Explore India's breathtaking National Parks - from tigers in Kanha to rhinos in Kaziranga. Read more to plan your adventure!
India, a land of incredible diversity, boasts a stunning array of national parks,
each a treasure trove of unique ecosystems and wildlife.
From the snow-capped Himalayas to the lush green forests of the south, these protected areas offer an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Selecting just ten from this vast selection is a tough task, but here's a curated list of some of the most breathtaking national parks you should definitely consider exploring this year. Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer beauty and raw power of nature!
Exploring Kanha National Park, the Tiger State of India, home to diverse wildlife
Our journey begins in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, often called the "Tiger State" of India, with Kanha National Park. This park, the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book," is a haven for the majestic Royal Bengal tiger.
Imagine yourself traversing the sal and bamboo forests, spotting herds of deer grazing peacefully, and listening to the calls of exotic birds. The park's well-maintained jeep safari routes provide the best opportunity to witness the tiger in its natural habitat. The park is not just about tigers.
It is home to a variety of other animals, including the barasingha (swamp deer), wild dog (dhole), and the elusive leopard. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are highly recommended to catch the animals when they are most active. Exploring the forest is truly an experience of life.
Watching all the birds chirping and animals moving around is a treat to the eyes.
Exploring Jim Corbett National Park in the Himalayas for wildlife enthusiasts
Venturing north towards the Himalayas, we encounter the iconic Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. Named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist, this is India's oldest national park, established in 1936.
Jim Corbett is renowned for its tiger population and diverse landscape, encompassing hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions, and grasslands. Besides the tiger, you can spot elephants, deer, langurs, and a multitude of bird species.
The park offers a range of experiences, from jeep safaris and elephant rides to nature walks and angling opportunities.
While tiger sighting is always a matter of luck, the sheer beauty of the surroundings and the chance to witness other wildlife make it a worthwhile visit, even if you don't spot the big cat.
Also visiting this place opens the doors to know about various types of flora and fauna that exist in high altitude regions.
Kaziranga National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts
Moving eastward, we arrive at Kaziranga National Park in Assam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is famed for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros, the largest in the world. The vast grasslands and wetlands of Kaziranga provide the perfect habitat for these magnificent creatures.
Apart from the rhino, the park is also home to elephants, wild buffaloes, swamp deer, and a variety of bird species, including migratory birds that flock here during the winter months. Jeep safaris and elephant safaris are the best ways to explore the park and get up close with the wildlife.
A boat ride on the Brahmaputra River, which borders the park, offers a unique perspective of the landscape and its inhabitants. This place is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and provides a great exposure to the unique wildlife that exists here.
Exploring Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, rich in wildlife and biodiversity
Next, we journey south to explore Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This park is known for its healthy tiger and elephant populations, as well as its diverse flora and fauna.
The deciduous forests of Bandipur are home to a variety of animals, including deer, langurs, sloth bears, and various bird species. Jeep safaris are the most popular way to explore the park, offering the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
The park also has several watchtowers that provide panoramic views of the landscape. Combined with the adjacent Nagarhole National Park, it forms one of the largest protected areas for tigers and elephants in South India. It is a place to get acquainted with the nature.
Exploring Rajasthan's Ranthambore: Tiger sanctuary with historic fort
Our exploration continues to the western state of Rajasthan, where we encounter Ranthambore National Park. This park, a former royal hunting ground, is renowned for its tiger population and the historic Ranthambore Fort that stands within its boundaries.
The dry deciduous forests and rocky terrain of Ranthambore provide a unique landscape and habitat for the tiger and other wildlife. Besides tigers, you can spot leopards, sloth bears, deer, and a variety of bird species.
The fort adds a historical dimension to the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Jeep safaris are the primary way to explore the park, and tiger sightings are relatively common. It is indeed a treat to watch the stripes of the majestic Tiger King.
Besides, this park also has some history associated with it making it a place worth visiting.
Exploring Gir National Park: Last refuge of Asiatic lions
Finally, we travel to the Gir National Park in Gujarat, the last refuge of the Asiatic lion. This park is a critical conservation area, protecting the only wild population of this magnificent animal.
The dry deciduous forest provides a suitable habitat for the lions and other wildlife, including leopards, deer, and various bird species. Jeep safaris are the primary means of exploring the park, offering the opportunity to witness the Asiatic lion in its natural habitat.
The park also supports the local Maldhari community, who live in traditional settlements within the forest. It is another place that shows what the country has to offer when it comes to wildlife.
It is always a great experience to witness the Royal animals roaming freely in the wild and one should experience.
