Posted 31 October 2022 in To the Wild

Wildlife Tourism: Fifteen best National parks in India for a memorable wildlife experience

Think about being seated on a safari seat and getting a chance to witness the sight of the king's jungle from a distance as close as 2 ft. That’s scary, isn’t it? However, wildlife enthusiasts will not suffer from such fear as they are the ones who desperately wait to capture the views of these exotic creatures and even love to feed them from a close distance. Right? So, this list is specially curated for every wildlife lover who wishes to discover wild animals in their natural habitats. We have tried to cover most of the popular national parks in India on our list so that we can offer you the best wildlife experience and satisfy all the adventure that you have been craving for a long time.

Best places for a memorable wildlife experience in India

From mammoth mountains to sun-kissed beaches, the Indian landscape is diverse in every possible way. It is also the home to hundreds of National Parks and hence has a great role in contributing to the world’s biodiversity. Thanks to these wildlife hubs of India that also cater to the needs of wildlife lovers and treat them with the best views of the exotic flora and fauna. So, grab a chance to discover these suggested national parks in India that are spread across the Indian states.

So, browse through the list and be a part of memorable wildlife tourism in India:

1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Offering one of the most exciting wildlife safaris, Jim Corbett National Park unarguably tops the list of national parks that are worth visiting. The Jim Corbett National Park is settled amidst the Himalayan ranges and is home to numerous rare flora and fauna. It is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger and also offers nature lovers a glimpse of as many as 650 migratory birds. The luxurious resorts located inside the Jim Corbett National Park make it quite easy for tourists to have a memorable stay in the wilderness of the jungle.

Nearest airport: Pantnagar Airport
Species to witness: Tiger, Golden Jackal, Spotted Deer
Address: Nainital District, Ramnagar, Uttarakhand 244715

2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The Kaziranga National Park, set across the Brahmaputra River, is a popular choice among wildlife lovers as it is home to the rare one-horned rhinoceros. The significance of this national park is such that it has already paved its way for UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Be it clicking pictures of the rare species or taking a bird’s eye view of the entire park from the watchtower, we assure you that there will never be a dull moment when you are here. Moreover, once you are here you can also get a chance to feed animals from the closest distance.

Nearest airport: Jorhat Airport
Species to witness: Golden Langur, Pygmy Hog, One-horned Rhinoceros
Address: Kanchanjuri, Assam 784177

3. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

An erstwhile hunting sight for the Maharajas of Rajasthan, the Ranthambore National Park is also the place where Project Tiger was first initiated in 1973. Apart from being home to a large number of tigers, one can also spot other wild animals such as striped hyenas, jackals, leopards and hundreds of other creatures. The best part about exploring the Ranthambore National Park is the chance to also witness the glory of the Ranthambore Fort that is situated within the park. So, get ready to discover the ruins of this ancient fort and also soak in the wildlife views that are truly a spectacle to behold.

Nearest airport: Sanganer Airport
Species to witness: Leopards, Indian Foxes, Bison, Flamingos
Address: Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan India - 322001

4. Gir National Park, Gujarat

The Gir National Park is a well-known wildlife reserve in Gujarat that proudly protects the exotic Asiatic Lions. So, be one with the natural habitat of Asiatic Lions and spot them in action, and also get a chance to admire the astounding beauty of mother nature’s bounty, evident from the diverse flora and fauna. For the unversed, the Gir National Park was turned into a wildlife sanctuary only in 1990 and, before that, served as the hunting site for the Nawabs of Junagadh.

Nearest airport: Keshod Airport
Species to witness: Asiatic Lions, Black Bucks
Address: Sasan Gir, Gujarat - 362135

5. Hemis National Park, Ladakh

One of the most celebrated national parks located in the land of high passes, the Hemis National Park, is a must-visit. Settled amidst the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, the Hemis National Park offers an adventure of a lifetime. Offering the best views of endangered species along with colourful meadows and pine forests, a visit to Hemis National Park will offer plenty of opportunities to click memorable pictures. If you wish to spot snow leopards in their royal kingdom, then we suggest you visit the Hemis National Park during winter as this is the time for snow leopards to make an appearance.

Nearest airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Species to witness: Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Red Fox
Address: P99Q+F7Q Jammu and Kashmir

6. Nagarahole National Park, Karnataka

The Nagarhole National Park resides in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is jotted with sandalwood, bamboo and pine trees on its side. It is also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park and is backed by the mighty hills of Western Ghats. Now, wondering what all can you spot here?

So, here you go, from lions, cobra, Asiatic elephants to migratory birds, there are a plethora of wild animals to witness here. If you wish you can also enjoy a safari ride or be a part of a short boat ride along the water of the Kabini River to capture the views of marine creatures like crocodiles and aquatic birds.

Nearest airport: Kempegowda National Park
Species to witness: Krait, Indian Rock Python
Address: Nagarahole Tiger Reserve Forest Campus Old BM Road Hunsur, Karnataka 571105

7. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

A bird’s paradise, Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur is another one to grab a position in the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Spread across an enormous area, the Keoladeo National Park serves as the wintering site of numerous Palearctic migratory birds as well as non-migratory birds. For housing innumerable birds, the national park is no less than a dream of ornithologists. The Keoladeo National Park is not just limited to birds and animals but also displays Rajasthani culture at its best. This is the reason why thousands of tourists from all over the world plan a trip to this national park in India.

Nearest airport: Agra Airport
Species to witness: Siberian Crane, Pelicans
Address: Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur, Rajasthan 301001

8. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

What’s a memorable trip without embracing adventures with open arms? Nothing, right? So, once you are set to explore Madhya Pradesh, make sure to add the glorious Satpura National Park to the list of places to visit. This picturesque national park is dotted with sandstone peaks, ravines, narrow gorges and is spread over an area of 524 sq km.

There are different activities that one can partake in here such as boating, jeep safari, elephant ride and nature walk. What adds even more excitement to a visit to Satpura National Park is a chance to stay in the safe and secured camps overnight.

Nearest airport: Bhopal Airport
Species to witness: Indian Gaur, Sloth Bear, Dhole
Address: H4CV+6G6, Damua, Madhya Pradesh 461881

9. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

There is yet another wildlife reserve that you can discover in Madhya Pradesh and that is Bandhavgarh National Park. This popular tiger reserve was once the hunting ground of the Maharajas. The national park derives its name from the 800 m high Bandhavgarh Fort that lies in the vicinity. A trek to the fort will offer you fascinating views of this wildlife reserve.

The reason why the Bandhavgarh National Park is famous all over the world is that it is home to the largest number of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world. So, if you wish to catch frequent views of these rare species, you know where to head to.

Nearest airport: Jabalpur Airport
Species to witness: Gray Mongoose, Asiatic Jackals, Nilgai, Striped Hyenas
Address: Tala, Madhya Pradesh 484665

10. Periyar National Park, Kerala

God’s own country, Kerala is not just about sun-kissed beaches and South Indian delicacies, the land is way beyond these. It has Periyar National Park that is a centre of attraction for all wildlife lovers. The Periyar National Park is perched amongst the Cardamom Hills and has the mesmerizing Periyar Lake where you can simply amble or unwind.

One can even indulge in a unique bamboo rafting experience here and, of course, catch rare views of wild animals. Do not head back without clicking views of the sun painting the sky in colourful hues while you are at the Periyar National Park.

Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Species to witness: Elephant, Reptiles, Deers
Address: F66P+VP Mlappara, Kerala

11.Bannerghatta National Park, Karnataka

Located very close to the 'Electronic City of India’, Bangalore, the Bannerghatta National Park is an ideal sight to escape the humdrum of life. The Bannerghatta National Park is the home of a mesmerizing butterfly park that is also the first one in India. It also has a crocodile farm, snake park, aquarium, zoo, and children’s park for the entertainment of kids and adults alike. So, head out to Bannerghatta National Park to collect a bagful of memories.

Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport
Species to witness: Indian Gazelle, Porcupine, Asiatic Lion
Address: Bannerghatta Main Rd, Bannerughatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083

12. Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim

Nestled in the laps of the Himalayan ranges, the Khangchendzonga National Park, as the name suggests, is named after the world’s third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga. Owing to its rich For its diversity, the Khangchendzonga National Park has also been added to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites and is also India’s first “mixed heritage site”.

Perched at a whopping altitude of 8586 m, this wildlife reserve offers fascinating views of Tibetan Snowcock, Himalayan Griffon, Green Pigeon, and the list does not end here. Do not head back without clicking insta-worthy pictures against the scenic backdrop of green environs and Himalayan ranges.

Nearest airport: Bagdogra Airport
Species to witness: Tragopan Pheasant, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Musk Deer
Address: M88F+VRV, Sakkyong, Sikkim

13. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Heard of Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book? If so, you must be aware that Kipling drew the inspiration for this novel from the Kanha National Park itself. Ranked as one of the most well maintained national parks in Asia, the Kanha National Park is spread across an area of 1945 sq m. This national park is out of the very few wildlife reserves that became a part of Project Tiger.

Just like many other national parks in India, one can also enjoy a jeep safari in the wilderness of Kanha National Park and catch glimpses of wild animals drinking water from Babathenga Tank. The Kanha National Park is divided into four different zones - Kisli, Mukki, Kanha and Sarhi.

Nearest airport: Jabalpur Airport
Species to witness: Barasingha, Black Buck, Chital
Address: Mandla, MP, 481768

14. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

The Sundarbans National Park is most famous for its signature mangrove forests. The national park shares its boundaries with both India and its neighbour Bangladesh. It is one of the most visited national parks in India and is home to wild boars, saltwater crocodiles, turtles, and a lot more. One unique thing to witness here is tigers who are capable of swimming in the saline waters. However, unlike other national parks, this one does not have the option of a jeep safari, so be prepared to walk on foot.

Nearest airport: Netaji Subhas International Airport
Species to witness: Leopards, Bengal Tigers
Address: RVPM+8MW, Kolkata, West Bengal 743370

15. Manas National Park, Assam

Manas National Park is another one on the list of Tiger Reserves in India and a UNESCO's World Heritage Site. Offering views of mesmerizing scenery, the Manas National Park is also popular for being home to the maximum number of endangered species like rhino, pygmy hog, etc. This biosphere reserve in Assam also lets you soak in the views of the meandering Manas river and lets one indulge in activities such as river rafting, elephant safari, birdwatching and wildlife safari.

Nearest airport: Guwahati Airport
Species to witness: Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Red Panda
Address: Manas Road, Barangabari Gyati Village, Dist Baksa, Gobardhana, Assam 781315

So, now that you know about most of the popular national parks in India, get ready to build a tryst with wildlife. So, plan a trip to any of these destinations without wasting much time and collect cherishable memories for a lifetime.