Your tales of… strange Christmases

Reader John Boyle (and his camera) went in search of the elusive black leopard of Nagarhole National Park

It turns out you’ve had some weird and wonderful festive experiences...

The highlights: Watching the interaction between a pack of wild dogs. They are formidable predators but to see them play fighting, muzzle-licking and grooming was so reminiscent of our pet dogs. Also, great views of four species of eagle.

Must see: Big cats! Take four or more safaris and you’ll likely be rewarded with at least one tiger or leopard sighting. However, you’ll be blessed if you see Saya, the rare black leopard that roams here.

Top tip: Stay at a lodge close to the park that includes jeep safaris in the booking. Daily permits into the forest are limited, and sometimes demand outstrips supply.

Cautionary tale: I’d confirmed that my lodge would accept card payments but unfortunately at check out, and with my transport waiting to go, the system was down, and it was cash-only settlement. The solution was for a member of staff to join me on my Bangalore transfer as far as the local cashpoint, requiring a 30 minute detour.

I wish I’d known: The boat safaris provide regular sightings of elephant, wild boar, deer and a host of birdlife while offering a different perspective for photography.

Anything else: Some safari guides can become obsessed with searching for Saya, the black leopard (as many tourists are so desperate for a sighting) and only drive around the areas he was last seen. But visiting all the zones of the park will give you the opportunity to see a wider variety of species – and you never know... wanderlust.co.uk

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