Best Time To Visit Kabini

The South-west monsoon spares no one at Kabini, and the entire park is completely drenched for three months. With an annual rainfall of 57 inches, the Reserve is not very easy to visit in the monsoon, but the visit is still worth it. After the showers, the forest looks beautiful verdant and lush ? a dream come true indeed. With temperatures ranging between 20°C and 33°C in the monsoon, the weather is comfortable as well. The jungle is easily the most popular attraction at Kabini in the monsoon ? the evergreen trees stand tall, and the woods come alive with greens of every shade ? the forest is a delight to walk into. Special nature walks are arranged, but be careful about the rain before you embark on these adventurous trails. You can spot different insects and butterflies in Kabini in the monsoon, but you may not be able to see large animals. July, the wettest month of the year, sees wet days and even wetter nights, but do not let that deter you. Since this is the off-season time, tourist packages and fares are cheap, which makes it perfect for tourists on a tight budget. The many lakes within the Reserve are bountifully replenished for the year, and they look spectacular with a mountain backdrop as well. You can spy crocodiles lounging by these lakes, waiting patiently.

The tribal villages in the Reserve celebrate many monsoon festivals that you can be part of too. Culture walks and heritage tours are engaging and fun and help you be part of the unique and eclectic culture of the natives. The bird sanctuary nearby is full of mating calls of exotic birds, so prepare for an aural treat! These conditions make Kabini perfect for solo travellers, honeymooners and tourists on a budget. On less rainy days, boat rides on the Kabini River are also organised, although these are only seasonal. Keep in mind that it is quite challenging to spot tigers in the monsoon, and sometimes tours may be cancelled due to the heavy rain. Do not forget to carry umbrellas and raincoats.

Summer sets in Kabini from the month of March and lasts until May. The temperature blazes across Kabini with mercury soaring to 37°C, but summer is still the best time to visit this reserve. It is an ideal time to explore a variety of wildlife. You have the best chances of coming eye to eye with tigers in summer, as they move in search of lakes and watering bodies. Black Panthers, deer and gaurs are also easier to spot in the summer months, making Kabini a tourist hotspot in summer. This may make the place a bit crowded for your liking, but don?t be discouraged ? the views and sights are worth it! Nature walks and hiking trails are frequented in summer as the evenings and mornings are quite cool and comfortable. The day may get a bit balmy and sultry, so wear light linens and cotton. Another summer attraction is the coracle ride on the Kabini River. Coracles are unique boats made of palm or bamboo and are circular. A lilting ride on the calm river is equally enthralling to children and adults alike. Elephant safaris are also in demand in summer, as the patient pachyderms take you right into the deep jungles and give you an authentically wild experience.