Popular Wildlife Destinations in India

India being a vast country has all sorts of things to see and places to visit. If you are an adventure and wildlife enthusiast, there is a lot that you can explore here. With a different variety of forests, zoos and safaris, below mentioned are the top and most popular wildlife destinations in India.

Wildlife destinations in India are all about witnessing the real beauty of animals, floral grandeur and different species of trees. What’s more? These experiences take you deep into the realities of biodiversity. Additionally, you get an opportunity to learn while exploring. Indeed, it is for the ones who truly wish to navigate their way to an exciting time amidst the wild.

10 Amazing Wildlife Destinations in India are – 

• Ranthambore National Park – The Tiger Paradise
• Jim Corbett National Park – The Oldest Sanctuary
• Bannerghatta Biological Park – The Urban Jungle
• Hemis National Park – The Snow Leopard’s Realm
• Sundarbans National Park – The Mangrove Haven
• Great Himalayan National Park – The Alpine Wilderness
• Gir National Park – The Last Abode of Asiatic Lions
• Periyar National Park – The Elephant Sanctuary
• Kaziranga National Park – The Rhino’s Kingdom
• Pench National Park – The Kipling’s Inspiration

1. Ranthambore National Park – The Tiger Paradise

Located in Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in India. Rajasthan, especially being the land of Maharajas, has been popular for hunting and wildlife for ages. Additionally, this particular national park has been converted into a wildlife conservation park famous for the varieties of tigers and birds. What’s more? Explore exotic and wild species of Bakula, Hyenas, Jackals and Jungle cats. You can also find a fort and lake inside the park.

Timing:

• Summer: 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
• Winter: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM, 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹1000-₹1500 per person (Jeep Safari)
• Foreigners: ₹2000-₹2500 per person (Jeep Safari)
• Canter Safari (Indians and Foreigners): ₹600-₹800 per person

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June, with peak wildlife sightings from November to April.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur (160 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Sawai Madhopur (11 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to major cities like Jaipur, Delhi, and Agra.

Best Selling Ranthambore Tour Itinerary

2. Jim Corbett National Park – The Oldest Sanctuary

Jim Corbett National Park is located in Nainital, Uttarakhand. You can indeed take a drive of around five hours from Delhi to reach Nainital. What’s more? It is a home to the exotic tigers! If you are lucky, you might just see the white tigers too. Being one of the truly popular wildlife destinations in India, you can also see various animals including Tigers, Spotted deer, Elephants, Golden jackals and sambar deer.

Timing:

• Winter: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• Summer: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM, 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹1000-₹1500 per person (Jeep Safari)
• Foreigners: ₹2000-₹2500 per person (Jeep Safari)
• Canter Safari: ₹1500 per person

Best Time to Visit:

• November to June, with the best wildlife sightings from March to May.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (80 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Ramnagar (12 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Delhi, Nainital, and Dehradun.

Best Selling Jim Corbett Tour Itinerary

3. Bannerghatta Biological Park – The Urban Jungle

Located on the outskirts of Bangalore, the Bannerghatta Biological Park is famous for its zoo and elephant sanctuary. Additionally, there is a tiger and a butterfly park inside the place. What’s more? The park especially offers a great treat to nature lovers. It is indeed one of the famous wildlife destinations in India where forest walks, nature trails and wildlife safaris are fun. Moreover, you can also indulge in boating if it is open.

Timing:

• 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹80 for adults, ₹40 for children
• Foreigners: ₹400 for adults, ₹200 for children
• Safari: ₹260 per person (Indians), ₹400 per person (Foreigners)

Best Time to Visit:

• Throughout the year, with pleasant weather from October to February.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore (45 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Bangalore City Junction (25 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Bangalore.

4. Hemis National Park – The Snow Leopard’s Realm

Located in the eastern part of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir, Hemis National Park is one of the best wildlife destinations in India. It is home to many endangered species of animals like the snow leopard, the Asiatic Ibex, the red fox and the Tibetan wolf. What’s more? The park is nestled between gorgeous pine forests and meadows. So, visiting here is like going on a safari amidst spectacular nature. Additionally, going for an adventure trek at Hemis is one of the most famous activities to do in Ladakh.

Timing:

• Open throughout the year, but trekking permits are required.

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹20 per person
• Foreigners: ₹100 per person

Best Time to Visit:

• May to September, with trekking and wildlife spotting being ideal in June and July.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Leh (50 km).
• By Road: Accessible by road from Leh, which is well-connected to other parts of Ladakh.

5. Sundarbans National Park – The Mangrove Haven

Located in the state of West Bengal, the Sunderbans National Park is dedicated to the Tigers. Being one of the top-rated wildlife destinations in India, you can explore the marshy lands and the dense mangroves. Additionally, explore the Tiger trail, watch towers and the crocodile park. It is especially a natural paradise spread across an area of 54 islands extending towards Bangladesh. It is situated at a distance of 95 kilometres from Kolkata. So, get ready to spot truly exotic animals including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Crocodiles, bull sharks, primates, snakes and dolphins.

Timing:

• 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Boat rides)

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹60 per person
• Foreigners: ₹200 per person
• Boat Charges: Vary depending on the type of boat and duration.

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March, with the winter months offering the best wildlife sightings.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kolkata (100 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Canning (48 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Kolkata and other nearby towns.

6. Great Himalayan National Park – The Alpine Wilderness

The Great Himalayan National Park is nestled in the heart of the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. The Great Himalayan National Park is one of the wonderful wildlife destinations in India that you can explore. The place is full of natural beauty where forests offer a unique and mesmerizing charm. What’s more? You can walk through the forests and truly enjoy the fresh air. As you open your eyes, all you see is the breathtaking site of greens and blues. Spot various species of snow leopard, musk deer, primates and Himalayan pit viper.

Timing:

• 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹50 per person
• Foreigners: ₹200 per person
• Additional charges for camping and trekking permits.

Best Time to Visit:

• April to June and September to November.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (60 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (145 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Kullu and Manali.

7. Gir National Park – The Last Abode of Asiatic Lions

Ready for an especially enthralling journey? Visit one of the famous wildlife destinations in India located in the state of Gujarat. Gir National Park is a popular place for the presence of Asiatic Lions. So, indulge yourself in the adventure-packed wildlife safari. Additionally, there’s an opportunity to enjoy boating in the lakes present inside the wildlife park. The various species popular in Gir forest are Asiatic Lions, Indian leopards, sloth bears, jungle cats, striped hyenas, snakes, blackbucks, crocodiles and monitor lizards. Some of which are exclusively found in this particular wildlife park.

Timing:

• Winter: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Summer: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM, 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹800 per person (Jeep Safari)
• Foreigners: ₹4800 per person (Jeep Safari)
• Guide charges and camera fees are extra.

Best Time to Visit:

• December to March, with peak wildlife sightings in April and May.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Rajkot (160 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Junagadh (65 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Ahmedabad and Rajkot.

8. Periyar National Park – The Elephant Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Kerala, Periyar National Park is one of the best wildlife destinations in India. It is especially known for the mesmerising Periyar Lake. Additionally, the floral beauty elevates your time here. So, get ready to spot the enthralling animals including Indian bison, deer, monkeys and tigers. Additionally, the park follows eco-tourism practices making it a green and clean place.

Timing:

• 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹45 per person
• Foreigners: ₹500 per person
• Boat Ride: ₹225 per person (Indians), ₹500 per person (Foreigners)

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June, with peak wildlife sightings from November to February.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai (140 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kottayam (114 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Kochi, Madurai, and Trivandrum.

9. Kaziranga National Park – The Rhino’s Kingdom

Ready to visit one of the famous wildlife destinations in India? Kaziranga National Park is an especially beautiful place located in the state of Assam. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to truly exotic one-horned rhinoceros. What’s more? You can opt for safaris and simply walk on the natural trail. Furthermore, you get an amazing opportunity to spot wild water buffalo, elephants, tigers and swamp deer. Also, carry binoculars as you might be lucky to spot migratory birds here.

Timing:

• Winter: 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• Summer: 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹100 per person
• Foreigners: ₹650 per person
• Jeep Safari: ₹3,500 per vehicle (max 6 persons)

Best Time to Visit:

• November to April, with peak wildlife sightings in February and March.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jorhat (97 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Furkating (75 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Guwahati and Jorhat.

10. Pench National Park – The Kipling’s Inspiration

Welcome to Madhya Pradesh, indeed the land of art, beauty and wildlife too! It is home to one of the unique wildlife destinations in India. Pench National Park is a truly amazing site to spot wild dogs, leopards, bison, sloth bears, deer and monkeys. Additionally, you can also spot different species of reptiles. Also, do not forget to spot vibrant birds flying around the park.

Timing:

• Winter: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• Summer: 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM, 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Entry Fees:

• Indians: ₹1,500 per vehicle (Jeep Safari)
• Foreigners: ₹3,000 per vehicle (Jeep Safari)
• Guide charges and camera fees are extra.

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June, with peak wildlife sightings in February and March.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Nagpur (93 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Seoni (30 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by road to Nagpur and Jabalpur.

Things to Know Before Visiting Wildlife Destinations in India 

• Wildlife safaris completely depend on the natural settings. So, you might be able to spot the animals if you are lucky. However, you might be able to see only the common ones considering the weather, timings and preferences of the animals.
• Since these are wildlife destinations in India, it is important to maintain peace while exploring. Make sure to especially not disturb the natural habitat.
• Always make advanced bookings to the wildlife destinations in India. It helps you avoid the rush.
• Travelling from Delhi? It is ideal to book a tempo traveller as it allows you to enjoy your journey in a hassle-free manner.
• Additionally, carry sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen as you might face scorching heat in certain areas.
• Some wildlife destinations in India might not have the availability of guides as well as safaris. Contact them before planning your visit.
• Wildlife destinations are home to exotic animals. So, do not litter the areas under any case. Always carry a plastic bag to collect your waste.

Wrapping Up

With a plethora of wildlife destinations in India, choose the one that best suits your needs and travel preferences. Moreover, it is always a great idea to check with the official authorities about the availability of animals. If you have any questions regarding these wildlife destinations in India, feel free to connect with us in the comment section below. Excellent holiday packages are offered by the leading tour and travel company in the industry for national park trips.