World Wildlife Day 2025: Top 10 National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

India is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a stunning variety of flora and fauna across its 26 agro-climatic zones. From elusive big cats to massive elephants, India’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries offer unparalleled experiences for nature lovers. Here’s a look at the top 10 wildlife destinations in India.

1. Ranthambore National Park , Rajasthan

A Royal Haven for Tigers

Ranthambore National Park, located in Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur district, spans 400 square kilometers. Once a royal hunting ground, it is now a premier wildlife sanctuary known for its thriving tiger population. This renowned park offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Wildlife Attractions: Bengal Tigers , Leopards, Sloth Bears, Black Bucks, Hyenas, Marsh Crocodiles.
• Best Time to Visit: October to June (Closed during monsoons from July to September).
• Highlights: Ranthambore Fort (10th century), Ganesh Mandir.

2. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The Land of White Tigers

Located in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is renowned for its high tiger population, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. With its dense forests and diverse ecosystem, the park offers excellent opportunities to spot Bengal tigers in their natural habitat, along with leopards, deer, and other fascinating wildlife species.

• Wildlife Attractions: White Tigers, Leopards, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boars, Hyenas.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to Mid-June (Closed during monsoons).
• Note: Closed on Wednesday afternoons and during Holi.

3. Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Rajasthan

A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Keoladeo Ghana National Park, also called Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a haven for bird watchers and ornithologists. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it attracts a vast number of migratory birds, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

• Wildlife Attractions: Over 350 species of birds, including Cranes, Pelicans, Eagles, and Warblers.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March (Peak migratory season).
• Highlights: Bharatpur Government Museum, Lohagarh Fort, Deeg Palace.

4. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

A South Indian Wildlife Gem

Located in Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, it plays a key role in wildlife conservation in South India, protecting species like tigers, elephants, and deer. The park offers breathtaking landscapes and is a popular destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Wildlife Attractions: Tigers, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Panthers, Sloth Bears, Malabar Squirrels.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March (Closed from July to September during monsoons).
• Safari Options: Bus, Jeep, and Elephant safaris.

5. Jim Corbett National Park , Uttarakhand

India’s Oldest National Park

Established in 1936, Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand is India's oldest and most renowned wildlife sanctuary. Known for its rich biodiversity, it offers a haven for Bengal tigers and other wildlife. A favorite among nature lovers and adventure seekers, this prestigious park provides thrilling safari experiences amidst stunning landscapes and dense forests.

• Wildlife Attractions: Bengal Tigers, Wild Elephants, Leopards, Otters, Pangolins.
• Best Time to Visit: November to June (Closed during monsoons).
• Safari Timings: Morning (6 AM – 9:30 AM), Evening (3 PM – 6 PM).

6. Gir National Park, Gujarat

The Last Refuge of Asiatic Lions

Gir Forest National Park is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic Lion, making it crucial for their conservation. This unique sanctuary plays a vital role in protecting and sustaining the lion population, offering visitors a rare chance to witness these majestic creatures in the wild while supporting ongoing wildlife preservation efforts.

• Wildlife Attractions: Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Jackals, Hyenas, Crocodiles.
• Best Time to Visit: December to March (April & May for best wildlife sightings).
• Safari Timings: Morning (6 AM – 9 AM), Afternoon (3 PM – 6 PM).

7. Kaziranga National Park , Assam

Home to the One-Horned Rhinoceros

Kaziranga National Park, located in Assam, is one of Asia’s finest wildlife parks. Renowned for its one-horned rhinoceros, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park’s rich biodiversity, including tigers, elephants, and swamp deer, makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Wildlife Attractions: One-horned Rhinoceros, Bengal Tigers, Indian Elephants, Wild Buffalo.
• Best Time to Visit: November to April (Closed during monsoons from June to August).
• Safari Timings: Morning (5:30 AM – 7:30 AM), Afternoon (3 PM – 4 PM).

8. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The Inspiration for ‘The Jungle Book’

Covering 1,757 square kilometers, Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of India’s largest national parks. It served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, offering a stunning natural habitat for diverse wildlife, including the majestic Bengal tiger, lush forests, and picturesque meadows.

• Wildlife Attractions: Bengal Tigers, Barasingha, Sloth Bears, Hyenas, Indian Foxes.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to June (Closed from July to September).

9. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

A Lesser-Known Wildlife Gem

Pench Tiger Reserve, situated near the Madhya Pradesh-Maharashtra border, is one of India’s top wildlife destinations. Known for its rich biodiversity, it offers a chance to spot majestic tigers, diverse flora, and fauna in a scenic landscape, making it a must-visit for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Wildlife Attractions: Tigers, Bison, Hyenas, Jungle Cats, Jackals.
• Best Time to Visit: October to June.

10. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

The Largest Mangrove Forest

Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the world's largest mangrove forest and a crucial habitat for the Bengal Tiger. This unique ecosystem is home to diverse wildlife, including estuarine crocodiles and Ganges river dolphins, making it a must-visit destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Wildlife Attractions: Bengal Tigers, Estuarine Crocodiles, River Dolphins, Rare Bird Species.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March (Monsoons make access difficult).

These national parks and sanctuaries offer incredible opportunities to witness India’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. Whether you are a tiger enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or an adventure seeker, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit and explore India’s wild side!