Tiger
Bangladesh
India
Nepal
February
March
April
May
Overview
Tigers, the majestic rulers of the jungle, are the largest cats in the world, with the Siberian tiger being the biggest, weighing up to 660 pounds (300 kilograms) or more. They are renowned for their striking orange fur, dark stripes, and powerful builds, making them truly awe-inspiring creatures.
When
The best months if you are planning a trip to see tigers are February, March, April and May.
Where
The best countries for spotting tigers in the wild are India, Bangladesh and Nepal.
Diet
Tigers are carnivores with a diverse palate. Their favourite food is deer, but they also prey on wild boar, antelope, and other large ungulates. A single tiger can consume around 40 to 88 pounds (18 to 40 kilograms) of meat in a single feeding.
Habitat
They inhabit various habitats, including tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, grasslands, and even snowy regions. They require a mix of dense vegetation for hunting and access to water sources for drinking and bathing.
Best Countries To See Tigers
India
Bangladesh
Nepal
Best Time Of Year To See Tigers
In many tiger habitats, the dry season can be a favourable time for tiger sightings. As water sources become scarce, tigers are drawn to rivers, lakes, and watering holes, increasing the likelihood of spotting them.
The dry season usually occurs between February to May in India and the Far East.
Where You Are Most Likely To See Tigers
1. Ranthambore National Park, India: Located in the state of Rajasthan, Ranthambore is one of the best places in India to spot Bengal tigers. The park is known for its diverse terrain, including lakes, forests, and ancient ruins, providing a picturesque backdrop for tiger sightings.
2. Bandhavgarh National Park, India: Situated in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is renowned for its high density of tigers. The park's rugged landscapes, lush forests, and rolling hills create an ideal habitat for these majestic cats.
3. Kanha Tiger Reserve, India: Another prominent tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha offers a chance to observe tigers in their natural habitat. The park's expansive meadows, dense sal forests, and thriving wildlife make it a remarkable destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
4. Sundarbans National Park, India and Bangladesh: Spanning across India and Bangladesh, the Sundarbans is a unique mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the habitat of the elusive Bengal tiger, known for its ability to swim and thrive in the swampy mangrove ecosystem.
5. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, India: Located in Maharashtra, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is home to a significant population of Bengal tigers. The reserve's varied landscapes, including grasslands, bamboo forests, and water bodies, make it an excellent place for tiger sightings.
6. Chitwan National Park, Nepal: Chitwan is a renowned national park in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its conservation efforts and offers opportunities to spot Bengal tigers along with other diverse wildlife such as rhinos and elephants.
7. Pench National Park, India: Spanning across Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park inspired Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book." It is known for its scenic beauty and offers chances to see tigers roaming in its picturesque landscapes.
FAQs
Tigers are critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trade. Some subspecies are extinct. Over 3 subspecies disappeared in 70 years: Caspian, Javan, and Bali tigers. From 100,000 a century ago, only 3,900 tigers remain, mostly in India. Conservation targets habitat, poaching, and programs for survival.
You can help protect tigers by supporting conservation organisations, such as International Tiger Project, Save Wild Tigers, Tiger Watch, Born Free Foundation, and Panthera to name a few. Raising awareness, promoting responsible tourism, and advocating for anti-poaching laws are additional ways to help.
Tigers have stripes primarily for camouflage and to enhance their hunting abilities. The unique striping pattern helps them blend into their natural environments, such as tall grasses and forests, making them less noticeable to both prey and potential predators.
