Top 10 Famous National Parks in India with Complete Guide

India is a country blessed with diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. Its national parks are a testament to this natural wealth offering visitors a chance to experience wildlife adventure and tranquility. In this article we will explore the top 10 famous national parks in India highlighting the best things to do and nearby attractions to see. Whether you are a nature enthusiast an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind amidst nature these parks have something for everyone.

Here we explore some famous national park in India:

Jim Corbett National Park Uttarakhand:

Jim Corbett National Park established in 1936 as Hailey National Park is India’s oldest national park. It is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand and is renowned for its Bengal tiger population. The park spans over 520 square kilometers and offers diverse landscapes including hills marshy depressions grasslands and a large lake.

Things to Do:

• Wildlife Safari: Experience the thrill of spotting tigers elephants and other wildlife on a jeep or elephant safari.
• Bird Watching: Home to over 600 bird species it’s a paradise for bird watchers.
• Nature Walks: Explore the park’s flora and fauna on guided nature walks.

Nearby Attractions:

• Corbett Waterfall: A serene spot for picnicking and relaxing.
• Garjia Temple: A unique temple situated on a large rock in the middle of the Kosi River.
• Nainital: A beautiful hill station just a few hours away perfect for a day trip.

2. Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan:

Ranthambore National Park one of the largest and most famous national parks in North India. It covers an area of around 1334 square kilometers. Known for its tiger population Ranthambore is also home to a variety of other wildlife including leopards hyenas and marsh crocodiles. The park is also famous for the historic Ranthambore Fort.

Things to Do:

• Tiger Safari: Ranthambore is famous for its tiger population. Don’t miss the chance to spot these majestic creatures.
• Visit Ranthambore Fort: Explore this historic fort located within the park.
• Photography: Capture the beauty of the park’s landscape and wildlife.

Nearby Attractions:

• Surwal Lake: A picturesque lake ideal for bird watching.
• Kachida Valley: Known for its leopard population and stunning views.
• Ranthambore School of Art: A great place to see local art and support local artists.

3. Kaziranga National Park Assam:

Kaziranga National Park located in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning an area of approximately 430 square kilometers it is home to the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros. The park also hosts a variety of wildlife including tigers elephants and wild water buffalo. Kaziranga is known for its conservation efforts and diverse bird population.

Things to Do:

• Elephant Safari: Get up close to the one-horned rhinoceros on an elephant safari.
• Jeep Safari: Explore the park’s diverse ecosystem and spot various wildlife.
• Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River.

Nearby Attractions:

• Agaratoli Nature Trail: A great spot for bird watching and nature walks.
• Karbi Anglong Hills: Perfect for trekking and exploring tribal culture.
• Majuli Island: One of the largest river islands in the world known for its vibrant culture and festivals.

4. Bandhavgarh National Park Madhya Pradesh:

Bandhavgarh National Park situated in Madhya Pradesh covers an area of 1536 square kilometers. It boasts the highest density of Bengal tigers in the world. The park’s diverse topography includes cliffs ridges forested valleys and meadows. Bandhavgarh is also rich in historical significance with ancient caves and the Bandhavgarh Fort.

Things to Do:

• Tiger Safari: Bandhavgarh has one of the highest densities of tigers in India.
• Visit Bandhavgarh Fort: Explore the ancient fort located within the park.
• Bird Watching: Spot numerous bird species in their natural habitat.

Nearby Attractions:

• Bamera Dam: A scenic spot ideal for picnics and relaxation.
• Khajuraho Temples: Famous for their erotic sculptures these temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Jabalpur: Visit the Marble Rocks and Dhuandhar Falls.

5. Sundarbans National Park West Bengal:

Sundarbans National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site is part of the Sundarbans delta in West Bengal. It covers approximately 1330 square kilometers and is famous for its mangrove forests and the Royal Bengal Tiger. The park’s unique ecosystem supports a wide range of flora and fauna including saltwater crocodiles and various bird species.

Things to Do:

• Boat Safari: Explore the unique mangrove ecosystem on a boat safari.
• Tiger Spotting: Try to spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.
• Bird Watching: The park is home to a variety of bird species.

Nearby Attractions:

• Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project: A breeding center for saltwater crocodiles.
• Netidhopani: Visit the ancient ruins of a temple and a watchtower.
• Kolkata: Explore the vibrant culture and history of West Bengal’s capital city.

6. Periyar National Park Kerala:

Periyar National Park located in the Western Ghats of Kerala covers an area of 925 square kilometers. It is known for its picturesque Periyar Lake and rich biodiversity. The park is home to elephants tigers and a variety of other wildlife. Periyar is also a significant eco-tourism destination offering activities like bamboo rafting and nature walks.

Things to Do:

• Boat Cruise on Periyar Lake: Enjoy the scenic beauty and spot wildlife from a boat.
• Trekking: Explore the park’s rich biodiversity on foot.
• Bamboo Rafting: An adventurous way to explore the park’s waterways.

Nearby Attractions:

• Thekkady: A nearby town known for its spice plantations and elephant rides.
• Mullaperiyar Dam: A picturesque spot ideal for picnics.
• Kumily: A small town known for its vibrant spice market.

7. Gir National Park Gujarat:

Gir National Park situated in Gujarat is the only place outside Africa where Asiatic lions can be seen in the wild. Covering an area of 1412 square kilometers Gir is also home to leopards deer and numerous bird species. The park’s rugged terrain and semi-arid climate make it a unique habitat for its wildlife.

Things to Do:

• Lion Safari: Gir is the only place outside Africa where you can see Asiatic lions in the wild.
• Bird Watching: The park is home to a variety of bird species.
• Nature Walks: Explore the park’s flora and fauna on guided walks.

Nearby Attractions:

• Somnath Temple: A historic and sacred Hindu temple located near the park.
• Junagadh: Explore the Uparkot Fort and the ancient Buddhist caves.
• Diu: A coastal town known for its beaches and Portuguese architecture.

8. Kanha National Park Madhya Pradesh:

Kanha National Park located in Madhya Pradesh spans over 940 square kilometers. It is one of India’s largest national parks and a major tiger reserve. Kanha’s landscapes include dense forests open meadows and crystal-clear streams. The park inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” and is renowned for its successful conservation programs.

Things to Do:

• Tiger Safari: Kanha is known for its tiger population and lush landscapes.
• Bird Watching: Spot numerous bird species in their natural habitat.
• Nature Walks: Explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna on guided walks.

Nearby Attractions:

• Bamni Dadar: Also known as Sunset Point offers stunning views of the park.
• Mandla: A nearby town known for its temples and historic sites.
• Jabalpur: Visit the Marble Rocks and Dhuandhar Falls.

9. Pench National Park Madhya Pradesh:

Pench National Park straddling the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra covers an area of 758 square kilometers. The park is famous for its role in Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” and its rich wildlife including tigers leopards and a variety of bird species. Pench’s picturesque landscapes feature teak forests and the Pench River.

Things to Do:

• Tiger Safari: Pench inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” and is known for its wildlife.
• Bird Watching: Spot various bird species in the park.
• Nature Walks: Explore the park’s rich biodiversity on foot.

Nearby Attractions:

• Kohka Lake: A serene spot ideal for bird watching and picnics.
• Nagpur: Known as the “Orange City” it offers cultural and historical attractions.
• Pachmarhi: A hill station known for its waterfalls and caves.

10. Mudumalai National Park Tamil Nadu:

Mudumalai National Park located at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu Karnataka and Kerala spans 321 square kilometers. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to elephants tigers and various bird species. Mudumalai’s lush forests and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Things to Do:

• Jeep Safari: Explore the park’s diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.
• Elephant Rides: Enjoy an elephant ride through the park.
• Bird Watching: Spot numerous bird species in their natural habitat.

Nearby Attractions:

• Ooty: A popular hill station known for its tea gardens and scenic landscapes.
• Masinagudi: A nearby town offering wildlife safaris and nature walks.
• Bandipur National Park: Located nearby it’s another great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Conclusion

India’s national parks offer a unique blend of adventure tranquility and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the dense forests of Jim Corbett or the mangroves of Sundarbans each park provides a distinct experience. Plan your visit to these top 10 national parks in India and immerse yourself in the country’s incredible biodiversity. Don’t forget to explore the nearby attractions to make the most of your trip!