Realm of the Black Panther

There is something inherently mysterious about Black Panthers. They inspire stories and legends across the world, and seem to tread a fine line between myth and reality. In truth, they are melanistic Leopards, but this simple fact does not make them any less beguiling. These intriguing jet-black cats are common only in the impenetrable rainforests of south-east Asia, where they are almost impossible to glimpse through the thick and tangled vegetation. However, a few individuals do occur in the more open forests of southern India — real-life incarnations of Rudyard Kipling's Bagheera. In particular, the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary (part of Nagarhole National Park) has become famous as the home of one very special male, known as 'Blackie'. He controls a large swathe of the reserve, and has become supremely confident in his rule, often allowing the kinds of relaxed encounters that would be special with a Leopard of any pelage.

Our exciting 'Realm of the Black Panther’ tour will take us deep into the heart of this big cat’s domain. It begins with a flight into Bengaluru (Bangalore) from where we travel direct to Nagarhole National Park for a 7-night stay. Nagarhole is located in the southern state of Karnataka and was designated a national park back in 1955. Although once a private hunting preserve for the Maharaja of Mysore and the British viceroy, the abundant wildlife of the park is now fully protected. Here live many of India's most iconic mammals including Tigers, Sloth Bears, Gaur and one of the largest populations of Asian Elephants (over 1,000) on the whole of the subcontinent. The birdwatching is also superb, especially within the lush teak and rosewood forests and around the shores of the huge Kabini Reservoir.

We will be based for seven nights at the award-winning Kabini River Lodge, which is located within the southern fringes of the Nagarhole National Park on the edge of the reservoir. From here we will thoroughly explore the reserve’s vibrant forests, grasslands, wetlands and waterways in search of its abundant mammals and birds. Throughout our stay the Black Panther will never be far from our minds. If we are fortunate enough to find ‘Blackie’, then we may be in for a truly memorable experience for he is renowned for providing close-up sightings, frequently using the jeep tracks to patrol his territory and remaining unperturbed in the presence of vehicles. However, he remains an elusive creature, and we certainly cannot guarantee ourselves an audience!

Whether we find the mystical panther or not, Nagarhole’s abundant wildlife will be sure to keep us enthralled throughout our stay. We will explore the park by 4x4 vehicle, by boat and on foot, allowing us to fully appreciate this diverse wilderness from several distinct angles and modes of transport. As well as India’s largest herds of Asian Elephant — including some of the subcontinent’s last big tuskers — we hope to see Gaur (Indian Bison), Sambar, Chital (Spotted Deer), Wild Boar. Indian Muntjac, Sloth Bear and Malabar Giant Squirrel. Packs of Dhole (Asian Wild Dog) are also frequently seen, and we hope to find one of the more typical black-spotted form of Leopard too, although they face increasing competition from a thriving population of Tigers! Birdlife is conspicuous, and includes endemics such as Blue-winged Parakeet, Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-cheeked Barbet and White-bellied Treepie, plus more widespread species such as Red-headed Vulture, Grey Junglefowl, Blue-faced Malkoha, Chestnut-headed Bee-eater and Golden-fronted Leafbird. Afternoon boat trips can be particularly productive, as groups of Asian Elephant, Chital and Sambar come down to the water's edge to drink. Smooth-coated Otter is also a regular sight, as are Marsh Mugger Crocodiles and various waterbirds including Asian Openbill, Cotton Pygmy Goose and Pheasant-tailed Jacana. Nevertheless, it will be the jeep drives that will offer our best chance of that sought-after encounter with ‘Blackie’!

After a final night in Bengaluru, we catch our return flight back to London the following day. For those wishing to remain in India, however, we offer an extension to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where we will stay for three nights at Fringe Ford, a 1,000-acre private reserve in the verdant hills of the Western Ghats. Fringe Ford is home to a wonderful variety of birds and other wildlife, including Malabar Pied Hornbill, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Malabar Trogon and many more. Gaur, Asian Elephant and Lion-tailed Macaque are also possible here with perhaps something a little more unusual such as Brown Palm Civet.