With such a varied topography, India is like gold mine for nature and wildlife lovers. With a wide range of flora and fauna known throughout the world, this country no wonder is listed as one on most must-visit destinations for wildlife adventures. Wildlife in India ranges from the Royal Bengal tigers which explore through Central Indian forests to bird life in wetlands up north, rendering wildlife sanctuaries a living testament of biodiversity that is present on this subcontinent.
Here, in this piece of writing delve deep into 13 famous wildlife sanctuaries in India to visit on your next adventure trip within India. We will also discuss their past, importance and what they offer differently than the rest. If you are a wildlife photo enthusiast, loves bird watching or nature lover then these wildlife sanctuaries in India will make one spellbound.
India is home to some of the world’s most incredible wildlife sanctuaries perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here’s a quick roundup of 13 must-visit sanctuaries you can’t miss- Jim Corbett National Park: India’s oldest park, famous for tiger safaris. Ranthambore National Park: A blend of wildlife and history with a majestic fort. Kaziranga National Park: Home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: A serene mix of wildlife and lush forests in Kerala. Bandipur National Park: Famous for its elephants and biodiversity. Sundarbans National Park: Spot the elusive Bengal tiger in the world’s largest mangrove forest. Manas National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rare species. Gir National Park: The only home of the Asiatic lion. Pench National Park: Inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Kanha National Park: Another Jungle Book favorite, known for tigers and barasingha. Keoladeo National Park: A birdwatcher’s paradise with countless migratory species. Nagarhole National Park: Stunning landscapes teeming with wildlife. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for crocodiles and vibrant birdlife. Each sanctuary offers unique wildlife experiences, from tiger spotting to birdwatching and everything in between. Ready to explore the wild side of India? These sanctuaries are calling your name!
1. Jim Corbett National Park, wildlife sanctuary in Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park is not only the oldest wildlife sanctuary in India but also one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, this sanctuary is known for its majestic tigers and is one of the best places in India to see these big cats in their natural habitat. It is one of the 10 wildlife sanctuaries in India.
History and Significance of Jim Corbett National Park
Hailey National Park was established in 1936 and later on promoted to Jim Corbett National park after our legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. The reserve was the first to be included under Project Tiger, a conservation initiative that mandates protection for endangered Bengal tigers. The park has different kinds of topography which includes grasslands, swampy depressions and evergreen forests that is beneficial in sustaining many kind of wildlife making it one the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India.
Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett National Park
The Park is Closed from July to October and the best time in Jim Corbett National Park is from November through June.
How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 80 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, which is well connected to major cities.
- By Road: The park is well connected by road to Delhi (260 km) and other major towns in Uttarakhand.
Accommodation in Jim Corbett National Park
There are several options for staying near the park, ranging from luxury resorts to budget lodges. Some popular choices include Dhikala Forest Lodge, Corbett Riverside Resort, and The Taj Corbett Resort & Spa.
2. Ranthambore National Park, wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India and is particularly known for its tiger population. Ranthambore is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan and it’s a paradise for any wildlife enthusiast.
History and Significance of Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and later became one of the wildlife parks in India to be included in Project Tiger in 1973. The park is named after the historic Ranthambore Fort, which lies in ruins within its boundaries. Ranthambore is also a known habitat for leopards, sloth bears and birds as well here visitors are going to get what they crave if wildlife attracts them.
Best Time to Visit Ranthambore National Park
October to June is the best time to visit Ranthambore and its peak season starts from April to June, when you would have more chances of Tiger sighting.
How to Reach Ranthambore National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, about 160 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Sawai Madhopur, which is well connected to major cities.
- By Road: Ranthambore is well connected by road to Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi.
Accommodation in Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like The Oberoi Vanyavilas to budget-friendly guesthouses.
3. Kaziranga National Park, wildlife sanctuary in Assam
One of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India, Kaziranga National Park also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and located in Assam.
History and Significance of Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga was declared a protected area in 1905 and later converted into a national park in 1974. Kaziranga boasts the biggest number of Indian rhinoceros in the world, with more than 2,400 individuals. The park, covering a mixed habitat of plains, wetlands and forest is a habitat of variety of wildlife including Elephants, Tigers and several bird species. Kaziranga’s success in rhino conservation makes it one of the major wildlife sanctuaries in India.
Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park is closed in monsoon so the best time to visit is November to April.
How to Reach Kaziranga National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport, about 97 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Furkating, about 75 kilometers away.
- By Road: Kaziranga is well connected by road to Guwahati (217 km) and other towns in Assam.
Accommodation in Kaziranga National Park
There are several lodges and resorts near the park, including Wild Grass Lodge, Iora – The Retreat, and Infinity Resorts Kaziranga.
4. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
The most popular wildlife sanctuaries in India, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at Thekkady and here one can witness the best moments of lifetime with great elephants & amusing boat riding through picturesque Periyar Lake.
History and Significance of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala
Based in 1950, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is unfolded over the space of 925 sq. km. The park is also known by the same name as Periyar River, which flows through the sanctuary now. You can spot elephant and deer while cruising on boat in lake. The only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a Boat on lake Periyar. The sanctuary is known for its tigers, leopards and a host of other reptiles which are amongst the rich bio-diversity in this hilly area.
Best Time to Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala
The Post monsoon and winter months (Oct to June) is the best time for wildlife viewing in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to Reach Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala
- By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, about 140 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, about 114 kilometers away.
- By Road: The sanctuary is well connected by road to major cities like Kochi and Madurai.
Accommodation in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala
Thekkady offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like Spice Village to budget hotels and homestays.
5. Bandipur National Park wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka
Bandipur National Park is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka and it forms a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Home to tigers, elephants and other wildlife.
History and Significance of Bandipur National Park
One of the top 5 wildlife sanctuaries in India for tiger conservation, Bandipur National Park was created under Project Tiger and came into existence as a national park in 1974. The park is spread across an area of 874 square kilometers and has been developed as a natural habitat for various wildlife, including leopards, gaur (India’s Bison), deer, etc. Wanakkad is a biodiversity hotspot, surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna prominent in this area due to its location situated within the Western Ghats.
Best Time to Visit Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park is best visited between October and March — the weather during these months is cooler, thus increasing one’s chances of encountering wildlife.
How to Reach Bandipur National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, about 80 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction.
- By Road: Bandipur is well connected by road to Mysore, Bangalore, and Ooty.
Accommodation Near Bandipur National Park
There are several accommodation options near the park, including Jungle Lodges & Resorts, The Serai Bandipur, and Bandipur Safari Lodge.
6. Sundarbans National Park wildlife sanctuary West Bengal
The Sundarbans National Park is one of the most unique and important wildlife sanctuaries in India. It is truly one of the most exclusive wildlife sanctuaries and it gains great importance as an exotic tourist destination in India. Home to the elusive Bengal tiger, Sundarban is part of the largest mangrove forest in the world.
History and Significance Sundarbans National Park
The Sundarbans is a region of the Ganges and Brahmaputra River basins in the Bengal delta, home to an UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains one of the world’s largest areas covering mangrove forests. It was incorporated into the core area of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve in 1973 and recognised as a national park on 4 May 1984. Unique features of the Sundarbans are listed as its ecosystem, where wildlife species such as the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile and Gangetic dolphins. Wildlife enthusiasts, though, will find a welcome challenge in its remote and largely unforgiving country.
Best Time to Visit Sundarbans National Park
The best time to visit Sundarbans National Park is between November and February when the weather remains cool making it conducive for indulging in sightseeing amidst the mangrove forests.
How to Reach Sundarbans National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, about 120 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Canning, about 48 kilometers away.
- By Road: Sundarbans can be reached by road from Kolkata, followed by a boat ride to enter the park.
Accommodation Near Sundarbans National Park
There are several eco-friendly resorts and lodges in the Sundarbans, including Sundarban Tiger Camp, Sajnekhali Tourist Lodge, and Sunderban Mangrove Retreat.
7. Manas National Park wildlife century in Assam
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site Manas National Park in Assam is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India. This is the largest of all celebrated wildlife sanctuaries in India; considered as home for Assam roofed turtle and pygmy hog.
History and Significance of Manas National Park
Manas was notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1928 and declared a National Park on 1st October 1990. The park takes its name from the Manas River, which flows through it. Manas is a biosphere reserve and is part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. Wildlife in the park includes several rare and endangered species such as Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, wild water buffalo and swamp deer. Home to grasslands, forests and rivers, puts it in the map for animal lovers.
Best Time to Visit Manas National Park
Manas National Park remains closed from July-October and the best time to visit is from November to April.
How to Reach Manas National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, about 180 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Barpeta Road, about 32 kilometers away.
- By Road: Manas is well connected by road to Guwahati and other towns in Assam.
Accommodation Near Manas National Park
There are several lodges and guesthouses near the park, including Manas Jungle Lodge, Musa Jungle Retreat, and Florican Cottage.
8. Gir National Park wildlife century in, Gujarat
Gir National Park is the only home of Asiatic lions in the world. Gir is the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India which located in Gujarat.
History and Significance of Gir National Park
Gir National Park was set up in 1965 to save the virtually extinct Asiatic lion. The park extends over an area of 1412 square kilometers and has a thriving lion population of more than 500 members. In addition to chinkara, Gir’s dry deciduous forests support populations of leopards and deer as well as a significant bird population. With its rapid increase in population figures, the project launched for Asiatic lions’ natural conservation has also brought huge acclaim to Gir as a wildlife conserved area on global fora. Its set an example of wildlife sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit Gir National Park
The best time to visit Gir National Park is between the months of October and June with peak season from December to March.
How to Reach Gir National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, about 105 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Veraval, about 65 kilometers away.
- By Road: Gir is well connected by road to cities like Junagadh, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad.
Accommodation Near Gir National Park
Gir offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, jungle lodges, and budget hotels. Popular choices include The Fern Gir Forest Resort, Gir Jungle Lodge, and Lion Safari Camp.
9. Pench National Park wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh
Pench National Park is one of the most exciting wildlife parks in India which might be not as popular as some other national. Originating from Madhya Pradesh, it is well known as the location for Rudyard Kipling’s 1894 “The Jungle Book.”
History and Significance of Pench National Park
It was established in 1977 as Pench National Park but later declared a tiger reserve under project Tiger scheme in 1992. The park is named after the Pench River which flows from north to south through this park. Located in the undulating terrain of Seoni and Chhindwara districts, Pench is covered with teak mixed forest that make great cover for tigers to stay camouflaged against prey like Sambar Deers or Nilgai. Its association with “The Jungle Book” has aided its popularity among literature and wildlife enthusiasts alike. It is called animal sanctuary in India.
Best Time to Visit Pench National Park
From October to June Winter and summer are the better times to go exploring wildlife in Pench National Park. It is the one of the five wildlife sanctuaries in India.
How to Reach Pench National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, about 130 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Seoni, about 30 kilometers away.
- By Road: Pench is well connected by road to Nagpur, Jabalpur, and other towns in Madhya Pradesh.
Accommodation Near Pench National Park
There are several accommodation options near the park, including luxury resorts, jungle camps, and budget lodges. Popular choices include Pench Jungle Camp, Tathastu Resort, and Kipling’s Court.
10. Kanha National Park wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh
Kanha National Park is one of the biggest and most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India. Situated in Madhya Pradesh it is have reputation of being the home for Bengal tigers along with rare hardground barasingha (swamp deer). This makes it animal reserves in India.
History and Significance Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park was created in 1955, making it one of the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries in India. It spans some 940 square kilometers of grassy meadows and dense forests interspersed with bamboo thickets. The hardground barasingha, now known as the “Jewel of Kanha,” was decades ago at the brink of extinction before successful conservation efforts helped restore it. This varied habitat is home to a diverse range of wildlife, which makes the park very popular with fans of natural photography or nature in general. It is the best wildlife sanctuary in India.
Best Time to Visit Kanha National Park
Ideal time to visit Kanha National Park: Starts from October & concludes in June, as the summer season is a favorable time to click tigers and see other extinct animals.
How to Reach Kanha National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, about 160 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Gondia, about 145 kilometers away.
- By Road: Kanha is well connected by road to Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Raipur.
Accommodation Near Kanha National Park
There are several accommodation options near the park, including luxury resorts, jungle lodges, and budget guesthouses. Popular choices include Kanha Earth Lodge, Singinawa Jungle Lodge, and Muba at Mukki.
11. Keoladeo National Park wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan
History and Significance of Keoladeo National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
One of the most renowned bird sanctuaries in India, Keoladeo National Park, which was formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. It is situated in Rajasthan and this area has been placed under the category of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO because it houses a significant number of birds.
Once Keoladeo National Park was a royal hunting reserve of the Bharatpur maharajas. It was designated as a bird sanctuary in 1976 and then upgraded to national park status in 1982. The park, spread over 29 sq km, accommodates more than 370 species of birds including migratory entrants from Siberia like the crane. Due to its wetlands, grasslands and wood lands are home to a lot of birds from various species making this place a bird watcher paradise. It is one of the famous names of wildlife sanctuaries in India.
Best Time to Visit Keoladeo National Park
The ideal time to visit Keoladeo National Park is October to March, as migratory birds also arrive here during this season.
How to Reach Keoladeo National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Agra Airport, about 56 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Bharatpur Junction, about 5 kilometers away.
- By Road: Keoladeo is well connected by road to Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi.
Accommodation Near Keoladeo National Park
There are several accommodation options near the park, including heritage hotels, guesthouses, and budget lodges. Popular choices include The Bagh Resort, Laxmi Vilas Palace, and Bharatpur Forest Lodge.
12. Nagarhole National Park wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka
Nagarhole National Park, officially Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka. Located in Western Ghats, it is known for its richness of biodiversity and beautiful landscapes.
History and Significance of Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park was created as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and further instated as the national park in1988. This park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and you can see wildlife like tigers, elephants, leopards etc. as well some different kinds of deer here. The park is also known by its former name, Nagarhole (nagar = snake; hole=river in Kannada). Due to the many ecosystems found in Nagarhole such as tropical forests, swamps and rivers this makes it a very attractive place for wildlife enthusiasts. It is the latest wildlife sanctuary in India.
Best Time to Visit Nagarhole National Park
October to May is the best time for visiting Nagarhole National Park, with post-monsoon and winter being ideal seasons as wildlife can be easily spotted.
How to Reach Nagarhole National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, about 96 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction.
- By Road: Nagarhole is well connected by road to Mysore, Bangalore, and Coorg.
Accommodation Near Nagarhole National Park
There are several accommodation options near the park, including luxury resorts, jungle lodges, and homestays. Popular choices include Kabini River Lodge, Orange County Resort, and Machaan Nagarhole.
13. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha
Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is a less famous wildlife sanctuary in India which holds its ecological importance in one of the wildlife sanctuaries of India. It is in Odisha and famous for its mangrove forests along with the largest number of saltwater crocodiles.
History and Significance of Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where animals can breed so it was built in 1975, and spans over 672 square kilometers. This sanctuary is located within the larger Bhitarkanika National Park and features the tourist-friendly crocodiles, along with a huge number of wildlife-diversity from saltwater marsh-crocodiles to king cobras Indian pythons as well as various birds. The mangrove forests and wetlands of the sanctuary are different from all others, acting as an important ecological area in India for these species.
Best Time to Visit Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary
The mangrove forests in the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary are best traveled from October to March when the weather is cool enough.
How to Reach Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary
- By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 160 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Bhadrak, about 70 kilometers away.
- By Road: Bhitarkanika is well connected by road to Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other towns in Odisha.
Accommodation Near Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary
There are limited accommodation options near the sanctuary, but visitors can stay in government-run guesthouses or nearby towns like Bhadrak and Kendrapara.
Conclusion
India’s wildlife sanctuaries go away beyond simply sighting animals in their natural environments; they are a celebration of the county’s unique ecosystems, biodiversity and natural landscapes. While the dense jungles of Western Ghats hide many wonders, grasslands in central India are equally bewitching — that is only beginning to scratch the surface! These wildlife sanctuaries in India offer a wide range of experiences for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Whether you’re just dreaming about your next adventure or really need some fresh air, there’s nothing quite like immersing yourself in nature, and these 13 famous wildlife sanctuaries in India are definitely something to land on top of your list. So, all you nature lovers out there — pack your bags and make sure to take the camera along!
FAQ
1. What are the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India?
Some of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India include Jim Corbett National Park, Ranthambore National Park, and Kaziranga National Park.
2. Which wildlife sanctuary is best for seeing tigers in India?
Ranthambore National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, and Bandipur National Park are among the best places to see tigers in India.
3. What is the best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries in India?
The best time to visit most wildlife sanctuaries in India is from October to March, when the weather is cool and suitable for wildlife viewing.
4. Are there any bird sanctuaries in India?
Yes, India has several bird sanctuaries, including Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
5. Which is the latest wildlife sanctuary in India?
The latest wildlife sanctuary in India is the Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal, established in recent years.
6. How can I reach Jim Corbett National Park?
Jim Corbett National Park is best reached by road from Delhi, or by train to Ramnagar, the nearest railway station.
7. What animals can be seen in Kaziranga National Park?
Kaziranga National Park is famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros, as well as tigers, elephants, and a variety of birds.
8. Are there any wildlife sanctuaries in Maharashtra?
Yes, Maharashtra is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including Tadoba Andheri Tiger Reserve and Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
9. Can I stay inside a wildlife sanctuary in India?
Many wildlife sanctuaries in India offer accommodation options inside or near the sanctuary, such as forest lodges, guesthouses, and eco-resorts.
10. Which wildlife sanctuary in India is known for its elephants?
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala and Bandipur National Park in Karnataka are famous for their large elephant populations.
11. How many wildlife sanctuaries are there in India?
There are over 500 wildlife sanctuaries in India, each with its unique ecosystem and species.
12. What is the difference between a national park and a wildlife sanctuary in India?
A national park has stricter regulations and is primarily focused on the protection of wildlife, while a wildlife sanctuary allows certain human activities, such as grazing, under regulation.
13. Which is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India?
The largest wildlife sanctuary in India is the Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, which covers an area of over 12,000 square kilometers.
14. What are some examples of wildlife sanctuaries in India?
Examples of wildlife sanctuaries in India include Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Sundarbans National Park.
15. Are there any wildlife sanctuaries in the Himalayas?
Yes, the Himalayas are home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Great Himalayan National Park in Himachal Pradesh and Nanda Devi National Park in Uttarakhand.
