Animals You Will Meet in India

As you prepare for a trip to India to discover its remarkable wildlife and sacred animals, it’s essential to understand the extraordinary diversity and deep cultural ties these creatures share with Indian society. With two decades of expertise guiding travelers across the country, we at Shanti Travel are passionate about helping you encounter these animals in a responsible and meaningful way.

Monkey

Monkeys are everywhere, always amazing when you're not used to being around these cunning little animals. In India, monkeys are sacred and represent the god Hanuman. Hanuman’s presence in Hindu epic tales like the Ramayana means monkeys are revered in temples and cities alike. Galtaji Temple near Jaipur, often called the Monkey Temple, is a prime spot to observe them in large numbers—it’s wise to keep your belongings secure, as both red-bottomed macaques (often cheeky or even aggressive) and the more reserved langurs with their elegant grey coats are expert opportunists. While their playful antics are entertaining, a respectful distance and avoidance of eye contact reduce the risk of snatching or biting, especially in busy temple complexes or urban parks.

Rat

Revulsion is the first word that comes to mind when we think of rats. But they are a sacred animal in India, with one of the most unique temples in the world dedicated to them in Rajasthan. At the Karni Mata temple near Bikaner, thousands of rats roam freely as devotees offer food and prayers—an astonishing example of religious harmony between humans and animals. Rats are closely associated with Lord Ganesha, the god of prosperity, as his divine vehicle or vahana, symbolizing humility and resourcefulness. Spotting the rare white rat here is considered a special blessing. Thanks to careful temple hygiene and ritual feeding, diseases are surprisingly rare. When visiting, remove your shoes, observe quietly, and avoid sudden movements.

Elephant

In India, many gods are associated with animals, but perhaps the most emblematic is Ganesh. Elephants are honored symbols of wisdom, strength, and good fortune. During festivals and royal processions, domesticated elephants are regally adorned, particularly in Rajasthan—famously paraded at the annual Elephant Festival in Jaipur. Historically, these majestic creatures were prized for their role in royal power, and their legacy continues at weddings and religious events. Yet, the modern traveler should prioritize elephant-friendly tourism, such as reputable farms or wildlife sanctuaries where elephant welfare is paramount. For wild elephants, head to the lush reserves of Assam or Kerala, where their social behavior and matriarchal family structure make for thrilling, ethical safaris. Parks like Jim Corbett and Kaziranga are leaders in conservation and visitor education.

Camel / Dromedary

An essential animal of Rajasthan, camels—sometimes called the Ship of the Thar Desert—are deeply woven into the region’s culture and economy. Camels once defined trade and transport, and today, their resilience is celebrated at fairs like the legendary Pushkar Camel Fair. It’s an unmissable spectacle of camel trading, vibrant rituals, and Rajasthani music. In Ladakh’s Nubra Valley, adventurous travelers can spot the shaggy, two-humped Bactrian camel, a rare remnant of the ancient Silk Road. When booking camel experiences, always choose operators who prioritize animal welfare and avoid rides for overburdened or undernourished animals.

Geckos

Geckos—tiny, quick-footed lizards—are common sights after dusk in Indian homes and temples. Culturally seen as auspicious in many regions, their ability to keep away pests is highly valued. With their vocal chirps signaling a healthy, insect-free environment, geckos are welcome housemates. As the only reptiles with vocal cords, their communal chorus at night is a quirky feature of the Indian household experience.

Hard-to-Spot Wildlife

The wild fauna of India is astonishingly rich and protected in reserves across the country. Around 500 mammal species inhabit forests, mountains, wetlands, and deserts. Among the most iconic:

• Tiger: India's national animal and the spiritual mount of goddess Durga, the Bengal tiger is both a conservation success story and a symbol of power. Today, India shelters about 2,200 tigers, mainly in tiger reserves like Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, and Sundarbans. Ethical safaris—led by experienced guides—are key to safe and responsible encounters.
• Leopard: More elusive than tigers, leopards adapt remarkably well to different habitats, including those near villages or tea gardens. Their agility and solitary nature make them a rare but prized sighting.
• Indian Rhinoceros: The single-horned rhino, most famously seen at Kaziranga National Park, is a symbol of strength and conservation resilience—with ongoing protection efforts keeping their numbers on the rise.
• Snow Leopard: In Ladakh’s Hemis National Park, the ethereal snow leopard inhabits high, cold cliffs. With fewer than 50 known in the region, sighting one is a privilege reserved for the most patient—and lucky—traveler.
• Wild Ass (Khurs): In Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch, the Indian wild ass demonstrates extraordinary endurance against the harsh desert backdrop, a testament to the country’s diverse habitats.
• Deer and Antelope: Vividly spotted chital and elegant blackbuck are often observed in sanctuaries, while Ladakh’s wild donkeys (khyang) gallop in vast herds, blurring the line between zebras and horses.

Cultural Reverence, Conservation & Festivals

Animals are deeply intertwined with India’s spirituality and daily life. Many species benefit from religious reverence—providing crucial protection—and are at the heart of grand celebrations:

• Pushkar & Nagaur Fairs: Epicenters of camel and livestock culture, offering travelers vivid insights into rural traditions. Enjoy the color and spectacle, but observe respectfully.
• Elephant Festival in Jaipur: Showcases regal elephants decked in finery—prioritize viewing over riding, and ensure animal welfare at all events.
• Sonepur Fair: The largest animal fair in India, where exchanges of elephants, cattle, and other livestock take place within a swirl of rituals.

Practical & Ethical Advice

• Always maintain a respectful distance from all animals, whether sacred monkeys or elusive predators.
• Do not feed wild animals unless it’s clearly part of a temple ritual; improper feeding can endanger both animals and visitors.
• Choose certified guides and wildlife operators who follow ethical practices and avoid exploiting animals for entertainment.
• In all encounters—whether in city temples, bustling fairs, or quiet sanctuaries—observe, learn, and leave no trace, helping protect India’s animal heritage for generations to come.

At Shanti Travel, we have spent years building relationships with ethical wildlife operators, local guides, and conservationists to offer immersive, respectful animal encounters throughout India’s landscapes. Join us to explore this incredible mosaic—where sacred beliefs, wild beauty, and responsible travel come together to create unforgettable memories.