Summary:
Planning an exciting wildlife safari? Explore the top 5 national parks in India: Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, Kaziranga, and Gir. These are famous for tigers, lions, elephants, and rhinos. Find out the best time to visit, safari timings, ticket prices, and travel tips to help you plan your dream jungle getaway with ease.
India’s wildlife is full of fun and energy, spread across thick forests, wide grasslands, and ancient sites. India has over 100 national parks, making it one of the best places in the world to see animals in their natural homes. The national parks in India are not just green spots, they are rich natural spaces where you can see incredible wildlife up close. Today, more and more people like wildlife lovers, photographers, families, and solo travellers come to experience this wild beauty.
A safari in India is more than a trip. It lets you experience nature closely and see why saving it matters. Imagine spotting a Royal Bengal Tiger quietly walking through the early morning mist, watching a one-horned rhino eat in peace, or seeing the last Asiatic lions living freely in the wild. You can also learn about local ways of life, culture, and food while visiting a national park. This makes your trip all about protecting nature and having fun at the same time.
But with so many amazing parks, how do you choose? Here is our guide to the best national parks in India, where you can see beautiful landscapes and amazing wildlife experiences.
- Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
- Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
- Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
- Kaziranga National Park, Assam
- Gir National Park, Gujarat
Loading Packages...Best Time to Visit for Wildlife Sightings
While India’s wildlife parks have unique charms year-round, the period from October to June is generally considered prime time for wildlife sightings.
Here is a seasonal guide:
- November to February: This is the best time of year to go on a wildlife safari. The weather is cool and dry, so animals often gather near water sources, making it easier to spot them. Wildlife sightings are about 70% higher during this time, but parks get booked fast. Morning safaris are best for taking pictures and spotting animals when they are most active.
- March to June: These summer months are best to spot tigers. As water becomes limited, animals stay near the remaining water holes. May and June are especially good, with tiger sightings as high as 80% in parks like Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore.
- July to September: In the past, most national parks used to close during the monsoon season, but that has changed in recent years. Wildlife lovers are now going on safaris even during the rainy season. In monsoon, the forest becomes lush and alive, and animals often act in rare and interesting ways. While some safaris are closed, zones like Jhirna in Corbett stay open and are great for birdwatching and enjoying lush views.
Top 5 National Parks in India for Wildlife Sightings
Get ready to discover some of the best wildlife parks in India. Each one has its own special landscape and amazing animals to see.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Set in the Vindhya Hills, Bandhavgarh is more than just a national park it is a place full of stories. This park has many Bengal tigers, making it a thrilling place to see them. But you’ll also find lots of other animals here. The park is rich in history, with old caves and the grand Bandhavgarh Fort watching over the forest.
Bandhavgarh has a rich history linked to the Ramayana and the Maharajas of Rewa, with many ancient temples and historic sites around the park. The land here is a mix of thick Sal trees, open grasslands, and bamboo, creating a beautiful setting for spotting wildlife. Every safari feels like walking through a real-life scene from The Jungle Book.
How to Reach Bandhavgarh National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport. Approx. 200 km.
- By Train: Umaria Railway Station is the closest. Approx. 35 km.
- By Road: Well-connected via road; regular bus and taxi services are available from Umaria and Katni.
Loading Packages...Safari Timings & other vital details
The park operates from 15th October to 30th June. Popular Safari zones are Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli zone.
Morning Safari:
- 15th Oct – 15th Feb: 06:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- 16th Feb – 31st Mar: 06:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- 1st Apr – 30th Jun: 05:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Evening Safari:
- 15th Oct – 15th Feb: 02:30 PM – 05:30 PM
- 16th Feb – 31st Mar: 03:00 PM – 06:00 PM
- 1st Apr – 30th Jun: 04:00 PM – 07:00 PM
Note: The park remains closed for evening safaris every Wednesday and on Holi.
Safari Cost
- Jeep Safari: Approximately ₹6,500–₹7,500 per jeep; accommodates up to 6 people.
- Canter Safari: Approximately ₹1,200 per person; accommodates up to 16 people.
Note: Canter safaris are available only in the Magadhi and Khitauli zones and are typically booked on a first-come, first-served basis at the park gates.
Wildlife You Can Spot
Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Indian Gaur, Striped Hyena, Wild Boar, and over 200 bird species.
Unique Experiences
- You can enjoy an elephant ride only in the Tala Zone in Bandhavgarh. It takes you to forest areas where jeeps cannot go. However, it is rarely available, very costly, and needs written permission from the Field Director with your name and reason for the ride.
- Visit The Shesh Shaiya, a 35-foot-long reclining statue of Lord Vishnu lies deep inside the Tala Zone, with a holy stream, ancient caves, and statues of Hindu gods nearby.
- Watch the Baiga Tribe perform traditional dances and learn about their forest-based lifestyle and plant knowledge.
- Some resorts offer cycling and nature walks with guides, where you can explore nearby villages and local wildlife areas.
Also Read: Khajuraho Temples Travel Guide 2025: Myths, Marvels & Must-Sees
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park started in 1936 as Hailey National Park, is the first national park in India. Spanning over 1,280 sq. km, in the Himalayan foothills, the park has a rich landscape of hills, rivers, grasslands, and forests. The land here has many types of plants and animals living together.
Corbett is known for having the highest tiger density in the world, making it vital for tiger conservation. Named after Jim Corbett, a famous hunter-turned-conservationist, the park is home to Bengal tigers and many other animals. It attracts visitors all year, as various zones remain open during different times of the year.
A safari here takes you through different landscapes, each offering a new and exciting wildlife experience.
How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport. Approx. 80 km.
- By Train: Ramnagar Railway Station. Approx. 12 km.
- By Road: You can easily reach here by road, with buses and taxis running from big cities.
Loading Packages...Safari Timings & other vital details
The park has different zones, and each one opens during specific times of the year. The duration of each safari ride is around 3 hours.
- Bijrani Zone: 15th Oct – 30th Jun
- Dhikala Zone: 15th Nov – 15th Jun
- Jhirna, Garjiya, & Dhela Zones: Open throughout the year
- Durgadevi & Sonanadi Zones: 15th Nov – 15th Jun
Morning Safari:
- 1st Apr to 15th Oct – 05:45 AM
- 15th Oct – 15th Nov // 16th Feb to 31th Mar: 06:00 AM
- 16th Nov – 15th Feb: 06:30 AM
Evening Safari:
- 1st Apr to 15th Oct – 02:30 PM
- 15th Oct – 15th Nov // 16th Feb to 31th Mar: 01:30 PM
- 16th Nov – 15th Feb: 01:30 PM
Safari Cost
- Jeep Safari: Approximately ₹3,350 per jeep. Accommodates up to 6 people
- Canter Safari: Approximately ₹2,500 per person. Accommodates up to 16 people
Note: Prices are subject to change; refer to the official website for the latest rates.
Wildlife You Can Spot
Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Indian Gray Mongoose, Leopard, Crocodiles, Asiatic black bear, and over 500 bird species.
Unique Experiences
- As the sun goes down and the forest fills with night sounds, the excitement of a jungle evening begins. Whether you stay in Dhikala, Bijrani, or Jhirna zone, each place gives you a special chance to feel close to nature in Corbett at night.
- The Butterfly Park near Corbett offers a unique wildlife experience focused on butterflies, with interactive displays, walk-in aviaries, and a sensory garden. It also supports conservation, education, and habitat restoration.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore blends royal history with wild adventure like no other place. Ranthambore, once a royal hunting spot, is now a famous wildlife park in Sawai Madhopur. It lies between the Aravalli and Vindhya hills, with the Banas River to the north and the Chambal River to the south.
The area has dry forests and grassy meadows, with rocky hills, lakes, rivers, and old ruins like forts and mosques. This mix of nature and history makes it a great place to see both animals and birds.
How to Reach Ranthambore National Park
- By Air: Jaipur International Airport. Approx. 160 km.
- By Train: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station. Approx. 11 km.
- By Road: Well-connected via road; regular bus and taxi services available from major cities.
Loading Packages...Safari Timings & other vital details
Safari zones are numbered 1 to 10. Zones 1–5 are part of the original park, while Zones 6–10 lie in the buffer region but still offer quality wildlife experiences. Zones are allocated randomly for jeeps, though preferred zones can sometimes be requested for canters.
Morning Safari:
- 01st Nov – 31st Jan: 07:00 to 10:30 AM
- 1st Oct – 31st Oct // 01st Feb to 31th Mar: 06:30 to 10: 00 AM
- 01st Apr – 16th May// 16th May – 30th June: 06:00 to 09:30 AM
Evening Safari:
- 01st Nov – 31st Jan: 02:00 to 05:30 PM
- 1st Oct – 31st Oct // 01st Feb to 31th Mar: 02:30 to 06: 00 PM
- 01st Apr – 16th May: 03:00 to 06:30 PM
- 16th May – 30th June: 03:30 to 07:00 PM
Note: Timings may vary based on the season; it is recommended to check the official website for current schedules.
Safari Cost
- Jeep Safari: Approximately ₹ 1500 to 2,000 per person. Approx. ₹9,000 – ₹12,000 per jeep.
- Canter Safari: Approximately ₹1,500 per person.
Wildlife You Can Spot
Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Jackal, Sloth Bear, Indian Grey Mongoose, Spotted Deer, Nilgai, Crocodile, and various bird species.
Other Experiences
- Visiting the fort inside the park offers panoramic views and a sense of history. Some of the best tiger sightings have been near the lakes surrounding the fort.
- Explore Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Jogi Mahal, and Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History.
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park in Assam has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. On February 17, 2005, Kaziranga National Park celebrated its 100th anniversary. This park is one of the top places to spot the rare one-horned rhino. It sits on the Brahmaputra floodplains and is bordered by hills and tea estates. As the dry season sets in, Kaziranga’s grasslands open up, revealing hidden trails and water bodies. The clear views and golden lighting make the park especially scenic for photographers and nature lovers.
How to Reach Kaziranga National Park
- By Air: Jorhat Airport. Approx. 97 km.
- By Train: Furkating Railway Station. Approx. 75 km.
- By Road: Well-connected via NH 37; regular bus and taxi services available from major cities.
Safari Timings & other vital details
Safari Zones in Kaziranga are
- Central Range – Kohora
- Western Range – Bagori
- Burapahar Range – Ghorakati
- Eastern Range – Agaratoli
Safari Timings
- Morning Safari: 07:30 AM to 10:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 01:30 PM – 03:00 PM
Safari Cost
- Jeep Safari: Approximately ₹4,000–₹5,400 per jeep.
- Note: Prices may vary based on the zone and season
Wildlife You Can Spot
Bengal Tiger, Greater One Horn Rhino, Swamp Deer, Elephant, Water Buffalo, and over 450 bird species.
Unique Experiences
If you want a closer look at wildlife, an elephant safari is a great choice. Riding a trained elephant, you can go through grasslands and thick forests where jeeps can’t reach. Elephants move quietly, so you can see animals like the one-horned rhino up close without scaring them. The ride lasts about an hour and runs twice a day, but it is popular, so book early.
The boat safari in the Agoratoli and Bhomoraguri ranges takes you along the Brahmaputra River, where you might see river dolphins and animals near the water. A boat safari offers a calm and peaceful way to explore the wildlife without big crowds.
Visit the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park near Kohora to see many beautiful flowers and learn about the local culture.
Also Read: Discover India’s Top 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Gir National Park, Gujarat
Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat is a unique and vital conservation area. It is the only place in the world where you can see Asiatic Lions in their natural habitat. The park is spread across an area of about 1,412 square kilometres. Gir has a rough and wild landscape with dry forests, bushes, and grasslands, making it a safe home for lions.
Gir has over 2,300 types of animals and is the only place where Asiatic Lions live in the wild since 1884. A safari in Gir lets you see great success in protecting wildlife, where lions that were almost extinct are now living and growing strong.
How to Reach Gir National Park
- By Air: Keshod Airport approx. 70 km. Diu Airport approx. 90 km. Rajkot Airport approx. 160 km.
- By Train: Junagadh Railway Station. Approx. 65 km.
- By Road: Well-connected via road; regular bus and taxi services available from major cities.
Loading Packages...Safari Timings & other vital details
Gir Jungle Safari is closed from 16th June to 15th Oct every year. Permits must be booked online through the Gir National Park permit booking website. Permits are limited and sell out very quickly, often months in advance.
Morning Safari:
- 16th Oct – 28 or 29th Feb: 06:45 AM – 09:45 AM
- 1st Mar – 15th Jun: 06:00 AM – 09:00 AM
Evening Safari:
- 16th Oct – 28 or 29th Feb: 03:00 – 06:00 PM
- 1st Mar – 15th Jun: 04:00 – 06:00 PM
Safari Cost
The total cost for a safari in Gir National Park comprises three components:
E-Permit Fee:
- Monday to Friday:
- Up to 6 persons: ₹800
- Extra child (3–12 years): ₹100
Saturday/Sunday/Festival Days:
- Up to 6 persons: ₹1,000
- Extra child (3–12 years): ₹125
Safari Vehicle Charges (to be paid directly to vehicle owners):
- 4-seater Gypsy: ₹2,500
- 6-seater Gypsy: ₹3,500
- 8-seater Gypsy: ₹4,500
Guide Charges (to be paid directly to guides):
- Naturalist: ₹700
- Guide G1: ₹500
- Guide G2: ₹400
Note: Each e-permit allows a maximum of 6 adults and one child (3–12 years).
Wildlife You Can Spot
Asiatic Lion, Striped Hyenas, Nilgai, Leopards, Wild Boar, Jackal, Samba Deer, and many bird species.
Unique Experiences
- Visitors can enhance their experience by exploring the Gir Interpretation Zone at Devalia Safari Park, which offers a glimpse into the park’s diverse ecosystem.
- Visiting the villages near Gir helps you understand how local people live alongside wildlife. You can enjoy their traditional crafts, dances, and music.
Also Read: Let’s See What Gujarat Is Famous For!
Tips for Planning Your Wildlife Safari
- Get a valid entry permit before entering the park.
- You must take an official guide with your vehicle.
- Book online for safaris in major parks. Book your safari at least 90 days early, especially for weekends or during peak season in December to February. As these dates gets filled very fast. Weekdays are easier to book and less crowded.
- Morning safaris are usually better than evening ones. Cooler weather, better light, and active animals make early safaris the best. If possible, book both morning and evening slots for better chances to see wildlife.
- Each park has zones with different wildlife experiences. Premium zones like Tala in Bandhavgarh, Bijrani in Corbett, and Zones 1–5 in Ranthambore offer better chances of animal sightings but cost more.
- Do not shout or make loud noises.
- Do not throw garbage inside the park. Keep it with you and dispose of it after you leave.
- Stay quiet and behave calmly this helps you enjoy the wildlife better.
- Even though each park has many zones, it is one big forest, so wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Look at recent wildlife sightings and go on more than one safari to improve your chances.
- Plan your budget to include hotel stays, multiple safaris, guide tips, and emergency costs.
- Hire a good guide and driver. Their experience helps you spot more wildlife and enjoy the safari better.
- Stay away from animals and listen to your guide.
- Pack a camera with a zoom lens, binoculars, power banks, neutral-coloured clothes, mosquito repellent, and sturdy shoes. Avoid bright clothes and strong perfumes as they can disturb animals.
- Stay calm and wait, great photos usually take time.
Conclusion
The sound of rustling leaves, trees, and the chance to see a tiger or rhino in the wild, these are moments you will never forget. The national parks in India connect you with nature and show why protecting wildlife is so important.
Whether you want to follow tiger trails in Bandhavgarh, explore the wild history in Ranthambore, see elephants in Corbett, spot rhinos in Kaziranga, or meet lions in Gir, your adventure will be one to remember.
Flamingo Travels will guide you in planning your ideal jungle adventure. We handle bookings, choose the best safari zones, and make sure your trip to the best national parks in India is smooth and exciting. We are ready to make your wildlife dream trip come true. Get in touch and start your journey! Check out our India Tour Packages today!
FAQ’s on the Best National Parks in India
1. What is the best time of year for a wildlife safari in India?
The ideal time for a wildlife safari in India is from October to June when national parks are open to the public. For the highest chances of spotting animals like tigers, leopards, and elephants, visit between March and May. Animals gathers near waterholes during the summer.
2. How many days are ideal for a wildlife safari in a national park?
To enjoy your trip fully, spend 2 to 3 days in one national park. This gives you time for more safaris in different zones, helping you see animals like tigers, lions, or rhinos. Many travellers also add nearby sightseeing or cultural visits to make the most of their jungle trip.
3. Is it safe to go on a jungle safari with kids?
Yes, jungle safaris in India are generally safe for families with children. All safaris are guided by trained professionals, and jeeps or canters follow strict park rules. Just ensure kids remain seated, wear hats, sunscreen, and do not make loud noises during the safari.
4. How can I book a jungle safari in India?
You can book safaris online through the official websites of each national park or through authorized tour operators. It is advisable to book well in advance, especially for core zones.
5. Which parks remain open during monsoon season?
Most national parks in India remain closed during the monsoon season – mid-June to mid-October due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and breeding season. However, a few parks do remain open partially or in buffer zones, offering limited safari experiences. For example – the Jhirna zone in Gir National Park operates year-round.
