Top 8 National Parks In Rajasthan For A Perfect Safari In 2023

Even though much of Rajasthan is a desert, there are some magnificent national parks here. The forests teem with luxuriant trees and some rare wildlife species. But in the desert also, you will find animals, birds, and reptiles that thrive even in the inhospitable and harsh desert regions of Rajasthan. These creatures are special and rare and some of them cannot be found anywhere else in India. So make a tour plan in 2023 and visit some of the famous national parks in Rajasthan. This blog is all about the top 8 national parks in Rajasthan for a perfect safari in 2023.

1. Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur

The most famous creature that you can see in Ranthambore National Park is the Royal Bengal Tiger. There are almost 86 tigers in the entire national park as of 2022. The tigers in this national park are the most photographed tigers for wildlife documentaries. Ranthambore is one of the top 8 national parks in Rajasthan for a perfect safari. The jeep safari will take you deep into some of the remote corners of the jungle. Here you can spot not just tigers, but crocodiles, sambar deer, langurs, otters, wild buffalo, wolves, hyenas, and other wild creatures.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Type of wildlife safari: Jeep, Elephant
• Places to visit nearby: Ranthambore Fort, Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Raj Bagh Ruins, Surwal Lake, Padam Talao, Kachida Valley, Jogi Mahal

– How To Reach Sawai Madhopur

Sawai Madhopur is a town located in the northeastern part of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It’s most famous for being the gateway to Ranthambhore National Park, known for its tiger population and wildlife safaris. Here’s how to reach Sawai Madhopur:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Sawai Madhopur is the Jaipur International Airport, which is approximately 180 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a train or bus to reach Sawai Madhopur.
• By Train: Sawai Madhopur has its own railway station, Sawai Madhopur Junction (SWMT). It is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and more. Many trains, including luxury ones, stop at Sawai Madhopur, making it a convenient option for travelers.
• By Road: Sawai Madhopur is well-connected by road to various cities in Rajasthan and nearby states. You can either hire a taxi or take a state-run or private bus to reach Sawai Madhopur. The town is approximately 375 kilometers from Delhi and around 110 kilometers from Jaipur.
• By Bus: You can also reach Sawai Madhopur by bus from nearby cities. Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private bus operators provide regular bus services to and from Sawai Madhopur.

Once you arrive in Sawai Madhopur, you can explore the town and use it as a base to visit Ranthambhore National Park, which is just a short drive away. Ranthambhore is known for its wildlife safaris and is a popular destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

2. Sariska National Park, Alwar

The best thing about Sariska National Park is that it is very close to Delhi and Jaipur. Sariska Tiger Reserve was a former hunting ground of the maharajas who ruled here. Sariska National Park is famous for its tigers. The dry deciduous forests here make the ideal habitat for tigers to thrive in this national park. Sarika is also one of the top 8 national parks in Rajasthan for a perfect safari in 2023. Migratory birds also can be seen along with many Indian birds. You can go on a jeep safari here and spot monkeys, jungle cats, wild boars, antelopes, leopards, and more such creatures.

• Best time to visit: October to June
• Type of wildlife safari: Jeep
• Places to visit nearby: Sariska Palace, Kankwari Fort, Siliserh Lake, Bhangarh Fort, Neelkantha Mahadev Temple, Kesroli Hill Fort

– How to Reach Sariska National Park and Located

Sariska National Park is located in the Alwar district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It’s a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s how to reach Sariska National Park:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Sariska National Park is the Jaipur International Airport, which is approximately 125 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sariska.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Sariska is Alwar Junction (station code: AWR), which is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai. From Alwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sariska, which is about 35 kilometers away.
• By Road: Sariska National Park is well-connected by road to various cities in Rajasthan and nearby states. You can drive to Sariska or take a state-run or private bus to the park.
• By Bus: Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private bus operators provide regular bus services to and from Sariska. Alwar serves as a major bus transit point for travelers heading to Sariska National Park.

Once you arrive in Sariska, you can explore the national park, which is known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Sariska is also famous for its historic Sariska Palace, which has been converted into a heritage hotel, offering a unique stay experience amid nature.

3. Desert National Park, Jaisalmer

If you are visiting Jaisalmer you should visit the Desert National Park. This national park is home to some of the rarest creatures in India like the Great Indian Bustard. A safari in the Desert National Park will give you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spot desert creatures like the desert fox, sand grouse, hedgehogs, desert cats, and many other wild creatures. Along with a visit to this national park, you can also spend some time in the Sam dunes area and do many adventurous activities like dune bashing, desert camping, stargazing, etc.

• Best time to visit: October to February
• Type of wildlife safari: Camel, Jeep
• Places to visit nearby: Kuldhara, Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer Fort, Sam sand dunes, Khaba Fort

– How to Reach Desert National Park, Jaisalmer and Located

The Desert National Park is situated near Jaisalmer in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a unique and captivating desert landscape that attracts travelers from around the world. Here’s how to reach the Desert National Park, Jaisalmer:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Airport (JSA), which is approximately 15 kilometers away from the city. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-arranged transfer to reach the Desert National Park.
• By Train: Jaisalmer is well-connected by rail, and the Jaisalmer Railway Station (station code: JSM) is the nearest railhead. Several trains run to Jaisalmer from major cities in India. Once you reach the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Desert National Park, which is about 40 kilometers away.
• By Road: Jaisalmer is accessible by road from various cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. The Desert National Park is about 40 kilometers from Jaisalmer city and can be reached by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.
• By Bus: Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private bus operators provide bus services to Jaisalmer from cities like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner. After reaching Jaisalmer, you can proceed to the Desert National Park.

Location of Desert National Park: The Desert National Park is located in the western part of Rajasthan, near the town of Jaisalmer. It covers a vast area of arid land, showcasing the unique desert ecosystem of the Thar Desert. The park is known for its sand dunes, desert flora and fauna, and is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore the desert wilderness.

4. Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur

There is every reason why Keoladeo National Park is one of the top 8 national parks In Rajasthan for a perfect safari in 2023. This national park is more famous as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. This is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the whole of India. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is listed by UNESCO as one of the best world heritage sites in India. You can spot birds, and reptiles, besides many animals here. Keoladeo National Park is connected to major Indian cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, and Agra.

• Best time to visit: October to February
• Type of wildlife safari: Elephant, Jeep, Rickshaw
• Places to visit nearby: Bharatpur Palace & Museum, Lohagarh Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Laxman Mandir, Deeg Palace, Banth Baretha.

– How To Reach Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur and located

Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a renowned bird sanctuary located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India. It is famous for its avian diversity, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds flock to the park. Here’s how to reach Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Keoladeo National Park is the Jaipur International Airport, which is approximately 184 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bharatpur.
• By Train: Bharatpur Junction (station code: BTE) is the nearest railway station and is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Several trains, including the famous “Bharatpur Shatabdi,” connect Bharatpur with other parts of India. The railway station is just a short drive from the national park.
• By Road: Bharatpur is well-connected by road to various cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. You can drive to Bharatpur or take a state-run or private bus to reach the town.
• By Bus: Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private bus operators provide bus services to Bharatpur from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. After reaching Bharatpur, you can hire a local taxi or cycle rickshaw to reach the national park.

Location of Keoladeo National Park: Keoladeo National Park is located in Bharatpur, which is a historic town in the eastern part of Rajasthan, India. The park covers an area of approximately 29 square kilometers and is renowned for its wetlands, marshes, and abundant birdlife. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

5. Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Shekhawati

One of the best places in Rajasthan to spot a blackbuck is Tal Chhapar Sanctuary. This sanctuary is home to around 2000 blackbucks. Other creatures found here are migratory birds such as eagles, harriers, hawks, skylarks, and doves. You can find Ibis and Demoiselle Cranes here. Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. This is a region that is located on the edges of the Thar Desert.

• Best time to visit: September to March
• Type of wildlife safari: Jeep
• Places to visit nearby: Nagaur, Bikaner, Khimsar sand dunes, Churu Fort, Rani Sati Dadi Mandir, Salasar Balaji Dham Mandir.

– How To Reach Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Shekhawati and located

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its diverse bird species and is a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Here’s how to reach Tal Chhapar Sanctuary:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is the Jaipur International Airport, which is approximately 170 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Tal Chhapar.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Tal Chhapar is Chhapar Railway Station (station code: CPW), which is well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan. However, it is a small station with limited train services. Alternatively, you can take a train to Churu Railway Station (approximately 32 kilometers away) or Ratangarh Junction (approximately 60 kilometers away) and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Tal Chhapar.
• By Road: Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is accessible by road from various cities in Rajasthan. You can drive to Tal Chhapar or take a state-run or private bus to the nearby town of Chhapar.

Location of Tal Chhapar Sanctuary: Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is located in the Chhapar village of the Shekhawati region in the Churu district of Rajasthan, India. It covers an area of approximately 7.19 square kilometers and is primarily known for its population of blackbuck antelope and a variety of bird species. The sanctuary’s semi-arid landscape and wetlands make it an important habitat for wildlife and a unique place for nature enthusiasts to explore.

6. Mukundara Hills National Park

One of the top 8 national parks In Rajasthan for a perfect safari in 2023 is situated near Kota. Mukundara Hills National Park was a hunting ground of the former maharaja of Kota. Chambal River is a major river that flows through this national park. The grasslands here are the ideal habitat for animals such as the leopard, tiger, sloth bear, sambar deer, nilgai, and many other wild animals. You will also find gharials and mugger crocodiles in the river waters.

• Best time to visit: January to March
• Type of wildlife safari: Jeep, Water
• Places to visit nearby: Kota, Gagron Fort, Jhalawar, Chandrabhaga Temple, Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Padajhar Waterfall

– How to Reach Mukundara Hills National Park and located

Mukundara Hills National Park is a relatively new national park located in the state of Rajasthan, India. It was officially declared a national park in 2013 and is known for its diverse wildlife, including the reintroduced population of tigers. Here’s how to reach Mukundara Hills National Park:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Mukundara Hills National Park is Kota Airport (also known as Kota Airport), which is approximately 60 kilometers away. However, this airport has limited commercial flight options. The nearest major airport is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 245 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kota, which is the nearest major city to the national park. From Kota, you can arrange for local transportation to the park.
• By Train: Kota Junction (station code: KOTA) is the nearest railway station to Mukundara Hills National Park and is well-connected to major cities in India. Several trains run to Kota Junction from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Once you reach Kota, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the national park.
• By Road: Mukundara Hills National Park is accessible by road from various cities in Rajasthan. You can drive to the park or take a state-run or private bus to Kota, which is the nearest major city. From Kota, you can arrange for local transportation to reach the national park.

Location of Mukundara Hills National Park: Mukundara Hills National Park is located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, India. It covers an area of approximately 200 square kilometers and is situated in the districts of Kota and Bundi. The park is known for its scenic landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and the successful reintroduction of tigers into the area. It provides an opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe a variety of species in their natural habitat.

7. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Mount Abu

Mount Abu is famous as a hill station in Rajasthan. But going to the wildlife safari here is also one of the experiences you can take back home. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan. Due to its unique terrain and rocky hill slopes, the animals found here are unique as well. You will find the pangolin, sloth bear, mongoose, hares, wolf, foxes, civet cats, leopards, and many such wonderful creatures.

• Best time to visit: November to February & April, May, June
• Type of wildlife safari: Jeep, Trekking
• Places to visit nearby: Mount Abu, Dilwara Temples, Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Ambaji Temple, Khedbrahma, Rani ki Vav, Udaipur

– How To Reach Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary and Located

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Sirohi district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Here’s how to reach Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Mount Abu is Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) in Udaipur, which is approximately 185 kilometers away. From Udaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mount Abu.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is Abu Road Railway Station (station code: ABR), which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. From Abu Road, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mount Abu, which is about 29 kilometers away.
• By Road: Mount Abu is well-connected by road to various cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. You can drive to Mount Abu or take a state-run or private bus to the town.

Location of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Aravalli Range in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, India. It covers an area of approximately 288 square kilometers and is situated near the hill station of Mount Abu. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including various species of birds, animals, and plants, making it a great place for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore.

8. National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, Kota

National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its aquatic creatures and birds. You will have to take a river safari here on a speedboat and spot crocodiles, turtles, aquatic birds, snakes, and other creatures. Chambal River forms many islands and sand banks on which these creatures can be found basking in the open sun. You can also spot hyenas, otters, hares, squirrels, and mongooses here.

• Best time to visit: September to June
• Type of wildlife safari: Boat
• Places to visit nearby: Kuno National Park, Jaipur, Kota, Mehandipur Balaji Temple, Abhaneri Step Well.

– How To Reach National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, Kota and Located

The National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Kota in the Indian state of Rajasthan. This sanctuary is known for its pristine and diverse riverine habitat and is home to several endangered species. Here’s how to reach the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary:

• By Air: The nearest airport to the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is Kota Airport (also known as Kota Airport), which is approximately 50 kilometers away. However, this airport has limited commercial flight options. The nearest major airport is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 250 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kota, the nearest major city to the sanctuary. From Kota, you can arrange local transportation to the sanctuary.
• By Train: Kota Junction (station code: KOTA) is the nearest railway station to the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary and is well-connected to major cities in India. Several trains run to Kota Junction from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Once you reach Kota, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the sanctuary.
• By Road: The National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from various cities in Rajasthan. You can drive to the sanctuary or take a state-run or private bus to Kota, which is the nearest major city. From Kota, you can arrange for local transportation to reach the sanctuary.

Location of National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary: The National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the northern part of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It spans across the districts of Kota, Bundi, and Dholpur. The sanctuary is known for its unique riverine ecosystem, which includes the Chambal River and its tributaries. It is a crucial habitat for the conservation of various wildlife species, including gharials, mugger crocodiles, Gangetic dolphins, and several species of birds. The sanctuary offers boat safaris to visitors, providing a chance to observe the wildlife in its natural habitat.

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