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Although weather can
never be guaranteed India and Nepal's climatic cycles are
similar and reliably predictable. In essence there are just
three seasons; hot, wet and cool, each one bearing it's
associated advantages and disadvantages for the nature
enthusiast.
Sri Lanka does have a more complicated cycle, though there are
still distinctly dry and wet seasons. There are two monsoons
approaching the country from opposite directions at different
times of the year, however the net affect is that it always a
good time to visit at least half of the country. Although Sri
Lanka is hit by two monsoons their combined affect is less
severe than in India and Nepal. Almost all of the National
Parks are open year-round, and those that close only do so for
a short time. |
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India and Nepal
For the areas visited by
Tiger Trails the clean-up and repair operation after monsoon can
continue into October, hence the closed periods of the majority of
the parks. In the first months after monsoon vegetation
flourishes, providing a bounty for much of the wildlife. This is
undoubtedly one of the most scenic times of the year to visit,
particularly in Rajasthan with its many lakeside palaces. During
this time morning and evening temperatures can be surprisingly
cool (close to freezing in some areas!), though day time
temperatures will reach into the mid-twenties (centigrade).
The heat builds up from April, temperatures can reach above forty
in the North and Central plains of India, and conditions are dry
with dust hazes. The Himalayan and Southern regions enjoy a more
moderate climate. Temperatures continue to climb into the monsoon
season, as the humidity increases there are electrical storms and
rain comes in steadily from June, peaking in August. Initially the
rain brings little cooling, and though it won't rain all day it
does rain every day, then the sun breaks through. When the monsoon
ends in October the air is clear and temperatures comfortable, it
can even become rather cool at night.
Sri Lanka
Being a more typically tropical region temperatures are
not subject to the same variation. Average daytime temperatures
are in the mid-twenties (centigrade) and rarely get above thirty
five, however the humidity can at times make it seem hotter. To
cool down one simply heads for the hills or the coast. Rain is
brought to the South and West coast regions and the central
highlands between May and August by the south-west monsoon. The
dry season here is from December to March. The North and East of
the island are affected by the north-east monsoon from October to
January, the dry season is from May to September. However even in
the 'dry' season some rain can be expected.
Wildlife
The best time of year to see predators in the parks
remains very much open to debate. The increased concentration of
prey around reducing water sources in hotter months is held by
some to offer good possibilities, leopard (and sloth bear)
sightings are more frequent at this time. However during the
cooler months tigers in particular will certainly be active for
longer periods, often using the park tracks to survey their
territory. There will always be a large element of luck involved,
but your length of stay and number of safaris taken at a park is a
more important factor. The wind chill factor on morning safaris
especially is not to be underestimated. As the sun comes up you
will find yourselves shedding layers rapidly, through the day a
hat, good sunglasses, sun block and a regular intake of fluids are
essential.
Migratory birds arrive at their wintering grounds in India and
Nepal from October and stay through till February. In Sri Lanka
the migratory season is extended from August to April, however the
bulk of visitors can be seen between November and March.
India, Nepal and Sri Lanka host to many colourful and unique fairs
and festivals which celebrate harvests, historical events and
figures as well as devotion to religious deities, we can advise
you of any which coincide with your proposed visit. |
