Our Story
Aditya Panda
Aditya Panda is an award-winning naturalist, wildlife conservationist and photographer from Odisha, India. His passion for nature began early, nurtured by wildlife storybooks and jungle tales from his grandfather. Growing up in a city only deepened his desire to live and work in wild places.
Aditya began his career in conservation communication as deputy editor of a prominent wildlife magazine before becoming a field guide at Kanha National Park. He has since led safaris and photo expeditions across India as an Expedition Leader for Natural Habitat Adventures since 2016.
With more than two decades of experience, Aditya’s conservation work focuses on tiger and elephant habitats in Odisha. He collaborates closely with government officials, scientists and local communities, and was appointed Honorary Wildlife Warden of Satkosia Tiger Reserve. He serves on several state-level wildlife task forces and policy boards, using advocacy and on-the-ground action to protect imperiled ecosystems.
Aditya is also an accomplished wildlife photographer whose images have appeared in national and international publications. He uses photography and writing to share compelling stories of wild India, capturing charismatic species in sweeping landscapes.
Whether tracking tigers, birdwatching or sharing conservation insights with fellow travelers, Aditya brings a deep knowledge of Indian wildlife and a passion for interpretation, helping guests gain a richer understanding of the challenges and wonders of India’s wildest places.
Photo gallery
What's in My Camera Bag
I pack light for India’s strict airport security and carry-on rules, tailoring my gear to 1–2 week expeditions. My main setup is a Nikon Z9 with a Nikkor 300mm f/2.8—ideal for tigers, rhinos and elephants. For extra reach, I use a 1.7X or 2X teleconverter, switch to DX mode or my Nikon D500 backup. A Nikkor 70–200mm f/2.8 handles close wildlife and landscapes. I also bring a 50mm f/1.4 for people and street scenes. For long hikes, I swap in a lighter 200–500mm f/5.6. All accessories—batteries, charger, cables, card reader and 2TB hard drive—go in a Nat Hab mesh bag for quick access. I also carry a photo vest to shift weight to my person if needed at airport gates.
Cameras:
Nikon Z9
Nikon D800
Nikon D500
Lenses:
Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 VRII
Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VRII
Nikkor 200-500 f/5.6 VR
Nikkor 50mm f/1.4
Teleconverters:
Nikon 1.7X TCII
Nikon 2X TCIII
Flash:
Nikon SB910
Camera Trapping Equipment:
Pardus P1 trigger for DSLRs
Multiple Digitek flashes & triggers
Miscellaneous Accessories:
Tripod with fluid head for filming
Manfrotto monopod
Beanbags
Circular Polarisers, multiple
Neutral Density filters, multiple extra batteries, Fresnel flash extender straps, silicone cases, etc
Cleaning kit
Memory Cards & Hard Drives:
Multiple CF Express and SD cards, card reader and 2TB SSD hard drive
Binoculars:
Carl Zeiss SFL 10X40
Computer:
Apple MacBook Pro 14
Editing Software:
Adobe Lightroom
DaVinci Resolve
iMovie
What Our Guests Say
Adi was an amazing Expedition Leader and an invaluable guide through each stage of the trip. His passion for the country, wildlife and conservation was infectious. He also seemed to be incredibly good luck-all the best animal encounters were when he was with our Jeep!
Adi is a first-class naturalist who has passion for wildlife conservation running through his veins. He's incredibly knowledgeable, kind, caring and a brilliant leader. Thanks to his clear instruction and great personality, everything on this trip ran smoothly. He managed our group beautifully. Adi made this trip for us!
Aditya was great. His knowledge of India's wildlife was outstanding, and his coverage of WWF and their relationship with India was the best I’ve ever seen. He was patient and pleasant at all times, and he handled any issues during the trip rapidly and effectively. I've been on five Nat Hab trips, and he really has to be placed at the top of the list!