Why the monsoon is one of the best times to explore India’s forests

The monsoon season is a unique time to explore India's forests. It's not just about the rainfall, as various species respond differently to the changing conditions. Some creatures become more active, breeding, changing plumage, or gathering around food sources. Others have hidden fungi that pop up visibly during the monsoon. For wildlife enthusiasts, the monsoon season can make observing animals easier, as many national parks and reserves restrict access to their core areas during the rains.

In Central India, lodges like Pugdundee Safaris operate in buffer zones that remain open during the monsoon. Here, nature walks become a focus, shifting from chasing big-animal sightings to observing the transformed landscape. Birds like baya weavers and red avadavats become more visible due to their breeding activities or plumage changes.

Munias and grey-bellied cuckoos gather nesting material, while grey-bellied cuckoos are notably vocal. Wetlands attract painted storks and other bird species, while wooded areas host Indian pittas and Asian paradise flycatchers building nests.

Changes in the frog population are also noticeable. The Indian bullfrog turns vivid yellow during breeding season, with blue vocal sacs inflating as they call. Skittering, termite-hill, and balloon frogs are among the species that can be observed. Farther South, in Karnataka, properties like The Serai's Bandipur and Kabini offer guided nature walks through their monsoon landscapes.

During the monsoon, nature walks provide a more flexible way to experience the wilderness than regulated safaris. Guests may observe broad impressions of animal movement, insect burrows, and rain-darkened tree bark.