Achanakmar Tiger Reserve

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a heaven for wildlife and is situated in Chhattisgarh State of India. It is part of larger Achanakmar Biosphere Reserve. 

The tiger reserve spans over 914 sq.km it spans over Mungeri District of Chhattisgarh State and over Anuppur and Dindori District of Madhya Pradesh. Its status as wildlife sanctuary was upgraded to National Park in the year 1975 and subsequently it was  notified as tiger reserve in the year 2009. The population of tigers in the reserve is now 18 rising from 5 whence they were translocated from other reserves.Tigers are breeding well at Achanakmar Tiger Reserve with a population of ten adults and 8 cubs.

Veerangana Durgawati Tiger Reserve

 Veerangana Tiger Reserve is the 7th tiger reserve of Madhya Pradesh incorporates two wildlife sanctuaries Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary and Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary. Veerangana Durgawati Tiger Reserve is situated in the districts of Damoh, Sagar and Narsinghpur of Madhya Pradesh.

Veerangana Tiger Reserve is home to tigers, leopards and many mammals. The reserve is home to over 200 birds including migrants.

 Veerangana Rani Durgawati Tiger encompasses 2339 sq.km and it is named after the legendary warrior queen Durgawati. Durgawati belongs to gond tribes of Madhya Pradesh with its capital at Garha in Jabalpur Town.

Rani Durgawati built a number of fortresses in and around Jabalpur. One of the noteable forts built by the Gonds was Singorgarh. Singorgarh is within the confines of Veerangana Rani Durgawati Tiger Reserve. 

Conservation of Nauradehi Tiger Reserve

Nauradehi is slated to be the country's 3rd Cheetah Site. Thus tiger conservation at Nauradehi has been integrated with Cheetah conservation giving a further boost to over all conservation efforts encompassing Rani Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve. 

Nauradehi is a mixed dry deciduous forest but also encompasses extensive grasslands that is most suited habitat for the fleet footed black buck. The diverse habitats thus supports a wide range of species very few tiger reserves exhibit such amazing range in India. 

Though not very popular as a tourist destination with the introduction of tigers and the proposed introduction of Cheetah the park so far hidden away from limelight is once again regaining its lost glory. 

Veerangana Tiger Reserve of which Nauradehi is a part is managed by a field director and a DFO along with a retinue of staff ranging for deputies to forest guards. 

Conserving the tiger reserve is not easy as it is compounded by a number of villages in the periphery. As a programme of Project Tiger Reserve the villages are being relocated after due compensation. A number of villages have been already shifted outside the reserve and the process is being continued.

Nauradehi Veeranga Tiger Reserve

 Situated near Jabalpur encompassing Damoh Sagar and Narsingpur Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary is within the jurisdiction of Veeranga Tiger Reserve. Home to tigers it is a large tiger reserve covering an area of 1000 sq.km. Along with Veerangana Tiger and Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary the critical tiger conservation area covers 2339 sq.km. The tiger reserve is an amalgamation of Veerangana Durgawati wildlife sanctuary and Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary.

Veerangana Tiger Reserve as critical tiger reserve is home to a number of species of mammals, reptiles and more than 200 species of birds.

Once teeming with tigers Nauradehi lost all its tigers to hunters and poachers. For a long time the sanctuary was without the big cats till some where translocated from other tiger reserves. At present there are more than 14 tigers which includes a family of  afive. Slowly and slowly the big cats are find back their foot hold in these forests.

Veerangana Durgawati  Tiger Reserve of which Nauradehi is a part may soon be home to Cheetahs translocated from Nigeria in Africa.

Verangana Durgawati Reserve is part of the state of Madhya Pradesh. Thus with the translocation of Cheetahs the state will be home to three big cats and will be a major tourist attraction.  The main approach to Nauradehi is via Sagar 50 km and Jabalpur at 90 km.

 Best places for Tiger and Wildlife Photography in India  

 

Read about the best places for tiger and wildlife photography in India. Here is some more information about each of these national parks: 

 

Bandhavgarh National Park:  

Located in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is known for its high density of tigers. It offers excellent opportunities for Tiger Photography Bandhavgarh, along with other wildlife such as leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species. 

 

Kanha National Park:  

Also situated in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha is one of India's largest national parks. It is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, Indian wild dogs, and several species of deer. The lush landscapes and picturesque meadows make it a great place for wildlife photography. 

 

Ranthambore National Park: 

Situated in Rajasthan, Ranthambore is famous for its population of Bengal tigers. The park's ancient ruins and scenic lakes add to the beauty of the wildlife sightings. Ranthambore is also home to other wildlife such as leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and various bird species. 

 

Tadoba National Park:  

Located in Maharashtra, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity. It offers opportunities to photograph tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and a wide range of bird species. The park's dense forests and picturesque landscapes make it a favorite among wildlife photographers. 

 

Corbett National Park:  

Situated in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park and a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Apart from tigers, it is home to a variety of animals such as elephants, leopards, Himalayan black bears, and several species of deer. The park's location near the foothills of the Himalayas provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. 

 

These national parks provide well-organized safari tours and have experienced guides who can assist you in spotting and capturing wildlife in their natural habitats. However, it's important to remember to maintain a safe distance and follow the guidelines to ensure the well-being of both the animals and yourself. 

 

The best time to visit these national parks for wildlife and tiger photography can vary based on the seasons and weather conditions. Here are the recommended months for both summer and winter visits: 

 

Summer Wildlife and Tiger Photography Opportunity: 

 

• Bandhavgarh National Park: April to June 
• Kanha National Park: April to June 
• Ranthambore National Park: April to June 
• Tadoba National Park: March to June 
• Corbett National Park: March to June 

 

During the summer months, animals tend to come out more frequently near to the water sources due to the high temperatures, increasing the chances of wildlife sightings and tiger encounters. However, please note that summer months can be extremely hot in some regions, so be prepared for the heat, and carry necessary precautions like sunscreen, hats, and ample water. 

 

Winter Wildlife and Tiger Photography Opportunity: 

 

• Bandhavgarh National Park: November to February 
• Kanha National Park: November to February 
• Ranthambore National Park: November to February 
• Tadoba National Park: November to February 
• Corbett National Park: November to February 

 

Winter months offer pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for wildlife photography. During this time, animals are often more active during the day, providing ample opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. 

 

 

Real-Time Tiger Sightings: Stay Updated on Recent Encounters research  

 

To conduct research on the best national parks in India for wildlife photography, you can utilize various sources and platforms. Here are some suggestions: 

 

• Social media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be valuable sources of information. Search for hashtags related to wildlife photography in India, such as #wildlifephotographyindia or #tigerphotography, to discover posts from photographers who have visited different national parks. Follow wildlife photography accounts or join relevant groups and communities to stay updated with the latest news and discussions. 

 

• News: Stay informed about wildlife-related news and updates through online news portals, nature magazines, and publications dedicated to wildlife conservation. They often cover stories and articles on national parks, tiger sightings, and photography opportunities. Websites of prominent newspapers like The Times of India, Hindustan Times, or The Indian Express may have dedicated sections for wildlife or travel that can provide useful insights. 

 

• Connect with photographers or wildlife lovers: Engage with photographers or wildlife enthusiasts who have visited national parks in India. You can do this through photography forums, online communities, or platforms like Flickr. Reach out to them directly to gather first hand experiences, tips, and recommendations on the best national parks for wildlife and tiger photography. 

 

• WhatsApp groups: Joining WhatsApp groups dedicated to wildlife photography or Indian national parks can be an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals. These groups often share updates, sightings, and valuable information about various national parks. Look for photography or nature-based groups on platforms like Facebook or photography forums, where members might share WhatsApp group invites. 

 

To connect with local guides, drivers, and naturalists for your wildlife photography trip to national parks in India, you can follow these steps: 

 

• Research local tour operators: Look for reputable tour operators that specialize in wildlife tours and photography expeditions in the specific national parks you plan to visit. Check their websites, read reviews, and assess their expertise in organizing wildlife photography trips. Local tour operators usually have a network of experienced guides, drivers, and naturalists. 

 

• Join online forums and communities: Join online forums, travel communities, and photography groups where members discuss their experiences in Indian national parks. Seek recommendations from fellow photographers or travelers who have visited these parks before. They may share contact details of reliable guides, drivers, or naturalists they have personally engaged with. 

 

 

• Reach out to local photography associations: Check if there are local photography associations or wildlife conservation organizations in the regions of the national parks you plan to visit. These associations often have members who are professional guides, drivers, or naturalists with extensive knowledge of the area. Contact them for recommendations or assistance in connecting with local experts. 

 

When interacting with potential guides, drivers, or naturalists, ensure to discuss your specific photography requirements, preferred itinerary, and budget. Use their experience in wildlife photography and their familiarity with the national park. It's also essential to verify their credentials and licenses to ensure they are authorized to operate within the parks. 

 

 

 

 

 

Taj Mahal Temples and Tigers

Taj Mahal Wonder of the World

India is a land of many wonders among those the Taj Mahal is world-renowned. It is often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world. Made of marble it exhibits one of the finest architecture unique to the Oriental region. It is a mausoleum built to commemorate Shah Jahan the Mogul's most beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. The ivory-white marble structure is adorned with the finest calligraphy. Shah Jehan himself rests in peace beside his beloved wife. It is situated on the right bank of the Yamuna River. The 17-hectare complex also houses a mosque and a guest house.

Taj Mahal was built by the famous architect Ustad Ahmed Lahori famous for the then Mughal Architecture style. Surrounding the structure is a large garden complex that houses mini gardens all around. The construction of the structure was completed in 1634 after it was commissioned in the year 1631 by Shah Jahan the Mogul Emperor. More structures were built and the work was completed in 1658.

 It was designated in the year 1983 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is regarded as the epitome of Mughal architecture. Thus Taj Mahal the wonder of the World is visited by thousands of tourists from India and abroad. It has become the country's landmark and almost all overseas and domestic tourists make a beeline for the mausoleum. 

Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho Group of Temples is a set of three complexes housing  Hindu and Jain Temples. Built between  885 CE and 1000 CE they are credited to  Chandela Dynasty. According to Ancient the complex housed 85 temples but due to erosion about 24 temples are left in a state of preservation. Some of the temples depict sexual carvings on the outer walls. This has made the temples more popular but the depiction is more of an education for young princes who lived in the hermitages.

Tiger

India now has more than fifty tiger reserves created for the conservation of the tigers. They are accorded complete protection in the reserves. Tourism is organized in the twenty percent of the core area. It is now organized in the buffer as well. Buffer is the outer area of the core. The core is the critical tiger habitat where they breed and survive.

Both the core and buffer tigersafari are organized for the permit holders. The permits are available for a charge which varies from state to state. You can book a permit online or from the respective gates.   

Exciting Tiger Safaris in India

 India is the land of the tiger. It has more than 50 percent of the big cats living in the country. The tiger is protected species, and it finds sanctuary in more than 50 tiger reserves. The reserves are known as protected areas, and they are also known as tiger conservation units. They have been created under the Project Tiger Program. The Project Tiger Program is governed by NTCA or National Tiger Conservation Authority in the country.

Among the 50+ tiger reserves, some are more popular than others. The primary reason is the easy sighting of tigers in those parks. These parks are home to many other animals besides the tiger, and they provide an added attraction to tourists. Besides the wildlife, these reserves are a panoramic delight with magnificent terrain.

Besides conservation initiatives, the reserves also organize tours in the core area and the buffer zones. They organize rides in the park in open jeeps and canters. But to enjoy the safaris you need to book a permit. These permits are issued by the State Governments for a charge. You have to pay separately for the jeep hire and canter, and the forest guide that will accompany you.

Tiger Tourism

In the core area, the tiger safari is organized. There are two safaris organized in one day. One is organized in the morning another in the evening. To add to the excitement some reserves organize full-day safaris where you can explore the forests with more time allotted. You get entry half early than the regular rides and half an hour late exit. Permits are bound by tourism zones but on a full-day safari, you can trespass.

Best Tiger Parks

Among more than 50 tiger reserves few are more popular than the rest. These popular parks offer exciting sightings of tigers and other games in panoramic surroundings. These popular parks are known for easier sightings of big cats and that attracts the tourists. They have a well-developed tourism infrastructure that comprises luxury hotels and resorts for extended accommodation.

Some of the popular tiger reserves are:

• ·         Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve
• ·         Corbett National Park
• ·         Tadoba Tiger Reserve
• ·         Kanha National Park
• ·         Bandhavgarh National Park
• ·         Pench Tiger Reserve

Tigers are frequently sighted in these parks. Due to this reason, tourists flock to these reserves in large numbers. You should thus book tiger safari permits in the parks in advance. You can book the tiger safari online or at the gate if the limit of jeep entry has not been exhausted. Always be well prepared before you visit the parks keeping a note of the climate. Carry essentials as most of these reserves are situated in remote confines. 

 

Tiger Safari Zones Bandhavgarh

 Bandhavgarh is a National Park and a tiger reserve situated in the Umaria District of Madhya Pradesh. It is located 170 Km from Jabalpur a large city of Madhya Pradesh or MP. The park is divided into the core zone and buffer zone.

The core zone is inviolate, and no commercial activity or settlements are permitted. The only habitation is that of forest guards, and they number more than 150. The core is the main breeding ground of wild animals and since the place is inviolate wild animals live and breed in peace.

The buffer zone is a multiple-use area, and it is a mix of forests, fields, and tribal villages. Tourism in the buffer is conducted in the remaining forests and movement of humans and livestock is not permitted. Tourism takes place in these restricted forests in day time but night safari takes place in some buffer zones.

Tourism Zones in Core

There are three tourism zones in the core where jeeps on permits are allowed.

The zones are:

• ·         Tala
• ·         Magdhi
• ·         Khitauli  

The buffer zones are:

• ·         Dhamokhar
• ·         Panpatha
• ·         Johila

Two-day safaris are organized one in the early morning and the other in the evening. Some parks also organize full-day safaris where there is no zone limitation. You can trespass any zone but meals are allowed in designated places. The entry is half an hour earlier than regular rides and the exit is half an hour later.

In all the zones safaris are permitted on a permit, and the entry of jeeps is limited. The permits can be booked online at MPOnline Portal. You can also book safari permits at the gate provided it is available. If one of your friends and family does not have their name on the permit they can still enjoy the ride through add-on policy. Only six tourists are allowed on one jeep remember? There is also a single-seat booking facility that can be booked and shared by solo tourists.

Bandhavgarh is home to a tiger, leopard, bison, and sloth bear. Except for the bison, other animal sightings are rare. For an exciting wildlife experience book your game rides in advance.

Organizing a Tiger Safari in India

There are more than fifty tiger reserves in India these are tiger conservation units managed by the State Government and NTCA. Apart from management of the park and making policies they set rules for tiger tourism. Tiger tourism in Indian parks is set by rules and regulations.

Tiger tourism makes it possible for tourists, naturalists, wildlife photographers, and filmmakers to visit the park. The excursions are set by rules and regulations, especially in the core area of the park.

Tiger Parks

The tiger parks are divided into the inner core which is inviolate, and only forest guards are allowed to enter the whole area. Their job is to protect and preserve the ecosystem and the wild animals. They also tend to illegal entries, wood loggers, poachers, and forest fires.

Tourism in Core

Tourists are restricted to 20% of the core which is divided into zones. Each zone is restricted, and visitors cannot trespass. The restriction is placed as per the tourist permit. The safaris are constructed early day and late evening till dusk. A fee is charged for excursions and the forest guard who accompanies the open jeep is registered with the forest department. Some parks allow a whole-day safari where there is no restriction for zones and they can be crossover within the 20% area. Some reserves also allow nocturnal safaris for two and a half hours.

Tourism in Buffer Zone

Tourism is also allowed in the buffer zone which is the outer ring of the park. Areas are marked for buffer safari as the rest of the ring is inhabited by human settlers. Buffer zone safaris could be interesting and tigers and bears can be seen by chance. Animals from the core often venture into the outer ring surprising the tourists. Buffer zone safaris are ideal for birding as the habitat is usually mixed forests with water holes. 

Safari Permit   

For tiger safaris in the park a permit is required, this permit is issued by the State Government. Some permits are issued online like in the case of the Central Government a site called MPOnline. Other states offer the facility of booking safaris from the field director's office.

Both for overseas and domestic travelers a permit is a must. This permit should be booked in advance as entry is limited. You can book a safari online at MPOnline Portal for reserves in Madhya Pradesh or from the field director's office at other destinations. You can also book permits through tour operators in India or the hotel you have reserved. 

Traveling  for Tiger Safari

 Make sure you book the tiger safari permit much in advance. This is a priority and do this before you make travel arrangements. Tiger reserves like Tadoba, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Ranthbhore, and Corbett are booked much in advance so take care.    

Most of the reserves are situated in remote areas so carry essentials and cash. Carry medicine and beverages and yes camera, wildlife, and bird books. Book reputed luxury hotels and make firm travel arrangements.

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Uday is a naturalist and also provides SEO and SEO Content Writing Services.

He writes for Indiafootprints Wildlife Tour Operator in India. He is a freelancer.

Enjoy Tiger Safari at Nagzira

Tiger safaris in India are organized by National Park and sanctuaries in the core area and the buffer. The core area is defined as per law where only wild animals have the right to live. Except for the protection guard, no humans are allowed to venture in. No commercial activity or intrusion can take place.    The area is strictly guarded and well-protected breeding grounds for wild animals.

The buffer zone is an area outside the limits of the core area and some commercial activities are allowed no heavy industries are permitted. Human settlement, few hotels, and agriculture outside the limits of the reserved forests are permitted.

Safari at Nagzira Navegaon

For tourism purposes, a safari permit is required from the State Government and the permits can be obtained online from the State Government Website of Maharashtra.

Nagzira or Navegaon is a protected area, and it is also a tiger reserve and a wildlife sanctuary situated near Gondia in the State of Maharashtra. It is well known for its tigers and black panthers The black panthers are occasionally seen.  The destination is named after the temple of Nag (Cobra Snake) which is right in the middle of the forest. Zira in Marathi is a perennial source of water that flows down from the mountain of Pomgara, thus the name Nagzira.   A nearby village called Nangthana also adds up to the name.

It is a picturesque destination and serves as a virtual outdoor museum for visitors who come here often on wildlife, tiger safaris, and birding. The wildlife includes megafauna and small animals some of which are nocturnal.  The wild animals that are found here are:

Tiger Safari and Wildlife

Tiger, leopard, gaur, sambar, chital, sloth bear, barking deer, mouse deer, wild boar, wild dog. Nearly 30,000 visitors come here on tiger safari. Among the reptiles, those often seen here are cobra, Russell's Viper, checkered keelback, python, and Bengal monitor.  While most of the visitors are holidaymakers, nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and filmmakers also make a beeline for the tiger reserve in Maharashtra. 

The safaris are organized in the early morning and late evening. You must book the safari permit for Nagzire Tiger Reserve much in advance. Nagzira Sanctuary is 22km from Sakoli on the Bombay Calcutta Highway. It is 60 km from Gondia.