India boasts stunning flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. Exploring this natural beauty in daylight provides a unique sense of tranquillity and excitement. While traditional safaris were limited to daylight hours, the forest department has now embraced night safaris, also called night patrols. This innovation helps monitor illegal activities in the forest and enhances the overall safari experience. Imagine the thrill of spotting elusive nocturnal animals like rusty-spotted cats, civets, nightjars, and various owls that remain hidden during the day. Night safaris offer an unparalleled adventure, bringing a whole new dimension to wildlife exploration in India. Here are seven night safaris to experience in India.

　　Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhubaneswar

　　The Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhubaneswar has introduced a night safari this year in the Bharatpur section. This initiative, announced recently by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Susanta Nanda, will run daily from 6 PM to 9 PM. The safari offers a unique wildlife experience in the heart of Bhubaneswar. To support this night safari, a fleet of at least 12 vehicles has been arranged to transport visitors into the jungle after dark.

　　Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

　　Book a night safari in the enchanting buffer forests of Sehra and Parsapani, nestled within Satpura National Park. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the forest department, these forests have been beautifully restored and rewilded, creating a truly captivating environment. As twilight descends and the blue hour begins, embark on a two-and-a-half-hour adventure from 5:30 PM to 8 PM that will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty and mystery of the untamed terrains. Take advantage of this chance to witness the magnificence of nature after dark!

　　Bandhavgarh-Kanha-Pench, Madhya Pradesh

　　Bandhavgarh National Park, renowned for having the highest density of Royal Bengal tigers and spotted deer globally. The night safari here runs from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, providing an incredible opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Kanha National Park, where the safari operates from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM. This park has made headlines for its successful reintroduction of barasinghas, a species once on the brink of extinction, alongside a thriving population of Royal Bengal tigers. Don’t miss out on exploring Pench National Park, which is famous for its leopards and tigers. The safari here is available from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, allowing you to experience the magic of the forest at night. Book your night safaris easily through the Wildlife Safari Reservation portal, operated by the state’s forest department, and prepare for an unforgettable wildlife experience!

　　Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

　　The night safari at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra, a captivating way to witness the park's incredible wildlife after dark. You'll be able to spot majestic tigers, elusive leopards, magnificent Indian bison, wild boars, and charming civet cats. As you journey through the night, watch for enchanting fireflies and listen to the haunting calls of owls, owlets, and nightjars. Your night safari adventure begins just after sunset and lasts for about 3 to 4 hours, offering a unique glimpse into the creatures of the night. Don't miss out—secure your spot by booking through the park's official website or a trusted tour operator. Due to high demand, especially in winter, it's wise to reserve your experience in advance and don warm clothing to fully enjoy this unforgettable encounter with nature.

　　Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur

　　If you are considering a trip to Jaipur this winter, you are in for an exciting experience. Nahargarh Biological Park has introduced the newest attraction in Jaipur in the form of a tiger safari which promises to enthrall wildlife aficionados. Situated on the outskirts of Jaipur near Amer along the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, this wildlife park presents a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore the park and have some tiger sightings. The initial phase will introduce three big cats into the safari area: tigress Bhakti from Pune, Chameli and Gulab from Nagpur. To facilitate this experience, the safari area will accommodate four tourist vehicles, each equipped with secure safety cages, providing visitors with an up-close encounter with these majestic tigers. The safari project was developed at a cost of INR 4.5 crore.

　　Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

　　Discover the beauty of nature at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe a variety of flora and fauna against a backdrop of breathtaking peaks. This sanctuary provides a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal weekend getaway for visitors of all ages eager to explore one of India's famed wildlife habitats. Covering an area of 90.44 square kilometres in the Western Ghats, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich vegetation. Consider opting for the night safari for an unforgettable experience; the jeep safari takes approximately two hours to complete.

　　Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

　　Nestled in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is famous for its majestic Bengal tigers. The incredible park, teeming with national animals, offers a unique opportunity to witness a rich array of wildlife, including playful hyenas, graceful nilgais, intriguing langurs, and elusive Indian leopards. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is divided into 10 safari zones, which are excellent for tiger sightings. Visitors can book their Ranthambore safari in advance online. The evening safari slots start around 2:30 PM and run until 7:30 PM.

　　Pro Tips

　　Embarking on a nighttime wildlife adventure is an incredible opportunity to witness the nocturnal lives of wild animals in their natural habitat. To ensure a respectful encounter, it’s vital to adhere to certain rules. For instance, keep noise levels low and use spotlights judiciously to prevent causing distress. Join guided night safaris led by expert naturalists and forest department staff who will enrich your experience with fascinating insights into the intriguing behaviour and ecology of nocturnal animals.

　　Embarking on a safari is a thrilling adventure, but respecting the specific timings and guidelines set by the forest department is essential. These rules are not just bureaucratic but vital in protecting wildlife and ensuring safety. Always take the time to familiarise yourself with these regulations.

　　For wildlife photographers, remember that night safaris have particular requirements. Use dim or infrared lights, as flash photography is strictly prohibited. Additionally, maintaining silence is crucial to avoid scaring the animals away. By respecting these guidelines, you enhance your experience and contribute to a peaceful atmosphere that benefits both you and the wildlife. Enjoy this extraordinary opportunity to connect with nature!