India is a country blessed with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The vast expanse of wilderness and the varied topography has resulted in a plethora of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries across the country. To be exact, there are 104 national parks in India, spread over an area of over 44,400 square kilometers. These protected areas are not only important for preserving the natural habitats of animals and birds but also provide a thrilling experience to nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 national parks in India that every wildlife lover must visit. Let’s dive into the details of each park and explore the unique features that make them special.
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
The Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest national park and is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, and is among one of the top national parks in India. It was established in 1936 and covers an area of 520 square kilometres. The park is famous for its population of Bengal tigers and is a popular destination for tiger safaris. Apart from tigers, the park is home to a variety of animals such as leopards, elephants, and several species of deer.
Planning a Trip to Jim Corbett National Park
To have a great experience at Jim Corbett National Park, start by planning your trip during the right season, which is from November to June. Choose the right accommodation option, such as a forest lodge or a luxury resort, based on your budget and preferences. Book your safari in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. Opt for a jeep or elephant safari to explore the park and its wildlife. Be prepared with appropriate clothing, accessories, and equipment for a comfortable and safe experience. Listen to the guidelines provided by the park authorities and follow the rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both you and the wildlife.
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park is located in the state of Assam and is famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. The park covers an area of 430 square kilometres and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from rhinoceroses, the park is home to tigers, elephants, and several species of deer.
Planning a Trip to Kaziranga National Park
To plan a trip to Kaziranga, visitors should research the best time to visit based on their interests, such as wildlife sightings or bird watching. I would recommend visiting the park during the months from November to April. Book accommodations in advance and arrange for a jeep safari to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and habitats. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s safety guidelines and respect the local culture and wildlife.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh and is famous for its population of Bengal tigers. The park covers an area of 450 square kilometres and has the highest density of tigers in India. Apart from tigers, the park is home to several species of deer, leopards, and wild boars.
Planning a Trip to Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, and one of the top national parks in India. To have a great experience at the park, plan your trip between October to June, the best time to visit. Hire a jeep safari and a guide to explore the park. The park offers many activities like bird watching, trekking, and cycling. You can also visit the nearby Bandhavgarh Fort and Baghel Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Book your stay in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Kanha National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh and is one of the largest national parks in India, covering an area of 940 square kilometres. The park is famous for its population of Bengal tigers and is also home to several species of deer, leopards, and wild boars. The park is also known for its extensive grasslands and meadows.
Planning a Trip to Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park is best known for its tiger population and is one of the largest national parks in India. You should first determine the best time to visit based on the desired experiences, such as bird watching or wildlife sightings. The ideal time to visit is between October and June, as the park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September. In case you are interested in birdwatching, you can visit the park during the months of November to February as it is the migratory season for birds.
Stay in one of the park’s eco-friendly lodges and enjoy early morning and late afternoon jeep safaris to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Don’t miss the Kanha Museum, which showcases the park’s flora and fauna.
The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is approximately 170 km from the park. You can also reach the park by train or bus or taxi from nearby cities.
Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal
Sunderbans National Park is located in the state of West Bengal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is famous for its population of Royal Bengal tigers and is also home to several species of deer, crocodiles, and snakes. The park is unique as it is located in the delta region of the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers and is covered by mangrove forests.
Planning a Trip to Sunderbans National Park
To have a great experience at Sunderbans National Park, one should plan the trip during the winter season from December to February, as the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher. Booking a boat safari in advance is recommended, and hiring a local guide is essential to navigating through the complex network of waterways. Staying in a forest lodge or a nearby resort is also an option. It is essential to carry mosquito repellents and other necessary medications, as the region is prone to mosquito-borne diseases.
The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is approximately 112 km from the park. You can also reach the park via train or bus or taxi from Kolkata.
Gir National Park, Gujarat
Gir National Park is located in the state of Gujarat and is famous for its population of Asiatic lions. The park covers an area of 1412 square kilometres and is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions can be found in the wild. Apart from lions, the park is also home to several species of deer and antelopes.
Planning a Trip to Gir National Park
Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, is known for its majestic Asiatic lions. To have a great experience here, plan your visit between December to March when the park is open. Book your safari in advance, and choose the morning safari as it is the best time to spot lions. Wear comfortable clothes, carry binoculars, and avoid wearing bright colors. Follow the park rules and regulations, and respect the wildlife. Stay in nearby hotels or resorts for a comfortable stay, and try local Gujarati cuisine.
Periyar National Park, Kerala
Periyar National Park is located in the state of Kerala and is famous for its population of elephants. The park covers an area of 925 square kilometres and is situated in the Western Ghats. Apart from elephants, the park is also home to several species of deer, bison, and wild boars. The park is known for its picturesque location, and the best time to visit is from September to May.
Planning a Trip to Periyar National Park
To have a great experience at Periyar National Park, Kerala, plan your trip during the dry season between October and February. Book a guided boat tour of Periyar Lake to see the park’s wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and exotic bird species. Stay in one of the park’s eco-friendly accommodations, such as the Bamboo Grove or Jungle Inn, to immerse yourself in nature. You can also explore the park’s trails on foot or take a guided nature walk to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park is located in the state of Rajasthan and is famous for its population of Bengal tigers. The park covers an area of 392 square kilometres and is located near the Ranthambore Fort. Apart from tigers, the park is also home to several species of deer, leopards, and wild boars. The park is known for its scenic beauty, and the best time to visit is from October to June.
Planning a Trip to Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan and is best known for its tiger population. To have a great experience here, plan your visit between October and March. Stay in one of the park’s lodges or resorts and enjoy early morning and late afternoon jeep safaris to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Don’t miss the Ranthambore Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the park
Sariska National Park, Rajasthan
Sariska National Park is located in the state of Rajasthan and is known for its population of Bengal tigers. The park covers an area of 866 square kilometres and is home to several species of deer, leopards, and wild boars. The park is also known for its historical landmarks such as the Kankwari Fort and the ancient Shiva temple. The best time to visit is from October to June.
Planning a Trip to Sariska National Park
To plan a great trip to Sariska National Park, it is advisable to visit during the cooler months between October to March. Visitors should make sure to book accommodation in advance and hire a local guide to explore the park. Jeep safaris are the best way to explore the park and spot wildlife, and visitors should always follow the safety guidelines provided by the park authorities. Additionally, it’s important to carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t miss the ancient Kankwari Fort and the Sariska Palace, which offer a glimpse into the park’s rich history.
Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Pench National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh and is known for its population of Bengal tigers. The park covers an area of 758 square kilometres and is situated on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Apart from tigers, the park is also home to several species of deer, leopards, and wild boars.
Planning a Trip to Pench National Park
To have a great experience at Pench National Park, start by planning your trip during the right season, which is between November and May. Research and book your accommodations in advance, and consider staying in eco-friendly lodges within the park for a more immersive experience. Hire a knowledgeable guide for your safari and be sure to take a combination of morning and evening safaris to increase your chances of spotting wildlife. Also, don’t forget to respect the park’s rules and regulations, and leave nothing behind but your footprints.
Conclusion
India’s national parks are home to some of the most diverse and endangered species of wildlife in the world. They provide a great opportunity for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to experience the beauty of nature in all its glory. In this article, we have covered the top 10 national parks in India, each unique in its own way. From the Bengal tigers of Bandhavgarh to the Indian rhinoceroses of Kaziranga, each park offers a different experience. So, pack your bags, grab your cameras, and get ready for a thrilling adventure in the wild!
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