Jeep Safari

If you have been following our blog, then you must be aware that now we arrive at the next adventure sport, Jeep Safari.  Traditionally speaking, a safari was a trip taken mostly in Africa for hunting. But today it has become a trip for exploring and observing the wildlife. Turning to the etymology of the word, it means “long journey” in Swahili. The term is believed to have been coined by Sir Richard Francis Burton. Jeep safari is named so because it is the form of safari where the vehicle used is a jeep. The advantage it gives is that it can travel through a rugged terrain and at a great speed as well. Today, jeep safari is a major tourist attraction and is conducted in various continents, the most popular still being Africa.  Being one of the largest countries in the world when it comes to land area and a diverse topography, India becomes the centre of attention for adventurers interested in safaris. Some of the greatest places for explorers are the Himalayas, Rajasthan, Jim Corbett Park, etc. We enlist the top places where you can enjoy a serene Jeep Safari experience.

Leh – Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir:  Although the Great Himalayas are filled with places for an amazing jeep safari experience but the Leh-Ladakh region is the most popular one. Located between the Kunlun mountain range and the south of the Great Himalyas, Ladakh is one of the top spots for tourists interested in jeep safari. The maximum explored regions are the high altitude lakes of Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso. The drive through Pangong Tso is done through jeep safari because not many transportation options are available in this region.  One can experience a heart throbbing cross country trip through this region. Similar to this is the situation with Tso Moriri, possibly the only way to reach there from Leh is through jeep safari. You can even extend your trip up to Manali through this route.

Rajasthan: Being mostly a desert area, jeep safari is popular in the state of Rajasthan. The jeep safaris in this cultural state is not so much for the wildlife as it is for it’s remote villages rich with age old heritage and ethnic life. There are numerous forts and temples which can be explored. The open jeep safari allows you to truly enrich your experience of traveling in the sand dunes of the miles stretching desert. Some of the famous areas for jeep safari are Ranthambore and Sariska national parks helping you to explore the enthralling flora and fauna.

Uttaranchal : The Garhwal and Kumaon hill regions are the places which attracts tourists for a true jeep safari experience. It’s bounteous beauty is filled with regions to explore. You can drive by Rishikesh to Joshimath bordered along Ganga and Alaknanda rivers. Also you can hit Badrinath with the scenic beauty of Nar and Narayan Parvat and Neelkanth peak, visiting various shrines on your way. This will give you a unique religious experience though your safari.  Jim Corbett Park is where you can gain the real “wildlife safari” experience. It is the safest way to watch our national animal, Tiger! The entire area of the forest can be explored combined with viewing of various wild animals and the luscious flora. The person conducting these wildlife safaris are thoroughly trained therefore, you don not need to be afraid and enjoy your trip safely.

Although every thing is taken care of by the organization or people organizing your safari but you must also keep a few things in mind. Here are a few tips for a memorable safari:

• Always follow the necessary guidelines and rules provided to you by the park or your guide.
• Avoid winters, best time for safari in India is between October and March.
• Never leave without proper planning and preparation. It is a good idea to make a “To do list”.
• Don’t rush while driving, this will help you to observe deeply and even capture moments in your camera.
• Which brings us to the next tip, NEVER go on a jeep safari without a camera.
• Do not threaten the animals in any way, if on a wildlife safari.
• Please do not pollute the area in anyway. Do not create litter or light fire as it can lead to smoke.
• Always go with a local, if you attempt to explore alone, chances are you might get lost.

Enjoy and have a great safari!!