India is a large and beautiful nation which includes beauty in all forms. India is not only a spiritual land with grave historical significance but entails amazing tourist destinations like hill stations, beautiful beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. National parks help a great deal in the preservation of endangered wildlife animals and plants so that they can survive for years to come. It is protected by the federal government and serves as an enjoyment for people as well.
Quick Facts
How many national parks are there in India?
You can find different kinds of animal species in about 400 national parks situated in the country.
What is the difference between a wildlife sanctuary and a national park?
The only difference between a wildlife sanctuary and a national park is, that human activities are not allowed inside the national park and, it prevails strict boundaries.
Here we have included a list of best national parks situated in India, so you are able to choose which one to visit with your kids, in upcoming holidays. Also, to make your visit simpler, we have found out the best time to visit and how you can reach there.
Best National Parks in India
1. Ranthambore National Park
It is the biggest National Park in North India and covers an area of about 392 sq km. Many people visit this location in Sawai Madhopur district, Rajasthan when they wish to experience the wilderness of animal kingdom. it has 10 different safari zones and people can watch wildlife by taking amazing Center or Jeep safari.
How to reach: Sanganer Airport, Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, By road: buses of the city are well connected to the National Park.
Best time to visit: October to June
2. Jim Corbett National Park
It is a Project Tiger Reserve and is the oldest National park in India, formed in 1936 as Hailey National Park. Located in Nainital, Uttrakhand, around 650 endangered species of birds and other animals, now live safely in this Park. The 520 sq km area it covers includes hills, lake, gorgeous riverine belts and beautiful grasslands.
How to reach: Ramnagar Railway Station, By road: You can find buses well connected to Ramnagar from Delhi, Nainital, Haldwani, and Moradabad.
Best time to Visit: Mid November to Mid June.
3. Kanha National Park
It is also well-known as Kanha Tiger Reserve. It covers the 1,940sq km area, making it the biggest National Park in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the famous tourist spots in India and attracts people from all around the world. You can find a variety of animal species here including the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. Along with it, sloth bear, many leopards, the widely popular Barasingha and Indian wild dogs stay here.
How to reach: Jabalpur airport, Raipur airport, Nagpur airport. Gondia and Jabalpur railway stations. By road, it is well connected to Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra.
Best time to visit: Mid October to June.
4. Bandhavgarh National Park
Located in Umaria district of Eastern Madhya Pradesh, it covers an area of 450 Square Kilometers and is widely acclaimed for its rich flora and fauna. This beautiful National Park is home to 250 species of birds and 22 varied species of animals. It is also one of the favorite wildlife tourist sports as it has an abundance of white tigers. Along with it, you can find Cheetals and Langurs and other Indian wild species as well.
How to Reach: Khajuraho airport, Jabalpur airport. Umaria Railway Station, Katni Railway Station. The road network is well-connected and many buses are operated by cities Rewa, Satna, Katni and Umaria in Madhya Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
5. Kaziranga National Park
Situated in the middle of Golaghat and Nagaon, two districts of Assam, this National Park is at the banks of Brahmaputra river. UNESCO announced it as world heritage site and it was also declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2006. This National Park is widely known for being a habitat of about 66% of one-horned rhinoceroses in the entire world.
How to Reach: Jorhat town airport and Guwahati airport. Guwahati and Jakhalabandha Railway Station. By road, both public and private buses are well connected because of route NH37.
Best time to Visit: November to April.
6. Bandipur National Park
Well-known for its wildlife, this National Park is the biggest and most visited National Park in South India. It is situated in Karnataka and covers about 874 sq. km. Highly acclaimed for keeping the largest number of wild elephants safe in South Asia, the beautiful flora of the region is enchanting as well.
How to reach: Bangalore airport. Mysore Railway Station. Several buses are connected from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
7. Nagarhole National Park
Also known as Rajiv Gandhi national park, it pertains to Nilgiri biosphere and is situated in Kodagu district, Karnataka. It is not only known for its vast variety of birds and animals but also for the beautiful waterfalls and streams. Captivating scenic beauty because of hills and forests surrounding this national park is mind-boggling.
How to Reach: Mysore and Bangalore airport. Mysore Railway station. Different buses are linked to Nagarhole national park from cities like Mysore, Bangalore, and Madikere.
Best time to Visit: October to May
8. Periyar National Park
This national park in Kerala is known to people around the world for being elephant and tiger reserve. It is situated in town Thekkady and attracts tourists because they get to enjoy the safari, rafting, and several other activities. Mountains and plateau surround this gorgeous national park of India. There is a reservoir which serves water to the wildlife living here.
How to reach: Madurai and Kochi Airport. Kottayam railway station. Many bus routes connect Thekkady to various cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Salem.
Best time to visit: December to March
9. Mudumalai National Park
Located in Nilgiri district, this National Park is in the northeast of famous blue mountain, also known as Nilgiri Mountain. You can wide variety of wildlife here including, Bengal tiger and different cultures. It is also home to Indian leopards and elephants. Many tourists come to visit his National Park when they visit beautiful South India.
How to reach: Coimbatore airport. Coimbatore and Ooty railway station. Gudalur is the town nearby which is well connected to several bus routes of major cities like Ooty, Gudalur, Mysore etc.
Best time to visit: February to June.
10. Eravikulam National Park
Famous for inhabiting Nilgiri tahr, a species of the goat which is endangered, this is the first National Park in Kerala. Even endangered species of butterflies can also be spotted here, along with a dazzling view of vast tea plantations. The blue colored flower Neelakurunji which only blossoms once in 12 years, covers the valleys here during the summer season.
How to reach: Reach Trivandrum and Coimbatore airport and hire a taxi or take a bus. Munnar railway station is also close by. Cabs can be hired from Munnar.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.
11. Gir Forest National Park
You can find wild Asiatic lions here in Gir Forest National Park situated in Gujrat. Before the year 1990, it used to be hunting place for the Nawabs of Junagadh. When it stopped, the count of lions has increased from 12 to around 600. It is home to various animal species like sambar, chinkara, black buck and wild boar. Tourists love to visit and enjoy amazing jeep safaris.
How to Reach: Keshod and Rajkot airport. Different bus routes connect Rajkot to different cities.
Best time to visit: December to March
12. Sundarban National Park
This Tiger and Biosphere Reserve is situated in West Bengal. Mangrove forest in this national park is the reason why it many tourists come to visit this park from all parts of the world. The famous Bengal tiger can be spotted here, along with saltwater crocodile, wild boars, and even foxes. You can travel around this park in a boat.
How to reach: Kolkata airport. Gosaba is the nearest town is connected to other cities.
Best time to visit: December to February
13. Satpura National Park
This park covers 524 sq km area in Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh and is famous for its picturesque view which includes sandstone peaks and deep ravine, amid the dense forests. Different wildlife species are inhabiting Satpura National Park including tigers and barasinghas. Tourists have options to choose between an elephant safari and jeep safari, as well as can enjoy boating.
How to reach: Sohagpur railway station. Nearest town Pachmarhi is connected by road to several cities.
Best time to visit: October to April
14. Pench National Park
It is located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for the Royal Bengal Tigers living there. It is also popular as it provides tourists with the opportunity for rafting. There might be only 50 tigers in the National Park but daily people report that they spotted a tiger. It is also home to other animal species like wild boar, sloth, and wolves.
How to reach: Sonegaon airport in Nagpur. Seoni city is well connected by road and has a railway station as well.
Best time to visit: November to May
15. Sariska National Park
Royal Bengal Tigers of Rajasthan are found in this National Park. It covers about 866 sq km area and you can easily spot lions and tigers. You can also find striped hyenas, jackals, and serpent eagles while on a jeep safari. This National Park prevails a rocky landscape. You even get the chance to spot wildlife closely.
How to reach: Jaipur airport and take a taxi from there. The roads of this park are well connected to different cities like Jaipur and Delhi.
Best time to visit: October to June
16. Bharatpur National Park
Also known as Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary, this park is situated in Rajasthan and was named after Shiva temple which is located in the middle of the forest itself. It is about 250 years old. It is famous for being a bird sanctuary as around 230 bird species can be spotted here. It also is a habitat for a number of animal species like basking python, painted storks and different kinds of deer.
How to reach: Agra airport and Bharatpur Railway Station make it easy to reach here.
Best time to visit: October to March
17. Sasan Gir National Park
Another very popular National park in Gujrat is Sasan Gir National Park which is known for having many Asiatic Lions, Sloth Bears, and Jungle Cats. Its ecosystem makes it rich in flora and fauna. Many endangered species of birds can also be spotted in this beautiful National Park.
How to reach: Rajkot airport and Railway Station are well-connected by buses and taxis. The buses are well connected to other cities as well.
Best time to visit: December to March
18. Campbell Bay National Park
It covers 462 sq km area of Nicobar islands. The forests are so protected that they are still not explored thoroughly. It sustains rich flora and fauna and even has a good marine life. These forests are evergreen and captivate the eyes of tourists. You can spot Nicobar Pigeon, Giant Robber Crab and other rare species in this park.
How to reach: Inter-Island Boat service from Port Blair airport. Hiring Pawan Hans Helicopter service from the boat.
Best time to visit: March to October
19. Dudhwa National Park
This National Park was formed in 1977 and it is nestled in Uttar Pradesh, covering about 490.3 sq Km area. It is highly popular for being a home to Barasinghas and Indian One-Horned Rhinoceroses. It was the hard work of conservationist Billy Arjan Singh that Leopard and Tiger were also introduced in this park to keep the stag in check.
How to reach: Dudhwa, Palia and Mailani railway station is closely connected to this park.
Best time to visit: February to April
20. Nanda Devi National Park
This park was formed years ago in 1982 in Uttrakhand. It attracts tourists as it is situated about 3500 meters above the sea level. Surrounded by the gorgeous Himalayas, it is one of the favorite tourist destination for people. You can spot a variety of endangered animal species like Snow Leopard and Himalayan black and brown bears.
How to reach: Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun, Rishikesh Railway Station are connected to this park. Roads connect the nearest town Joshimath to various major cities.
Best time to Visit: May to October
21. Hemis National Park
It is the largest National Park in India and covers a ravishing area of 4,400 sq km. There are different Tibetan monasteries in the middle of the National Park which is why several tourists are excited about exploring these forests. Bharal sheep and Tibetan Wolf can be spotted here, along with several other different species like Lammergeier Vulture.
How to reach: Airport in Leh and Jammu Railway Station is close by
Best time to visit: June to October
22. Kanchendzonga National Park
This Park is situated in Sikkim and is famous for its sightings of Black Panther. It is situated on an elevating area and has a large variety of wildlife species which entails eye captivating flora. Several medicinal herbs are extracted from this area. It is keeping different endangered species of animals and birds safe.
How to reach: Bagdogra airport, Jalpaiguri and Siliguri railway station are connected by cabs and buses. Different bus routes connect Gangtok to Bagdogra.
Best time to visit: Mid-march to June and Mid September to mid-November.
23. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Also known as Wandur National Park, this is situated on the Andaman Islands. It is widely acclaimed for its colorful marine life and has become one of the most visited tourist destination in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Coral reef of the park is widely spread and you can easily spot sea turtles.
How to reach: Buses and taxis connected from Port Blair airport.
Best time to visit: November to February.
24. Valley of Flowers National Park
It is situated in the foothills of beautiful Himalayas, in Uttrakhand. The name itself suggests that the flora of the region is quite rich and eye-catching. It has grassy meadows and colorful flowers, and people highly appreciate the magnificent view of the place. Asian Black bear, red fox etc. animal species can also be spotted here.
How to reach: Govindghat town is the nearest by road. Then, climb to Ghangaria. Then, Trek of about 3 hours to reach National Park.
Best time to visit: Mid July to mid-August.
25. Panna National Park
This park in Madhya Pradesh was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994. But it is home to several other wildlife animals as well. You can find Chinkara, Chital and King Vulture when exploring the tourist destination. It covers around 543 sq km area. The climate here remains tropical and is scorching hot during summers.
How to reach: Panna town is well connected to other major cities of Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh.
Best time to Visit: January to May
26. Balpakram National Park
This Park in Meghalaya is almost 3000 meters above the sea level. This park sustains many plateaus and forests, along with a variety of terrains which is why people love to visit this national park. You can find very rare species of cats like marbled and Golden. Even Red Panda can be spotted here.
How to reach: Tura town is the nearest. On reaching Guwahati and Goalpara, you can take the city bus to Tura.
Best time to visit: October to March
27. Similipal National Park
This National Park in Orrisa is known for keeping Asiatic Elephants safe. It has a breath-taking view because of grassy meadows and gorgeous forests in the area. It also entails eye captivating waterfalls. Indian Bison, Chausingha, Jungle Cat and several other species of animals, birds and even of reptiles, can be found here.
How to reach: Balasore Railways station. From here, buses are connected to Similipal.
Best time to visit: October to December, February, April, and May.
28. Kudremukh National Park
Nestled in the green hills of Karnataka, this park serves you greenery and tranquillity. It has three rivers flowing in the middle of it which leads to an abundance of beauty, and sustenance of gorgeous flora. When tourists visit this place, they can spot different wildlife animals like Leopard, Indian Bison, Sambhar deer and many more.
How to reach: Mangalore Airport and Mangalore Railway Station are the best options to reach here. Also, Kudremukh city is well connected by roads.
Best time to Visit: November to February
29. Bannerghatta National Park
Tourists from all over India and other parts of the world, like to visit this National Park near Bangalore, because of the presence of several other attractions like animal rescue center, zoo, aquarium, etc. It also has a covered forest where Asiatic Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Pangolin, Russell’s viper and other animals live peacefully.
How to reach: Bengaluru airport and Bengaluru railway station are easily reachable from most of the cities. Then take a bus from there to the park. Bus route from Bangalore is no. 365 or 365J.
Best time to visit: November to June
30. Orang National Park
This park in city Tezpur is also popular by the name of mini-Kaziranga because of a high population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It is situated on the shores of the Brahmaputra River. It has many moist deciduous forests, which makes the greenery of this place pretty enchanting. Apart from rhinoceros, many other endangered species like Tiger, Asiatic Elephants, Pygmy Hog, can also be spotted here.
How to reach: Saloni airport and Rongapara railway station are well connected to the park. Regular buses are operated from Railways station and airport to Tezpur.
Best time to visit: November to April
31. Nameri National Park
Situated in Assam, and nestled in the eastern Himalayas this park was established long ago in the year of 1978. It is covered with deciduous and bamboo forests, along with the river Jia Bhoroli. Different endangered species like tiger, Asiatic Elephant, lion, and Sambhar can be spotted here.
How to reach: Rangapara railway station. You can hire cabs and buses from Rangpara to the park.
Best time to Visit: November to March
32. Gorumara National Park
This reserve is located in Terai, West Bengal, at the banks of rivers Murti and Raidak. It covers an area of about 80 sq km and is nestled at the foothills of beautiful Himalayas. The gorgeous grasslands and deciduous forests, make it a lively place for tourists. One can spot many endangered species here like Asiatic one-horned rhino, Asian elephants, royal Bengal tigers and other reptiles and birds.
How to reach: Chalsa is the nearest town, well connected to other cities in West Bengal.
Best time to visit: November to March
33. Nokrek National Park
Situated in Meghalaya, it is also one of the Biosphere Reserves of India. It as lush green forests all over the magnificent hilly terrains. There are plenty tropical and citrus fruits growing in the National Park. It is known for being home to many Red Pandas.
How to reach: Guwahati airport and Guwahati railway station are closely located. William Nagar is the nearest town well connected by bus to other cities in Meghalaya.
Best time to visit: October to May
34. Namdapha National Park
It covers an area of 2000 sq km in Arunachal Pradesh, on the Buma Border. People often like to visit this beautiful National park because of the presence of canopy of green forests and different endangered species like Snow Leopards, Asiatic Black bears, Dholes, Red Pandas and many more.
How to reach: Airports in Mohanbari, Dibrugarh, Assam is very close to this park. Tinsukia Railway Station, Assam is laos well-connected.
Best time to visit: November to April
35. Gulf of Kutch National Park
Another National Park situated in Gujrat is Gulf of Kutch and is highly acclaimed by people who have been there. It is popular for being the very first marine National Park of India. The Arabian Sea in this park is home to many endangered marine life species like Dolphins, whales, and Sharks.
How to reach: Jamnagar and Ahmadabad airport make it accessible to reach here. Also, Jamnagar and Rajkot railway stations are close by.
Best time to visit: November to March
When planning a vacation to Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks, one must keep in mind the time they reach the place. They often shut down for specific months. Taking the weather conditions is mind is also necessary as it would be a long walk. But whichever park you choose out of these best National Parks in India, you and your family will have a lot of fun.
