India is home to 70% of the world's wild tigers, along with leopards, elephants, rhinos, and an incredible diversity of birdlife. National park safaris are a highlight of any India trip.
Top Wildlife Parks
Ranthambore (Rajasthan)
- From Delhi: 400 km, 6-7 hours; From Jaipur: 160 km, 3 hours
- Best for: Tiger sighting (highest probability in India)
- Ancient fort inside the park, stunning photography backdrop
- Open: October–June
Jim Corbett (Uttarakhand)
- From Delhi: 230 km, 5-6 hours
- Best for: Tigers, elephants, diverse wildlife
- India's oldest national park
- Multiple zones: Dhikala (best, but limited access), Bijrani, Jhirna
- Open: November–June (varies by zone)
Bandhavgarh (Madhya Pradesh)
- From Delhi: 800 km (fly to Jabalpur, then 195 km drive)
- Best for: Highest tiger density in India
- White tigers were first discovered here
- Open: October–June
Kaziranga (Assam)
- From Guwahati: 220 km, 4-5 hours
- Best for: One-horned rhinoceros (world's largest population)
- Also elephants, wild buffalo, and occasionally tigers
- Open: November–April
Periyar (Kerala)
- From Kochi: 190 km, 4.5 hours
- Best for: Elephants, boat safari on the lake
- Tropical setting, spice plantations nearby
- Open: Year-round
Safari Booking Tips
- Book online in advance — popular zones sell out weeks ahead
- Morning safaris are best — animals are most active at dawn
- Choose the right zone — ask your driver or hotel for recommendations based on recent sightings
- Carry binoculars — many sightings are at distance
- Wear neutral colours — khaki, olive, brown. No bright colours or white.
Getting There by Car
Most wildlife parks are 4-7 hours from the nearest major city. There's no public transport to park gates — a car is essential.
Your Royal Fleet car brings you to the park gate. From there, you take the park's safari jeep or canter (mandatory — personal vehicles aren't allowed inside most parks).
Accommodation
Most parks have accommodation ranging from forest lodges (₹2,000-5,000/night) to luxury jungle resorts (₹15,000-40,000/night). Book well in advance for peak season.
Book Your Safari Trip
Royal Fleet handles transport to and from all major national parks in North India. Multi-day retention plans work best — drive in, stay, and drive back.