Monsoon safari in India: 5 wildlife destinations people can still visit

As the monsoon brings rain and greenery across the country, forests, rivers and grasslands take on a fresh look. For nature lovers, it can be a rewarding time to experience wildlife in its natural habitat.

Most national parks and tiger reserves shut their core safari zones during the rainy season due to heavy rainfall and safety concerns. However, a few wildlife destinations continue to operate select safari zones and tourism activities, allowing visitors to enjoy both the beauty of the monsoon and the thrill of spotting wildlife.

Here are some destinations where you can experience a wildlife safari and soak in nature's monsoon charm at the same time.

Hemis National Park, Ladakh

Hemis National Park in Ladakh offers a very different wildlife experience from India's forest reserves. It is the largest national park in the country and is famous for its snow leopards and high-altitude landscapes.

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The park lies between the Indus and Zanskar rivers and is surrounded by small villages such as Rumbak and Chilling. The best time to visit is between May and early October, when roads and trekking routes are open.

Travellers visiting in June and July can also attend the Hemis Festival. The mountain scenery and unique wildlife make Hemis a popular destination during this period.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Located near Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park remains a favourite among wildlife lovers. During the monsoon, the core safari zones close, but zones 6 to 10 stay open for visitors.

The rains bring fresh greenery to the reserve and improve the landscape around its lakes and forests. Apart from Bengal tigers, the park is home to leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, jackals, crocodiles and several deer species. More than 320 bird species have also been recorded here.

Visitors can combine their safari with a visit to Ranthambore Fort and nearby waterfalls that become active during the rainy season.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, India's oldest national park, remains partly open during the monsoon. While most zones close because of heavy rainfall, the Jhirna Zone continues to operate and allows visitors to enjoy wildlife safaris.

The monsoon season usually sees fewer tourists, making the experience quieter. Jeep safaris run through Jhirna and nearby Sitabani areas.

The rainy season is also important for birdlife, with many species becoming active during their breeding period. The green forests and lower crowds make Corbett a good option for a monsoon wildlife trips.

Periyar National Park, Kerala

Located in Thekkady, Kerala, Periyar National Park is one of the few wildlife destinations that remains open during the monsoon season. Set in the Western Ghats, the park is known for its elephants, tigers, gaurs, wild boars, sambar deer and Nilgiri langurs.

During monsoon, the Periyar National Park receives substantial rainfall, which replenishes the rivers and streams, enhancing the splendor of its waterfalls.

The forests become even greener during the rainy months, making it a good time to enjoy the park's natural beauty. Visitors can take boat rides on Periyar Lake, try bamboo rafting, go trekking or join guided wildlife tours. While some routes may close due to heavy rain, the park remains accessible through most of the monsoon.

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

Located in Maharashtra's Chandrapur district, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is the state's oldest and largest national park. Although some core zones close during the monsoon, a few tourism zones remain open depending on weather conditions.

Tadoba is best known for its Bengal tiger population, but visitors can also spot leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, dholes, nilgai and several species of deer. The reserve has lakes, rivers, forests and open grasslands that look especially fresh after the rains. For birdwatchers, the park is home to more than 195 species, including eagles, flycatchers and warblers.

Tiger safaris extended in Uttar Pradesh till June 30

Wildlife lovers in Uttar Pradesh have an added reason to plan a safari this season. Owing to the delayed arrival of the monsoon, several key tiger reserves in the state will remain open until June 30. “Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Amangarh Tiger Reserve and Ranipur Tiger Reserve will remain open for tourists till June 30,' said Anuradha Vemuri, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Uttar Pradesh, as cited by the Hindustan Times.

While monsoon safaris usually operate with limited access and fewer open zones, the extension gives visitors extra time to explore some of the state's leading wildlife destinations before seasonal closures begin.