A Wildlife Odyssey: Exploring the Most Spectacular National Parks in India
India is home to more than 100 national parks, spread across 29 states and 7 union territories. These parks are extremely diverse, with a wide range of topographical features, climates, and ecosystems. From the snow-capped Himalayan peaks of the north to the lush tropical forests of the south, national parks in India offer something for everyone.
The most popular parks in India are Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Ranthambore National Park, and Periyar National Park. These parks are renowned for their abundant wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and more. In addition to these iconic species, visitors can also observe a variety of bird species, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Apart from wildlife, India’s national parks also offer a variety of activities and attractions, such as safaris, camping, trekking, bird watching, and more. Additionally, many of these parks are home to ancient monuments and temples, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, look no further than India’s national parks. From the majestic Himalayas to the tropical forests of the south, these parks offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventurer, or a culture buff, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. So, pack your bags and start exploring India’s incredible wilderness today!
Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for housing two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros population. It’s lush grasslands and dense forests also provide a perfect habitat for Bengal tigers, elephants, and various bird species.
Location: Assam
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Jorhat (97 km), and the closest railway station is Furkating (75 km).
Best time to visit: November to April
Famous for: One-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers
Sundarbans National Park
Sundarbans National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is a unique deltaic region covering 10,000 sq km of mangrove forests. The park is home to the elusive Royal Bengal tiger and boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, including saltwater crocodiles and Indian pythons.
Location: West Bengal
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata (112 km), and the closest railway station is Canning (48 km).
Best time to visit: December to February
Famous for: Royal Bengal tigers and mangrove forests
Jim Corbett National Park
Established in 1936, Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest national park, named after the famous hunter-turned-conservationist, Jim Corbett. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and over 600 bird species.
Location: Uttarakhand
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (50 km), and the closest railway station is Ramnagar (12 km).
Best time to visit: November to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, elephants, and birdwatching
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park, once a royal hunting ground, is known for its thriving tiger population and the majestic Ranthambore Fort. The park’s diverse topography, which includes dense forests, lakes, and grasslands, supports a rich array of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.
Location: Rajasthan
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (180 km), and the closest railway station is Sawai Madhopur (11 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, ancient ruins, and birdwatching
Bandipur National Park
Located at the foothills of the Nilgiri Mountains, Bandipur National Park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park boasts a healthy elephant population and is home to tigers, Indian gaurs, and various species of deer, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Location: Karnataka
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (215 km), and the closest railway station is Mysore (80 km).
Best time to visit: October to May
Famous for: Elephants, tigers, and Indian gaurs
Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park, one of India’s largest parks, is known for its striking landscapes, comprising lush meadows, dense forests, and bamboo thickets. The park is home to Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and the endangered swamp deer, also known as Barasingha.
Location: Madhya Pradesh
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Jabalpur (170 km), and the closest railway station is Gondia (145 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, swamp deer, and Indian leopards
Gir National Park
Gir National Park, the last refuge of the Asiatic lion, is a protected area that has successfully revived the lion population in India. Apart from lions, the park is home to Indian leopards, hyenas, and over 300 bird species, making it a must-visit for wildlife lovers.
Location: Gujarat
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Diu (110 km), and the closest railway station is Junagadh (65 km).
Best time to visit: December to March
Famous for: Asiatic lions and diverse birdlife
Periyar National Park
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Periyar National Park is known for its picturesque landscapes and the serene Periyar Lake. The park is a sanctuary for elephants, Indian bison, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, trekking, and bamboo rafting to explore the park’s beauty.
Location: Kerala
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (140 km), and the closest railway station is Kottayam (114 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Elephants, Indian bison, and scenic beauty
Pench National Park
Pench National Park, the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book,” is home to Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and over 250 bird species. The park’s diverse habitats, including teak forests, grasslands, and riverine areas, provide an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Location: Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Nagpur (92 km), and the closest railway station is Seoni (30 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and birdwatching
Also read, Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Pench National Park
Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary
Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, a crucial corridor between the Western and Eastern Ghats, is known for its rich biodiversity, encompassing elephants, tigers, and a variety of flora. The sanctuary offers trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks for visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty.
Location: Tamil Nadu
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (88 km), and the closest railway station is Erode Junction (60 km).
Best time to visit: October to April
Famous for: Elephants, tigers, and diverse flora
Manas National Park, Assam
Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its pristine landscapes, comprising dense forests, grasslands, and the Manas River. The park provides a refuge for the one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, wild water buffalo, and several endangered species.
Location: Assam
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (145 km), and the closest railway station is Barpeta Road (44 km).
Best time to visit: November to April
Famous for: One-horned rhinoceros, tigers, and wild water buffalo
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh National Park, known for its high tiger density, is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is also home to leopards, deer, and over 250 bird species. Visitors can explore ancient caves and the Bandhavgarh Fort, adding a historical dimension to their experience.
Location: Madhya Pradesh
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Jabalpur (160 km), and the closest railway station is Umaria (35 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, leopards, and ancient caves
Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, once a royal hunting reserve, provides a habitat for Bengal tigers, leopards, and various other wildlife species. The sanctuary is also home to the ancient Neelkanth Mahadev and Garh-Rajor Temples, offering visitors a glimpse of India’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: Rajasthan
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (110 km), and the closest railway station is Alwar (37 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, leopards, and ancient temples
Wandoor Marine National Park, Andaman
Wandoor Marine National Park, comprising 15 islands and surrounding waters, is a haven for marine life, including vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and tropical fish. Visitors can indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply relax on the park’s pristine beaches.
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair (29 km).
Best time to visit: October to April
Famous for: Coral reefs, marine life, and pristine beaches
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is a picturesque park with a mix of deciduous and evergreen forests. The sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species, offering visitors an unforgettable experience amidst nature.
Location: Kerala
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (61 km), and the closest railway station is Kozhikode (97 km).
Best time to visit: October to May
Famous for: Elephants, tigers, and lush landscapes
Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur, Rajasthan
Keoladeadeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a birdwatcher’s paradise, attracting thousands of migratory birds during the winter months. The park hosts over 370 bird species, including the rare Siberian crane, making it an essential destination for bird enthusiasts.
Location: Rajasthan
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Agra Airport (56 km), and the closest railway station is Bharatpur Junction (5 km).
Best time to visit: August to November (for resident birds), October to February (for migratory birds)
Famous for: Birdwatching and migratory birds
Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
Nagarhole National Park, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is home to tigers, elephants, and Indian bison. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including forests, swamps, and grasslands, provide a captivating backdrop for wildlife sightings and photography.
Location: Karnataka
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (236 km), and the closest railway station is Mysore (96 km).
Best time to visit: October to May
Famous for: Tigers, elephants, and Indian bison
Tadoba Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Tadoba Tiger Reserve, also known as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, is one of India’s premier tiger destinations, offering visitors the opportunity to spot Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and sloth bears. The reserve’s scenic beauty and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Location: Maharashtra
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur (140 km), and the closest railway station is Chandrapur (45 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and sloth bears
Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand
Rajaji National Park, encompassing the Shivalik mountain range, is home to elephants, tigers, and over 400 bird species. The park’s varied landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and riverine areas, provide visitors with an immersive experience in nature.
Location: Uttarakhand
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (35 km), and the closest railway station is Haridwar (24 km).
Best time to visit: November to June
Famous for: Elephants, tigers, and diverse birdlife
Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu
Mudumalai National Park, nestled at the foothills of the Nilgiri Mountains, is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park is home to elephants, tigers, Indian leopards, and a variety of bird species, making it an ideal destination for wildlife lovers.
Location: Tamil Nadu
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (123 km), and the closest railway station is Ooty (64 km).
Best time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Elephants, tigers, and Indian leopards
The Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh
The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a biodiversity hotspot, with over 1,000 plant species and a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards and Himalayan brown bears. The park’s breathtaking landscapes provide a unique experience for trekkers and nature lovers.
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (60 km), and the closest railway station is Joginder Nagar (166 km).
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November
Famous for: Snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears, and alpine flora
Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir
Dachigam National Park, nestled in the Himalayas, offers visitors stunning landscapes, including alpine pastures, meadows, and dense forests. The park is home to the endangered Kashmir stag, Himalayan black bears, and a variety of bird species, providing a memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Location: Jammu and Kashmir
Reaching there: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport (22 km), and the closest railway station is Srinagar (15 km).
Best time to visit: May to September (lower region), November to March (upper region)
Famous for: Kashmir stag (Hangul), Himalayan black bears, and picturesque landscapes
Exploring the National parks in India
National parks in India showcase the country’s diverse ecosystems and provide a sanctuary for countless species. Exploring these protected areas allows visitors to appreciate the wonders of nature and support conservation efforts to preserve India’s unique habitats. Wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventurers alike will find unforgettable experiences and lasting memories in these incredible national parks.
Also read, Pench National Park Travel Guide
FAQs
1. What are the most famous national parks in India?
India is home to numerous national parks, some of the most famous being Kaziranga National Park, Ranthambore National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, and Sundarbans National Park.
2. When is the best time to visit national parks in India?
The ideal time to visit Indian national parks varies based on the park and the wildlife you want to see. Generally, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from October to June, as animals tend to gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.
3. Are there any specific rules or regulations for visitors in Indian national parks?
Yes, Indian national parks have rules and regulations to ensure the safety of visitors and the protection of wildlife. These may include staying on designated paths, not feeding the animals, maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, and adhering to park entry and exit timings.
4. What types of wildlife can I expect to see in Indian national parks?
India’s national parks boast a diverse range of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, one-horned rhinoceroses, Indian leopards, sloth bears, and various species of deer, monkeys, and birds.
5. Can I take guided tours in Indian national parks?
Yes, guided tours are available in most Indian national parks. These tours may be conducted by trained naturalists or park staff and can take the form of jeep safaris, elephant rides, or walking tours, depending on the park and its regulations.
6. Do I need a permit or permission to visit Indian national parks?
In most cases, you will need to obtain entry permits and pay fees to visit Indian national parks. The permit process and fee structure may vary depending on the park, so it is essential to check with the park authorities or their official website for accurate information.
