For animal lovers, India is a wonderland with some of the most diverse habitats on the planet. From high-altitude cold deserts and vast mangroves to deep woodlands and broad grasslands, the country's national parks provide unique habitats for a variety of species. These protected areas not only provide a shelter for vulnerable animals but also allow people to observe nature as it is.
This page examines India's top 12 national parks, each of which provides a distinct experience for adventurers and environmentalists.
1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett, India's first national park, was founded in 1936 and is known for its Bengal tiger population. Elephants, leopards, deer, and over 650 bird species thrive in the park's mix of dense forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. A significant part of Project Tiger, India's most important conservation endeavor.
Main drawbacks
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The Dhikala and Bijrani zones are the best places to spot tigers.
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Garjiya Devi Temple and Corbett Museum are two historical and cultural attractions.
- River rafting and birding provide enough opportunities for adventure and wildlife encounters.
Ideal Time of Visit
November through June is the greatest time to view Tigers.
How can one get there?
Ramnagar is the town nearest to Delhi and can be reached by train. The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport (80 kilometers away).
Where on Earth should one stay?
While Ramnagar caters to a wide variety of budgets, government-run forest resorts in Dhikala provide immersive experiences.
2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its one-horned rhinoceros, which have the world's largest population. The park, spread across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, is ideal for rhinos, elephants, swamp deer, and tigers. This paradise for birdwatchers is also home to the endangered Ganges river dolphin and over 500 different bird species.
Primary Drawbacks
- Jeep and elephant safaris: The best way to observe other wildlife like rhinos.
- Observe rare creatures such as Siberian cranes and pelicans.
- Kaziranga Orchid Park has hundreds of unique orchid species.
Ideal Time of Visit
The park is closed from November to April due to heavy floods.
How did you get here?
The closest airport is Jorhat Airport (97 kilometers away), while the nearest train station is Furkating Junction (75 kilometers away). Guwahati (190 miles away) has frequent buses and taxis.
Where on Earth should one stay?
Accommodation options range from government-run forest lodges to lavish resorts in Kohora and Bagori, the primary tourist destinations.
3. Gir National Park, Gujarat
Asiatic lions can only be found in Gir, the only place on Earth where they naturally occur. Lions, leopards, and hyenas thrive in the park, which combines dry deciduous woodlands, scrubland, and grasslands. Gir is a notable animal conservation success story, with almost 600 Asiatic lions.
Principal Attractions
- Lion safaris provide the best opportunity to view Asiatic lions in their natural environment.
- Kamleshwar Dam is an excellent location for birdwatching and crocodile sightings.
- Devalia Safari Park is a fenced eco-tourism area that offers a quick glimpse of Gir's wildlife.
Perfect Time to Go
December to April; the summer months (May and June) can be very hot.
Method of Reach:
The closest railway station is Junagadh (65 kilometers away), while the nearest airport is Rajkot (160 kilometers away). Buses and taxis are readily available from Junagadh and Rajkot to the park.
Where exactly are you staying?
There are luxury hotels in and around Sasan Gir, the primary tourist destination, as well as eco-resorts and forest lodges.
4. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers since it has one of India's largest populations of Royal Bengal tigers. The park's historic Bandhavgarh Fort adds to its attractiveness.
Important Attractive
- Jeep safaris provide a decent chance of sighting tigers.
- Bandhavgarh Fort: Ancient ruins provide visitors with a unique experience in the wild.
The ideal time to travel
Tiger sightings are most often between October and June, as well as March and May.
5. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, is home to the rare Royal Bengal tiger, which has adapted to live in a unique marshy habitat. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Important attractions
- Boat safaris are the only way to explore the park's complicated system of waterways.
- Saltwater crocodiles are often seen on the muddy banks.
Ideal Time of Visit
From September to March, summers are fairly humid.
6. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore is renowned as one of India's tiger sanctuaries, having a thriving tiger population and historic ruins. The park's unique blend of rocky outcrops, wide grasslands, and dense woodlands makes it one of the best places to watch Royal Bengal tigers. Ranthambore Fort's presence within the park adds cultural and historical significance to the wildlife experience.
Important drawings
- Tiger safaris are likely to include sightings of sloth bears, leopards, and tigers.
- Ranthambore Fort is a UNESCO-listed historical structure that provides panoramic views of the park.
- Padam Talao and Malik Talao are scenic lakes where animals such as crocodiles and many bird species congregate.
The ideal time to go
Tiger sightings are greatest from October to June and March to May.
How can one get there?
The closest railway station is Sawai Madhopur (11 kilometers away), which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Jaipur. Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport, located 160 kilometers away.
Where on Earth should one stay?
Sawai Madhopur offers a wide range of accommodations, from low-cost hotels and eco-lodges to luxury jungle resorts.
7. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats, is one of India's most beautiful and diverse protected areas. Along with Bengal tigers, Indian bison, and leopards, it is most well-known for its large population of wild elephants. The Mullaperiyar Dam's Periyar Lake offers a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience via boat safaris where tourists may witness animals drinking at the water's edge.
Important drawers
- Boat Safaris on Periyar Lake provide an uncommon opportunity to view aquatic life.
- Elephant Herds and Birdwatching: Observing elephants in their natural habitats, as well as a variety of birds.
- Nature Walks and Bamboo Rafting: A guided exploration of the abundant forests.
Ideal Time of Visit
September to April, when the weather is pleasant, and animal sightings are common.
Methods of reach
The nearest railway station is Kottayam (110 kilometers), while Cochin International Airport is 190 kilometers away. The sanctuary is strategically positioned on the road to major towns in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Where on Earth should one stay?
In addition to luxury hotels near Thekkady, the park's main entrance, there are forest lodges and eco-resorts.
8. Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Hemis National Park is India's largest national park and one of the best places in the world to witness the rare snow leopard in its natural habitat. The park, located in the Himalayan cold desert, has high-altitude plateaus that protect rare Himalayan species, as well as deep valleys and rugged terrain.
Significant Drawbacks
- Snow Leopard Expeditions are the greatest way to track this elusive wildlife throughout the winter.
- Trekking paths are popular among adventurers exploring remote Himalayan terrain.
- Hemis Monastery: Renowned Buddhist monastery situated within the park, with an annual celebration.
Best Time to Visit
Hiking season runs from May to September, whereas snow leopard sightings occur from December to February.
Reaching:
The closest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is 45 kilometers away. The road from Leh enables access to the park; nevertheless, driving during the winter may be challenging.
Where on Earth should one stay?
Simple homestays in Rumbak and adjacent areas offer an opportunity to learn about Ladakhi culture. Leh features guesthouses and motels for convenient access.
9. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan
Among the most significant bird sanctuaries in the world, Keoladeo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally a royal hunting area, it is now home to over 370 different kinds of birds, including migratory species like painted storks, Siberian cranes, and pelicans. Birdwatchers and other wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the park's diverse environment, which includes marshes, woodlands, and grasslands.
Important drawers
- Birdwatching excursions allow you to see unusual and migratory birds in their natural surroundings.
- Unlike most national parks, visitors may explore on foot or by bike via cycling and walking trails.
- Boat trips during the monsoon are an uncommon way to enjoy the park's wetland nature.
The ideal time to travel
The best birding opportunities are from October to March when migratory species arrive.
How can I get there?
The closest airport is Agra Airport (56 km), while the nearest railway station is Bharatpur Junction (5 km). The park is strategically positioned on the route between Jaipur and Delhi.
Where Should Someone Stay?
Accommodation options in and around Bharatpur include affordable hotels, eco-lodges, and forest rest houses.
10. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Kanha assisted Rudyard Kipling in writing The Jungle Book after being inspired by one of India's most stunning tiger reserves. Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and the unusual barasingha (swamp deer) that was rescued from extinction are all found here.
Significant Drawbacks
- Tiger & Wildlife Safaris provide an opportunity to see unique wildlife such as tigers and barasingha.
- Bamni Dadar: A breathtaking view of the sunset.
- Dense sal and bamboo woods create breathtaking vistas.
Ideal visit time
Tiger sightings are most often between October and June, as well as March and May.
How can I get there?
The closest railway station is Gondia Junction (145 km away), while the nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport (160 km away).
What place should I stay?
Accommodations in and around the Kisli and Mukki districts include jungle lodges, eco-resorts, and luxury hotels.
11. Pench National Park (Madhya Pradesh - Maharashtra)
The park is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, various types of deer, and over 250 different bird species. The lovely Pench River runs throughout the park and supports a diverse ecosystem.
Must-see attractions
- On a Wildlife Safari, you may explore the lush woods in search of tigers and leopards.
- Night safaris provide a unique opportunity to witness nocturnal wildlife in motion.
- Look for kingfishers, hornbills, and spot owls.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to see tigers is from November to June, with March through May being the finest.
How can one arrive?
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur is the closest airport, located 88 kilometers away. Seoni (30 km away) is the closest railway station.
Where on Earth should one stay?
Luxury camps in and around Turia and Karmajhiri, the main tourist destinations, as well as forest lodges and eco-resorts, are available as lodgings.
12. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh
Trekkers and nature lovers will find the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to be a high-altitude paradise. The park is home to snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, musk deer, and over 200 bird species, which thrive in its clean alpine meadows and dense deodar forests.
Principal Attractions
- Trekking trails lead you to remote valleys, gorgeous rivers, and stunning mountains.
- Serows and snow leopards are rare Himalayan species that can be spotted when nature watching.
- Tirthan Valley, which serves as the gateway to GHNP, is recognized for its riverbank beauty.
Best time to travel
April through June and September through November; summer delivers lush flora, while winter showcases vistas covered with snow.
Reach: How do you get here?
Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport) is the nearest airport, located 60 kilometers away. Joginder Nagar (143 km away) has the closest rail station, making for a pleasant journey.
So, where should I stay?
Eco-lodges, guesthouses, and homestays in Tirthan Valley and Banjar provide an immersive and sustainable experience.
Conclusion
India's national parks provide a variety of activities, from thrilling tiger safaris to relaxing boat rides and high-altitude expeditions. These parks ensure an unforgettable experience, regardless of your degree of interest in animals, birds, or hiking.
