options on our website to gift yourself, your friends, and family a lovely, quick trip to the JLR properties where you can spend your time camping, embarking on a nature walk through the jade pastures, a trek up to the small hills, adventure activities like rope climbing, zip-lining, water rafting, kayaking, and the list goes on!  

If you're looking to hop on a wildlife safari, these Jungle Lodges in Karnataka are definitely worth looking into:

• Kabini River Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• River Tern Lodge
• Bannerghata Nature Camp

Travel to these beautiful stays in biodiversity hotspots and learn how to travel sustainably while preserving and enjoying the life around you.   

Karnataka, a land of vibrant wildlife and untamed beauty, is home to some of India’s most renowned tiger reserves. Imagine waking up in the heart of lush forests, with the sounds of the wild filling the air, and the thrilling sight of majestic tigers roaming freely. Whether you're an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape amidst nature, Karnataka’s tiger reserves offer the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and wildlife.

Karnataka’s tiger reserves not only offer an unforgettable experience of immersing yourself in nature but also provide an exceptional opportunity to witness the majestic tiger in its natural habitat. The state is home to some of India’s most thriving tiger populations, with reserves like Bandipur, Kabini, and Nagarhole playing a crucial role in tiger conservation efforts. Whether you’re spotting a tiger from the safety of a jeep during a thrilling safari or hearing the distant roar echo through the forest, the sight of these magnificent creatures is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart.

The Jungle Lodges & Resorts within these reserves offer a front-row seat to tiger sightings, often located in close proximity to prime wildlife zones where tigers roam freely. At these government-run lodges, you can embark on a guided safari, where trained naturalists and experienced guides lead you through dense jungles and waterways to spot tigers and other wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and wild boar. The allure of encountering a tiger—whether it’s watching one silently pad across the trail or seeing a mother with her cubs—is the highlight of any stay. These tiger reserves, combined with the comfort of well-appointed jungle lodges, make for an unforgettable wildlife experience that connects you deeply to the wild, while also contributing to the conservation of these incredible apex predators.

Imagine immersing yourself in the wild landscapes of Tamil Nadu’s renowned tiger reserves. Nestled among lush forests, Tamil Nadu’s tiger reserves offer a sanctuary where wildlife roams freely, and you have a front-row seat to nature’s drama. Waking up to the sound of bird calls, you step out to breathtaking views of dense foliage and pristine rivers, setting the stage for a day filled with adventure and relaxation.

Your journey might start at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, where the landscape brims with teak forests, bamboo groves, and a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and over 200 bird species. The Anamalai Tiger Reserve offers another unique adventure, with jeep safaris that bring you close to incredible wildlife amidst lush coffee and tea plantations. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, another gem, is famed for its rugged terrain and the thrill of spotting elusive tigers. Each reserve in Tamil Nadu has its own story and ecosystem, making it an unmissable destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families alike.

At each of these reserves, you’ll find eco-friendly, luxurious accommodations that ensure both comfort and sustainability. Whether it’s staying in a cozy lodge at the edge of Mudumalai’s wilderness or enjoying the fine amenities of a hilltop resort overlooking Anamalai, your stay enhances the experience of Tamil Nadu’s natural wonders. These resorts often come with expert-led safaris, guided nature walks, and enriching experiences that allow you to witness the majestic tigers and diverse wildlife up close.

Beyond the daytime safaris and nature walks, Tamil Nadu’s tiger reserves come alive at dusk, offering nocturnal experiences that let you witness the vibrant, hidden world of the forest at night. Imagine embarking on an evening safari, where the forest hums with activity, and the thrill of spotting elusive creatures under the starlit sky adds a new level of excitement. Some reserves also offer opportunities for stargazing in pristine, unpolluted skies—a serene contrast to the thrill of the jungle, perfect for winding down after a day of adventure.

And, as each reserve offers a unique ecosystem, there are rich opportunities to engage with local culture and conservation initiatives. Many of the eco-resorts work closely with tribal communities to offer cultural experiences, from traditional crafts to dances, giving you a glimpse into the lives of those who share the forest with the wildlife. Additionally, conservation talks and sessions by naturalists and forest rangers offer insights into the protection of Tamil Nadu’s tigers and habitats, making your stay both memorable and meaningful.

Envision yourself navigating through the mystical jungles of West Bengal, where the roar of Bengal tigers echoes across lush landscapes and mangrove forests. West Bengal’s tiger reserves—ranging from the enchanting Sundarbans to the wild terrains of Buxa and Gorumara—offer a rare glimpse into one of India’s most biodiverse regions.

In the Sundarbans, a unique boat safari takes you through intricate waterways, bringing you close to Bengal’s famed mangrove wildlife. Watch for saltwater crocodiles basking on the banks, tiger sightings in the dense vegetation, and a rich array of bird species. The knowledgeable guides shed light on the fascinating ecosystem and conservation efforts preserving this extraordinary habitat.

At Buxa and Gorumara, explore pristine forests on thrilling jeep safaris, where you’ll encounter elephants, leopards, and vibrant birdlife. Each safari is an exploration of West Bengal’s hidden wildlife, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and discover the intricate biodiversity of the region.

Unwind after the day’s adventures at scenic lodges like Sundarban Tiger Camp or Jaldapara Jungle Lodge, where rustic charm meets modern comfort, offering a serene escape within the heart of the jungle. Indulge in local cuisine, share stories around a campfire, and immerse yourself in West Bengal’s remarkable wilderness.

West Bengal’s tiger reserves offer an adventurous escape where nature, luxury, and wildlife come together, promising an unforgettable journey through Bengal’s stunning landscapes.