India, renowned for its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, is home to a myriad of national parks that showcase the country’s natural beauty and wildlife. These protected areas serve as havens for endangered species and offer visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in pristine wilderness. From lush forests to vast grasslands and towering mountains, India’s national parks are a testament to the country’s commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship.
Tips while Visiting National Parks in India
Before embarking on your journey to explore India’s national parks, here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Research and Plan Ahead: Research the national park you plan to visit, including its wildlife, terrain, and weather conditions. Plan your itinerary accordingly, considering factors such as transportation, accommodation, and entry permits.
- Pack Appropriately: make a list of important things to pack such as sturdy walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera, and a reusable water bottle. Be mindful of the weather and terrain of the national park you’ll be visiting.
- Respect Wildlife and Nature: Observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid feeding or disturbing them. Dispose of waste responsibly and follow the park’s rules and regulations to minimize your ecological footprint.
- Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to designated trails and pathways to avoid getting lost or disturbing sensitive habitats. Respect any signage or barriers indicating restricted areas or wildlife zones.
- Stay Informed and Alert: Stay informed about potential risks such as wildlife encounters, weather changes, and emergency procedures. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Follow Safety Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with safety guidelines provided by park authorities, including precautions against wildlife encounters, natural hazards, and medical emergencies.
- Engage with Local Guides: Consider hiring a local guide or joining guided tours to enhance your wildlife viewing experience and learn more about the park’s ecology and conservation efforts.
- Practice Responsible Tourism: Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your impact on the environment and supporting local communities and conservation initiatives.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: Carry sufficient water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your exploration of the national park. Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Capture Memories Responsibly: Capture memories through photography but avoid disturbing wildlife or their habitats for the sake of a photograph. Respect the natural environment and leave only footprints behind.
List of 10 National Parks
1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Description: Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936, is India’s oldest national park and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Named after the renowned hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and sloth bear.
How to Reach: Ramnagar is the nearest town and transportation hub, located approximately 15 kilometers from the park’s entrance. The park can be reached by road from major cities like Delhi and Dehradun.
Location: Jim Corbett National Park, Ramnagar, Nainital, Uttarakhand – 244715.
Timing: The park is open from November to June, with limited access during the monsoon season.
2. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Description: Ranthambore National Park, located in Rajasthan, is renowned for its thriving population of Bengal tigers. Spread over an area of 392 square kilometers, the park is characterized by dense forests, rugged terrain, and ancient ruins, including the historic Ranthambore Fort.
How to Reach: Sawai Madhopur is the nearest town and railway station, located approximately 12 kilometers from the park’s entrance. The park can be reached by road from Jaipur, which is approximately 180 kilometers away. There are numerous hotels in Jaipur for an overnight stay.
Location: Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan – 322001.
Timing: The park is open from October to June, with limited access during the monsoon season.
3. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Description: Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the northeastern state of Assam. Known for its population of Indian rhinoceroses, Kaziranga is also home to tigers, elephants, and a wide variety of bird species, including the endangered Bengal florican.
How to Reach: Jorhat is the nearest airport, located approximately 97 kilometers from the park. Furkating Junction is the nearest railway station, approximately 75 kilometers away. The park can be reached by road from Guwahati, which is approximately 217 kilometers away.
Location: Kaziranga National Park, Kanchanjuri, Assam – 784177.
Timing: The park is open from November to April.
4. Periyar National Park, Kerala
Description: Periyar National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The park is home to the endangered Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaque, and Indian elephant, among other species.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located approximately 140 kilometers from the park. Kottayam is the nearest railway station, located approximately 114 kilometers away. The park can be reached by road from major cities like Kochi and Madurai.
Location: Periyar National Park, Thekkady, Idukki, Kerala – 685536.
Timing: The park is open throughout the year, with the best time to visit being from September to March.
5. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Description: Bandhavgarh National Park, nestled in the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh, is known for its high tiger population density. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife species, including leopards, deer, and langurs.Don’t forget to book your hotel in advance for budget friendly trip.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, located approximately 164 kilometers from the park. Umaria is the nearest railway station, located approximately 35 kilometers away. The park can be reached by road from major cities like Jabalpur and Katni.
Location: Bandhavgarh National Park, Umaria, Madhya Pradesh – 484661.
Timing: The park is open from October to June, with limited access during the monsoon season.
6. Gir National Park, Gujarat
Description: Gir National Park, situated in Gujarat, is the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion in the wild. Spread over an area of 1,412 square kilometers, the park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and marsh crocodiles.
How to Reach: Rajkot is the nearest airport, located approximately 160 kilometers from the park. Junagadh is the nearest railway station, located approximately 60 kilometers away. The park can be reached by road from major cities like Ahmedabad and Junagadh.
Location: Gir National Park, Sasan Gir, Junagadh, Gujarat – 362135.
Timing: The park is open throughout the year, with the best time to visit being from December to March.
7. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
Description: Sundarbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the Sundarbans Delta of West Bengal. Known for its unique mangrove ecosystem and Royal Bengal tigers, the park is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including saltwater crocodiles and spotted deer.
How to Reach: Kolkata is the nearest airport and transportation hub, located approximately 100 kilometers from the park. Canning is the nearest railway station, located approximately 48 kilometers away. The park can be reached by road from Kolkata.
Location: Sundarbans National Park, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal – 743370.
Timing: The park is open from September to March.
8. Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Description: Hemis National Park, located in the eastern region of Ladakh, is the largest national park in India. Known for its high altitude and rugged terrain, the park is home to the endangered snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and Eurasian brown bear.
How to Reach: Leh is the nearest town and transportation hub, located approximately 40 kilometers from the park. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. The park can be reached by road from Leh.
Location: Hemis National Park, Leh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir – 194201.
Timing: The park is open from May to September.
9. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Description: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, located in Maharashtra, is one of the finest tiger reserves in India. Spread over an area of 1,727 square kilometers, the reserve is known for its high tiger population density and diverse flora and fauna.
How to Reach: Nagpur is the nearest airport and transportation hub, located approximately 140 kilometers from the reserve. Chandrapur is the nearest railway station, located approximately 45 kilometers away. The reserve can be reached by road from Nagpur and Chandrapur.
Location: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Chandrapur, Maharashtra – 442401.
Timing: The reserve is open throughout the year, with the best time to visit being from October to June.
10. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Description: Kanha National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is one of the largest and most well-maintained national parks in India. Known for its lush forests, grassy meadows, and diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and barasingha (swamp deer), the park inspired Rudyard Kipling’s famous novel, “The Jungle Book.”
How to Reach: Jabalpur is the nearest airport, located approximately 175 kilometers from the park. The nearest railway station is Jabalpur Junction. The park can be reached by road from major cities like Jabalpur and Nagpur.
Location: Kanha National Park, Mandla and Balaghat districts, Madhya Pradesh – 481111.
Timing: The park is open from October to June.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to explore India’s national parks offers travelers an opportunity to connect with nature, witness diverse wildlife, and contribute to conservation efforts. By following the provided tips and immersing yourself in the natural wonders of these protected areas, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.
Published by HOLR Magazine.