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NDTV
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- NDTV
6 Unforgettable Wildlife Adventures In India That Kids Will Talk About For Years
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. India offers exciting wildlife adventures for famillies, from tracking Bengal tigers in Ranthambhore to dolphin watching in Goa. Kids here can engage with nature through hands-on experiences, fostering education, and connection with animals. India isn't just about colourful cities and ancient monuments — it's also packed with incredible wildlife adventures perfect for families. Whether it's spotting Bengal tigers in the jungle, watching dolphins in Goa, or feeding rescued elephants near Delhi, there are plenty of ways to get kids excited about nature. These experiences are not only fun but also educational, giving children a chance to connect with animals and the environment in a hands-on way. If you're looking for a trip that's screen-free and full of wow moments, here are six wildlife experiences in India that your kids will absolutely love. Here Are 6 Wildlife Experiences In India That Are Perfect For The Young Ones: 1. Track Tigers At Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan If your child is obsessed with The Jungle Book, this one's a winner. Ranthambhore National Park, located in eastern Rajasthan, is one of the best places in the world to spot wild Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. The park has a high density of tigers — currently around 80 according to the Forest Department (as of early 2024) — which makes sightings more likely, even on a short safari. The guided jeep safaris are well organised, and the best times for tiger sightings are from October to April. The dramatic ruins of Ranthambhore Fort inside the park only add to the sense of adventure. Best age group: 6+ Tip: Book safaris in advance, especially during holidays — they sell out quickly. 2. Visit The Elephant Conservation And Care Centre In Mathura About a three-hour drive from Delhi, this sanctuary run by Wildlife SOS is a peaceful retreat for rescued elephants. Kids can meet gentle giants that have been saved from circuses and temples, and learn about animal welfare in a way that's easy to understand. There's no elephant riding here — which is a good thing. Instead, children can help prepare their food, watch them bathe, and understand the importance of ethical tourism. Best age group: 4+ Tip: Pre-book guided tours — the centre limits visitors to avoid stress to the animals. 3. Go Dolphin Watching In Goa's Chapora River Yes, India has dolphins — and no, you don't have to go to the coast to see them. Hop on a small boat along the Chapora River in North Goa to spot Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. These playful mammals often swim close to the boats, giving kids a close-up look without needing to dive in. This is a more laid-back alternative to ocean tours, especially if you're travelling with younger kids who might not enjoy long boat rides. Best age group: 3+ Tip: Choose ethical operators that don't chase or disturb the dolphins — avoid tours that use loud engines. 4. Join A Junior Naturalist Programme At Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra Tadoba is Maharashtra's oldest national park and has become increasingly popular thanks to its frequent tiger sightings and lush landscapes. What sets it apart? Some lodges around the reserve now offer "junior naturalist" programmes. These sessions teach children how to identify animal tracks, use binoculars properly, and understand forest sounds — basically, everything that will make them feel like the next David Attenborough. Best age group: 7+ Tip: Try staying at one of the eco-lodges like Svasara or Bamboo Forest, which tailor activities for kids. 5. Watch Thousands Of Birds At Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur Photo: Pexels Once a royal duck-hunting reserve, Keoladeo in Rajasthan is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and bird-watching haven. During the winter months (November to February), the wetlands attract more than 370 species of birds, including painted storks, kingfishers, and even Siberian cranes. It's flat, easily walkable, and perfect for a child's attention span. You can hire a cycle-rickshaw and spot birds at eye level — no long hikes or sitting still for hours required. Best age group: 5+ Tip: Bring a pair of kid-friendly binoculars to keep little ones engaged. 6. Spot Asiatic Lions In Gir National Park, Gujarat India is the only country in the world where you can see Asiatic lions in the wild, and Gir is their last remaining home. While the numbers are small — around 674 lions as per the 2020 census — sightings are fairly common during the open season (October to mid-June). Gir's jeep safaris are well regulated, and local guides are knowledgeable and great with kids. This is one of those "once-in-a-lifetime" experiences your children will likely remember more than any zoo trip. Best age group: 8+ Tip: Travel between December and March for the best weather and better chances of sightings.
Indian Express
16-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Parakeet rescued from inside Parliament
A young rose-ringed Parakeet found its way into the Parliament complex on Friday. The bird, disoriented and unable to fly, was rescued by a team of wildlife enthusiasts. The security personnel alerted Wildlife SOS, a wildlife conservation non-profit, which sent its rapid response team to the spot. The bird was found sitting still and exposed, at the risk of injury. Veterinarians assessed the parakeet and found it was suffering from heat stress, which had left it weak and temporarily unable to fly. 'It is currently under close observation and receiving supportive medication to aid its recovery,' said the rescue team. 'A parakeet in Parliament may seem unusual, but it highlights how closely human spaces overlap with wild ones. Every call matters — whether from a city lane or significant institutions,' said Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS. The species is protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, due to which it is illegal for sale or to be kept as a pet in India. However, in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) list, it is listed as least concern. The bird species is native to Africa and South Asian regions, as per experts. The species, which is a common captive bird, is illegal to be caged as it is a native Indian bird which enjoys protection through the Wildlife Protection Act. Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and secretary of the organisation, added, 'It's amazing how even in the heart of our most guarded and urban spaces, a small bird can remind us of the wild lives we share this country with.' The team carefully captured the parakeet, placing it in a ventilated box designed to protect it from potential injuries or attacks from other animals in the vicinity. The bird was transported to the Wildlife SOS transit facility, for observation and supportive care. The team made sure that the bird remained protected from injuries or attacks by other birds or mammals in the area. It also said in a statement, Friday, 'The species' popularity as a pet and unpopularity with farmers have reduced their numbers in some parts of its native range, and remain major threats to the bird.' 'Our team ensured the rescue was swift and stress-free for the bird,' said Suvidha Bhatnagar, Director of Communications at Wildlife SOS. 'It's currently recuperating well, and we are hopeful it will soon be ready to return to the skies.' Once the parakeet is deemed fit to fly, it will be released into a suitable green space where it can thrive naturally, the team said. 'We have had more than 30 such heat-related bird rescue cases that took place since temperatures started increasing. This mostly happens due to exhaustion or heat stroke, causing dehydration,' said Neel Banerjee, communications officer at Wildlife SOS. Regarding the protocol to rescue bird species, Banerjee added, 'If a bird is found unable to fly or is disoriented, the rescuer first provides drinking water on site to rehydrate the bird.' The bird is later taken to the vet for a health assessment and kept under observation for a minimum of 1-2 days. The birds are then released upon recovery after adequate water and nourishment. 'Black kite, which are birds of prey, are one of the biggest victims of excess heat as they fly at high altitudes. They are vulnerable particularly to the scorching sun because they do this on a daily basis in search of prey.,' said Banerjee.
Axios
17-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Meet Bani, the baby elephant movie star making her SLC debut
A short film about a baby elephant is premiering this week in Salt Lake. Why it matters: The film is a fundraiser for Wildlife SOS, a conservation group working to protect India's elephants. What's inside:"Tours for Tusks" chronicles the recovery of Bani, a 9-month-old Asian elephant found gashed up and paralyzed after she was hit by a train that collided with her herd last year. The event also features a talk and Q&A with Wildlife SOS co-founder Kartick Satyanarayan. Guests get popcorn and a drink. Monthly donors also get a beanie to match one that was custom-made for Bani. When & where: The movie starts at 6pm Thursday at Brewvies.
The Independent
05-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Baby elephant miraculously recovers after tragic train accident
A baby elephant hit by a speeding train in northern India has completed her one year of recovery, showing miraculous results. Named Bani, the nine-month-old elephant was hit by a speeding train in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. The elephant was thrown off the tracks, and landed with grievous injuries in an adjacent field. The elephant was paralysed and brought in for treatment at India's first elephant hospital in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. After being provided with critical care by veterinarians, Bani has shown remarkable recovery and just celebrated her one-year anniversary since her rescue, according to her caregivers. Struck with spastic paraparesis or limited mobility in the back or hind limbs, Bani was unable to move for months. Her recovery journey was being closely followed by many in India as her caregivers continued sharing her videos. The veterinary team experimented with many treatment methods including ayurveda, hydrotherapy and even acupuncture, to help Bani recover. Following several weeks of oil massages and visits to the hydrotherapy pool, Bani was finally able to stand up in February 2024. When she started walking, her videos of playing with water and grabbing a snack were widely shared. She has now progressed to be able to walk short distances and explore the greenery around her. 'It is both heartwarming and emotional to witness Bani marking her first rescue anniversary with us,' said Debbie Haynes, Manager of UK Wildlife SOS, said. The organisation is engaged in Bani's recovery efforts. 'A year ago, she arrived as a severely injured calf, her condition critical. However, our team left no stone unturned and ensured that she received the care needed to regain her strength and take confident steps once again.' However, Bani has an abnormal gait that limits the distances she is able to walk. She is also currently wearing shoes on her hind legs to protect her feet. There are several caregivers attending to the 2-year-old pachyderm to keep the lively and spirited calf engaged, with sufficient nutrition, care and attention. The caregivers created a mud hole for Bani where she likes to play, as mud baths are one of her favourite activities. 'We have prepared several structural enrichments for Bani, so that her muscles are constantly engaged and there's no obstruction in her movement,' Dr Ilayaraja S, deputy director of veterinary services at Wildlife SOS said. 'We tried all sorts of attempts to accelerate her healing, including getting an acupuncture specialist and performing the first ever acupuncture treatment known in India, on an elephant.' 'Bani shares a special bond with her keeper and the Wildlife SOS staff, finding comfort in their care and companionship,' Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO, Wildlife SOS said. 'Her strength has become an inspiration to all our resident elephants. It's just the beginning of the celebration, and the entire centre is filled with joy as we honour her journey and spirit.' India is home to the largest number of Asiatic elephants, about 60 per cent of the total population. Official records suggest nearly 200 elephants were killed in train collisions between 2010 and 2020, an average of 20 a year. The Indian government is exploring ways to reduce such accidents, including introducing an AI-powered system in Tamil Nadu to detect and locate moving elephants up to five metres away.
