Spot Four of Asia's
Big Cats on One Trip
Best Places To See Big Cats in Asia
Keen to spot an imposing athletic tiger move stealthily through the jungle? Or a shy, yet agile snow leopard in the heights of the Himalayas? Asian leopard prowl the rocky mountains of Rajasthan whilst fierce Asiatic lion roam the scrublands of the Gir Forest. Wildlife lovers will relish seeing these magnificent creatures in some of Asia’s most striking landscapes. And best of all? You can see all four in one trip.
Best Time to Visit India to See 4 Big Cats in One Trip
It’s possible to see all of Asia’s big cats in one trip and, for this, we recommend travelling between November and March.
This is when you’ll have the best chance of seeing the most elusive big cat, the snow leopard, and you’ll enjoy cooler and more comfortable temperatures while going in search of asiatic lion, bengal tiger and asian leopard.
This is when you’ll have the best chance of seeing the most elusive big cat, the snow leopard, and you’ll enjoy cooler and more comfortable temperatures while going in search of asiatic lion, bengal tiger and asian leopard.
Luxury Safari in India: In Search of Bengal Tigers
Renowned for its strength and power, the Bengal tiger is the largest of Asia’s big cats. Whether it’s skulking through grasses or swimming across lakes, spotting the eyes of this cat is a heart-stopping moment. Though a combination of habitat loss and poaching saw their population decline, decades of conservation efforts mean that numbers in the wild are now increasing.
Best Time To Go
Most tiger reserves are open between October and June.
October to January the temperature is cooler, starting with cold mornings then rising to mid 20s in the afternoons. You can expect lush green scenery with flowers blooming. Though sightings will require a bit more effort with the denser vegetation, wildlife activity will tipically be higher throughout the day. If you are a keen birder, this is a great time to visit - the spectacular scenery combines with amazing birdlife.
We consider February to April the best time to go on a tiger safari. The combination of temperature and scenery make for comfortable game drives and fantastic wildlife viewing. The rising temperatures draw predators and prey to congregate around the permanent sources of water. You have a great chance of seeing tigers wading through or bathing in the cool rivers and lakes.
Throughout May and June daytime temperatures can rise up to 45°C. Parks are generally quieter this time of the year. Early morning and evening wildlife sightings are still fantastic.
Best Time To Go
Most tiger reserves are open between October and June.
October to January the temperature is cooler, starting with cold mornings then rising to mid 20s in the afternoons. You can expect lush green scenery with flowers blooming. Though sightings will require a bit more effort with the denser vegetation, wildlife activity will tipically be higher throughout the day. If you are a keen birder, this is a great time to visit - the spectacular scenery combines with amazing birdlife.
We consider February to April the best time to go on a tiger safari. The combination of temperature and scenery make for comfortable game drives and fantastic wildlife viewing. The rising temperatures draw predators and prey to congregate around the permanent sources of water. You have a great chance of seeing tigers wading through or bathing in the cool rivers and lakes.
Throughout May and June daytime temperatures can rise up to 45°C. Parks are generally quieter this time of the year. Early morning and evening wildlife sightings are still fantastic.
Best Places to See Bengal Tigers
While some parks and sanctuaries in India are busier than others, you can avoid the crowds and head into the lush landscapes of the Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore and Kanha National Parks, world-renowned for being the best places to see Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat.
The dramatic ravines and wild thickets of sal and bamboo forests of the Kanha National Park is a land that inspired Rudyard Kipling to write his classic novel ‘Jungle Book’, and is home to the Kanha Tiger Reserve, while the Bandhavgarh National Park as the highest density of tiger populations in India. Ranthambore National Park is not only home to 90 tigers, but is brimming with other wildlife too, including leopard, crocodile, sambar deer and hundreds of bird species and it’s also a convenient destination when combining your tiger safari with a luxury stay in Delhi, Agra or Jaipur.
Where to Stay for a Luxury Tiger Safari
Unsurpassed luxury doesn’t come better than Sujan Sher Bagh – the tiger’s garden – on the borders of Ranthambore National Park.This beautiful camp, pitched under a canopy of indigenous trees, celebrates the heyday of the Raj with its 1920s styling. On game drives you can hope to see not only tiger but wild boar, jackal, leopard and antelope.
Samode Safari Lodge<, set in 35 acres of private land in Bandhavgarh, is a superbly comfortable private base for your safari. Luxurious raised villas with large wooden decks and open-air bath courts are a haven for relaxation. Warm and personal service combined with expert guiding and varied activities creates a unique experience.
For a tailor made tiger safari in India get in touch.
While some parks and sanctuaries in India are busier than others, you can avoid the crowds and head into the lush landscapes of the Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore and Kanha National Parks, world-renowned for being the best places to see Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat.
The dramatic ravines and wild thickets of sal and bamboo forests of the Kanha National Park is a land that inspired Rudyard Kipling to write his classic novel ‘Jungle Book’, and is home to the Kanha Tiger Reserve, while the Bandhavgarh National Park as the highest density of tiger populations in India. Ranthambore National Park is not only home to 90 tigers, but is brimming with other wildlife too, including leopard, crocodile, sambar deer and hundreds of bird species and it’s also a convenient destination when combining your tiger safari with a luxury stay in Delhi, Agra or Jaipur.
Where to Stay for a Luxury Tiger Safari
Unsurpassed luxury doesn’t come better than Sujan Sher Bagh – the tiger’s garden – on the borders of Ranthambore National Park.This beautiful camp, pitched under a canopy of indigenous trees, celebrates the heyday of the Raj with its 1920s styling. On game drives you can hope to see not only tiger but wild boar, jackal, leopard and antelope.
Samode Safari Lodge<, set in 35 acres of private land in Bandhavgarh, is a superbly comfortable private base for your safari. Luxurious raised villas with large wooden decks and open-air bath courts are a haven for relaxation. Warm and personal service combined with expert guiding and varied activities creates a unique experience.
For a tailor made tiger safari in India get in touch.
Go in Search of Snow Leopard: The Ghost Cat of the Himalayas
The snow leopard is one of the most beautiful - yet elusive - creatures on the planet. Stealing through the highest reaches of the mountains like a shadow, they are notoriously hard to track, and their camouflage is such that they often slip by unseen, sometimes only metres away.
This is why if you want to see snow leopard in the wild, you need an expedition with precisely planned logistics. Journeysmiths works with expert partners in Ladakh to track these elusive cats through the snow and ice of their high altitude habitat. It’s challenging but starkly beautiful terrain, especially in the winter when the snow leopard are most likely to be seen. With the right guides and expertise, we can make it possible to get a glimpse of these stunning big cats.
Best Place to See Snow Leopards
Though there are snow leopard populations in Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, it is in the Indian Himalayas that you are most likely to see them. In the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh, an extension of the Tibetan Plateau, there are still significant numbers of wild snow leopard.
This surprising haven for wildlife is also home to lynx, ibex, Tibetan wolf, brown bear, blue sheep, Himalayan fox, marmot and more.
Best Time to Go Snow Leopard Tracking
The best time to spot snow leopard in Ladakh is during the winter months, from January to March, when it is truly a winter wonderland and the cats are found hunting on the lower slopes.
This is why if you want to see snow leopard in the wild, you need an expedition with precisely planned logistics. Journeysmiths works with expert partners in Ladakh to track these elusive cats through the snow and ice of their high altitude habitat. It’s challenging but starkly beautiful terrain, especially in the winter when the snow leopard are most likely to be seen. With the right guides and expertise, we can make it possible to get a glimpse of these stunning big cats.
Best Place to See Snow Leopards
Though there are snow leopard populations in Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, it is in the Indian Himalayas that you are most likely to see them. In the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh, an extension of the Tibetan Plateau, there are still significant numbers of wild snow leopard.
This surprising haven for wildlife is also home to lynx, ibex, Tibetan wolf, brown bear, blue sheep, Himalayan fox, marmot and more.
Best Time to Go Snow Leopard Tracking
The best time to spot snow leopard in Ladakh is during the winter months, from January to March, when it is truly a winter wonderland and the cats are found hunting on the lower slopes.
Best Place to Stay
To track snow leopard, we recommend staying at the aptly named Snow Leopard Lodge in the Ulley Chhu Valley. There are just four guest bedrooms and you will be living with your hosts — a Ladakhi family — so you’ll have a unique view into Ladakhi culture and hospitality.
Your guide is a local authority on snow leopards and knows the valley’s terrain like the back of his hand. This knowledge is essential as it is a battle of wits: the guide must keep a step ahead of the snow leopard if you are to spot him in his remote habitat, but the effort is a large part of the attraction. This is an expedition, not a tour packed with creature comforts. For many hours, there will be just you, your guide, and the natural wonders of the great outdoors.
Conservation and Community
Historically there has been conflict between farmers and snow leopards in the Ulley Valley and so the Snow Leopard Conservancy India (SLC India) was set up to help find a solution. The conservation objectives focus on helping to protect the snow leopard by supporting local communities and providing opportunities through conservation tourism. The charity works to recruit trackers from the local areas, some of which have opened their homes to guests in search of leopards, one such farmer was Tchewang Norbu, who’s homestay evolved into Snow Leopard Lodge.
For a bespoke itinerary to track snow leopards in Ladakh contact the team.
To track snow leopard, we recommend staying at the aptly named Snow Leopard Lodge in the Ulley Chhu Valley. There are just four guest bedrooms and you will be living with your hosts — a Ladakhi family — so you’ll have a unique view into Ladakhi culture and hospitality.
Your guide is a local authority on snow leopards and knows the valley’s terrain like the back of his hand. This knowledge is essential as it is a battle of wits: the guide must keep a step ahead of the snow leopard if you are to spot him in his remote habitat, but the effort is a large part of the attraction. This is an expedition, not a tour packed with creature comforts. For many hours, there will be just you, your guide, and the natural wonders of the great outdoors.
Conservation and Community
Historically there has been conflict between farmers and snow leopards in the Ulley Valley and so the Snow Leopard Conservancy India (SLC India) was set up to help find a solution. The conservation objectives focus on helping to protect the snow leopard by supporting local communities and providing opportunities through conservation tourism. The charity works to recruit trackers from the local areas, some of which have opened their homes to guests in search of leopards, one such farmer was Tchewang Norbu, who’s homestay evolved into Snow Leopard Lodge.
For a bespoke itinerary to track snow leopards in Ladakh contact the team.
Spot Asiatic Lion in Sasan Gir Forest, India
Slightly smaller, but every bit as majestic as their African counterparts, the Asiatic lion once roamed from India all the way to the Middle East. Today, their population of several hundred lives solely in the Sasan Gir Forest and so seeing them in the wild is a relatively exclusive experience.
You’ll wake early and hop into your vehicle as the sun rises, illuminating the skies above the forest, before venturing out to find prides of lion. Your guide will choose a picturesque place to stop and before you know it, your hot coffee and breakfast is served in the midst of the towering forest.
Best Place to See Asiatic Lion
The Gir Forest National Park in western India spans over 1400 square kilometres and is one of the largest tracts of unbroken wilderness in India. Created to protect the habitat of the world’s only remaining Asiatic lion population, the park has seen lion numbers increase from just 200 to over 500 individuals in recent years, while its other endangered inhabitants have naturally flourished alongside them.
The low, hilly terrain and vast, dry deciduous forest forms the perfect environment for the lions and their principal prey species of spotted deer, wild boar, blue bull and India’s largest deer - the Sambar. You’ll also have the chance to spot the world’s only four-horned antelope, the Chowsingha. There are over 300 species of birds recorded in this bio-diverse area. Striped hyena and golden jackal shadow the big cats, grey langurs swing through the canopy and porcupine appear after sunset.
You’ll wake early and hop into your vehicle as the sun rises, illuminating the skies above the forest, before venturing out to find prides of lion. Your guide will choose a picturesque place to stop and before you know it, your hot coffee and breakfast is served in the midst of the towering forest.
Best Place to See Asiatic Lion
The Gir Forest National Park in western India spans over 1400 square kilometres and is one of the largest tracts of unbroken wilderness in India. Created to protect the habitat of the world’s only remaining Asiatic lion population, the park has seen lion numbers increase from just 200 to over 500 individuals in recent years, while its other endangered inhabitants have naturally flourished alongside them.
The low, hilly terrain and vast, dry deciduous forest forms the perfect environment for the lions and their principal prey species of spotted deer, wild boar, blue bull and India’s largest deer - the Sambar. You’ll also have the chance to spot the world’s only four-horned antelope, the Chowsingha. There are over 300 species of birds recorded in this bio-diverse area. Striped hyena and golden jackal shadow the big cats, grey langurs swing through the canopy and porcupine appear after sunset.
Best Time to Go to Gir Forest
You can visit the Gir Forest between November and May.
March is the best time to visit the Gir Forest for a lion safari. It's the turning point between the winter and summer. The weather is comfortable but the warming temperatures and drying vegetation drive the lion and other wildlife to the waterholes providing great sightings.
The winter months of November to December are great if you prefer cooler temperatures. The scenery is verdant green and there is increased wildlife activity during the day.
April to May wildlife sightings are great, but day temperatures rise over 40°C.
Where to Stay in Gir Forest?
Woods at Sasan is a stunning, luxury lodge set in an orchard of mango trees on the fringe of the Gir Forest. It’s a serene, peaceful retreat, dedicated to well-being, bringing guests a sense of peace and helping you to connect with the forest.
Unwind and enjoy safaris at a slower pace, taking in every sight and sound. After a day in the forest, return and immerse yourself in yoga, meditation and holistic treatments.
For a tailored itinerary to see Asiatic Lions contact the team.
You can visit the Gir Forest between November and May.
March is the best time to visit the Gir Forest for a lion safari. It's the turning point between the winter and summer. The weather is comfortable but the warming temperatures and drying vegetation drive the lion and other wildlife to the waterholes providing great sightings.
The winter months of November to December are great if you prefer cooler temperatures. The scenery is verdant green and there is increased wildlife activity during the day.
April to May wildlife sightings are great, but day temperatures rise over 40°C.
Where to Stay in Gir Forest?
Woods at Sasan is a stunning, luxury lodge set in an orchard of mango trees on the fringe of the Gir Forest. It’s a serene, peaceful retreat, dedicated to well-being, bringing guests a sense of peace and helping you to connect with the forest.
Unwind and enjoy safaris at a slower pace, taking in every sight and sound. After a day in the forest, return and immerse yourself in yoga, meditation and holistic treatments.
For a tailored itinerary to see Asiatic Lions contact the team.
See Asian Leopards in Rajasthan, India
With its distinct markings, the leopard is one of the most striking members of the big cat family and is always an impressive sighting on safari. Leopards are solitary, yet spectacular to watch as they slink up trees to hide their kill from other predators. Whilst similar in appearance (the Indian leopard is defined by its spots fading into its underbelly), the African and Asian leopards are more genetically differentiated from one another than polar bears and brown bears.
Best Place to See Asian Leopard
Rajasthan is a particular haven for Asian leopards, thanks to conservation efforts of six national parks protecting them. Jawai, a unique wilderness of game-rich grasslands, granite outcrops, caves and thickets of trees, is home to India’s biggest leopard population.The waters of the Jawai Bandh - the largest water reservoir in western Rajasthan - attract an abundance of wildlife. Jungle cat, hyena, jackal, langur, wild boar, jungle hare and a variety of antelope species are frequently spotted whilst flamingo, Sarus crane, pelican & over 170 other species of bird can also be found around the bandh.
Best Time to See Asian Leopards
You can visit Rajasthan throughout the year, but the best time to discover this vibrant state is during the winter months between November and February, when the temperatures are most comfortable.
Best Place to See Asian Leopard
Rajasthan is a particular haven for Asian leopards, thanks to conservation efforts of six national parks protecting them. Jawai, a unique wilderness of game-rich grasslands, granite outcrops, caves and thickets of trees, is home to India’s biggest leopard population.The waters of the Jawai Bandh - the largest water reservoir in western Rajasthan - attract an abundance of wildlife. Jungle cat, hyena, jackal, langur, wild boar, jungle hare and a variety of antelope species are frequently spotted whilst flamingo, Sarus crane, pelican & over 170 other species of bird can also be found around the bandh.
Best Time to See Asian Leopards
You can visit Rajasthan throughout the year, but the best time to discover this vibrant state is during the winter months between November and February, when the temperatures are most comfortable.
Best Places to Stay in Rajasthan
Sujan Jawai's sumptuous tents are surrounded by the otherworldly landscape of remote Rajasthan where leopard roam wild and free. The camp can be taken down without a trace and has minimal impact on the wildlife, a remarkable feat for such a luxurious retreat. The camp plays an integral part in conservation initiatives and guests learn how the leopards and the local shepherds have learned to live alongside each other in a centuries old relationship.
Families or larger groups can choose their own secluded encampment, complete with a private pool and dedicated butler, for ultimate privacy.
In the Aravalli Hills between Udaipur and Jodhpur is another hidden retreat: Bera Safari Lodge. 10 acres of private land and offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. The rocky outcrops on which the lodge sits are a haven for Indian wildlife, and for leopard in particular. The relative inaccessibility of the site means that the leopard have been unaffected by human development.
Your host at Bera, Shatrunjay Pratap, is locally renowned as a tracker, and under his guidance you’ll not only find the leopard but also learn about their habits and how to photograph them. His passion for these elegant big cats is contagious.
For your unique itinerary to see Asian Leopards leave a message here.
Sujan Jawai's sumptuous tents are surrounded by the otherworldly landscape of remote Rajasthan where leopard roam wild and free. The camp can be taken down without a trace and has minimal impact on the wildlife, a remarkable feat for such a luxurious retreat. The camp plays an integral part in conservation initiatives and guests learn how the leopards and the local shepherds have learned to live alongside each other in a centuries old relationship.
Families or larger groups can choose their own secluded encampment, complete with a private pool and dedicated butler, for ultimate privacy.
In the Aravalli Hills between Udaipur and Jodhpur is another hidden retreat: Bera Safari Lodge. 10 acres of private land and offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. The rocky outcrops on which the lodge sits are a haven for Indian wildlife, and for leopard in particular. The relative inaccessibility of the site means that the leopard have been unaffected by human development.
Your host at Bera, Shatrunjay Pratap, is locally renowned as a tracker, and under his guidance you’ll not only find the leopard but also learn about their habits and how to photograph them. His passion for these elegant big cats is contagious.
For your unique itinerary to see Asian Leopards leave a message here.
Seven Leopard in Two Game Drives
Paul Hawley
Master of Journeys
“In all my travels, numerous safaris in Africa included, I have never seen this abundance of leopard, and certainly never in quite such a dramatic setting. Perched in an open jeep atop a boulder the size of a cathedral, scanning cliff faces and hillsides across river valleys and ravines, suddenly comprehending stunning eyes and iconic black rosettes on gold. Returning to a camp fit for a maharaja and enjoying exquisite Indian cuisine to nature’s evening chorus only enhanced my simultaneous feelings of awe and contentment.”
Private Journeys Unique to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 15 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to the warm and vibrant landscapes of Asia. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 15 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to the warm and vibrant landscapes of Asia. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.
Who Are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
Latest Articles From Asia
Article
Top 10 Bhutan Activities
A fortress-like insistence on maintaining their cultural heritage despite the pressures of the modern world makes Bhutan a fascinating place.
Article
Top 10 Experiences in India
The young poet and playwright Kiran Millwood Hargrave said "India is a place where colour is doubly bright. Pinks that scald your eyes, blues you could drown in." It's a quote that captures the marvellous intensity of experiencing India. You’ll flit like a butterfly from a gilded palace to a sun baked fortress, to a bustling bazaar, to an encounter with a big cat, all the while drinking in the colours, sounds, aromas and the relentless energy of Indian life. That collage of glimpses will be there to savour years after you return. Here we share 10 unmissable experiences while travelling in India.
Article
5 Spectacular Wildlife
Encounters in India
Encounters in India
The vast majority of people think about India primarily as a cultural destination. Yes, the Taj Mahal is a must-see, and the country boasts dozens of UNESCO-listed ruins and monuments, not to mention dazzling festivals and other events. But the landscapes and wildlife were here long before the people, and the subcontinent still has extraordinary wild places you can explore, from the sands of the Thar Desert to the backwaters of Kerala; the high Himalayas to the jungles of Northeast India.