5 Incredible Wildlife Experiences in India Beyond Tiger Safaris

5 Incredible Wildlife Experiences in India Beyond Tiger Safaris (Image: Canva)

India has a lot to give besides the renowned tiger reserves. There are the rare amphibians and one-horned giants, the elusive high-altitude predators, and the marine or river mammals; these five experiences can offer something extraordinary to wildlife lovers.

1. Gujarat: Asiatic Lions in Gir
The only place on Earth where Asiatic lions can be found in the wild is in Gir National Park (non-African region). In addition to lions, hyenas, deer species and several birds are found in the dry deciduous woodlands. You have more chances of sighting by visiting during the period of December to April. The best encounters are frequently made in the early morning drives since the forest gets hot in the afternoon. Gir is an antithesis of the rich forests in other areas - the area is rough and open and under the sun, and it is because of this that visually tracking big mammals becomes a dramatic scene.

2. Odisha Migratory Birds and Irrawaddy Dolphins at Chilika Lake
The Chilika Lake, which is the largest brackish lagoon in Asia, turns into a wildlife show during the winter. Satapada Boat cruises create an opportunity to see groups of Irrawaddy dolphins swimming in the calm waters. Simultaneously, there are thousands of migratory birds - flamingos, pelicans, waterfowl - which seasonally settle on its huge net of islands and beds of reeds. The fact that water is calm, the light is soft during sunset or sunrise, and that the aquatic life mixes, creates an immersive sense of calm beauty that is unlike forest safaris.

3. Snow Leopards, Wolves & Ibex in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
The Spiti Valley in the Himalayas is an offbeat wilderness area. While hiking in its frozen and remote areas, a glimpse of snow leopard, Himalayan wolves, and ibex can be spotted. It is very difficult to see wildlife; it takes time, local guides and the appropriate season (end of spring and summer). The rugged nature, the changing light, and the sheer skies make every look a most memorable experience, particularly for people who are attracted by solitude and heights.

4. Vikramshila Sanctuary in Ganges River Dolphins, Bihar
The Vikramshila Sanctuary, located in the Ganges waters, is a very rare chance to view the Ganges river dolphin, the national aquatic animal of India. Turtles, local water birds and restoration habitats are also visible in boat safaris via its channels. The locations of these dolphins are sensitive to visibility because they use echolocation to locate their food supply; safe boating and low noise are highly effective in enhancing visibility. This is a wildlife viewing on a river, which gives a water aspect that is not usually found in the land treks and safaris.

5. Great Indian Bustard at Desert National Park, Rajasthan
Desert National Park in Rajasthan is the home of one of the most endangered birds in India, the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), to birders and conservationists. Its habitat is the arid grasslands and dunes when it is not in the breeding months. The GIB is not easy to spot, it is sparsely distributed and shillineous. Excursions to this place should be made in conjunction with visits in the early morning or towards the end of the afternoon when the light is soft and the behaviour of the bird is more apparent. It is the experience of patience, landscape and hope of witnessing something that few will.