National Parks in India

National Parks in India: Your Complete Guide for Wildlife, Safaris & Family Trips

India encompasses biodiversity with respect to landscapes (from snow-clad Himalayas to dense forests) and wildlife like few other destinations on Earth. Every part of India has biodiversity and discovering this biodiverse treasure through India’s national parks is one of the best ways to really enjoy it. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, an adventurer, or just interested in a family trip to a national park, you will find something beautiful and special at national parks in India.

This article will discuss which national parks may be best to visit in India, tips for taking wildlife safaris, family-friendly parks, national parks to see off the beaten path, and how to plan your national park trip like a pro.

Top 5 National Parks to Visit in India

India is home to more than 100 parks and national parks, which can be very overwhelming when deciding on where to visit. Out of these parks, some are totally iconic and are recognized for its beauty and wildlife.

• Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)—India’s first national park and best-known for Bengal tigers and stunning landscapes.
• Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan)—Best known for exciting tiger sightings and ancient fort ruins that help the park stand out.
• Kaziranga National Park (Assam)—A UNESCO World Heritage Site; it is home to the one-horned rhinoceros and is known for nature lovers from around the world to enjoy.
• Gir National Park (Gujarat)—The only place in the world where you can enjoy viewing the Asiatic lion in its natural habitat.
• Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal)—The only mangrove forest in the world and the home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

These parks are definitely among the best places to visit in India when it comes to wildlife enthusiasts.

Safaris in national parks in India

If you have ever pictured yourself catching a glimpse of a tiger in the wild, or watching elephants having the time of their lives playing and bathing in a river, then you will want to consider making the national parks in India wildlife safari experience one of your bucket list items. Safari’s are usually done in open 4×4 style vehicles, or canters with a guide helping you to identify and spot wildlife once you start a safari.

The most popular destinations for a safari in India include:

• Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh) – where there is one of the highest densities of tigers.
• Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh) – which is the inspiration of Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
• Periyar National Park (Kerala) – which offers something special in terms of boat safaris, where you can be out in a boat and therefore close to wildlife around the lake.

The safari experience in India is not only about tigers, although that will certainly be one of your objectives. You may come across leopards, elephants, deer, wild boar, crocodiles and hundreds of species of birds, as well as other wildlife.

How to Plan Trip to National Parks in India

Before you pack your bags, it is helpful to understand how to plan the trip to national parks in India correctly. Here are some good tips below:

• Right Season – Most parks usually remain open from October to June; and summer is the best time to experience wildlife sightings given animals come to the waterholes.
• Book Safaris in Advance – Bookings are available online for popular parks, and slots fill quick in the busy seasons.
• Know Your Zone – National Parks like Ranthambore and Jim Corbett have more than one zones. Read which zones give you the higher chances of sightings.
• Pack Smart – Bring your best binoculars, calm clothes, insect spray and a quality camera.
• Respect the Laws – Don’t litter, Do not feed the animals, and keep quiet on safaris.

Planning can lead to a smooth and easy trip for you and your family.

In Conclusion

Visiting national parks in India is only just a holiday but an experience of discover into nature. From exciting wildlife safaris to family campsites and even off-road destinations, national parks in India embrace each type of traveler. With a small amount of planning, each visit to the national parks in India can be fun, safe and unique.