Tigers and Bears

On our very first morning in Ranthambore we encountered a Royal Bengal Tiger on our early morning safari through the game park. This large male tiger of over 200kg was resting by the river and took our presence in his stride. We had a very clear view of him at a distance of no more than 15 metres, and we had plenty of opportunity to observe him for over half an hour from our open topped jeep. This photo is the one I took.


All of the animals in the game park are free and wild, however they are accustomed to the jeeps and are not disturbed by them at all. Though our guide did warn us not to get out of the jeep as the tiger could then feel threatened.


We enjoyed an evening game drive by the lake and found lots of deer, gazelle, peacock, samba, crocodile and birds. The evening light and mild weather were just beautiful. Then our last game drive the next morning took us to a different area of the park where we were lucky enough to spot a sloth bear grazing through the forest. This topped of the whole experience for us, feeling very fortunate indeed to have spotted so much wildlife.

After a delicious meal, our luxury tent with a view over the plains, under a star lit sky, was waiting.


Oh, did I mention the camel ride through the local village after lunch?


- Marika at Women's Own Adventure signing off

Location:Ranthambore, India