The wildlife of India represents an incredible diversity and richness of nature. From dense forests to grasslands and wetlands to mountains, there is a great number of different types of ecosystems in this fascinating country. Being home to a variety of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, the country provides unforgettable experiences both to nature-lovers and animal-lovers. Some of the national parks preserve different kinds of flora while others attract people due to their rich fauna.
- Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
The oldest national park in the whole India was established in 1936. Jim Corbett National Park is located in the foothills of the Himalaya Mountains. It is famous for its Bengal tiger population and diverse flora and fauna.
There is a possibility to go on jeep and elephant safaris as well as do bird watching trips. Besides tigers, the park features leopards, elephants, deer, crocodiles, and over 600 bird species. The best period to pay a visit is between November and June.
- Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Located in the area of Chambal River, Ranthambore National Park is widely known due to its large tiger population. The park features ancient ruins and famous Ranthambore Fort, making a perfect mixture of wildlife and history.
Being a kind of transition zone between dry and deciduous forests and open grasslands, the park makes it easier for visitors to see different animals. Besides tigers, you are going to see leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and birds. It is recommended to travel here in October- April.
- Kaziranga National Park, Assam
This is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a famous wildlife destination in India, as Kaziranga National Park protects one of the most endangered species of animals – the one-horned rhinoceros. Nearly two-thirds of the world’s population of this unique creature lives in the park.
Kaziranga National Park features grasslands, wetlands, and forests that also accommodate elephants, wild water buffaloes, swamp deer, and even tigers. If you love birds, you are sure to see many migratory and resident species. The best season to explore the park is between November and April.
- Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
One of the most famous places in India due to its high density of Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park is worth visiting if you like to watch and photograph animals.
This amazing park is distinguished by hills, forests, and ancient caves and rocks. In addition to tigers, there are leopards, deer, wild boars, and different kinds of birds that you might see here. October-June is considered to be the best period for safari trips.
- Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s famous book The Jungle Book, Kanha National Park is famous for its beautiful meadows and dense forests, where some successful conservation programs are carried out.
Kanha is home to the largest populations of tigers, leopards, and wild Indian dogs, besides there are rare barasinghas, or swamp deer, in this national park. Going on jeep safaris will help you see all the animals you would like to watch. October- June is the most appropriate period for this purpose.
- Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
The largest mangrove forest in the world is the main attraction in Sundarbans National Park. Besides being declared the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for hosting the Royal Bengal Tigers that had adapted themselves to life in the mangrove.
Boat trips through the park will give you an opportunity to meet not only tigers, but also saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and a variety of birds. Visiting this park during winter months is really enjoyable.
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
Nestled amid the Western Ghats, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its picturesque landscapes and abundance of elephants. The sanctuary surrounds Periyar Lake that allows you to take part in boat safaris.
Besides elephants, the sanctuary is the dwelling for tigers, leopards, gaurs, and other mammals along with a variety of birds. Trekking and bamboo rafting will provide you with additional exciting experience. The best period for travelling is October-March.
- Gir National Park, Gujarat
Gir National Park is the only place in the world where you can meet Asiatic lions living in the wild nature. Thanks to special conservation programs, the number of lions keeps increasing year after year.
The park features dry forests and grasslands that also have leopards, hyenas, jackals, and reptiles. Special wildlife safaris are provided for those who like to see lions in their habitat.
- Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo National Park), Rajasthan
If you are fond of bird watching, Keoladeo National Park is one of the most interesting parks to visit in India. This is one of the most important bird sanctuaries that are home to many migrating birds from all around the world.
Exploring the park, you can move on bicycle, rickshaw, and on foot. You will definitely see painted storks, pelicans, cranes, eagles, kingfishers, and other birds. The most suitable period to come is winter season.
- Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Being the largest national park in India, Hemis National Park deserves your attention, especially if you love to travel to highlands and observe mountain landscapes. The most unique thing about this park is its snow leopards.
In addition to snow leopards, Hemis National Park accommodates Tibetan wolves, blue sheep, golden eagles, and some other animals and birds. Winter months are recommended to visit the park.
Why to Visit National Parks of India?
National parks of India preserve different species of plants and animals; thus, they have significant importance to the environment. Visiting such parks, people can get acquainted with local fauna, flora and nature in general.
Conclusion
India’s wildlife is represented by a wide range of animals and plants. The national parks of the country provide amazing opportunities to explore its amazing nature. Some of them are dedicated to different kinds of flora, but the majority feature unique fauna.