Safari Crafters – Southern Splendour:Where Forests, Hills & Wildlife Converge

Southern Splendour:Where Forests, Hills & Wildlife Converge

South India’s forests and highland ecosystems form one of the subcontinent’s most vibrant wildlife corridors, where river-fed jungles merge with the rolling slopes of the Western Ghats. This journey follows that arc from Kabini’s backwaters to Bandipur’s tiger country and onward into the montane realms of Anamalais and Eravikulam. Each region offers its own signature encounters — from Elephant herds gathering along waterways to Wild Dogs coursing through dry forests, from the rare Lion-tailed Macaque in deep valleys to the Nilgiri Tahr on wind-swept cliffs. With varied habitats, expert naturalists, and seamless logistics, the itinerary captures the ecological richness and layered biodiversity that define South India’s wilderness.

Highlights

This immersive journey explores two of South India’s premier wildlife regions, where boat and land safaris reveal large congregations of Elephants and offer excellent opportunities to spot Tigers, Leopards, and endangered Wild Dogs. Traveling through the biodiverse Western Ghats, you’ll encounter rare primates, reptiles, amphibians, and iconic species such as the Lion-tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Tahr, along with a remarkable array of endemic wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. With forests open year-round and expert naturalists guiding every step, this all-inclusive itinerary ensures uninterrupted, deeply enriching wildlife experiences.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Bangalore
Days 2–4: Kabini
Days 5–7: Bandipur
Days 8–9: Coimbatore & Anamalais
Days 10–11: Eravikulam and departure

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Detailed itinerary

Arrive in Bangalore, where your journey begins. Settle in before your naturalist briefing covering habitats, wildlife expectations, and travel logistics.

Drive to Kabini, a lush landscape shaped by backwaters, riverine forests, and open fields. This region is renowned for its large Elephant congregations and excellent opportunities to observe Leopards, Tigers, and Wild Dogs. Alternate between boat and jeep safaris for varied photographic angles and a deeper understanding of animal movement around water systems. Evenings at camp offer guided discussions on behavior, tracking, and Kabini’s ecological significance.

Continue into Bandipur National Park, a key component of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Bandipur’s dry deciduous forests, rolling hills, and scenic streams support Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Gaur, and abundant birdlife. Early morning safaris provide the best light for photography, while afternoon drives reveal predators on the move. Your naturalist helps interpret signs and patterns, creating rewarding, informed wildlife encounters.

Head toward the Anamalais, known for deep valleys, forested slopes, and rich endemism. Track the elusive Lion-tailed Macaque while exploring evergreen forests alive with reptiles, amphibians, and birds found nowhere else. The region’s unique ecology reveals how altitude and terrain shape species diversity across the Western Ghats.

Travel to Eravikulam National Park, home to high-altitude grasslands and the endemic Nilgiri Tahr. Hike along designated trails offering sweeping views of mist-covered mountains, shola forests, and tea estates. Sightings of montane birds, rare frogs, and specialized flora highlight this biodiversity hotspot. Depart from Kochi after a vivid journey spanning South India’s most iconic wilderness landscapes.

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The route through Kabini, Bandipur, and the Ghats captures South India’s natural tapestry in a continuous flow. Kabini introduces river-bound ecosystems where Elephants gather and predators emerge along the water’s edge. Bandipur shifts the rhythm to open forests and drier terrain, offering broad vistas and dynamic predator–prey interactions. Entering the Ghats adds a new dimension — steep valleys harboring ancient lineages of primates, amphibians, and birds that evolved in isolation. Finally, Eravikulam elevates the journey into high-altitude realms where the Nilgiri Tahr navigates cliffs under drifting clouds. Together, these landscapes reveal a region defined by diversity, subtlety, and extraordinary wildlife encounters.

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Craft Your Safari

The team at Safari Crafters has dedicated themselves to a profound knowledge of the diverse biodiversity of India. We take pride in saying that our team of expert guides can help you see common subjects from the most uncommon perspectives.

From the forests to the Aravallis, foothills of Shivalik, the mountains and the ocean, we arrange safari experiences for travelers looking to take in the authentic atmosphere of the Indian subcontinent.