Top 12 National Parks in India Open in June 2025 for Wildlife Safaris
June in India is a month of transition. While much of the country begins to welcome the monsoon rains, many wildlife lovers are still eager to head into the wild before national parks start closing their gates. While core zones of popular tiger reserves like Ranthambore, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh typically shut by mid to late June, not all parks are off-limits. In fact, several remarkable national parks in India—especially in the Himalayas, South India, and the Northeast—remain open, offering unique wildlife experiences with fewer crowds.
If you’re looking for where to go in June for wildlife sightings, this blog is your complete guide. Discover which national parks in India are open, what kind of wildlife you can spot, and what to keep in mind while planning your safari this month.
In this Blog
Why June is Different for National Parks in India
The onset of rains transforms India’s landscape, but it also significantly impacts park accessibility. Most central and western Indian parks—including famous tiger reserves like Ranthambore National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, and Kanha Tiger Reserve—close their core zones from mid-June through October due to heavy rainfall, flooding, and safety concerns.
However, this seasonal closure creates an opportunity to explore lesser-known gems that remain accessible and offer extraordinary wildlife experiences during the early monsoon period.
Top National Parks in India Open in June
1. Periyar National Park, Kerala
Why Visit: Open year-round with milder monsoon conditions
Wildlife Highlights: Elephants, tigers, Indian bison, diverse bird species
Best Experience: Boat safaris on Periyar Lake and guided nature walks
Kerala’s crown jewel remains accessible throughout June, thanks to its location in a protected monsoon region. The park comes alive during early rains, with wildlife congregating near water sources, making for spectacular viewing opportunities.
2. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Why Visit: Buffer zones remain open even when core areas close
Wildlife Highlights: Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, rich birdlife
Best Zones: Jhirna and Dhela zones typically stay operational
India’s oldest national park offers reliable wildlife viewing in June, particularly in its buffer zones. While the famous Dhikala zone may close mid-month due to river swelling, other areas provide excellent safari experiences.
3. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand
Why Visit: Peak blooming season in Valley of Flowers National Park begins in June
Wildlife Highlights: Alpine flowers, unique Himalayan fauna
Best Experience: Trekking through blooming meadows
This UNESCO World Heritage site transforms into a colorful paradise during June, with alpine flowers beginning their spectacular bloom cycle that continues through the monsoon months.
4. Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Why Visit: Rain-shadow location ensures minimal rainfall
Wildlife Highlights: Snow leopards, blue sheep, Tibetan wolves
Best Experience: High-altitude wildlife tracking and photography
Located in Ladakh’s rain-shadow region, Hemis remains completely unaffected by monsoon rains, offering year-round accessibility and unique high-altitude wildlife experiences.
5. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
Why Visit: Part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with excellent June wildlife activity
Wildlife Highlights: Large elephant herds, tigers, leopards, peacocks
Best Experience: Jeep safaris through dense forests
Bandipur stands out as an exceptional June destination, with lush forests coming alive with animal activity during early monsoon showers. The park offers rewarding safaris with less crowding than peak season months.
Which National Parks in India Are Closed in June 2025?
Several of India’s most famous wildlife destinations, tiger reserves and parks close during June:
Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan): Closes mid-June
Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh): Core zones close July 1
Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh): Core zones close July 1
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra): Closes end of June
Gir National Park (Gujarat): Closes June 16
Pro Tip: Some parks and reserves like Kanha and Bandhavgarh keep buffer zones open with limited access even when core areas close. Always check current status with park authorities before booking.
Regional Recommendations for June Wildlife Travel
Himalayan Region
Great Himalayan National Park (Himachal Pradesh)
Dachigam National Park (Jammu & Kashmir)
Namdapha National Park (Arunachal Pradesh)
Southern India
Eravikulam National Park (Kerala)
Bandipur National Park (Karnataka)
Island Destinations
Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal) – boat safaris continue
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
Essential Wildlife Safari Tips for Visiting India’s National Parks in June
Clothing Essentials
Lightweight, breathable cotton clothing in neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown)
Full-sleeved shirts and long trousers for protection
Light rain jacket or poncho for unexpected showers
Wide-brimmed hat with neck protection
Comfortable, well-broken-in hiking boots
Must-Have Accessories
High SPF sunscreen (30+) and after-sun lotion
Quality insect repellent
Safari binoculars for wildlife viewing
Waterproof bag for electronics and documents
Flashlight or headlamp for early morning safaris
Weather Preparedness
June weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and varying temperatures. Pack layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable regardless of conditions.
Making the Most of Your June Wildlife Adventure
Book Early
Parks open in June often see increased demand from travelers whose original plans were disrupted by monsoon closures. Secure your accommodations and safari permits well in advance.
Check Zone Status
Even parks that remain “open” may have certain zones closed due to weather conditions. Verify current accessibility with park authorities or your accommodation provider.
Embrace the Season
June’s pre-monsoon atmosphere creates unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Animals are often more active, vegetation is lush, and the landscapes are particularly photogenic.
Consider Professional Guides
Local naturalists and guides have invaluable knowledge about seasonal wildlife patterns and can significantly enhance your experience during this transitional period.
Is June a Good Time to Visit National Parks in India?
June offers a distinctive window for wildlife enthusiasts willing to venture beyond the most popular tiger reserves. While central Indian parks prepare for monsoon closure, northern Himalayan parks, southern reserves, and coastal areas provide exceptional alternatives with fewer crowds and unique seasonal experiences.
The key to a successful June wildlife trip lies in choosing the right destinations, packing appropriately, and embracing the seasonal character that makes this month special for nature lovers.
Whether you’re drawn to Kerala’s misty forests, Ladakh’s high-altitude wilderness, or Uttarakhand’s blooming valleys, June presents opportunities for memorable wildlife encounters that differ markedly from the typical dry season safari experience.
Ready to explore India’s wild side this June? Discover comfortable stays near these incredible national parks with StayVista’s curated collection of wildlife-friendly accommodations.
Banner Image courtesy Harshit Suryawanshi via Unsplash
