Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Park in India
National Parks in North India:
1.Corbett National Park
India’s oldest national park, Corbett is also the first national park that took conservation of tigers seriously and inspiring other national parks to do the same. Owing to itself a large area in the foothills of Himalaya in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, Corbett National Park is an ideal haunt for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. There are 5 zones in Corbett that boast of diverse flora and fauna; one can enjoy the spotting of many fascinating animals. Jeep, elephant and canter safari in Corbett National Park, makes it one of the most preferred and recommended national park in India.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
2.Dachigam National Park
Along with beautiful locales of Kashmir, the Dachigam National Park comes as an asset. The national park is also known as the last home of Hangul or Kashmiri Stag. If you enjoy bird watching, Dachigam is the place for you. Walking is the only way to explore this park and it indeed sounds exciting. There are fixed trails that have to be followed while exploring the national park. Dachigam boasts about its large population of musk deer, leopards, Himalayan black bear and many species of birds. Enjoy the natural beauty and get yourself ready to be thrilled.
Best Time to Visit: April to August
3.Dudhwa National Park
The perfect reflection of ‘Teria’ ecosystem, Dudhwa National Park is the pride of green Uttar Pradesh. Acquiring a large territory on the Indo-Nepal border, the national park is the home of various wild genuses especially the Swap Deer. Along with Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, the flora and fauna of the Terai region puts on a best show. A large number of birds make it a birdwatchers’ paradise. Dotted with many small and big lakes, Dudhwa is one green and happy place for animals. You can enjoy spotting swamp deer, one-horned rhinoceros, hog deer, cheetal and many species of birds here.
Best Time to Visit: November to May
4.Gobindsagar Wildlife Sanctuary
With the Bhakra Dam as its landmark, the Gobindsagar Wildlife Sanctuary has adventurous air about it. Situated near Bilaspur in the scenic state of Himachal Pradesh, the sanctuary is famed for varied species of fish. Well, that is not the only attraction here in Gobindsagar, as the sanctuary is also the home to wildlife species like barking deer, cheetal and sambar making it quite an exciting place to be at.
Best Time to Visit: April to November
5.Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
Edmund Hillary, in his autobiography said, “Nanda Devi Sanctuary is God-gifted wilderness-India’s-training ground for adventure”… and indeed it is. One of the most picturesque biosphere reserves in the country, Nanda Devi reserve is located in the equally picturesque state of Uttarakhand. Also, listed in the UNESCO World’s Heritage Site, it is one of the best national parks in India. The reserve offers splendid view of the peaks of Trishul, Dunagiri and Nanda Devi, which acts like the adrenaline booster. It remains partially opened for the visitors with the park authorizing only five visitors in one group and visit of no more than two groups in a day. Boasting greatly of flora and fauna, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is definitely a place for those seeking something new and refreshing.
Best Time to Visit: Mid June to Mid-September
6.Valley of Flowers National Park
If you are at Valley of Flowers, then you are at one of the best destinations in India. Another UNESCO World’s Heritage Site, Valley of Flowers is rejuvenation par excellence! Situated in the Garhwal region of beautiful state of Uttarakhand, it can rightly be called the most graceful national park in North India. The national park is home to number of endangered species and alpine flowers, so you can fairly expect both a heartwarming and thrilling experience here. While bharal, Himalayan black-bear, musk deer and red fox intrigues the visitors here, poppies, orchids and daisies offer a scenic view in Valley of Flowers National Park.
Best Time to Visit: July to Mid August
7.Rajaji National Park
An excellent place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Rajaji National Park is proudly formed with the amalgamation of three sanctuaries namely, Motichur Sanctuary, Chilla Sanctuary and Rajaji Sanctuary. So, you can expect a rich wildlife reining the area, with a large elephant and bird population and the Shivalik eco-system. You can enjoy great elephant safari in Rajaji National Park, which of course help you take a better look in to the wild.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
8.Hemis National Park
A high altitude national park, Hemis National Park in Leh region of Ladakh is known as the home of snow leopards and about 73 species of birds. Sprawling in a large area, the national park has six villages inside it. Also, the famous Hemis Monastery is situated in the premises of the park. A distinct experience is assured in Hemis National Park, as the high altitude location and the predominant diversity prepare one for an experience of a lifetime. No safari is available here, although fixed trails are appointed for the visitors that fairly cover all the major areas of the park. The lovely view of the confluence of Indus and Zanskar River can also be witnessed from the border of the national park along with other splendid views around Hemis.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
9.Kishatwar National Park
Another high altitude national park in Jammu region, Kishatwar National Park offers nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts something interesting to look forward to. Sparse forest and dense wildlife along with great bird watching opportunity can light up the mood. The Kashmiri Stag or Hangul is the main of Kishatwar National Park as well. Trekking is one activity that is enjoyed in this park in large, so you are expected to pack your trekking shoes and other necessary amenities also.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
10.Great Himalayan National Park
Covering large area of Kullu region in Himachal Pradesh, the Great Himalayan National Park is the asset to Himachal tourism. Known for sheltering diverse wildlife and offering splendid views of the great Himalaya range, this national park is the epitome of adventure and knowledge. The areas of Sainj and Tirthan Valleys are most appealing in the park with variety of wildlife to spot. The park also promotes ecotourism and hiking and trekking make great attractions here. Also witness some of the most stunning landscape inside the Great Himalayan National Park that helps generate memories that last forever.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and October to November
11.Pin Valley National Park
Pin Valley National Park or Land of Ibex and Snow Leopards are indeed one of the best national parks in North India. Situated in the Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh, What attracts in Pin Valley National Park is its topography, cold desert as it is, it offers a stunning and unique views. Siberian ibex, weasel and bharal are the common sight here, whereas to spot a snow leopard you have to be very lucky. An interesting place to visit during summers, as the climate remains tolerable and the locale takes one away from the confines of mundane. You expect a lively travel experience throughout your journey to this spectacular national park.
Best Time to Visit: August to October
National Parks in West India:
1. Ranthambore National Park
One of the best tiger reserves in India, Ranthambore National Park is situated near Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. Ranthambore is the proud home of camera-friendly royal Bengal tigress Machhli, who has attracted many with her congenial behaviour. Jeep safari is the way to explore Ranthambore and no trekking is allowed inside the premises as the national park is also the shelter for many perilous felines like tiger Ustaad. The park is a great place to go bird watching and is also blessed with some great accommodation options available just outside the park. You can expect a fun-filled wildlife experience here at Ranthambore, where life is royal and adventurous every day.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
2. Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Ok, we are talking about some serious bird watching here, Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Bharatpur, Rajasthan is the place to be at. It is one of the largest homes for the avifauna in the country with more than 230 bird species dwelling in the region. The tall grasslands and the marshy lands make a perfect home for the native and winter migratory birds. Needless to say that Keoladheo Ghana National Park is one of the best places for bird watching in India. Well expect sweet memories that are made even sweeter with the melodies and cacophony of birds.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
3.Sariska National Park
The dhok tree covered national park, Sariska is situated about 100kms away from Jaipur, Rajasthan. Acquiring a large part of Alwar district, Sariska National Park is capable of grabbing attention of many. The four-horned antelope, nilgai, leopard and tiger are few of the proud inhabitants of this national park. The camel safari in Sariska National Park along with the remnants of medieval temples of Garh-Rajor dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries, 17th century castle on a hilltop at Kankwari are the major attractions.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
4.Desert National Park
One of the largest national parks in Rajasthan, Desert National Park is the perfect reflection of wildlife of west India. Accompanied with sparse forest and arid areas, this national park is in close proximity to Jaiselmer in Thar Desert. A fragile ecosystem, diversity and inhabitation of some of the rarest species like Indian bustard make Desert National Park one of the best national parks in west India. Witness the fossils that date backs more than 150 million years and watch as many as 40 reptile species reining the grounds of Thar. The national park facilitates jeep safari making exploration convenient.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
5.Gir National Park
The roaring Gujarat is the territory of ferocious beasts called Asiatic lions. The fearless eyes and the shawl of valour around the neck of these will beings make Gir National Park worth visiting. A secure shelter for the jungle kings, Gir offers impeccable lifetime experience. Gir is also the refuge to many crocodiles and about 300 species of birds. The best time to visit Gir is between December and March, however, if you want to spot lions, the best time is between March and May. Jeep safari is not only the common way of exploring the park but also the most exciting one.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
6.Marine National Park
Evidently the first marine park in India, the Marine National Park is situated in the Gulf of Kutch in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat. Covering about 42 islands on the Jamnagar Coast, inarguably Marine National Park is unique in all senses. Be intrigued as you have to take a boat/ferry ride to reach here, the odds are that you will be able to catch the glimpse of pod of dolphins in the deep blue sea and the migratory birds in the azure sky crossing Gulf of Kutch. You can even walk on the coral reef near in Jamnagar if you get off from Dwarka. Marine National Park has too many surprises under its hood.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
7.Tadoba National Park
A place where tigers are burning bright! Tadoba National Park, situated in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra is a great place to be. If wildlife is what invigorates your adrenaline, Tadoba can be the right location to see it rush. With the tiger population of about 65 in the park, your odds of spotting one here is quite fair. Elephant ride and gypsy safaris are the best ways to explore the park. A thrilling and exciting expedition is what you expect in Tadoba National Park.
Best Time to Visit: February to March
8.Navegaon National Park
The exciting mixed dry deciduous forest offers wildlife to cherish. Situated in Gondia, Maharashtra, Navegaon National Park is the refuge to panthers, bisons, chital and wild boars. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is also a vital part of this national park making it a livelier place altogether. There are few watch towers that allows a good look at the wildlife from a vantage point, whereas the museum and the library inside the park offers a good collection on the diversity of the region. Whether you are a naturalist, wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, Navegaon is all set to entertain and enthrall you.
Best Time to Visit: February to April
9.Blackbuck National Park
Like the name suggests the Blackbuck National Park is the shelter for the rare species of deer known as blackbuck. It is situated in Velvadar in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. Prepare for some real fun here, watch the blackbucks leap high and the nilgai parading through vast tall grassland. Watch the marshy land swarmed by birds like flamingoes, waders, coots and pelicans. What delight it is to be in the Blackbuck National Park, where the picture is always lively and the migrants are even more cheerful and colorful.
Best Time to Visit: October to June
National Parks in Central India:
1.Bandhavgarh National Park
The Aravalis feel proud when it fringes the splendid Bandhavgarh National Park. Situated in the Umeria district of Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the best places for tiger spotting in India. The open meadows, steep terrains and verdant forests make this an exciting and thrilling place to be at. Other than tigers, the national park is the shelter for elusive white tigers, nilgai, sambar, chausingha and chinkara. Jeep safari and elephant safari are the two great methods to explore the national park. If you are actually seeking for a place to break the monotony, then Bandhavgarh Park is the place for you.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
2.Hazaribagh National Park
The scenic national reserve in Hazaribagh (135kms from Ranchi) is rightly the prized possession of Jharkhand. Known for rich biodiversity, Hazaribagh National Park is amongst the best national parks in central India. It is great hub for kakar, cheetal, nilgai and sambar, although this doesn’t make the park interesting, staying inside the park facility does! One can rent a car to explore the park, however it is ideal to take a tour package to Hazaribagh National Park so that the exploration is less hassled and more fun.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
3.Kanha National Park
Situated right in the heart of incredible India, the Kanha National Park of Madhya Pradesh needs little introduction. The land of swamp deer, sal and bamboo forests and the most importantly rich wildlife, Kanha National Park is your license to fun, excitement and thrill. Wild dogs, wild boar, sambar and spotted deer are common sight here. Frequent tiger spotting are your odds in Kanha National Park. Expect a fun-filled trip with lots of fauna and flora sightings. The prominent Sunset Point or Bamni Dadar is one place that you should not miss out on during the evening, the beautiful backdrop and the mesmerizing sunset can certainly win your heart here.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
4.Betla National Park
Palamau tiger reserve and Betla national reserve make the grand Betla National Park. Situated in the Latehar district of Jharkhand, the beautiful setting and the wildlife abundance make this national park worth visiting. Although you have to be careful with Naxalites here; as some of the territories of the park has been illegally by them. Despite the thrill incited with my previous sentence, I’d like to maintain my statement that Betla National Park is one place worth visiting. The common members of the park are the hyenas, panther, wild bear, mouse deer and sambhar. Expect an unforgettable expedition of the wild at Betla National Park.
Best Time to Visit: November to April
5.Pench National Park
The story plot of Rudyard’s Kipling Jungle Book, Pench National Park has won accolades by being named in one of the most important historic accounts called Ain-i-Akbari. With more than 1200 species of plants and a wide variety of mammal species, Pench is your gateway to the wild. Situated on the southern reaches of Satpura Hills in Madhya Pradesh and touching the borders of the state of Maharashtra, Pench National Park owns to itself a large area. Mostly an undulated terrain follows the park with wildlife and flora dazzling the visitors. The exhilarating jeep safari that takes you from the rugged landscape after landscape is the highlight of the day in Pench National Park. Prepare yourself for a memorable trip to the wild here.
Best Time to Visit: February to April
6.Panna National Park
Elusive and exclusive, Panna National Park have the best of tropical climate in India. The park is situated in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh and displays some of the best wildlife in the country. Also known as Panna Tiger Reserve, it certainly boasts of being a safe shelter for the Bengal Tigers. However, spotting one can be difficult but don’t lose hope, as there is much to look forward to in the national park. Hyena, leopard, wild dog and carcal are the members that play a good host here whereas a number of avifauna can lighten up the ambiance with their chirps. The authorities here do not arrange for the jeep so unfortunately you have to rent yourself one, but the good news is that you can explore the jungle by taking elephant ride. Doesn’t that sound interesting and enthralling?
Best Time to Visit: January to May
7.Madhav National Park
A perfect blend of forest and lake ecosystem waits in Madhav National Park in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh to thrill you. The national park can rightly be called the Land of Crocodiles as it refuges a large number of the same. Enjoy the wild with encountering one of the largest reptile and predators. The green-dressed Mr Croc and his family grabs most of the attention in the however leopard, jackal, fox and porcupine get their own share of limelight in Madhav National Park. On the edge of this national park is the beautiful lake called Sakhya Sagar which is the home to many migratory and avifauna. So, you can expect a great expedition at a perfect location!
Best Time to Visit: November to March
8.Indravati National Park
The green state of India, Chhatisgarh houses one of the best national parks in Central India. Known for offering a safe and secure home to the diverse flora and fauna, the Indravati National Park invites you for an exciting exploration experience in the central India. Often the weather discourages one to take up a journey in this part of country but know that Chhattisgarh beckons pleasant climate and greenery like nothing in the north and south India. Indravati is situated in the Dantewada district and is the only tiger reserve in the state. The endangered Wild Buffalos, Barasinghas, Tigers, Leopards, Chausingha (four-horned Antelope), Gaurs (Indian Bison), Nilgai, Sambar, Sloth Bear, Dhole (Wild Dog), Striped Hyena, Muntjac, Wild Boar, Flying Squirrel and Porcupine are the major attractions in the park.
Best Time to Visit: November to June
National Parks in East India:
1.Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary
East is no less than the Wild West in India. The eastern shore beckons a flourishing wildlife with abundance of flora and the Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha is one of the best examples of the same. If you are planning to visit Odisha and looking for other interesting places than Puri, Bhubhaneshwar and Konark, you can choose to go to Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary, which is situated in the south west of Puri. It is an experience redefined and certainly has the capability to change your perspective towards Odisha. Home to Blackbuck, Hyenas, and Spotted Deer, Golden Jackals and other aquatic animals, the sanctuary is the shelter for Dolphin, Prawn, Crab, Limbless Lizard and Crustaceans as well. With more than 225 species of fish and spectacular sunsets and sunrises, Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary calls you to enjoy the bliss of being in such rich country of biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
2.Jaldapara National Park
The rich flora and fauna in the east makes it one of the best places to visit in India. If you are finding reasons to visit to the eastern part of the country, then the national parks are one of the prime reasons to be here. Jaldapara National Park, which is situated in Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal can be really inviting. The park is famous for elephants and also offers elephant safari that will indeed make a perfect memory. Set against beautiful backdrop of eastern Himalayan foothills, Jaldapara is a safe home for one-horned rhinoceros, deers, sambhar, barking deer, spotted deer and hog deer, wild pig and bisons. You are guaranteed to have one of the most exciting national parks journey in Jaldapara National Park.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
3.Sunderban National Park
Known for the exclusive mangrove forests in east India, Sunderban National Park is the identity of West Bengal. It is one of the largest tiger reserve in India and is the paradise for bird watchers. Listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sunderban is the place that you should not miss out on! Criss-crossed by many streams and creeks, you will be elated to know that the only way to explore this territory is by boats. Forest lodge and forest rest-houses are available for accommodation at Sajnekhali, Bakkhali and Piyali in the national park, so you can fairly expect a thrilling experience coming your way!
Best Time to Visit: December to February
4.Keibul Lam Jao National Park
A safe home for the rare species called the Brow-Antlered deer, which is also called the dancing deer; Keibul Lam Jao National Park is worth visiting in northeast India. Situated in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, this national park sets itself apart as having unique wetland ecosystem in the country. You need more reasons to visit this national park, well; what if I tell you it is the only floating national park in the world. Will that incite an urge in you to explore this exceptional national park in Manipur? Also, if you are lucky enough you can cite the rare wild cats like the marbled cat and the Asian golden cat. I don’t think there are any reasons why you shouldn’t visit this mesmerizing place.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
5.Kaziranga National Park
Whenever Kaziranga National Park is discussed, I picture a one-horned rhinoceros standing amid the tall green grasses, picture perfect isn’t it? Well, to come to think of it Kaziranga does have much more to look forward to other than its star member one-horned rhinoceros. Situated in the Golaghat and Nagaon district in Assam, Kaziranga is the home of elephants, wild water buffalo and swamp deer. A mix of migratory birds, water birds, predators, scavengers, and game birds keeps the park alive and gives more reason to explore this impeccable land of biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit: February to March
6.Manas Tiger Reserve
Falling in six districts of Assam, Manas Tiger Reserve is another reason why you should visit Assam. A vital tiger reserve in India, Manas is also known for sheltering Assam Roofed Turtle, Hispid Hare, Golden Langur and Pygmy Hog. The reserve is situated on the Indo-Bhutan international border and is also Manas is famous for its population of the Wild water buffalo. A great place for the naturalists and wildlife enthusiast, the reserve offers ample to cherish and be stunned with!
Best Time to Visit: November to March
7.Namdapha National Park
The hotspot of Indian diversity, Namdapha National Park can be an exhilarating place to spot wildlife and see a different picture of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the third largest national park in India in terms of area just to catch your attention and is known for housing four different feline species namely Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Clouded Leopard. The vegetation plays a major role here in grooming the wildlife and birds here. So you have three prime reasons to visit this place first that it is situated in beautiful Arunachal Pradesh, second it is the hotspot of biodiversity and third that it is one of the most spectacular places to see the wildlife in the country. You were looking to break the monotony here, well, Namdapha National Park knows how.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
8.Balpakram National Park
The ‘Land of Perpetual Winds’, Balpakram is the biodiversity hotspot in the state of Meghalaya. Northeast is always fascinating weather it is its landscape or the culture, here Balpakram adds another asset to the tourism in Meghalaya. The home to Red Panda or Lesser Panda, the national park boasts about many species of mammals and is proud of the natural vegetation that covers the area. The canyon-cum-gorge is yet another attraction that makes your visit to this national park worth the effort. Also the rare medicinal herb called ‘Dikges’ which grows here abundantly gets its fair share in the fame as well. Expect a memorable journey to Balpakram National Park!
Best Time to Visit: April to June
9.Nokrek National Park
The West Garo Hills of Meghalya is the hotspot of diversity with Nokrek National Park reflecting the preservation. The Norkrek National Park or the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is one of the most happening wildlife arenas with active members like Red Panda. The reserve is the shelter of wild elephants, rare varieties of birds and pheasants and rare orchids. The park is also the home to rare species of citrus-indica endemic, which is locally called memang narang (‘orange of the spirits’). Yet another attraction of Nokrek is that it is considered the home of Mande Burung (jungle man or ape man) who has been reported seen in abundance in and around the villages of Nokrek. A whole lot excitement and world full of knowledge waits for you in Nokrek National Park.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
10.Khanghendzonga National Park
The largest wildlife reserve in Sikkim, Khanghendzonga National Park is situated in the west district of Sikkim. Named after world’s third highest peak Kanchenjunga, the national park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. People might choose hill stations and beaches over national parks, but let me tell you there ain’t no place that offer the exact reflection of your past and present than a wildlife sanctuary. Unveil knowledge at somewhere as splendid as the Khangendzonga National Park that offers a brilliant blend of nature’s best. Though a large area of the national park remains untouched, it is still worth taking a visit and spotting for you some bizarre wildlife like the snow leopards and the Himalayan black bear. The Zemu Glacier situated in the park is yet another attraction here. Do not miss out a chance to visit Khanghendzonga National Park which connects you right with the natural you!
Best Time to Visit: April to July
11.Similipal National Park
Sky-kissing peaks, verdant meadows and thick forest set the ambiance for the Similipal National Park or the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha. Elephants, tigers, Gaurs or Indian Bisons, Four-horned Antelopes are the major attraction of this national park. No, the list doesn’t end there flying squirrels, talking myna and dancing peacocks along with other animals keep you engaged while you drive through the jungle of Similipal. There are some very beautiful waterfalls also that offer a refreshing sight and the rivers that network vein-like throughout the jungle and around can also be a great sight from time to time. Whether you are naturalist or an avid wildlover or simply someone who has thought to break the confine of mundane, Similipal National Park is the place for you.
Best Time to Visit: November to June
12.Gorumara National Park
Situated in the Himalayan foothills in West Bengal, Gorumara is a great West Bengal’s great wildlife getaway. Home to Indian rhinoceros, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Chital, Asian Elephant, Sambar deer, Barking Deer, Hog Deer and Wild Boar, the national park grabs enough attention from wildlife enthusiasts, naturalists and nature lovers. The facility of overnight stay in the park is another great opportunity to feel the thrill here. Although taking a jeep safari is advisable, hiking on the fixed trails to some point is an option to explore the jungle.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
National Parks in South India:
1.Bandipur National Park
It is sometimes ironic to listen to the history of national parks in India. Once the hunting territories of Maharajas and Kings, it is strange that these arenas have converted into reserves of the wild. Anyways, past is past, the current scenario says that national parks are the ideal holiday destinations in India. Starting from Bandipur in the state of Karnataka, this national park is known for multiple biomes. A vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this national park is the protector of many endangered species. Bandipur supports a good population of many vulnerable species like Indian elephants, tigers, gaurs, Indian rock pythons, sloth bears, muggers, four-horned antelopes and dholes. Also, what will most appeal you in Bandipur National Park is the large population of butterflies. They are indeed the factor that brings more colour in the already colorful and vivacious park in South India.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
2.Nagarhole National Park
Blessed with rich wildlife, thick jungle and a picturesque lake, Nagarhole National Park is one of Karnataka’s best wildlife getaways. Adjoining Kabini Lake it forms a vital animal passage that runs through neighbouring Bandipur National Park. Despite sharing the same wildlife, it has fewer visitors than Bandipur, making it all the more appealing and of course less congested. Nagarhole features a good blend of dense jungle and open meadows along the river bank, which makes for fantastic wildlife-watching. It is a home to tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, barking deer, wild dogs, bonnet macaques and common langurs and about 270 species of birds. The best time to view wildlife is during summer (April to May), though winter (November to February) is more comfortable. Government-run jeep safaris and boat trips are the good ways of exploring the park.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
3.Periyar National Park
One of the most popular national parks in south India, Periyar National Park exemplifies nature’s bounty and scenic charm. Also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, it is a safe shelter for many Bengal Tigers, although spotting one can be a tough task. It is also the home to elephants, gaur, sambar, wild pig, Travancore flying squirrel, Salim Ali’s fruit bat, jungle cat, sloth bear, Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, Indian giant squirrel, stripe-necked mongoose, and Nilgiri marten. Unlike other national parks, Periyar National Park remains open all year round; still it is advisable to avoid going here in monsoons. Ecotourism has been largely promoted in park by local people taking responsibility of the surveillance of the vulnerable part, thus Periyar National Park journey comes as an inspiration to all.
Best Time to Visit: March to April
4.Silent Valley National Park
Gifted with the best tropical rainforest in India, the Silent Valley National Park is certainly a place to visit in South India. The pristine surrounding, cloud-kissing peaks and salubrious climate offer a pleasant ambiance that nurtures abundant flora and fauna. Situated in the Palakkad district in Kerala, this national park can be one of the best national parks in South India. Home to the largest population of Lion-tailed Macaque, an endangered species of Primate and Niligiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Nilgiri Tahr, Peshwa’s Bat (Myotis peshwa) and Hairy-winged Bat, nine species of bats, rats and mice, the national park is indeed capable to capture all your attention. And if that is not enough a collection of about 1000 species of flora and the River Kunthi that descends from the Nilgiri Hills and traverse the entire length of the valley could dazzle you big time!
Best Time to Visit: December to April
5.Bannerghatta National Park
One of the most exotic national parks in India, Bannerghatta National Park is the conducive to excellent Butterfly Park and Bannerghatta Biological Park. In proximity to Bangalore, Karnataka, the national park can rightly be called a tiger reserve. The park is the home to elephant, leopard and deer. The surplus avifauna also lightens up the national park and so does the bus safari inside the thick forests of the Bannerghatta National Park. A well maintain reserve is equally entertaining for kids as it for any wildlife enthusiast.
Best Time to Visit: September to January
6.Wandur National Park/ Mahatama Gandhi Marine National Park
You are up some great fun if you are deciding to visit the beautiful Andaman Islands. Along with water sports and scenic landscape and wide variety of aquatic life awaits your visit. Covering about 15 islands, the Wandur National Park is the place for some exotic getaway. The marine reserve which is also known as Mahatama Gandhi Marine National Park boasts of its large diverse aquatic population. Learn that glass bottom boats, scuba diving and snorkeling are the only ways to explore the rich marine life. Know that you are going to get one of the best journey experiences at Wandur National Park, which encloses a stunning golden beach with glittering sands and lush green surroundings and coconut palms. This renowned marine park also envelopes part of open sea and a number of small and large islands and creeks.
Best Time to Visit: December to Early April
7.Guindy National Park
The tropical dry evergreen vegetation is what makes Guindy National Park a unique national park in south India. Situated in the protected area of Tamil Nadu with a mere area of 2.70sq kilometer, it is also one of the smallest national parks in India. The park is situated near Chennai and is home to species like blackbuck, chital or spotted deer, jackal, small Indian civet, common palm civet, bonnet macaque, jackal, pangolin, hyena, hedgehog, common mongoose, butterflies and three-striped palm squirrel. The park also has black-naped hare and several species of bats and rodents. A Children’s Park, Snake Park and Arignar Anna Zoological Park within the limit of this national park also add the factor that makes this place unique. It is an ideal place for a weekend trip in South India as one doesn’t even have to drive too far from the city to see the wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: February to June
8.Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
With dry thorn forests dominating the area, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of its kinds wildlife reserve in India. Home to 34 species of Mammals including many Panthers and Spotted deer, 50 to 60 Indian Elephants, Tigers, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Bonnet Macaque, Common langur, Hanuman monkey, threatened Nilgiri Tahr, vulnerable Rusty-spotted Cats and about 240 of the only vulnerable Grizzled Giant Squirrels, Chinnar offers a wildlife bonanza here. Other than these the Watch tower, Thoovanam Waterfalls, walk along the Chinnar and Pamber rivers and trekking on a fixed trail are some other attractions in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit: December to April
9.Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
A heady mix of nature, wildlife and adventure invites you to Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. It is the ideal vacation destinations for those who are in love with nature. Situated on the banks of River Kali amidst thick forests and lofty hills of Uttara Kannada District, this wildlife sanctuary is truly a delight to be at. The wildlife safari in the lush forests is an exhilarating experience for visitors here. The sanctuary offers you rare glimpse animals like Black Panther, Bison, Sambhar, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, flying squirrel and mouse deer. Dandeli is a great place for bird watchers as well and adding to your excitement is the large display of crocodiles, which are found here in large population.
Best Time to Visit: November to June
10.Eravikulam National Park
The high rolling plateau with the tall grassland covering most of the area, Eravikulam National Park indeed reflects one of the most scenic pictures of national parks in India. Situated in the rich Idukki district of Kerala, the national park is the natural home of the largest surviving population of Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Indian Muntjac, Sambar, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, and Wild dog, Dhole, Leopard and Tiger along with new species of reddish-orange-coloured frog. Bus Safari is available for the exploration with the first safari beginning at 8.30 AM. The splendid view of the Anamudi peak in the core area is also the highlight of this national park.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
11.Kudremukh National Park
Perched on a hilly area with thick forest covering, the Kudremukh National Park is the pride of Karnataka. The national park is situated in the Chikmagalur district in Karnataka. Blessed with rich wildlife and picturesque rivers like Tunga and Bhadra, Kudremukh National Park is one of Karnataka’s best wildlife reserves. The highest point of the national park is Kudremukh peak, after which the park is named. Kudremukh features a nice blend of dense jungle and open grassland along the river bank, which makes for incredible wildlife-watching. It is a home to malabar civets, wild dogs, sloth bears and spotted deer. The best time to view wildlife is between October and May, though winter (December to February) is more comfortable.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Now you know that a national park is more than just a wildlife reserve with boundaries and walls. Along with offering you that extra fun you were looking for, these national parks simultaneously inspire you to work towards the betterment of mother nature by doing your bit right. Make sure to include a national park in your itinerary the next time you travel to any part of India in order to get one of the best travel experiences of your life.
