9 Largest National Parks in India: How to Get There & Trip Recommendations
Half a century ago, India was home to just five national parks. Today, the total number of national parks in India stands at 106. These national parks are spread across various states and Union Territories, protecting diverse ecosystems and wildlife species
The foundation of India’s national park system can be attributed to the efforts of Jim Corbett, a British hunter turned conservationist. In 1936, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of Hailey National Park, now known as Jim Corbett National Park, in the state of Uttarakhand. This marked the inception of India’s first national park and laid the groundwork for the conservation movement.
While the iconic Bengal tiger—India’s national animal—is the top draw for safari-goers, an impressive array of wild things can be spotted in India’s teakwood forests, grasslands, mountains, rivers, and other natural spaces.
Here’s a look at the 9 must-visit national parks, tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries of India.
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, is the first national park of India and the most renowned for tourists. Established in 1936, it was initially named Hailey National Park and was later renamed in honour of Jim Corbett, a British hunter-turned-conservationist. Spanning over 520 square kilometres, this jungle safari is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, it is recognized for its conservation efforts, particularly for the Bengal tiger, and plays a significant role in the Project Tiger initiative of India. The park is among the most popular visited national parks in India, owing to its diverse huddle of wildlife species, gorgeous landscapes, and activities for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
How to Get There:
Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by road and can be accessed from various nearby cities. The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located approximately 50 kilometres away. The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Lucknow. From Ramnagar, it is a short drive to the jungle safari entrance.
Animals to Spot:
The park is famous for its rich biodiversity, and visitors have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife species. The star attraction of the park is the majestic Bengal Tiger. Apart from tigers, you may also encounter leopards, elephants, sloth bears, deer species like sambar and chital, wild boars, and various primate species. The park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 600 avian species, including the Himalayan bulbul, crested serpent eagle, and the great hornbill.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to October) due to heavy rainfall. The summer months (March to June) can be quite hot, but this is the best time to spot wildlife near water sources as animals gather for drinking.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
If you wish to extend your trip and explore nearby attractions, you can visit the beautiful hill station of Nainital, located approximately 60 kilometres away. Nainital offers stunning views of the Naini Lake, surrounded by lush hills. Another option is Ranikhet, a scenic hill town known for its tranquil atmosphere and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Both Nainital and Ranikhet can be easily reached from Jim Corbett National Park.
Bonus: Stay at a Jim Corbett homestay or extend your trip with a relaxing day at a StayVista homestay in Nainital or Ranikhet.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
An unforgettable journey into the wild heart of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park derives its name from the historic Ranthambore Fort, which is situated within the park boundaries. The park’s landscape comprises dry deciduous forests, lakes, and rocky outcrops, creating a diverse habitat for a variety of wildlife species. It was declared a national park in 1980 and later became a tiger reserve under Project Tiger. Ranthambore National Park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, and is spread over an area of around 392 square kilometres.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Ranthambore National Park is in Jaipur, approximately 180 kilometres away. The park is well-connected by road, and Sawai Madhopur, the nearest town, serves as the entry point to the park. Sawai Madhopur has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Jaipur and Delhi.
Animals to Spot:
Ranthambore National Park is famous for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers. It provides one of the best opportunities in India to see these magnificent big cats in their natural habitat. Apart from tigers, the park is home to other wildlife species such as leopards, striped hyenas, sambar deer, spotted deer, nilgai, sloth bears, Indian foxes, and a wide range of bird species including the Indian peafowl.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Ranthambore National Park is from October to April when the weather is pleasant. During this time, wildlife sightings are more frequent, and the vegetation is relatively sparse, making it easier to spot animals. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Jaipur and Agra. Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is known for its rich history, magnificent palaces, and vibrant markets. Agra is famous for the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the majestic Agra Fort. Both cities are within a few hours’ drive from Ranthambore National Park and offer a glimpse into India’s cultural heritage.
Bonus: Extend your trip with a relaxing day at a StayVista Jaipur villa.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh National Park is nestled in the Vindhya Hills and named after the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, which is situated within the park boundaries. The park’s landscape comprises lush forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain, providing a diverse habitat for various wildlife species. It was established as a national park in 1968 and later gained the status of a tiger reserve.
Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh features a core area of around 105 square kilometres, and is particularly known for its high density of Bengal tigers and rich biodiversity.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Bandhavgarh National Park is in Jabalpur, approximately 190 kilometres away. Another option is the Khajuraho Airport, located around 250 kilometres from the park. The closest railway station is Umaria, which is well-connected to major cities. From Jabalpur or Umaria, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-arranged safari vehicle to reach the park.
Animals to Spot:
Bandhavgarh National Park is renowned for its population of Bengal tigers. It has one of the highest densities of tigers in India, providing excellent opportunities for tiger sightings. Apart from tigers, the park is home to other wildlife species such as leopards, Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boars, langurs, and various bird species including the Malabar pied hornbill and the Indian roller.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is from October to June. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September. It is advisable to check the specific opening and closing dates of the park before planning your visit.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Jabalpur and Khajuraho. Jabalpur is known for its marble rocks along the Narmada River and the famous Dhuandhar Falls. Khajuraho is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, known for its intricate carvings and ancient temples. Both cities offer cultural and historical attractions that can enrich your visit to Bandhavgarh National Park.
Kaziranga National Park, Gujarat
Kaziranga National Park, located in the state of Assam in northeastern India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant wildlife sanctuaries of India. Known for its incredible population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga National Park spans an area of approximately 430 square kilometres and presents a unique opportunity to witness the extraordinary wildlife of northeastern India.
Originally established in 1905 as The Kaziranga Proposed Reserve Forest, Kaziranga National Park is among the largest national parks in India, renowned for its conservation efforts in protecting the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, which are found in large numbers within the park. It is characterised by vast stretches of marshland, tall elephant grass, and dense forests. The park is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Kaziranga National Park is in Jorhat, approximately 97 kilometres away. Another option is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, located about 217 kilometres from the park. The nearest major railway station is Furkating, which is well-connected to various cities in India. From the airport or railway station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kaziranga National Park.
Animals to Spot:
Kaziranga National Park is famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros, which is the park’s iconic species. Apart from rhinoceros, the park is home to other wildlife such as Asian elephants, wild water buffaloes, swamp deer (barasingha), tigers, leopards, wild boars, hoolock gibbons, and various species of primates and reptiles. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 bird species, including the endangered Bengal florican, great Indian hornbill, and various waterfowl.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is during the winter months from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the park is open for wildlife safaris. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from May to October due to heavy rainfall and flooding. The dry months of February and March are particularly recommended for wildlife sightings, as animals gather near water sources.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Guwahati and Jorhat. Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, offers cultural attractions like the Kamakhya Temple and the Umananda Temple, as well as the opportunity to experience the Brahmaputra River. Jorhat, known as the cultural capital of Assam, is famous for its tea gardens and the historic Majuli Island, the world’s largest river island. Both cities provide a glimpse into the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.
Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat
Gir Forest National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, India. It is the only natural habitat of the endangered Asiatic lions and is considered one of the most important protected areas in Asia for their conservation.
Established in 1965, Gir National Park spans an area of around 1,412 square kilometres and includes a core zone and a buffer zone. The diverse landscape of the park consists of dry deciduous forests, rocky hills, grasslands, and scrub vegetation. It is not only home to the majestic Asiatic lions but also supports a significant population of leopards and numerous other wildlife species.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Gir Forest National Park is Diu Airport, which is about 110 kilometres away. Another option is Rajkot Airport, located approximately 160 kilometres from the park. The closest railway station is Junagadh, which is well-connected to major cities. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. Sasan Gir, a small town within the vicinity of the park, serves as the entry point.
Animals to Spot:
The star attraction of Gir Forest National Park is the Asiatic lion, with a population of around 500 individuals. Other wildlife species that can be spotted in the park include Indian leopards, Indian gazelles (chinkaras), Indian antelopes (nilgais), sloth bears, striped hyenas, Indian foxes, jungle cats, and numerous bird species. The park is also known for its rich reptile population, including various species of snakes and marsh crocodiles.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Gir Forest National Park is from December to March when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of wildlife sightings are higher. During this time, the vegetation is relatively dry, making it easier to spot animals. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from June to October.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Junagadh and Diu. Junagadh, located about 60 kilometres from Gir Forest National Park, is known for its historical attractions, including the Uparkot Fort and the ancient Junagadh Buddhist Cave Groups. Diu, an island town located approximately 100 kilometres away, offers beautiful beaches, Portuguese architecture, and a relaxed coastal ambiance.
Hemis National Park, Jammu and Kashmir
Hemis National Park is renowned for its unique high-altitude ecosystem and is home to several endangered species. The landscape of the park features rugged mountains, deep valleys, and alpine meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Trans-Himalayan region. It is particularly famous for its snow leopard population and raw Himalayan landscapes.
Established in 1981, Hemis National Park is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India, and is named after the famous Hemis Monastery, which lies within its boundaries.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Hemis National Park is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Leh, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach the park. The park is accessible via the Leh-Manali Highway, and the nearest town to the park is Leh.
Animals to Spot:
Hemis National Park is primarily known for its snow leopard population and is considered one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive cats. Apart from snow leopards, the park is also home to several other species including Himalayan blue sheep (bharal), Tibetan wolf, Eurasian brown bear, Himalayan marmot, golden eagle, and various other bird species. It is also an important habitat for the Tibetan argali, the largest sheep in the world.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Hemis National Park is during the summer months of May to September when the weather is relatively mild and the park is accessible. The winter season, from December to February, offers a chance to spot snow leopards as they descend to lower altitudes in search of prey. However, winter visits require specialised arrangements due to extreme weather conditions.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities and attractions in the Ladakh region. Leh, the capital city of Ladakh, offers a vibrant cultural experience, stunning monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, including the Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. Other nearby attractions include the ancient Alchi Monastery, the scenic Lamayuru Monastery, and the beautiful Indus and Zanskar river valleys.
Bonus: Extend your trip with a relaxing day at a StayVista homestay in Srinagar.
Kabini Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
Kabini Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is located in the state of Karnataka, India. Established in 1988, it covers an area of approximately 643 square kilometres and is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park is named after the Nagarhole River that flows through it and is known for its rich wildlife and lush greenery.
Nagarhole National Park provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, characterised by thick forests, gently rolling hills, and diverse flora and fauna. It is primarily a deciduous and tropical moist forest ecosystem, providing a suitable habitat for a wide range of wildlife species. The park is home to a significant population of Bengal tigers and Asian elephants, making it an important conservation area.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Nagarhole National Park is Mysore Airport, which is approximately 96 kilometres away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. The nearest railway station is in Mysore, which is well-connected to major cities. By road, Nagarhole is accessible from Bangalore and Mysore via well-maintained highways.
Animals to Spot:
Kabini Nagarhole National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife species. Apart from Bengal tigers and Asian elephants, you can spot animals such as Indian bison (gaur), Indian leopard, sloth bear, wild dog (dhole), striped hyena, sambar deer, spotted deer (chital), barking deer, Indian giant squirrel, and various species of monkeys. The park is also home to a rich birdlife with over 270 species recorded, including the Malabar pied hornbill and the Indian peafowl.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Nagarhole National Park is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and the park is open for visitors. The winter months, from November to February, are ideal for wildlife sightings as the animals are more active. The park remains closed during the monsoon season, from June to September, due to heavy rainfall.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Mysore and Coorg (Kodagu). Mysore is renowned for its rich heritage, palaces, and temples, including the Mysore Palace and Chamundeshwari Temple. Coorg, also known as the “Scotland of India,” offers scenic beauty, coffee plantations, and opportunities for trekking and adventure sports.
Bonus: Extend your trip with a relaxing day at a StayVista homestay in Coorg.
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
The original inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s famous novel, “The Jungle Book”, Kanha is one of the most famous tiger reserves in the country. It is divided into two major zones: the core zone, which is the main wildlife viewing area, and the buffer zone, which surrounds the core area. The park is renowned for its conservation efforts and successful initiatives to protect the Bengal tiger and other endangered species.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Kanha Tiger Reserve is Jabalpur Airport, which is approximately 160 kilometres away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. The nearest railway stations are Jabalpur and Gondia, both well-connected to major cities. By road, the park can be accessed via Jabalpur or Nagpur, which are the major cities closest to Kanha.
Animals to Spot:
Kanha Tiger Reserve is famous for its thriving population of Bengal tigers, and it provides excellent opportunities to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. In addition to tigers, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Indian leopards, sloth bears, Indian wild dogs (dholes), barasingha (swamp deer), sambar deer, spotted deer (chital), Indian bison (gaur), langurs, and various species of birds.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Kanha National Park is during the cooler months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent during this time. The park remains closed from July to mid-October during the monsoon season. However, the park is open for visitors from mid-October to June, and different seasons offer unique experiences and sights.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Jabalpur and Nagpur. Jabalpur is known for its natural wonders, including the famous Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat and the Dhuandhar Falls. Nagpur, on the other hand, is a major city with excellent connectivity and offers attractions such as the Deekshabhoomi, Maharaj Bagh, and the Seminary Hill viewpoint.
Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, commonly known as Tadoba National Park, is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Maharashtra, covering an area of approximately 1,727 square kilometres. Tadoba National Park is named after the Tadoba Lake and the Andhari River that flow through its vast wilderness.
Most popularly known for its thriving population of Bengal tigers, Tadoba National Park is among the most commonly visited national parks for wildlife photography. The park creates a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide variety of wildlife, home to animal species such as leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison (gaur), wild dogs (dholes), spotted deer (chital), sambar deer, and various species of birds.
How to Get There:
The nearest airport to Tadoba National Park is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, which is approximately 140 kilometres away. From Nagpur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. The nearest railway station is Chandrapur, which is well-connected to major cities. By road, Tadoba National Park can be accessed via Nagpur or Chandrapur.
Animals to Spot:
The highlight of Tadoba National Park is its population of Bengal tigers. Visitors have a good chance of sighting these magnificent big cats during their safari experiences. Apart from tigers, the park is also home to other predators like leopards, wild dogs, and sloth bears. Additionally, you can spot herbivores like Indian bison (gaur), spotted deer, sambar deer, nilgai, and wild boar. The park boasts a rich avian diversity with over 200 species of birds, including the crested serpent eagle, Indian roller, and peafowl.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Tadoba National Park is from February to May and October to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are relatively easier due to the dry vegetation. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September when heavy rainfall can disrupt travel and wildlife activities.
Neighbouring Cities to Extend Your Trip:
To extend your trip, you can explore the nearby cities of Nagpur and Chandrapur, or Maharashtra’s favourite hill station, Lonavala. It offers the perfect opportunity to getaway with family and enjoy a combined trip of adventure and relaxation. Those looking to extend their holiday must check out the holiday villas in Lonavala, perfect for big groups.
Bonus: Extend your trip with a relaxing day at a StayVista villa in Lonavala or Pune.
Most Frequently Asked Questions about Tiger Reserves and National Parks of India
Which is the most visited national park in India?
Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest and most visited national park in India, famous for spotting Bengal tigers, leopards, deer and elephants.
What are the top 5 national parks in India?
Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Sundarbans National Park, Gir Forest National Park, and Ranthambore National Park are the top 5 national parks in India, most visited by groups of six and more.
Which national park is known as the Big Five?
Kaziranga National Park, also often named as the Buffalo National Park is popularly known as the home of India’s Big Five – Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, Indian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Eastern Swamp Deer and Wild Water Buffalo.
What is the difference between national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of India?
The main difference between national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India lies in their purpose and level of protection. National parks are primarily established for the conservation of ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural landscapes. Wildlife sanctuaries, on the other hand, focus on the protection and preservation of specific wildlife species, habitats, or migratory routes.
Best national parks for wildlife photographers?
Dachigam National Park, Dudhwa National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary, Great Himalayan National Park, Ranthambore National Park and Gir Forest National Park are among the best destinations for wildlife photography in India.
Which are the best national parks to visit with kids and family?
India has several national parks that are suitable for visiting with kids and family, offering a combination of wildlife encounters, educational experiences, and recreational activities. Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park located on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, and Kaziranga National Park in Assam are among the best national parks to visit with family and children.
Which are the safest national parks in India?
While most national parks prioritise visitor safety and have measures in place, it’s essential to exercise caution and follow guidelines provided by park authorities. National parks in India that are generally considered safe include Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary, Jim Corbett National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Periyar National Park, and Ranthambore National Park.
