Nature is one of the best ways to rejuvenate oneself. Not many can disagree with this fact. In today’s hectic and monotonous lifestyle of cities and towns, an opportunity to spend a few special days with the best of nature and its forms is something that is always welcomed.
Imagine having a close interaction with rich and varied fauna and flora, having lush greenery, exotic plants around you and rarest of animals carrying on with their day to day activities when you closely watch them. Isn’t it exciting?
A vacation filled with thrill and excitement along with refreshing natural settings is what you get in Wildlife sanctuaries of India. Tourists can not just get a glimpse but also experience the world they live in and enter their territories.
Visiting a Wildlife sanctuary promises you not just wildlife but much more than that. Even if one is not a nature enthusiast, he or she will find something to keep themselves interested. Going to any of India’s wildlife sanctuaries makes for an experience worth experiencing.
India boasts of exceptionally rich flora and fauna which can be seen at these sanctuaries and national parks. There are 96 national parks and over 500 wildlife sanctuaries in India presenting tourists with a wide range to choose from.
Each sanctuary has something unique to offer you making for some wonderful touring options. You are offered with diverse and wide variety in these wildlife sanctuaries which is incomparable to any other part of the world.
Wildlife sanctuaries in India are divided on the basis of geographies, for instance wildlife sanctuaries in Assam to wildlife sanctuaries in Andaman & Nicobar to Wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, etc.
Although the sanctuaries of North and Central India are popularly known, you will find some good wildlife sanctuaries in the South such as Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagahole National Park in Karnataka as well along with in the North Eastern part of the country such as Dibang valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Sessa Orchid Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
The fact that you will get to experience the best of the natural and wild world is enough for nature enthusiasts to leave their comfort and luxury at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries is the winter season. During this time you can spot rarest of land animals and avian creatures as many migrating birds from around the world also make the country as their temporary home and also royals like tiger, leopard, barasingha, etc.
In Summer season because of the hot climate there is generally water scarcity and because of that animals mostly come out in herds to search for water. Thus many sanctuaries are closed during this time due to safety reasons of both tourists and the animals. Here are some of the best Wildlife Sanctuaries to Visit in India:
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Best time to visit: October to February
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Shimoga in the Chikmagalur District of Karnataka. It is home not only to India’s 25th Project Tiger population but also some very rare and exotic species of flora and fauna. Ranked among the most picturesque wildlife sanctuaries in Asia, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary makes your heart skip a beat as you witness nature come alive before your eyes.
Named after the River Bhadra that flows through the lush deciduous forests, the sanctuary is home to 120 species of trees and 250 species of birds. You can even spot some endangered species like Malabar Giant Squirrel and Orangutan. The natural beauty of the landscape makes it one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India for nature photography. Kallathigiri Peak being the highest peak in the area offers astounding views of the sanctuary.
Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts can enjoy a Jungle Safari to experience the thrill of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. Leopards, tigers, gaurs, chital deer, black panthers, elephants, spotted deer, and sloth bears are some of the animals you can witness.
The 300 years old Jagara Tree is a major tourist attraction in the sanctuary. You can also indulge in adventure activities such as rock climbing, and water sports in the area around River Bhadra.
Dibang Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
- Best time to visit: November to May
The Dibang Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of India’s most intriguing and unique animals. It lies nestled in the Arunachal Pradesh and is among one of eight sanctuaries that occupy part Eastern Himalayas Mountains.
Sprawling across an area of 4,149 sq. km. are the lofty mountains and snow-covered peaks. The deep gorges make this place abundant in natural beauty. You can undertake adventurous expeditions to see the native flora or fauna of the region.
Wolves, Musk Oxen, Deer, Hares, Bears, Tigers, Leopards, and Pumas are some of the animals you will spot in the Dibang Sanctuary. Other rare animals that thrive in the wild setting are Otters, Eagles, Porcupines, and Hedgehogs. Bird watching is another interesting activity to enjoy in Dibang Valley. Vultures, Falcons, Kites, Ravens, Owls, and Parrots can be spotted chirping around the sanctuary.
The area is also home to the Mishmi tribe and celebrates their rich culture and traditional lifestyle. You can visit their village to witness their tribal way of life. The history of the region can be explored at the Rukmani Nati Fort and Bhismaknagar Fort.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Best time to visit: November to February
The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala is rich in biodiversity. The rivers Periyar and Pamba flow through it, nurturing and flourishing the plants and animals in this 257 square mile sanctuary. It is a protected area where visitors can witness nature in its most vibrant form. The sanctuary is home to many types of animals including tigers, elephants as well as reptiles, and birds.
Adventure tourism has been combined with the natural features of the landscape. Thousands of tourists are lured to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can explore the wilderness through boat cruises, jungle safaris, or on elephant backs. It is among the prominent wildlife sanctuaries in India that offer ecotourism activities. You can enjoy Jungle Patrol, Border hiking, Bamboo Rafting, Jungle camping, and Bullock Cart discoveries.
The Periyar lake is the hub of the most exciting activities to try at the sanctuary. You can enjoy river rafting, boat rides, and bird watching at the lake. Guided tours to the nearby Cardamom plantations are also offered at the sanctuary. Other adventure activities like trekking and camping can also be enjoyed in groups. The ancient temple of Mangala Devi and the religious spot of Pullumedu are some of the popular pilgrimage destinations in the sanctuary.
Ranthambore National Park
- Best time to visit: April to June
Ranthambore National Park is among the most popular Tiger reserves of India, set up in an area that was once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. The climate makes this area perfect for travel and is also known to house the Royal Bengal Tigers. With high chances of sighting the national animal of the country, Ranthambore National Park is perfect for a quick weekend trip amidst the wild.
Located in the foothills of the Vindhya Range, it has one of the richest flora and fauna making it an absolute delight for nature enthusiasts. The hillsides covered by lush green vegetation offer breathtaking scenery for nature photography. One can also explore these peaceful woods at different spots like Jakhau Fort or just relax amidst its rich forests filled with birds singing all day long.
The best way to explore Ranthambore National Park is through a Jeep Safari. These guided tours offer the excitement of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. Other fun activities in the reserve include hiking to the historic Ranthambore Fort, bird watching at Malik Talao, Rajbagh Talao, Padam Talao, and the Jhalra area, along with exploring the Kachida Valley. Add more thrill to your trip by taking a hot air balloon ride.
Sundarbans National Park
- Best time to visit: September to March
The Sundarbans National Park is a natural wonder that features lush forests, rivers, and estuaries perfect for visitors looking to get an immersive experience of India. Home not only to the Royal Bengal Tigers but also salt-water crocodiles, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in India.
The Bioreserve of Sunderbans is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. You can book a safari that takes you across creeks and rivers to watch the well-preserved endangered species. You can spot animals like Batagur Baska, King Crabs, and Olive Ridley turtles in these lush forests. Other species include jungle fowls, giant lizards, spotted deer, and wild boars.
You can enjoy the stunning scenery of the park from the Nilkamal or Hiron Point, and Katka viewpoints. Other prominent activities to enjoy in the Sunderbans National Park are camping, bird watching at Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, and booking a boat safari to watch dolphins dancing.
Once in the wildlife sanctuary of your choice, you can opt for jungle safari and enjoy a ride amidst dense jungle and catch a glimpse of wild animals. Going on elephant back is a unique experience all together. Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) India along with many other NGOs are working zealously towards conserving the natural wealth of the country.
However, for a perfect trip and in the way you want it to be, one needs some outside support mechanism as well. One can opt for the tour packages catering to wildlife sanctuaries in India. India Tourism is one source that provides you with everything related to your trip to wildlife sanctuaries.
Covering almost all the sanctuaries throughout the country, we at India Tourism offer our customers with a wide range of options. We offer you with different kinds of tour packages catering to different interests, requirements and budget of the tourists.
And if you want you can get a package tailored to suit your specific requirements and budget. We, with our experts and genuine support throughout the process, ensure that you enjoy each and every moment of yours at the wildlife sanctuary.