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The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR), in the Terai Arc Landscape of Uttar Pradesh, is a lesser-known yet magnificent wildlife haven. Located just a few hours from my home in Lucknow, it has become one of my favourite destinations to witness the untamed beauty of nature. This trip, however, was memorable. It wasn’t just another safari—it was an experience that deepened my admiration for this pristine wilderness.
Setting off early in the morning, I embarked on a road trip filled with anticipation. The route to Chuka Forest Rest House, my place of stay, was scenic, with dense sal forests and open grasslands lining the way. Unlike the popular reserves of central India, Pilibhit offers a unique charm—a mosaic of swamps, plains, and thick forests that provide the perfect habitat for diverse wildlife, including the elusive tiger.
Upon reaching the reserve, I was greeted by the sounds of nature—the distant calls of peafowls, the rustling of dry leaves, and the occasional alarm calls of spotted deer. It was time to enter the wild.
The golden rays of the rising sun pierced through the dense canopy as we entered the jungle in our open gypsy. Pilibhit’s landscape is unlike any other tiger reserve I have visited. Tall elephant grass sways in the breeze, creating a perfect camouflage for predators. My experienced naturalist guide was confident we would have a big sighting today.
As we drove deeper, the atmosphere grew tense. Langurs and spotted deer made multiple alarm calls—something was definitely on the move. We stopped, scanning the jungle. And then, emerging from the thickets, a massive male tiger, S3, approached us!
S3, known for his dominance in this region, was a sight: his muscular frame, bold stripes, and piercing gaze exuded power. I quickly adjusted my camera settings—ISO 250, f/3.2, 1/2000 sec at 300mm—and captured a head-on shot as he majored along the dusty track. The golden afternoon light enhanced his aura, making it one of my most cherished frames from Pilibhit.
While tiger sightings are always a thrill, my most unexpected and exciting moment came later. As we approached an old bridge deep within the jungle, a sudden peacock call followed by frantic monkey alarm calls grabbed our attention. Within seconds, a beautiful leopard dashed across the bridge, disappearing into the dense foliage. Unlike tigers, leopards in tiger-dominated zones are extremely shy, making this sighting a rare treat! My camera managed to freeze a frame of its sleek, spotted body in motion—a fleeting yet unforgettable moment.
Pilibhit is not just about big cats. The wetlands, grasslands, and riverbanks provide refuge to over 350 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. During this trip, I clicked some stunning artistic shots of birds in the golden morning light at CG City Wetland near Lucknow before heading to Pilibhit.
One of my favourite captures was of a Darter, the "snake bird," spreading its wings in the soft morning glow. Another highlight was the elegant Little Egret, gracefully wading through the water. Understanding exposure techniques played a crucial role in getting these shots right. Using a lower ISO (around 200-400), a wide aperture (f/2.8-f/4), and a fast shutter speed (1/1000 sec or more) helped me achieve sharp yet well-lit images.
Every visit to Pilibhit Tiger Reserve reminds me why I fell in love with wildlife photography. Unlike the more commercialised parks, Pilibhit retains its raw, untamed beauty. The thrill of tracking a tiger, the serenity of watching a lone leopard, and the joy of capturing birds in their natural habitat—all these experiences reaffirm my belief that wildlife photography is not just about taking pictures but about storytelling through the lens.
Reviewing my images from this trip, I realise that each frame holds a unique tale—a tale of survival, beauty, and the unbreakable bond between nature and its creatures. Pilibhit, with its dense forests, hidden predators, and mesmerising landscapes, will always be a place I return to, camera in hand, heart full of anticipation.
This trip to Pilibhit Tiger Reserve has been one of my most rewarding wildlife experiences. If you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just someone looking to witness India’s rich biodiversity, Pilibhit should be on your bucket list. The jungles here are alive with stories—you have to be there to hear them.
I would love to hear about your wildlife experiences, too! Have you been to Pilibhit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Type: Blog