PureLuxe Guide to Indian National Parks for the Best Wildlife Sightings
Photo Credits: LUNGMĀR REMOTE CAMP
India's national parks are treasure troves of wildlife, offering thrilling encounters with some of the planet's most elusive creatures. Imagine the adrenaline rush of spotting a majestic Bengal tiger in the dense forests of Bandhavgarh or Kanha, or the awe of witnessing the rare black panther slinking through the shadows in Kabini. In Gir, the roar of the Asiatic lion echoes through the scrubland, while Kaziranga's wild water buffalo and one-horned rhinoceros graze peacefully in lush meadows. High in the Himalayas, Hemis offers a chance to glimpse the enigmatic snow leopard and the blue sheep against a backdrop of stark, rugged beauty. From the sloth bears of Tadoba to the migratory elephants of Bandhavgarh, these parks provide unforgettable wildlife experiences, weaving stories of survival and majesty in the heart of nature.
Choosing the Best Regions
India's diverse geography means that each region offers unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. Whether you prefer the dense jungles of Central India, the arid deserts of Rajasthan, or the lush wetlands of the northeast, selecting the right region is key to aligning your expectations with the park's natural offerings.
Knowing Wildlife Interests
Every traveller has distinct wildlife interests, whether it's spotting tigers, observing rare bird species, or witnessing elephants in their natural habitat. Understanding what specific wildlife you are most excited to see will help narrow down which parks to visit, as different parks are known for different species and wildlife activities.
Responsible, Sustainable Safaris
It's important to opt for safari operators and accommodations that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Responsible tourism ensures that your visit supports conservation efforts, respects local communities, and minimises environmental impact. Look for operators that adhere to eco-friendly practices, employ local guides, and contribute to wildlife preservation initiatives.
Best Tiger Sightings
Embark on an exhilarating journey through India's most renowned tiger reserves, where the majestic Bengal tiger roams free. From the dense forests of Kanha to the ancient ruins of Ranthambore, these national parks offer unparalleled opportunities to witness the elusive tiger in its natural habitat. Whether you want to explore the rugged terrain of Bandhavgarh or traverse the serene landscapes of Tadoba, each park offers a unique and unforgettable adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, naturalists and photographers alike.
Photo Credits: Pench National Park
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Situated in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is renowned for its picturesque ruins and the majestic Ranthambore Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’re sure to spot Bengal tigers in all their glory along with leopards, sloth bears and hyenas. Look out for other wildlife like Sambar Deer, Chital, Nilgai, and the endangered Caracals. It offers a unique blend of history and wildlife, making it a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs.
The best time to visit: October to April
Best Luxury Lodges near Ranthambore:
Aman-i-Khas
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort
SUJÁN Sher Bagh
Six Senses Fort Barwara
Unique activities: Visit Ranthambore Fort. Explore the ancient temples and ruins. Enjoy a guided bird-watching tour.
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
The inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's “The Jungle Book,” the Kanha National Park in the Mandla and Balaghat districts is dense with Bengal tigers, rare barasinghas (swamp deer), and a rich biodiversity with over 400 wild tigers. You will also spot Indian bison (gaur), sloth bears, blackbuck, and various bird species including Indian Vultures. It is popular for its successful conservation programs which play a crucial role in preserving India's diverse wildlife.
The best time to visit: October to June
Best Luxury Lodges near Kanha National Park:
Hidden India Mahavan Kanha
Banjaar Tola, A Taj Safari - Kanha National Park
Kanha Earth Lodge
Flame of the Forest Safari Lodge
Unique activities: Visit Kanha Museum. Go on nature trails and walks. Tribal village tours.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh National Park in Umaria district boasts one of India's highest densities of Bengal tigers and features the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort with caves bearing inscriptions. It also houses leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, chital, and wild boars. Migrating elephants from Chhattisgarh and Odisha can occasionally be seen. The park is crucial for tiger conservation and offers rich historical and cultural insights. Exotic bird species, such as the Crested Serpent Eagle, are frequently spotted here.
The best time to visit: October to June
Best Luxury Lodges near Bandhavgarh National Park:
Samode Safari Lodge
TUTC The Untamed Bandhavgarh
Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari
Unique activities: Explore Bandhavgarh Fort and Visit the Baghel Museum.
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Maharashtra's oldest and largest national park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in the Chandrapur district holds more than 11o Bengal tigers, 150+ Indian leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, Sambar deer, chital, and nilgai. Other unique species include the blue bull, small Indian civet, chausingha and striped hyena. It plays a vital role in tiger conservation and supports various ecosystems and species. Rare bird sightings could include the Malabar Pied Hornbill.
The best time to visit: October to June
Best Luxury Lodges near Tadoba:
Bamboo Forest Lodge
Trees N Tigers
Waghoba Eco Lodge
Unique activities: Boat rides on the Tadoba Lake. Visit Tadoba Lake for bird-watching. Explore local tribal villages.
Tigers & other Rare Sightings
Dream of witnessing nature's most elusive marvels? These national parks are your gateway to extraordinary encounters. From the iconic tigers to the ferocious black panther, experience the thrill of spotting legendary creatures. But the magic doesn't stop there; discover a world of hidden treasures waiting to be unveiled in the wild.
Photo Credits: Evolve Back, Kabini
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, the Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant population of one-horned rhinoceros, also home to Bengal tigers, elephants, and wild water buffalo. Let an experienced tour guide lead you on a traditional Brahmaputra River boat ride to spot rare Gangetic River Dolphins and indulge in some bird-watching of the Bengal Florican.
The best time to visit: November to April
Best Luxury Lodges near Kaziranga National Park:
Diphlu River Lodge
IORA - Luxury Resorts
The Mandu
Unique activities: Boat rides on the Brahmaputra River. Visit tea plantations. Explore nearby Assamese villages.
Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Pench National Park, located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh, served as an inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” This park is renowned for its scenic beauty, dense forest cover, and diverse wildlife. It plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. Unique species found here include the elusive black panther, which is very rare, as well as tigers, leopards, sambar deer, and a and vibrant birdlife such as the Indian Roller.
The best time to visit: October to June
Best Luxury Lodges in Pench:
Jamtara Wilderness Camp
Unique activities: Nature trails and walks. Visit Pench Dam. Tribal village tours.
Kabini National Park, Karnataka
The backwaters and serene atmosphere of the Kabini National Park offer a completely unique wildlife experience—the Bengal Tiger being the star attraction along with elusive leopards, and the massive herds of elephants. In recent times, the chances of spotting the rare black panther have grown and they are a sight to behold. A diverse avian population including the Indian Pygmy Woodpecker is a common sight.
The best time to visit: October to May
Best Luxury Lodges near Kabini National Park:
Evolve Back
The Bison
The Serai
Unique activities: Boat safari on the Kabini River. Explore the Kabini Dam. Visit the Nagarhole National Park nearby.
Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Renowned for its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife, Satpura Park is known for its unique combination of jeep, boat, and walking safaris, providing varied ways to explore its landscapes. Beyond its population of sloth bears, Satpura National Park is home to several other unique species, including tigers, leopards, Indian bison (gaur), and the elusive dhole. It plays a vital role in supporting conservation efforts for these species and preserving the rich biodiversity of the region and unique bird species including the Bar-headed Goose.
The best time to visit: October to June
Best Luxury Lodges near Satpura:
Rani Peni Jungle Lodge
Unique activities: Boat safari on Denwa River. Canoeing and kayaking. Trekking and hiking.
Unique Wildlife & Aquatic Sightings
Enter a living gallery of nature's most captivating masterpieces in these extraordinary National Parks. From the snow-kissed peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched coastal waters, India's national parks offer a breathtaking array of wildlife. Spot elusive snow leopards at high altitudes of Leh, witness the grace of Irrawaddy dolphins in Odisha, and marvel at the power of Asiatic Lions.
Photo Credits: Lungmar Remote Camp, Ladakh
Hemis National Park, Leh Ladakh
Hemis National Park, the largest national park in India, is situated in the Trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh. Renowned for its elusive snow leopards, the park is also home to a range of high-altitude wildlife, including Tibetan wolves, blue sheep (bharal), Himalayan marmots, and a variety of bird species inclusive of Tibetan Snowcock. This park is crucial for the conservation of these unique species and offers exceptional trekking experiences.
The best time to visit: January to February (for snow leopard sightings
Best Luxury Lodges near Hemis:
LUNGMĀR REMOTE CAMP
Unique activities: Trekking and hiking. Visit Hemis Monastery. Explore Ladakhi villages.
Jawai, Rajasthan
Jawai is a captivating destination renowned for its impressive population of leopards. The area’s striking granite hills, combined with the serene Jawai Dam, form a unique landscape that provides an ideal habitat for these elusive big cats. Beyond leopards, the sanctuary is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including crocodiles and a rich variety of bird species. Birdwatchers can spot flamingos, cranes, and pelicans among the avian inhabitants of this remarkable region.
The best time to visit: October to April
Best Luxury Lodges in Jawai:
SUJÁN Jawai
Bijapur Lodge
Unique activities: Visit Jawai Dam. Explore nearby Rabari villages.
Gir National Park, Gujarat
Located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, Gir National Park is the sole place in the world where Asiatic lions roam freely in the wild. This park plays a crucial role in the conservation of these majestic lions and supports a rich diversity of wildlife. From leopards and striped hyenas to a variety of bird species and herbivores like sambar and chital, Gir National Park is essential for preserving both the Asiatic lion and the broader ecosystem.
The best time to visit: October to April (For Asiatic Lions, mid-March is ideal)
Best Luxury Lodges near Gir National Park:
Postcard Gir
Unique activities: Visit Somnath Temple. Explore Junagadh. Bird-watching at nearby reservoirs.
Chilika, Odisha
Spanning the Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts of Odisha, Chilika Lake is Asia's largest brackish water lagoon and India's largest coastal lagoon. This ecological treasure trove is a crucial sanctuary for migratory birds, making it a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts. The lake is home to the elusive Irrawaddy dolphin, a variety of bird species, diverse fish, and numerous crustaceans. Chilika's rich aquatic ecosystem plays an essential role in the conservation of migratory bird species and supports a vibrant array of marine life.
The best time to visit: November to February
Best Luxury Lodges in Chilika:
Rambha Palace
Unique activities: Boat rides on Chilika Lake. Visit Kalijai Temple.
Hidden Indian Wildlife & Bird Sanctuaries
Discover the hidden gems of India's wilderness where serene landscapes and diverse ecosystems create a haven for wildlife and bird enthusiasts. These sanctuaries, often off the beaten path, offer unique and intimate encounters with nature. Whether you want to track down elusive black bears or witness the vibrant avian spectacle in Binsar, these hidden sanctuaries invite you to explore the untamed beauty of India.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttrakhand
Spread over an area of 47 sq km, the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is host to more than 200 species of native and migratory birds and endangered species like Indian red fox, jackals, pine martens and porcupines. It also houses leopards, ghorals, wild boars, kakars, monkeys Himalayan black bears and high-altitude birds like the Himalayan Monal.
Luxury Stays near Binsar:
The Kumaon
Mary Budden Estate
Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandigarh
Nestled near the foothills of the Shivalik range, the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for diverse wildlife. This lush sanctuary is home to an array of fauna, including jackals sambar deer, barking deer, and pangolins. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting various species of birds, such as peacocks, red junglefowl, migratory waterfowl, and Oriental Magpie-Robin making it a vibrant destination for nature lovers.
Luxury Stays near Sukhna:
The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa
Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh
One of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, renowned for its rich biodiversity, the Bori sanctuary boasts a thriving population of Bengal tigers, leopards, and sloth bears, alongside herbivores like gaur, chital, and sambar deer. Birdwatchers can also enjoy the sight of numerous avian species, such as Jungle Bush Quail, hornbills and crested serpent eagles, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Luxury Stays Near Bori:
Bori Safari Lodge by Jehan Numa Group of Hotels
Indian National Parks: Visitor’s Tips & Guidelines
Planning a visit to India's national parks involves more than just booking your tickets and accommodations. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for an enjoyable and safe adventure:
Photo Credits: Aman-i-Khas
Packing Essentials
Clothing: Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colours to blend with the environment. Layers are important as mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons can be quite warm. Don’t forget a good hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Footwear: Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots are a must for safaris and walking trails.
Accessories: Polaroid Sunglasses, Binoculars, a good camera with extra batteries and memory cards, and a flashlight for nighttime activities.
Personal Items: Insect repellent, UV sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a basic first aid kit including any personal medications.
Health & Safety
Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider additional vaccinations like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis if recommended by your healthcare provider.
Hydration & Nutrition: Always drink bottled or purified water and carry healthy, wholesome snacks to keep your energy levels up during long safaris.
Wildlife Safety: Always follow the guidelines provided by your guide. Keep a safe distance from animals, remain inside the vehicle unless instructed otherwise, and avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
Permits & Regulations
Entry Permits: Most national parks require entry permits which can be obtained online or at the park entrance. It’s advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the park’s rules and regulations, such as restrictions on smoking, littering, and feeding wildlife.
Safari Bookings: Book safaris through authorized operators to ensure a safe and responsible experience. Morning and evening safaris are often the best times for wildlife sightings.
When you book your National Park adventures with PureLuxe, be carefree about permits & permissions and booking the most luxurious accommodations to suit your needs. Click on the link below to get started.
