6 Places Around The World Where You Can Spot Tigers

The words of American-Canadian writer and journalist John Vaillant ring true: 'The tiger will see you a hundred times before you see him once.' Indeed, this majestic creature remains as elusive as it is breathtakingly resplendent, making a sighting a rare and unforgettable experience. On the 29th of July each year, people around the world come together to celebrate International Tiger Day, also known as Global Tiger Day, with the primary goal of raising awareness about the conservation and protection of these awe-inspiring beings. Thanks to recent conservation efforts, the declining tiger populations have found some stability in various national parks and sanctuaries across India and beyond.

These remarkable tiger havens not only contribute to the preservation of these magnificent big cats but also provide nature enthusiasts with an opportunity to witness their grace and immerse themselves in diverse ecosystems. If you're planning your next safari with the hope of encountering these elusive creatures, here are some of the best spots in India and internationally where, with a little perseverance, you may catch a glimpse of these awe-inspiring beings.

# Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Covering an extensive area of nearly 330,000 acres, Ranthambore National Park stands as one of the largest national parks in northern India. This remarkable sanctuary is currently the habitat of 81 Bengal tigers, as of 2021, and boasts a rich historical background as a former hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur. The park's allure extends beyond wildlife, as it showcases a harmonious blend of culture and history with its ancient temples, mosques, and a well-preserved 10th-century fort scattered amidst the natural landscape.

For the best chances of spotting these magnificent tigers, consider planning your visit during February and March, when the weather is pleasant, or opt for April and May when tigers frequent the popular watering holes in search of water.

# Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is a picturesque landscape, adorned with hills and steep escarpments. One of its remarkable features is the presence of porous rocks that efficiently store monsoon rains, ensuring a steady supply of water throughout the year. This natural abundance of water creates an ideal habitat not only for tigers but also for various other wildlife species.

Despite the relatively high number of visitors, which has somewhat accustomed the tigers to the presence of jeeps and disturbances, the 105km2 prime range of sal forest and grassland surrounding Tala Village remains an excellent location for wildlife sightings.

# Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

With great historical significance as the official launch site of Project Tiger, Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, remains home to a thriving population of tigers in India. While the park's limited network of forest tracks may slightly reduce the frequency of tiger sightings, it compensates with a diverse landscape that delights birdwatchers and provides opportunities to encounter Indian elephants, making it a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

# Zov Tigra National Park, Russia

Zov Tigra National Park, translating to "call of the tiger," stands as the final sanctuary for the endangered Siberian or Amur tiger, the largest among all big cats. With a mere 500 of these magnificent creatures left in the world, catching a glimpse of them demands joining a responsible tiger expedition tailored for the more daring adventurer. However, even with such efforts, sightings are infrequent, given the elusive nature of these majestic cats, who prefer the seclusion of the dense forests in the region.

# Durminskoye Forest Reserve, Russia

Found in the distant reaches of eastern Siberia, the Durminskoye Forest Reserve serves as the final habitat for the endangered Siberian tigers and elusive Amur leopards, establishing it as a prime location for enthusiasts of big cats. To embark on a journey through this remote taiga forest, it is advisable to join a well-organized Siberian wildlife tracking tour offered by reputable outfitters. While sightings of these rare majestic felines are infrequent due to their elusive behavior, the unparalleled rewards of being among the first to explore this untamed wilderness make the experience truly unforgettable.

# Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, Bhutan

Devoted to safeguarding wildlife, Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park in Bhutan serves as a sanctuary for Bengal tigers, red pandas, golden langurs, and elusive clouded leopards. With Bhutan's ambitious goal of doubling its tiger population within the next decade, this park provides one of the finest opportunities to observe these majestic cats thriving in their densely forested mountainous home.