India is popular for its varied landscapes and rich biodiversity. The country is home to a wide range of national parks. These national parks serve as a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. From the lush Western Ghats to the mighty Himalayas, India boasts a stunning collection of protected areas. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will be interested in entering the ultimate list of national parks in India.
Why Are National Parks Important?
It would not be an overstatement to say that national parks play a major role in safeguarding the diverse ecosystems of India. They also play a key role in safeguarding endangered species of animals and birds. National parks function as important habitats for iconic animals like snow leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants and tigers. They help maintain the ecological balance of India. Also, they play an important role in mitigating climate change and regulating water cycles.
State-Wise List of All National Parks in India
When you have the list state-wise, you can easily cover them during your visit to different Indian states. So, I have covered the national parks based on the state in which they are located here:
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
You might wonder whether islands have national parks. To your surprise, Andaman & Nicobar Islands is the home to many of them. Here is a list for your information:
- South Button Island National Park: This is the smallest national park in India, with coral reefs
- Saddle Peak National Park: This is known for the highest peak in Andaman & Nicobar. It is popular for its unique flora and fauna.
- Rani Jhansi Maring National Park: Standing on the Ritchie’s Archipelago, this park is popular for its marine life and coral reefs.
- North Button Island National Park
- Mount Harriet National Park
- Middle Button Island National Park
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
- Galathea National Park
- Campbell Bay National Park
Andhra Pradesh
- Sri Venkateswara National Park
- Papikonda National Park
Arunachal Pradesh
- Namdapha National Park
- Mouling National Park
Assam
- Dehing Patkai National Park
- Raimona National Park
- Orang National Park
- Nameri National Park
- Manas National Park
- Kaziranga National Park
- Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
Bihar
- Valmiki National Park
Chhattisgarh
- Kanger Valley National Park
- Indravati National Park
- Guru Ghasidas National Park
Goa
Gujarat
- Vansda National Park
- Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch
- Gir Forest National Park
- Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar
Haryana
- Sultanpur National Park
- Kalesar National Park
Himachal Pradesh
- Simbalbara National Park
- Pin Valley National Park
- Khirganga National Park
- Inderkilla National Park
- Great Himalayan National Park
Among these national parks in Himachal Pradesh, the Great Himalayan National Park holds the pride. Yes, it brings pride to India by becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jammu & Kashmir
- Salim Ali National Park
- Kishtwar National Park
- Dachigam National Park
Jharkhand
- Betla National Park
Karnataka
- Rajiv Gandhi National Park, also called Nagarhole National Park
- Kudremukh National Park
- Bannerghatta National Park
- Bandipur National Park
- Anshi National Park
Kerala
- Silent Valley National Park
- Periyar National Park
- Pambadum Shola National Park
- Mathikettan Shola National Park
- Eravikulam National Park
- Anamudi Shola National Park
Madhya Pradesh
- Van Vihar National Park
- Satpura National Park
- Sanjay National Park
- Pench National Park
- Panna National Park
- Madhav National Park
- Kanha National Park
- Fossil National Park
- Bandhavgarh National Park
Maharashtra
- Tadoba National Park
- Sanjay Gandhi (Borivali) National Park
- Navegaon National Park
- Gugamal National Park
- Chandoli National Park
Manipur
- Keibul Lamjao National Park
This national park in Manipur holds the pride of being the only floating national park in India and the entire world.
Meghalaya
- Nokrek National Park
- Balphakram National Park
Mizoram
- Phawngpui Blue Mountain National Park
- Balphakram National Park
Nagaland
- Intanki National Park
Odhisha
- Simlipal National Park
- Bhitarkanika National Park
Rajasthan
- Sariska National Park
- Ranthambore National Park
- Mukundra Hills (Darrah) National Park
- Keoladeo Ghana National Park
- Desert National Park
Among these national parks in Rajasthan, Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sikkim
- Khangchendzonga National Park
This is again a national park in India with a UNESCO World Heritage Badge.
Tamil Nadu
- Sathyamangalam National Park
- Mukurthi National Park
- Mudumalai National Park
- Indira Gandhi National Park
- Guindy National Park
- Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
Telangana
- Kawal Tiger Reserve
- Mrugavani National Park
- Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park
- Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park
Among these 4, the Kawal Tiger Reserve is proposed to be a national park soon.
Tripura
- Rajbari National Park
- Clouded Leopard National Park
Uttar Pradesh
- Dudhwa National Park
Uttarakhand
- Valley of Flowers National Park
- Rajaji National Park
- Nanda Devi National Park
- Govind National Park
- Gangotri National Park
- Corbett National Park
Of these 6 in Uttarakhand, the Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi National Park are among the UNESCO World Heritage sites in India.
West Bengal
- Sundarbans National Park
- Singalila National Park
- Neora Valley National Park
- Jaldapara National Park
- Gorumara National Park
- Buxa Tiger Reserve
The Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.
Best Time to Visit National Parks in India
Choosing the right national park is important to get the best experience. Every national park has a different season. The reason is that these national parks are spread across different regions in India. So, for optimal wildlife viewing, the best season to visit differs. The general time is between October and April. During this season, the weather will be pleasant. So, animals will be more visible, and you can spot them.
Planning the National Park Adventure
Before you embark on your national park adventure, you should plan your trip carefully. Research the best time to visit and make your safari bookings and accommodation options. When visiting national parks, remember to respect the wildlife. Ensure that you follow the regulations of the park. Only then can you ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
A Call To Conservation
National parks in India are undoubtedly invaluable treasures. They need to be protected. It is the responsibility of not only the national park authorities but also the general public visiting the park to protect them. So, make sure to visit these national parks responsibly. Also, you should support the conservation initiatives of India as a responsible citizen. Only then can you ensure that future generations can witness the wonders of wildlife in India.
This extensive list of national parks in India provides a stepping stone for you to explore the incredible biodiversity of the nation. Every park has something unique to offer. So, before you visit, make sure to check the specifics of the national park. When you do this, you can tailor the best possible experience. Enjoy your trip to any of these national parks, and make sure that you leave only footprints and take some good memories along.
Why Should You Visit National Parks in India?
Visiting national parks in India will provide you with a unique experience. You can connect with nature and experience the rich biodiversity of India. Above all, you can witness diverse wildlife. Some national parks in India are known for specific species of wildlife. Here are a few examples:
- Kanha National Park is popular for its diverse wildlife. It is particularly known for the rare Barasingha deer and Bengal tigers.
- Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest national park, established in 1936.
- Gir National Park is popular for its Asiatic lions. These lions are found only in India.
- Ranthambore National Park is known for its high tiger population
By choosing to visit National Parks, you can contribute to sustainable tourism. You can safeguard the atmosphere and support local communities. Visiting a national park provides you the opportunity to learn about wildlife and conservation. National parks play a crucial role in safeguarding the rich biodiversity of India and its endangered species. When you visit national parks, you can take part in adventure activities. For instance, you can engage in wildlife photography, jeep safaris, hiking and bird watching.
From grasslands to lush forests, national parks in India have different habitats. You can explore a wide range of natural landscapes by visiting national parks across India.
Conclusion
In short, national parks in India offer not only breathtaking landscapes but also opportunities for adventure. You can explore the rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes of these parks. You might be an avid bird watcher. Otherwise, you might be a wildlife photographer or nature enthusiast. In all these cases, national parks in India offer unforgettable experiences. By supporting and visiting these safeguarded areas, you can contribute to conservation efforts. You can ensure that future generations can continue to admire the wildlife and extraordinary biodiversity of India by supporting these national parks.
Check out my detailed posts on different national parks across India:
Gir National Park – A Close Encounter with Lions
Bandipur National Park – A Lovely Forest & More
What to expect from Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Bandipur Safari Lodges – A Beautiful Stay in Wilderness
Best Resort in Jim Corbett? Aahana Resort – Where Luxury meets Responsibility