I've heard a lot about African safaris but very little about Indian safaris. Hence, when our driver Raju asked if we were interested in visiting a local park on the outskirts of Bangalore, called
Bannerghatta National Park, I was willing and ready to see what an Indian-flavored safari had to offer.
After walking the grounds of this zoological reserve, home to rhinoceros, leopards, deer and monkeys running wild, Ginny and I boarded a tour bus to see other animals native to India such as the Bannerghatta Tiger, lions and bears in their natural habitat. Turns out this 25,000 acre safari provided lots for the visitor to see!
Indians sure value tourists and demonstrate this by offering them special treatment almost anywhere they go. Sure enough, upon boarding the bus, Ginny and I were escorted to the front seats giving us prime viewing of the safari and, hence, prime picture-taking opportunities. Turns out the tour guides took pictures with our cameras from the driver window when the animals were visible from that side of the bus. This
special service came at a cost, however, when the tour ended and tips were expected. Fortunately, our driver Raju told us to expect this special treatment and coached us on how much to tip.
I'm so glad Raju recommended we go on the safari. It turned out to be a great way to not only experience an Indian-style animal reserve but a wonderful chance to get close-up shots of creatures in the wild.
