India, with its vast biodiversity, is a haven for wildlife photographers. The country’s diverse landscapes and unique ecosystems offer countless opportunities for capturing the beauty of flora and fauna in their natural habitat. As we approach the new year, there is no better time to plan a wildlife photography trip. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, 2025 holds great promise for capturing stunning wildlife shots in India.
Here’s a curated list of the latest and most exciting wildlife photography hotspots across India to kickstart your New Year adventure.
1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Jim Corbett National Park, one of the most iconic wildlife sanctuaries in India, continues to be a favorite for wildlife photographers. Known for its healthy population of Bengal tigers, Corbett offers excellent opportunities for capturing the majestic big cat in its natural habitat. As 2025 approaches, the park is evolving with enhanced infrastructure and more diverse wildlife sightings.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Bengal Tigers: Corbett is a top spot for tiger sightings, and January often brings sightings of tigers in foggy mornings, perfect for dramatic shots.
- Birdwatching: The park is a haven for bird photographers, with over 600 species recorded. Winter brings migratory birds, especially near the Ramganga River.
- Landscapes: The varied terrain of the park offers diverse photo ops, including the stunning Corbett waterfalls and the lush Sal forests.
New for 2025: The park has recently launched eco-friendly safari vehicles, reducing noise pollution, allowing for quieter, more intimate photo sessions with wildlife.
2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses, Kaziranga National Park in Assam is a must-visit destination for wildlife photographers in 2025. With the addition of new areas being opened to tourists, Kaziranga offers fresh photography opportunities.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Rhinos: Kaziranga’s large population of one-horned rhinos makes it a prime location for wildlife photography, especially in the winter months when the grasslands are clearer.
- Wildlife Variety: The park is also home to tigers, elephants, and a range of birds. Capture the contrast between the giant rhinos and the misty early morning landscape.
- New Safaris: With new eco-friendly safari routes launched in 2024, photographers now have the chance to explore previously inaccessible areas.
New for 2025: The park has introduced a special early morning safari session, ideal for capturing wildlife in soft, golden hour light.
3. Sundarbans Mangrove Forests, West Bengal
Best Time to Visit: October to March
The Sundarbans, the world’s largest tidal halophytic mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a unique destination for wildlife photography. Known for its elusive Royal Bengal tigers, the Sundarbans offer unparalleled opportunities to capture tigers in a water-based, swampy environment.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Royal Bengal Tiger: The Sundarbans is one of the last remaining habitats for the Royal Bengal tiger. Winter months bring better visibility and opportunities for sightings.
- Saltwater Crocodiles: The park’s unique ecosystem is home to one of the world’s largest saltwater crocodiles, offering a dramatic subject for photography.
- Birdlife: The Sundarbans is rich in birdlife, with migratory species arriving during the winter months.
New for 2025: With the introduction of new eco-sensitive zones, photographers now have better access to quieter, less-explored parts of the forest for a more immersive experience.
4. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, often called the ‘Jewel of Vidarbha,’ is gaining popularity among photographers, especially in the last few years. The reserve has recently made efforts to improve its infrastructure and security, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for tiger photography in India.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Tigers: Tadoba offers high chances of tiger sightings, often spotted near waterholes, which make for dramatic photography, especially in early morning mist.
- Leopard and Wild Dogs: Apart from tigers, Tadoba is also known for leopards and Indian wild dogs, giving photographers a wide range of subjects.
- Flora: The dry deciduous forests and the riverbank landscapes make for beautiful, dynamic backdrops.
New for 2025: Tadoba has recently introduced a series of ‘forest immersion’ safaris, which allow photographers to spend longer hours in the reserve, increasing the chances of capturing rare wildlife moments.
5. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nestled in the Western Ghats, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is a haven for those looking to capture the essence of South Indian wildlife. The sanctuary has become increasingly popular due to its vibrant ecosystem, which includes everything from elephants to exotic birds.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Elephants: Periyar is one of the best places to capture the Asian elephant in action, particularly in the early mornings or at dusk when they come to the waterholes.
- Birdlife: The sanctuary is home to over 260 species of birds, including the rare Nilgiri wood pigeon, making it a paradise for bird photographers.
- Landscapes: The mist-covered hills and serene lakes provide breathtaking backdrops for wildlife photography.
New for 2025: Periyar is introducing eco-friendly photography tours, which focus on minimal disruption to wildlife, offering a unique and respectful way to capture animals in their habitat.
6. Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Ranthambhore is one of the most famous national parks in India, known for its photogenic landscapes and the iconic tigers that roam its grounds. The park’s rich history and diverse wildlife make it a fantastic destination for photographers looking to capture the essence of India’s wilderness.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Tigers: Ranthambhore is home to some of the most photogenic tigers in the world. The park’s fort ruins, lakes, and dense forests create a stunning backdrop for capturing the king of the jungle.
- Leopards and Deer: Apart from tigers, Ranthambhore offers plenty of other wildlife, including leopards and a variety of deer species.
- Cultural Significance: The park’s ancient fort and temples provide a unique opportunity to capture the blend of nature and culture.
New for 2025: The park has introduced new digital permits and live tracking for safaris, making it easier for photographers to find the best spots to capture wildlife.
7. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
Best Time to Visit: November to May
Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and a perfect destination for wildlife photographers who wish to capture the rich biodiversity of Southern India. Bandipur’s vast forest cover is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
Highlights for Photographers:
- Tigers and Leopards: Bandipur is known for its successful tiger conservation efforts and provides excellent opportunities for capturing these big cats in their natural habitat.
- Elephants: The park is known for its elephant population, and it’s common to see herds of elephants crossing the roads or foraging in the forests.
- Birdlife: Birdwatching is excellent here, with sightings of endangered species like the Indian vulture and the Malabar pied hornbill.
New for 2025: Bandipur is introducing ‘eco-safaris’ where small groups of photographers can explore the park in electric vehicles, minimizing noise and maximizing wildlife sightings.
