5 of the Best Safari Excursions in Asia.
Quick answer: The best safari excursions in Asia are the Night Safari in Singapore, Bandhavgarh National Park and Gir National Park in India, Yala National Park in Sri Lanka and Chitwan National Park in Nepal. Between them you can see tigers, leopards, Asiatic lions, one-horned rhinos and elephants.
Most people think of Africa when a safari is mentioned, but it pays to look beyond the norm. Asia’s diverse flora and fauna are sure to impress, and you might be lucky enough to spot rare, endangered wildlife. No two trips are the same, and it’s the uncertainty of a safari that makes it so exciting. Here are our picks.
Best Safari Excursions in Asia at a Glance
| Safari | Country | Headline wildlife | Best time to go |
|---|---|---|---|
| Night Safari | Singapore | Nocturnal animals | April |
| Bandhavgarh National Park | India | Royal Bengal tiger | March to May |
| Yala National Park | Sri Lanka | Leopards | February to April |
| Gir National Park | India | Asiatic lions | December to March |
| Chitwan National Park | Nepal | One-horned rhinoceros | March to April |
1. Night Safari, Singapore
The world’s first nighttime wildlife park, the Night Safari in Singapore is an experience not to be missed. An evening tram ride takes you through different habitats to see the nocturnal behaviour of animals such as striped hyenas, Gir lions, sloth bears, elephants and bearded pigs, while your guide shares interesting facts and stories about each creature.
The Night Safari supports the conservation of endangered species, and your entry fee contributes towards those efforts. Need to stretch your legs afterwards? Walking trails run through the park, too; see if you can spot flying foxes, wallabies and fishing cats on the hunt.
Best time to go? April. Singapore is hot and humid most of the time, but by April the monsoon season will have finished and the crowds will be smaller.
2. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India
Bandhavgarh is a protected area, so there’s a dense population of wildlife among the grasslands and forests, and plenty of plants to see, too.
The park’s most famous inhabitant is the Royal Bengal tiger, but don’t discount the other species. Mammals include leopards, deer, boar, foxes, hyenas and pigs, and birds include the red jungle fowl and white-breasted kingfisher.
Only a limited number of jeeps are allowed in the park at a time, so book early and don’t forget to pack your binoculars.
Best time to go? Between March and May, when you’re more likely to spot tigers.
3. Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Part nature reserve, part national park, Yala has a section open for the public to explore, with 200 safari jeeps allowed in the park per day.
Travel through forests and grasslands as you watch for leopards in their natural habitat; Yala has the highest leopard density in the world. You can also expect to see elephants and deer, along with 215 different species of bird.
Best time to go? Between February and April. It’s the dry season, so more animals are likely to be out.
4. Gir National Park Safari, India
Located in the Indian state of Gujarat, Gir National Park is home to the last wild Asiatic lions, found nowhere else in the world. On the park’s safari you travel by open-roofed jeep, accompanied by one of the park’s knowledgeable guides.
It may be tempting to focus solely on finding lions, but other species call the park home as well. You might see jackals, foxes or hyenas on the hunt, or reptiles slithering along the ground. Drive towards the reservoir and there’s a good chance you’ll find marsh crocodiles gathered by the water.
Best time to go? Between December and March. If you can handle the heat, April and May are also good months for spotting wildlife.
5. Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Nepal’s oldest national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of tropical and subtropical forests and grasslands. It is home to a hugely diverse range of flora and fauna, including:
- 68 species of mammal
- 544 species of bird
- 126 species of fish
- 56 species of flora
Chitwan was also the first protected area in Nepal, looking after the one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger and gharial crocodile. On a jeep safari through the jungle you could be lucky enough to encounter wild elephants, deer, wild dogs and sloth bears making their way to the watering holes. Alternatively, take a river safari and look for crocodiles.
Best time to go? March to April. The weather is a little warmer, but the monsoon doesn’t generally start until May, so you’ll avoid the worst of the rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you see wild lions in Asia?
Gir National Park in Gujarat, India, is home to the last wild Asiatic lions.
Which safari in Asia is best for leopards?
Yala National Park in Sri Lanka, which has the highest leopard density in the world.
Where can I see tigers on an Asian safari?
Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh, India, is famous for its Royal Bengal tigers, best spotted between March and May. Chitwan National Park in Nepal also protects the royal Bengal tiger.
Conclusion
From a night-time tram ride in Singapore to jeep safaris in search of tigers, leopards, lions and rhinos, Asia offers safari experiences every bit as exciting as Africa. Pick your wildlife, time your trip for the best season, book jeeps early and bring your binoculars.
