Top 5 Wildlife Safari Destinations in India (With Where to Stay) Into the Heart of the Wild, with Comfort to Match

India’s wild spaces are nothing short of extraordinary. With over 100 national parks, the country offers thrilling safaris, vibrant biodiversity, and a chance to connect with nature at its most raw. But the experience isn’t just about the wildlife — where you stay plays a key role in how deeply you can immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Here are the top 5 wildlife safari destinations in India — along with handpicked resort recommendations to elevate your journey.

1. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The Rhinoceros Realm

Home to the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga is a lush expanse of grasslands, marshes, and riverine forests. It’s also rich in tigers, swamp deer, elephants, and over 480 species of birds.

Where to Stay:

🛏 Diphlu River Lodge – A luxurious eco-lodge set along the banks of the river, offering private cottages with views of the forest. The lodge blends Assamese architecture with modern comforts, and its proximity to the park gate makes early safaris easy.

2. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Where Tigers Roam Among Ruins

This dramatic reserve in Rajasthan offers tiger sightings amid ancient forts, rocky plateaus, and lakes. The contrast between wildlife and centuries-old ruins is mesmerising.

Where to Stay:

🛏 The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort – A world-class luxury tented camp just minutes from the park entrance. Think jungle-chic with four-poster beds, clawfoot tubs, and fine dining under the stars.

🛏 On a budget? Jungle View Resort offers clean, simple cottages and easy access to safari zones without compromising on the wilderness vibe.

3. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu

The Untouched Beauty of the Nilgiris

Often less crowded than its counterparts, Mudumalai offers a more intimate safari experience. Elephants, gaurs, leopards, sloth bears, and birds like the Malabar trogon roam its dense forests and grassy clearings.

Where to Stay:

🛏 Singaras Coffee Country – The perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, Singaras is a private property of about 36 acres bordering the forest. Wake up to birdsong, sip estate-grown coffee, and spot wildlife from your cottage veranda. The property also provides access to nearby private safaris and walking trails, making it one of the best-kept secrets in the Nilgiris.

4. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

India’s First National Park

Set in the Himalayan foothills, Corbett offers diverse landscapes — from riverbanks to sal forests. Its Ramganga River and open grasslands make it a prime spot for wildlife photographers.

Where to Stay:

🛏 Taj Corbett Resort & Spa – Nestled along the river, this upscale resort offers modern comforts with a jungle twist — outdoor dining, spa treatments, and even wildlife talks in the evening.

🛏 Looking for something eco-friendly? Aahana – The Corbett Wilderness is a luxury eco-resort that’s sustainability-focused and set amidst 13 acres of restored forest.

5. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Tiger Territory Like No Other

Bandhavgarh’s dramatic terrain is dotted with cliffs, caves, and a majestic fort. It boasts one of the highest tiger densities in India, along with leopards, wild boars, and countless birds.

Where to Stay:

🛏 Tree House Hideaway – A unique resort offering five treehouses nestled in the forest canopy, combining rustic charm with luxury. It’s a favorite among wildlife lovers who want to be close — quite literally — to nature.

🛏 Kings Lodge – Another fantastic option by the same group (Pugdundee Safaris), Kings Lodge offers luxury cottages with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and naturalist-led safaris.

Final Thoughts

A safari in India isn’t just about spotting wildlife — it’s about living with the forest, if only for a few days. And where you stay can transform your experience from just another trip to an unforgettable encounter with nature.

So whether it’s sipping single-origin coffee while watching the deers play at Singaras Coffee Country in Mudumalai or watching rhinos graze from your deck in Kaziranga’s Diphlu River Lodge, these destinations and stays offer a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.

Ready to unplug and go wild?👉 Explore Singaras Coffee Country for an unforgettable stay in the heart of Mudumalai. It's more than a resort — it’s your own window into the jungle.