Tour Code SIWE
Rating 4.9
11 DAYS

South India Wildlife Expedition

Overview

Discover the extraordinary biodiversity of South India on a journey through ancient rainforests, riverine wilderness, rolling grasslands, and mist-covered mountains. From the elephant-rich backwaters of Kabini to the tiger forests of Bandipur, the evergreen rainforests of the Anamalai Hills, and the spectacular highlands of Eravikulam National Park, this expedition showcases one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

Following the spine of the magnificent Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, the journey reveals an exceptional diversity of wildlife, including Tigers, Leopards, Asian Elephants, Dholes (Indian Wild Dogs), the rare Lion-tailed Macaque, and the endemic Nilgiri Tahr. Accompanied by expert naturalists and staying in carefully selected luxury lodges, this all-inclusive safari offers an immersive exploration of South India’s remarkable natural heritage.

Highlights

  • Explore South India's most celebrated wildlife destinations within the Nilgiri Biosphere and the Western Ghats
  • Experience exceptional elephant sightings in the renowned wilderness of Kabini.
  • Search for Tigers, Leopards, Dholes (Indian Wild Dogs), Gaur, Sloth Bears, and abundant birdlife
  • Enjoy both jeep and boat safaris for diverse wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities
  • Encounter the rare and endangered Lion-tailed Macaque in the ancient rainforests of the Western Ghats.
  • Visit Eravikulam National Park to observe the endemic Nilgiri Tahr amid breathtaking mountain scenery
  • Discover one of the world's richest centers of endemic reptiles, amphibians, orchids, butterflies, and birdlife
  • Stay in luxury wilderness lodges surrounded by pristine forests.
  • National parks remain open throughout the year, allowing exceptional wildlife experiences in every season

Arrive in Bangalore and transfer to your luxury hotel. Meet your expert naturalist for a comprehensive briefing on South India’s wildlife, ecosystems, and the exciting expedition ahead.

Journey to the beautiful Kabini wilderness, where the Kabini River and its expansive backwaters sustain one of India’s richest wildlife habitats. This region is internationally renowned for its large herds of Asian Elephants and offers outstanding opportunities to observe Tigers, Leopards, Dholes, Gaur, and an impressive diversity of birdlife.

Alternate between expertly guided jeep safaris and tranquil boat excursions, each offering unique perspectives on wildlife behaviour around the waterways. Evenings are spent relaxing at your luxury lodge while discussing the day’s sightings with your naturalist.

Continue into Bandipur National Park, one of India’s oldest tiger reserves and an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Dry deciduous forests, open meadows, and gentle hills provide ideal habitat for Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Sloth Bears, Dholes, Gaur, Sambar Deer, and hundreds of bird species.

Morning and afternoon safaris maximize wildlife viewing opportunities while experienced naturalists interpret tracks, calls, and animal behaviour, creating a deeper understanding of this remarkable ecosystem.

Travel south into the lush evergreen forests of the Anamalai Hills, part of the spectacular Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Explore ancient rainforests in search of one of India’s rarest primates—the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque.

These forests also harbour Nilgiri Langurs, Giant Squirrels, Malabar Trogons, Hornbills, endemic frogs, reptiles, butterflies, and countless plant species found nowhere else on Earth, making this region a paradise for naturalists and photographers alike.

Complete your expedition in the high-altitude grasslands of Eravikulam National Park. Sweeping mountain landscapes, rolling tea estates, and cool montane forests provide sanctuary for the endemic Nilgiri Tahr, one of India’s most iconic mountain mammals.

Walk designated trails through this spectacular landscape while enjoying panoramic views across the Western Ghats. Along the way, discover endemic birds, orchids, rare flowering plants, and specialized amphibians before transferring to Kochi for your onward journey.

Expedition Narrative

South India’s wilderness unfolds as an ever-changing tapestry of rivers, forests, mountains, and ancient rainforests, each revealing a unique chapter in one of the world’s richest natural landscapes.

The journey begins in Kabini, where vast elephant herds gather beside tranquil waterways and predators emerge from dense forests in search of prey. Bandipur introduces a contrasting landscape of open woodlands and rolling hills, where Tigers, Leopards, and Dholes roam one of India’s finest tiger habitats.

As the expedition moves deeper into the Western Ghats, the forests become older, wetter, and more diverse. Hidden within these ancient rainforests live extraordinary endemic species, including the charismatic Lion-tailed Macaque, whose survival is tied to these fragile ecosystems.

The journey reaches its highest point in Eravikulam National Park, where mist-covered mountains and rolling grasslands shelter the agile Nilgiri Tahr. Here, dramatic landscapes and remarkable biodiversity provide a fitting conclusion to an expedition that celebrates the incredible richness of South India’s natural heritage.

 

Why Choose This Expedition

  • Explore South India’s finest wildlife reserves and mountain ecosystems in one seamless journey.
  • Outstanding opportunities to photograph Asian Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Dholes, Gaur, and numerous endemic species.
  • Discover two UNESCO-recognised biodiversity regions within the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Biosphere.
  • Experience both jeep and boat safaris led by highly experienced naturalists.
  • Stay in luxury wilderness lodges offering exceptional comfort and immersive forest experiences.
  • Observe iconic endemic wildlife including the Lion-tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Ideal for wildlife photographers, birdwatchers, natural history enthusiasts, and travellers seeking a more intimate safari experience.
  • Easily combined with Central India, Rajasthan, Kerala, or Sri Lanka to create the ultimate Indian wildlife expedition.

Cost

Package Inclusion:

  • All hotel stays with meals as mentioned above
  • Local Transfers with max 3 people per car
  • Private Safaris
  • Domestic flights with 15 kg luggage allowance
  • Entry to Monuments
  • English speaking guide for sightseeing purposes in cities

Package Exclusion:

  • International Flights
  • Indian eVisa
  • Excess baggage on domestic flights
  • Any meals during transit
  • Alcohol, soft drinks, mineral water
  • 10% GST
  • Anything else not mentioned under inclusions

Payment terms & Cancellation Policy

Payment terms: 30% to confirm, balance due 90 days prior to departure

Cancellation Policy: 30% non-refundable, balance is non-refundable once paid

Safari bookings open on different dates for different parks, if deadline for booking is not met, the rates will change. Hotel prices are dynamic which is subject to change and based on availability of mentioned room, base room category and also time of travel.