The best places to see wildlife in India

Home to the royal Bengal tiger, the asiatic lion and black panther there really is no country quite like India when it comes to the diversity of its wildlife.

This is, in part, a reflection of the sheer size of this extraordinary country. From the Himalayas in the far north to the tropical jungles of the south, India has a range of climates and landscapes to support the bountiful natural world with which it is blessed.

Here are our favourite places for safari and wildlife viewing in India.

Where to go on safari in India

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore is one of India’s most famous national parks and thanks for successful conservation efforts over the last 40 years is the place to see tigers, as well as leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of deer species. In addition to its big cats, Ranthambore is also known for its historical significance, with the ruins of the Ranthambore Fort located within the park boundaries. Yonderer’s should stay for at least 2-3 nights to fully explore the park and its wildlife. The nearest airport is in Jaipur, which is approximately 170 km away from the park.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh is well-known for its tiger population and is one of the best places in India to spot these magnificent creatures. Other animals that can be seen here include leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and a variety of bird species. Removed from the mainstream, it is the perfect place to go to get off grid and away from the hordes so that the park’s rich wildlife can be viewed in the tranquillity that it deserves.

Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat

Gir is the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. In addition to lions, visitors can also see leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of deer species.

Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Corbett is one of India’s oldest and most well-known national parks, and is a great place to see tigers, leopards, elephants, and a variety of deer species. Birdwatching is also popular here, with over 600 bird species found in the park. Visitors should plan to stay for at least 2-3 nights to fully explore the park and its wildlife. The nearest airport is in Dehradun, which is approximately 50 km away from the park.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha is another popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering an opportunity to see tigers, leopards, barasingha deer, and other mammals. Birdwatching is also a popular activity here, with over 300 species of birds found in the park. The nearest airport is in Jabalpur, which is approximately 165 km away from the park.

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

The Sundarbans is home to the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile, and a variety of bird species. The park is also known for its mangrove forests and tidal mudflats, making it a unique and scenic destination. Visitors should plan to stay for at least 2 nights to fully explore the park and its wildlife. The nearest airport is in Kolkata, which is approximately 140 km away from the park.

Sariska National Park, Rajasthan

Sariska is known for its leopard population and also has a variety of other mammals, including tigers, chital deer, and sambar deer.

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka

Nagarhole is home to a wide variety of mammals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and gaurs. Birdwatching is also popular here, with over 270 bird species found in the park. Visitors should plan to stay for at least 2-3 nights to fully explore the park and its wildlife. The nearest airport is in Mysore, which is approximately 96 km away from the park.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa

Bhagwan Mahavir is a lesser-known wildlife destination that offers a chance to see tigers, leopards, and a variety of deer species, as well as a wide range of bird species.