Ranthambore (Rajasthan)
Ranthambore is a lush green spot situated in Rajasthan (an arid desert region). It is famous for its Tiger reserves. Ranthambore became a part of the Tiger Project launched in 1973 to protect these majestic predators. Ranthambore was once a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur. Ranthambore Tiger reserve is situated at the convergence of the Aravallis and the Vindhyas and provides matchless photogenic views.
Besides six artificially created lakes, there are many snake-like streams that pass through Ranthambore National Park. Of its pristine beauty and friendly tigers, it has become the most filmed reserve in the world. You can easily spot the tigers on their hunt, playing with their cubs, teaching the art of hunting to their cubs, and indulging in many other activities.
The diverse Flora and Fauna of Ranthambore consist of 300 trees, 50 aquatic plants, 12 reptiles (including the Marsh Crocodile and amphibians), 272 birds, and 30 mammals. The flora of this region is abundant with Banyan Trees, Pipal trees, Dhok (Anogeissus pendula), and clusters of mango trees. At the foot of the Famous Fort at Ranthambore and a forest rest house Jogi Mahal, is an entry point to the Ranthambore National Park. The Park boasts the second largest and thickest Banyan tree in India.
At Ranthambore you would chance upon Tigers, Leopard, endangered Caracal, Hyena Fox, Jackals, Sloth bears, Sambar, Spotted deer (Chital), Indian Gazelle (Chinkara), Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild boars, Palm civet, Porcupine and Ratel, Mongoose, Hare, Langur, Gazelle, Indian Monitor and a variety of Snakes quenching their thirst on the banks of three big lakes Malik Talav, Padam Talav, and Raj Bagh. The lakes are full of a variety of fishes, crocodiles, and soft-shell turtles.
The avifauna of the region comprises approximately 264 species of resident and migratory birds. During the winter season Bareheaded Goose, Greylag Goose, Pintail, etc visit the Reserve and during monsoons, you can see Pitta and Paradise Flycatcher chirping in their melodious tone. The resident birds at the park are the Great Indian Horned owl, Brown Fish Owl, Crested Serpent Eagle, Bonelli’s Eagle, King Vulture, Shikara, Kingfishers, Painted Stork, and Parakeets.
The places to be visited in Ranthambore are Bakaula (a lush green spot with water holes), Kachida Valley (an area providing refuge to a large number of panthers), and Ranthambore Fort (situated on a hilltop providing photographic views of its architectural splendor and the Park.
The best time to visit the National Park is between October to March and April to June when the weather is dry and pleasant. The management at Ranthambore recommends visitors carry light cotton clothes in summer and woolens in winter.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Keoladeo is derived from the temple devoted to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva situated in the heart of the Bird Sanctuary and Ghana means dense. This sanctuary is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in India. Its extensive cover provides refuge to a large number of migratory as well as indigenous birds.
History states that Maharaja of Bharatpur created this conservatory in 1890. It is said that Bharatpur town used to be a flood-prone area every monsoon. In order to save the town, Maharaja ordered the construction of an earthen dam (Ajan Dam). The area of land from which soil was taken became the Bharatpur Lake. In 1965, the Government put a ban on the indiscriminate shooting of birds. The efforts of Dr. Salim Ali were accredited when the area got an identity of a national park in March 1982. Since 1985, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is acclaimed as a World Heritage Site.
Spread over an area of 29 kilometers, the Bird Sanctuary hosts a variety of bird species. There are more than 44,000 trees in the Sanctuary used for nesting birds every year. The dense and diverse forest cover highlights a fascinating blend of marshes, woodland, and flora. Approximately 300 species of birds are found in the Sanctuary.
The birds commonly found in the Sanctuary are Wagtails, Cranes, Geese, Ducks, Eagles, Hawks, Stints, Shanks, Warblers, Wheatears, Pelicans, Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks Pipits, etc. Besides birds, there are animals like Chital, Sambar, Boar, and Nilgai. During winter the Sanctuary attracts many tourists with numerous migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia.
The best time to visit the Sanctuary is between the months of October and February. For a tour of the Sanctuary, you need a bicycle or cycle-rickshaws. To watch birds in their close quarters you can hire a boat at the checkpoint on the bank of Keoladeo Lake.
Kaziranga (Assam)
Kaziranga is well known for inhabiting the rare specie of one-horned Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros Unicornis). It also serves as a shelter for a number of other wildlife species as well. Spreading on an area of 430 square kilometers, Kaziranga is full of swamps and tall coppices of elephant grass. Kaziranga was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1940.
The fauna at the Park consists of Indian Elephants, Sloth Bears, Swamp Deer or Barasingha, Indian Bison, Hog Deer, Leopard Cats, Tigers, Jungle Cats, Otters, Hog Badgers, Capped Langurs, Wild Boar, Hoolock Gibbons, Jackal, Wild Buffalo, Pythons, and Monitor Lizards.
There are many beautiful birds in the Park. On safari, you would chance upon Black-Shouldered Kite, Black Kite, Pallas’s Fishing Eagle, Grey-Headed Fishing Eagle, Oriental Honey Buzzard, Brahminy Kite, White Tailed Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, etc. The migratory birds in this region are Greylag Geese, Bar-Headed Geese, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, Red-Crested Pochard, Falcated Duck, and Northern Shoveller.
The tourists can go on a safari either on jeeps or on elephant backs. The trained mahouts guide the visitors through the park. In the jungle, tourists come across many herds of wild elephants.
The best time to visit the Park is from mid-November to early April months. In monsoon months, the mighty river Brahmaputra floods the whole of the region and causes the migration of animals living in low-lying areas to move to relatively higher regions.
Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Located within the district of Sahdol in Madhya Pradesh The Bandhavgarh National Park came into existence in 1968. Initially, the forest was the property of the Maharaja of Rewa. Maharaja handed over the forest to Government because of an increase in indiscriminate poaching. Because of the intervention of the Government, there has been a considerable increment in the animal population. The park spreads over an area of 716 square kilometers. The areas integrated into the park cover sal forests along with some bamboo vegetation. In 1993, along with some other sanctuaries, this was also included in Project Tiger.
Bandhavgarh’s diverse fauna comprises leopards, gaur, tigers, chital deer, sambhar deer, Dholes, nilgais, wild boars jungle cats, chinkaras, sloth bears, rhesus macaques, black-faced langurs, hyenas, porcupines, jackals, foxes, wild dogs, chausinghas and rattles. There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds at the Park. The tourists can easily spot the great Gaur, or Indian Bison, Sambar, Barking Deer, and Nilgai.
Among avifauna, you will see steppe eagles, white-browed fantails, grey Malabar hornbills, green pigeons, green bee-eaters, black and white Malabar hornbills, white-bellied drongos, parakeets, blossom-headed parakeets, blue bearded bee eaters, owls, Jerdon’s gold fronted leaf birds, wood shrikes, minivets and the lovely paradise flycatchers.
You can take a tour of the Park either on Jeep or on Elephant’s back. Jeep safaris are undertaken from 7 AM to 10:30 AM (Morning), and 2 PM to 5:30 PM (Evening) under the supervision of a guide. There are a large number of smaller hills surrounded by sloping valleys. Tala is the lowest point in the Park.
The Bandhavgarh fort extends over an area of 560 acres and stands at a height of 800 meters. You can reach this fort either by jeep following the road or on foot from the left of a spot known as Shesh Saya. En route, you will be chanced to visit many temples. Most of the temples depict reincarnations of Lord Vishnu in the form of a fish, a boar, and a tortoise.
The 7-meter high statue of Lord Narasimha (the reincarnation of Vishnu in the form of half human-half lion) is the main attraction of the fort. There are many picturesque lakes around the fort. From the fort, you can see the breathtaking view of the lush green landscape.
Manas National Park (Assam)
Manas National Park is spread over an area of 391 square kilometers in Assam. The extremely popular Park is situated near the foothills of the Kamrup district. On 1st October 1928, it was declared a sanctuary and in December 1985 it was designated a World Heritage site. It was declared a national park in 1980. Project Tiger, Rhino, and Elephant were launched here.
The vegetation in the Forest is primarily tropical moist deciduous type. The fast-disappearing hispid hare needs a swampy atmosphere to survive. You can see Khairsissoo-bhabhar grass, mul, khoir, udal, sida, Behera, and Kanchan trees in and around the park.
The Sanctuary provides a home to a large number of species including Pigmy Hog, Tiger, Wild Buffalo, Hispid Hare, Elephant, Capped Langur, Golden Langur, Indian one-horned Rhinoceros, Gaur, Hog Deer, Giant hornbill, Clouded Leopard, Panther, Civet Cat, Squirrel, Sloth Beat, Sambar, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, Otter, Monitor Lizard, Gharial, Python, Florican Cormorants, Egrets, Red Pandas, and many migratory birds.
The scenic splendor and rare species of wildlife combine in this unique world inheritance to offer one of the most captivating experiences. Towards the boundary of Bhutan, the Park is known as Royal Manas Park. It is mandatory that the tourists should take a permit at the headquarters in Barpeta.
The Sanctuary arranges safaris on jeeps and elephants for spotting animals in their habitats or indulging in various activities. The boat rides are another medium to see the wildlife near waterholes. The tourists will be able to see many water birds like mergansers, brahminy ducks, a range of egrets, etc en route on the river.
The best time to visit the Park is during the months of November to February. Throughout the year otherwise, the climatic conditions make the sanctuary unsuitable for a visit.
Sunderbans (West Bengal)
Sunderbans in West Bengal is the world’s largest delta formed by the famous Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. Sunderbans got their name from Sundari trees that were found in abundance here. The delta spreads over an area of 1,00,000 hectares. Among 54 islands in this alluvial archipelago, Goasaba, Sandeshkali, and Basanti form the northern boundary of the Sunderbans.
Amidst the forests of mangrove forests and swamps, a web of rivers and streams makes this place ravishingly beautiful. Mangrove forest forms the core of this Park. The world’s largest estuarine sanctuary, Sunderbans is known as the home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. More than 400 tigers dwell in this forest. Bengal Tigers are very good swimmers and have adapted to live in aqua environments.
Besides Tigers, the tourists would chance to see chital dear, spotted deer, wild pigs, monkeys, herons, kingfishers, white-bellied eagles, barking deer, and rhesus monkeys. Along the mud banks, there are many crocodiles awaiting their prey. The amphibians in this region are fishes, estuarine terrapins, Ganges dolphins, red fiddler crabs, and hermit crabs. The Park has been recognized for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. The reptilian population at the Sunderbans includes the king cobra, rock python, and water monitor.
Take a boat and hire an official from the Project Tiger office to get around the Park. The watchtowers at Netidhopan, Sajnakhali, Sudhanyakhali, and Haldi offer a panoramic view of the landscape and wildlife passing by.
The best time to visit Sunderbans is the winter period as there is no moisture or hot weather in the months between December and February. The Park is open for visitors from the months of October to March.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (Karnataka)
Spreading at a distance of 67 square kilometers, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located in the Southern State of Karnataka. Celebrated ornithologist. Dr. Salim Ali, during his survey of the birds, recommended the establishment of such a sanctuary. In 1940, the Park got the status of a bird sanctuary.
Many Asian birds come to the sanctuary to take refuge to protect themselves from biting cold in winter. Some of the birds that can be spotted in the sanctuary are little cormorants, egrets, spoonbills, open bill storks, darters, river terns, white Ibis, herons, partridges, stone plowers, and snake birds. The National bird of India- the Peacock wandering majestically in paradise welcomes tourists.
It is a well-known tourist destination and is located at a distance of 20 kilometers from beautiful Vrindavan gardens. The Park is situated on the banks of the River Kaveri. What makes the sanctuary a favorite place for birds is the insect population and cool, tranquil atmosphere where they can lodge peacefully. There are six islets at the Sanctuary. These islets are the breeding grounds of birds. Migratory birds lay their eggs on these islets in the river.
Multitudinous varieties of bonnie birds can be seen en route on a boat ride. The oarsmen are also excellent guides to provide tourists with the exact location where the birds may be spotted.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is in the months of June to November from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. During monsoons, the sanctuary gets flooded, so it becomes difficult to penetrate this forest.
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is located in the Churu district of Rajasthan. It is located at a distance of 210 kilometers from Jaipur. Initially, Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary was managed as a private hunting reserve of the Maharaja of Bikaner. Tal Chapper was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 1962. The sanctuary is famous for the blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra). Other animals found in the sanctuary are desert foxes and desert cats.
The terrain of the sanctuary is almost flat and has low-lying areas with open grasslands. The grasslands are interspersed with Acacia and Prosopis trees that give the sanctuary a look of the Savannas.
A large number of migratory birds visit this region during the month of September. Tourists can easily spot sparrow hawk, Ben harrier, Montague’s harrier, imperial eagle, marsh harrier, pale harrier, tawny eagle, skylark, short-toed eagle, sparrow hawk, ring drove, crested lark, brown dove, blue jay, black ibis, green bee-eaters, demoiselle cranes, blue jays and cranes.
A special type of grass found in the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is Mothiya. The word mothiya is derived from the word Moti (the English word for Pearl). The seeds of this grass are pearl shaped and the grass has a very sweet taste. This is liked by Black Bucks and some birds.
The best time to visit Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary is from September to March.
Indravati National Park (Chhattisgarh)
Village Kutrue at a distance of 22.4 kilometers is the entry point of the Indravati National Park. Jagadalpur Kutrue link road is 145.6 kilometers away. One should have personal conveyance for easy access to the sanctuary.
Hire a jeep or a car from the railhead to reach Indravati National Park. The Park is located between 18.510 to 51.190 North latitude and 80.160 to 80.440 East longitudes.
The Park was declared a Sanctuary in the year 1975. The sanctuary spreads over an area of 2273.58 square kilometers. The sanctuary derives its name from the Indravati River flowing through the Park.
The Park is the home to rare and endangered species of Wild Buffalo and Swamp Deer of Kanha National Park. Other animals residing in the Park are Panther, Tiger, Spotted dear, Sambhar, Chinkara, Blackbuck, Barking dear Swamp deer, Hog Deer, Sloth bear, Gaur, Blue bull, Chausingha, Wild bear, Wolf, Jackal, and Hyena.
There are various birds nestling in the trees. The tourists would hear the melodious notes of the Hill Maina, which is the most important specie in the National Park.
The vegetation of the Sanctuary comprises Teak, Sal, Saja, Achar, Amaltas, Amla, Arjun, Tendu, Tinsa, and Bamboo.
The Park can be visited throughout the year. Only you can avoid visiting the Park during rainy months. The best period to visit the Park is between 15 December and 15 June.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1973. The sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and has a rich biodiversity. The foundation stone of the sanctuary was laid with the objective of conserving the biological heritage of the region. The sanctuary has a rich variety of flora and fauna. The highest peak of this region is Karottimala (1158 meters high). Wayanad Wildlife Division takes care of the sanctuary and the headquarters of the sanctuary are at Sultan Bathery.
South India falls in the belt of deciduous type vegetation. However, there are a few patches of semi-evergreen forests in the sanctuary. Around 110 square kilometers of the area is covered by teak, eucalyptus, and grevelia. Common trees of the moist deciduous forest are rosewood, Maruthi, venteak, karimaruthi, vengal, chadachi, mazhukanjiram, and bamboo. The plants commonly seen in the semi-evergreen region of the sanctuary are Veteria indica, Lagerstroemia, Lanceolata, and Terminalia paniculata.
The sanctuary provides refuge to a number of animals. Panthers, Elephants, tigers, jungle cats, monkeys, civet cats, wild dogs, bison, deer, and bears inhabit the sanctuary. The visitors can also see various reptiles like monitor lizards and snakes. Among avifauna, one can see babblers, peacocks, owls, cuckoos, woodpeckers and jungle fowl, etc.
During the months of June to August, the sanctuary receives a reasonable amount of rainfall. The months from March to May are somewhat warm.
Nagarhole National Park (Karnataka)
The foundation stone of the Nagarhole National Park was laid in 1955. Later on in 1975, the area of the sanctuary was expanded. Nagarhole word is derived from the compounding of two Kannada words Nagar (meaning snake) and hole (meaning streams). A few streams flow through this park in a serpent-like zigzag movement. The park is recently renamed after the late prime minister of India and is known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. Nagarhole National Park comprises Arikeri, Hatgat, and Nalkeri reserve forests, along with adjoining Mysore reserve forests.
Nagarhole National Park is ranked among India’s best wildlife parks. There are approximately 250 species of birds in the Park. In the North of the park, there is the Kabini River and towards the South, there is Bandipur national park. The dam built on the Kabini River acts as a dividing line between the two well-known National Parks.
Commonly found birds in the Park are babbler, bee-eater, bulbul, dove, crested serpent, hornbill, Malabar pied, alexandrine, peacock, woodpecker, warbler, great Indian reed, eagle, crested hawk, golden-back parakeet, and the southern tree pie. The Park has a large elephant and bison population.
The Nagarhole National Park provides a home to a number of animals like the four-horned antelope, sloth bear, jungle cat, civet, spotted deer, elephant, wild dog, flying fox, tiger, panther, gaur (Indian bison), sambhar, wild boar, black-naped hare, bonnet macaque, pangolin, Cobras, crocodiles, kraits, pythons, vipers, and several species of lizards.
A visit to the Park should be made before dusk as the road leading to the lodges closes at 6 p.m.Throughout the year you can visit the sanctuary but avoid paying a visit during monsoons.
Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)
Spread over an area of 600 square kilometers, Corbett National Park is located at an altitude of 400 to 1200 meters above sea level. It was set up in 1936 with the consultation of Mr. Jim Corbett, a great hunter, and conservator. Now it has grown considerably with the inclusion of Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Ramganga River flows from west to southwest with its distributaries vivisecting the land into numerous ridges and vales. The river pullulates with gharial, mahseer, mugger, and flocks of Phalacrocorax carbo (cormorants).
The vegetation at Jim Corbett Park comprises Sheesham, sal, and long grasses. The Park is abundant with leopards, black bears, sloth bears, jackals, Himalayan palm civets, dhole, yellow-throated marten, common otter, Indian grey mongoose, porcupine, black-naped, Indian pythons, viper, cobra, krait and king cobra, and elephants. There are four species of deer found in the Park namely the well-known spotted deer chital, Kakkar, para, and the barking deer. In all, there are 50 mammals, 577 birds, and at least 25 reptiles at the park.
The migratory birds found in this region are a bareheaded goose, graylag, duck, grape, sandpiper, gull, snipe, and wagtail. Residential birds are cormorants, black-necked stork darters, herons, egrets, and spur-winged lapwings.
The National park is a heaven for nature and wildlife lovers. Recently a movie based on Project Tiger named ‘Kaal’ was shot in this park. The movie starring Ajay Devgan, John Abraham, and other famous stars of Bollywood stressed the attitude of local people regarding reasons for killing the animals and imparted the message of conserving these rare species.
The best time for visiting Jim Corbett is in winter from November to February, and in summer from March to June. The authorities close the Park from June 15 to November 15 every year.
Gir National Park (Gujarat)
Located at a distance of 42 kilometers from Junagadh, Gir is the home of the world-famous Asiatic Lion. There are 300 lions in the rugged terrain of Gir National Park. The lions can be seen on their hunt in the large patches of grasslands. The hills are sparsely covered with trees. The vegetation in this area is mixed deciduous.
Teak, Khair, Sadad, Timru, Babul, Amla, Moledi, Dhavdo, Kadayo, Bahedo, Acacia, Jamun, Tendu, and Dhak trees are found nested by Bonelli’s Eagle, Paradise Flycatcher, and Painted Sand grouse. Near the river streams, a different type of vegetation is found. Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus, and Amli are some of the trees found near river streams. Due to the availability of water, these trees have broad leaves and are evergreen.
The avifauna found in the forest consists of 300 species of beautiful birds. One can see these colorful birds are seen on the forest floors, small plants and shrubs, and even the canopy of the trees. The commonly found birds are the Crested Serpent Eagle, Bush Quail Pied Woodpecker, Paradise Flycatcher, Bonelli’s Eagle, Painted Sand grouse, Grey Partridge, and Black Headed Cuckoo Shrike.
Besides lions, Gir also provides shelter to Indian wild ass, Flamingo, Chital or Spotted Deer, Chinkara, Nilgai, Sambhar, the four-horned Antelope, Black Bucks, Wild Boar, Indian Flying Foe, Indian Hare, Indian Pangolin, Grey Musk Shrew, Pale Hedgehog, Small Indian Mongoose, Small Indian Civet, Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox, and Jackal. The three smaller wildcats – the Jungle Cat, Desert Cat, and the Rusty Spotted Cat are also found in the forest.
Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Jungle Book, the famous work of Rudyard Kipling was got inspiration by the lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows, and ravines of Kanha. The Park was established in 1955. Besides being a park, Kanha serves as a conservatory for the Tigers. Bamni Dadar, sunset point, offers an astounding view of the sunset against grazing Sambhars and Gaurs.
The biggest accomplishment of Kanha National Park is the preservation of endangered species of hard ground Swamp Deer (Barasingha). The Park is a haven for wildlife lovers. They populate large open tracts of land in the midst of the forests of teak and bamboo.
Set at an altitude of 600-900 meters above sea level, the Park covers an area of 1,945 square kilometers. The Park is located in the Mandla District of Madhya Pradesh. The topography of this region is a horseshoe-shaped valley. Surpan River flows through the dense forest of Kanha.
The animals commonly found in this region are sighting blackbuck, swamp deer, sambhar, chital, barking deer, black deer, black buck, chowsingha, nilgai, mouse deer, sloth bear, jackal fox, porcupine, hyena, jungle cat, python, peafowl, hare, monkey, mongoose, tiger, and leopard bison.
There is a museum at the Park that depicts activities of the Park and tribal culture and it is closed on Wednesdays.
The best time to visit the Park is the winter season as the summers are very hot and humid with a maximum temperature of 40.6°C and a minimum temperature of 23.9°C. The park is closed from July to mid-November during monsoon as the paths become slippery and animals hide to save themselves from continuous drenching.
Sultanpur National Park (Gurgaon)
Sultanpur is located at a distance of 46 kilometers to the southwest of Delhi in Gurgaon. It is primarily a bird sanctuary nesting a number of residents as well as migratory birds. Mr. Peter Jackson identified this Sanctuary as a bird paradise. In 1972, Sultanpur was declared a water-bird reserve. The forest is full of trees, shrubs, and masses of Bougainvillea. At the entrance, there is a small museum that puts on display a pictorial exhibition of the species of domestic as well as migratory birds. You can hire a guide to take you on a tour of the sanctuary.
Throughout the Park, bird-watching platforms are constructed. The guests should carry a pair of binoculars to watch these beautiful creatures in their nests without disturbing them. You can easily spot the birds wading, skimming, swimming, or flying. There is an island in the middle of the lake where most of the birds make their nests. The visitors are not allowed to use a boat to ferry the lake, so the birds carry on their activities without any fear.
The commonly seen birds at the Sanctuary are grey pelicans, cormorants, grey and pond herons, egrets, common hoopoe, paddy field pipit, sunbird, little cormorant, Eurasian thick-knee, gray francolin, Indian roller, black francolin, white-throated kingfisher, spot-billed duck, painted stork, black-headed ibis, India crested lark, red vented bulbul, rose-ringed parakeet, red wattled lapwing, shikara, Eurasian collared dove, red collared dove, laughing dove, spotted owlet, rock pigeon, magpie robin, greater coucal, weaver bird, bank mynah, common mynah, green bee-eater, painted storks who tend to congregate, preen, black-necked storks, white ibis, and spoonbills. The presence of a large number of crustaceans, fish, and insects attracts birds to this place.
The best time to visit the Park is during the months of December and January as during this period the birds migrate from colder regions to India
Shivpuri National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Shivpuri National Park also known as Madhav National Park, once a hunting ground of the rulers of Gwalior, was declared a national park under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. In the lap of mighty Vindhyas, the sanctuary provides refuge to a number of wild animal and plant species. The flora in the region comprises dry deciduous forests of teak, sal, and Khair wood, and stretches of rolling grasslands.
Hire a jeep to take a tour of the sanctuary or enjoy a boating trip on the artificial lake Candpatha Lake (Sakhya Sagar). Tourists enjoy the sight of birds flying back to their nests to roost at dusk and the panoramic view of the sun setting over the lake.
The animals found in the sanctuary are tigers, leopards, striped hyenas, nilgais, chitals, jackals, four-horned antelopes, jungle cats, wild boars, gazelle, sambhars, sloth bears, crocodiles, and langurs.
Shivpuri wildlife sanctuary has an astounding variety of avifauna. Birds found in the Park are paradise flycatchers bar-headed geese, spoonbills, ducks, painted storks, demoiselle cranes, cormorants, white ibises, purple sunbirds, and golden orioles falcons.
A castle called George Castle in the middle of the sanctuary reminds me of the fairy tales told by my grandmothers. According to a legend, the local ruler was told that the English royal family might visit his principality for one night. The prince builds a castle fit for their stay complete with well-equipped bathrooms fitted with basins, tubs, and toilets. The royal visitors never come and this castle remains unoccupied today.
Because of its location, Shivpuri has a hot summer and a rainy monsoon season. The winter season from October to March is pleasant during the daytime and the best time to visit the sanctuary.
Nalbana Bird Sanctuary (Orissa)
Nalbana Bird Sanctuary in Orissa is a famous bird sanctuary in India. Located in the vicinity of beautiful saltwater lake Chilika, the sanctuary provides refuge to inland as well as migratory birds. The panoramic view of the sanctuary is really breathtaking. There are a number of islands at the Lake including Honeymoon Island and Breakfast Island.
Nalabana Sanctuary in the heart of Chilka Bird Sanctuary is an integral part of this sanctuary. Chilka Lake is the world’s largest brackish water Lake and spreads across 1,100 kilometers. The lake is pear-shaped and offers a perfect habitat for different bird species. The Lake is truly a bird’s watcher’s delight. The birds nesting in this sanctuary is jacana, purple moorhen, white-bellied sea eagles, greylag geese, herons, and flamingos. It is also the best breeding ground for flamingos.
Aquatic life at the lake comprises prawns, crabs, the Irrawaddy Dolphin, the limbless lizard, crustaceans, and more than 225 species of fish that include the Arius Arius, Alpes djellaba, Acentrogobius griseous and the Elops machinate.
The sanctuary also has wild animals inhabiting silently along with birds. The animals that can be spotted near the shores are blackbuck, spotted deer, golden jackals, and hyenas.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is from October to March when at least 50 to 70 species of migratory birds visit the lake. The weather is warm throughout the year, so one can visit the Park anytime except monsoon as the land becomes slippery and unsuitable to walk.
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1976. The sanctuary spreads over an area of 77 square kilometers and covers the Thodupuha and Udumbanchola taluks of the Idukki District. Idukki is situated at an altitude of 450-748 meters above sea level. The sanctuary is sandwiched between the Cheruthoni River and the Periyar River.
The faunal species in the Park include bison, wild boars, elephants, sambar, bear, wild dogs, leopard, jungle cats, langurs, and tigers. Among the avifauna, tourists would come across myna, jungle fowl, black bulbul, laughing thrush, woodpecker, peafowl, kingfisher, etc.
The sanctuary also provides refuge to a number of snakes. Various species of snakes in the Idukki wildlife sanctuary are the cobra, krait, and the viper, and quite a few non-poisonous snakes. In order to see the animals and birds in their quarters, hire a boat.
Steep mountains, valleys, and hills characterize the topography of this sanctuary. Kizhakkilachimala Lake offers a panoramic view and adds to the scenic splendor of the sanctuary. Floral species found in the park are pali, kuntherekkapine, white pine, vayana, rosewood, cheeni, bhadraksham, and meadows of rolling grass. In all, there are dense forests that include tropical semi-evergreen forests, tropical evergreen forests, meadows, and leaf-shedding forests.
The best to visit the Idukki wildlife sanctuary for wildlife tours is during the months of December to April. The sanctuary is easily accessible from all over India. For nature lovers, the sanctuary is heaven.
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1958. The sanctuary is abundant with dense, moist deciduous, and semi-evergreen forests. The sanctuary has a fantastic variety of rare flora and fauna species. There are more than 50 species of orchids and medicinal plants in the Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary.
Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary lies in between the latitude10° 28′ to 10°38’and the longitude 76°18′ to 76°28′. The trees found in wet leaves-shedding forests like rosewood, irul, teak, thenmavu and venteak grow in abundance. Also, evergreen forest trees like kambakam, karakil, kalpine, whiteakil and ambani are seen here.
Peechi Sanctuary spreads over an area of 125 square kilometers. There are more than 60 types of birds, 25 types of mammals, and 10 types of snakes in the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides refuge to sambhar deer, elks, barking deer, spotted deer, leopards, tigers, wild dogs, foxes, and langurs.
Ponmudi is the highest peak in this region. It has an altitude ranging from 45 meters to 900 meters. A pleasant climate is experienced throughout the year. June to August are rainy months and unsuitable for a visit to the Park.
Tourists can enjoy their visit through the recreational activities provided at the Park. Peechi is an ideal picnic spot. Peechi Dam makes the place suitable for boating. Because of the terrain, tourists can enjoy trekking also.
Eravikulam National Park (Kerala)
Eravikulam National Park is located in the Idukki District of Kerala in the high altitudes of the Western Ghats. The Park is in proximity to the famous hill station Munnar. The Sanctuary was established in 1975 and was upgraded in 1978 to achieve the level of a National Park.
The sanctuary was built as a conservatory for Nilgiri Tahr, endangered specie of wild goats. Now there is an immense boost in the population of this animal in the Park and it is reported that the Park has the largest known population of Tahr existing in the world. The sanctuary spreads across an area of 97 square kilometers.
Various animals that can be spotted in the Park are Elephants, Lion-tailed Macaque, Atlas Moth, Sambhars, Gaurs, Nilgiri Langur, Tigers, and Leopards. The Park has a unique possession, The Atlas Moth, the largest of its kind in the world.
Neelakurinji is a unique specie of flower that sprouts once in 12 years. This specie grows abundantly on these grasslands, transforming vast areas of hilly terrain into floral celebration.
Tourists can enjoy trekking in the highest Peak of South India, Anamudi, located in the Park area. The months of January and February are the best time to visit Eravikulam National Park.
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve (Kerala)
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve spreads over an area of 285 square kilometers. This vast stretch of greenery is situated in the Palakkad district. There are a large number of teak plantations in the Park.
The animals found in the Sanctuary are Bonnet macaque, Nilgiri langur, Loris, Tiger, Barking deer, Leopard, Jungle cat, Civet, Mongoose, Fox, Bear, Elephant, Gaur, Nilgiri Tahr, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Lion-tailed macaque, Wild boar, Pangolin, etc.
The reptilian population in the Park comprises Crocodile, Varanus, Pond Terrapin, Cane Turtle, Gecko Skink, Chameleon, and Snakes (King Cobra, Spectacled Cobra, Krait, Viper, Python, Green keelback, Rat snake, Vine snake).
Besides animals and reptiles there are very beautiful birds at the park like Darter, Little Cormorant, Black eagle, Lesser adjutant stork, Black-capped kingfisher, Great Indian hornbill, Broad billed roller, Black woodpecker.
The sanctuary is really a heaven for nature lovers. The marine life at the Sanctuary includes the fishes of Aral, bral, vattudi, thilopia, noori, mooshu, poochutti, kollotty, exyprius, and taral, species.
There are six vegetation types found in the Park namely west coast tropical evergreen forests, West coast semi-evergreen forests, South Indian moist deciduous forests, South Indian dry deciduous forests, Moist bamboo brakes, and Reed brakes.
It is advisable not to visit the sanctuary during monsoons, as the land is slippery.
Sariska Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan)
Sariska Tiger Reserve is located in the Aravallis mountain range. It is larger than Ranthambore but has less tiger population. In 1955 the area has declared a sanctuary and in 1979 it became a National Park. The sharp cliffs of hills with deciduous vegetation are approachable by jeeps.
Sariska Reserve is a dwelling place of voracious carnivores including Jackal Wild, Leopard, Dog, Jungle Cat, Hyena, and Tiger. The prey species at the reserve are Chital, Chausingha, Nilgai, Sambar, Wild Boar, and Langur. Rhesus Monkeys are found around Talvriksh. During morning and evening, wild animals in Reserve head towards small lakes. Some predatory animals come to the lakes for a hunt.
The avifauna in Sariska comprises Grey Partridge, Peafowl, Sand Grouse, Bush Quail, Golden-backed Woodpecker, Tree Pie, crested Serpent Eagle, and The Great Indian horned Owl.
Sariska’s landscape comprises hills and narrow valleys of the Aravallis. Scrub-thorn forests, dry deciduous forests, and grasses are found in Sariska.
The best time to visit the Tiger Reserve is between the months of October and June. The places to be seen in Sariska Tiger Reserve are The Kankwari Fort (It is believed that Emperor Aurangzeb once imprisoned his brother, Dara Shiko in this fort), The Ancient Shiva Temples (now in ruins-yet a wonderful place to visit), and The Palace (It was built by the Maharajas of Alwar- now a hotel).
Bandipur National Park (Karnataka)
Bandipur National Park is located in Karnataka. The park was created in the 1930s and was initially named Venugopal Wildlife Park. In 1941, adjoining Nagarhole National Park, Wynad, and Madumulai Sanctuaries were integrated to form Bandipur National Park.
The Park has become a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, one of the protected forest areas in India. The vegetation of the park mainly consists of stunted trees, rosewood and teak, and open grassy patches. The River flowing through the Park acts as a dividing line between the Park and the Mudumalai Sanctuary. Due to its location, the Park experiences a moderate type of climate.
Some common species of animals found in the Park are Bonner Macaque Nilgiri Langur, Dhole, Smooth-coated Otter Common, Palm Civet, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Jungle Cat, Tiger, Wild Boar, Chital, Gaur, Indian Palm Squirrel, Grizzled Indian Squirrel, Lion tail Macaque, Golden Jackal, Sloth Bear, Indian Grey Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Rusty-spotted Cat, Ratel Indian Spotted Chevrotain, Sambar, Nilgiri Tahr, Indian Porcupine, Hanuman Langur, Bengal Fox, Eurasian Otter, Small Indian Civet, Ruddy Mongoose, Leopard Cat, Leopard Indian Elephant, Indian Muntjac, Four-horned Antelope, Indian Pangolin, Indian Hare, Red Giant Flying squirrel, and Indian Giant Squirrel. The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is between the months of April and October.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kerala. It is both a National Park and Tiger Reserve. In the heart of the Sanctuary, the beautiful lake is a center of attraction. The other name of this Sanctuary is Thekaddy Sanctuary. On the River Periyar, a reservoir was created in 1895 to provide a permanent source of water for the local wildlife. The Sanctuary spreads over an area of about 780 square kilometers.
The animals found in the Sanctuary are Elephants, Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog, and Tiger. Four species of hierarchs namely the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, the Common Langur, And the Bonnet Macaque are found in the Sanctuary. Elephants and other animals can be spotted easily in the morning.
The avifauna of the region consists of Cormorants, Darters, Kingfishers, great Malabar Hornbill, and racket-tailed Drongos. The reptiles that can be easily spotted in the Sanctuary are Monitor Lizards, Python, and Cobra. Book one of the forest bungalows to spot animals easily. You can then also go for a night safari to see the nocturnal animals.
Guests can also hire a boat and ferry across the lake to see the wonderful creations of the mighty God- beautiful birds and animals. On the canvas of earth, God has put various shades, and this lush green spot abundant with avifauna, flora, and fauna
It is recommended that one should not visit the Sanctuary in the monsoon period as the land becomes slippery. Otherwise throughout the year, one can visit the Sanctuary. During the months of March to June.
Nagarjuna Sagar National Park (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana)
Covering an area of about 3,56,000 hectares, Nagarjuna Sagar National Park sprawls over Kurnool, Guntur, Prakasam, Mahboobnagar, and Nalgonda. The vegetation of Nagarjuna Sagar comprises mainly Dry tropical deciduous forests. Scrub jungles, thorn forests, deciduous trees, herbs, and marsh vegetation are also found in the core of the jungles. The rare species of flora found in the Sanctuary include Pterolobium Indicum, Niebuhria apetala and Ziziphus xylopyrus.
Wildlife at Nagarjuna Sagar National Park comprises of leopard, langur, tiger, wolf, macaque, jackal, jungle cat, Bengal fox, wild dog, sloth bear, palm civet, smooth-coated otter, Indian spotted chevrotain, striped hyena, Indian muntjac, wild boar, sambar, blackbuck, chinkara, spotted deer, nilgai, four-horned antelope, Indian pangolin, marsh crocodile, Indian tree shrew, Indian soft-shelled turtle, monitor lizard, giant flying squirrel and Indian porcupine.
The sanctuary is rich in avian species. There are 150 species of birds at the Nagarjuna Sagar National Park. Peafowl grey and hornbill are commonly spotted birds. The best time to visit is the months of October to June when the weather is pleasant.
Nagarjunsagar dam built over River Krishna is a wonderful place to see. This place is also famous for excavations of historical monuments belonging to the 1st and 2nd century A.D. This wildlife sanctuary also includes the Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.
Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary (Gujarat)
Sasangir Wildlife Sanctuary situated in the Saurashtra district of Gujarat spreads over an area of about 1412 square kilometers. Also known as Gir, the Sanctuary is a well-known Lion sanctuary in Asia. The Park was established as an Asiatic Lion Conservatory in 1965. There are approximately 300 lions in the Park.
The vegetation of the Park consists primarily of mixed deciduous type forests with teak, ber, the flame of the forest, Jamun, and a variety of acacia, tendu, dhak, and babul trees. The region has a hilly terrain but has a number of gushing rivers that add charm to its beauty. Enjoy a pleasant drive through the thick forest cover.
The Forest Department at Sasangir Wildlife Sanctuary arranges various guided trips to watch these animals from a very close range. Besides the king of the jungle-Lion, other animals found in this region are wild boar, common langur, chinkara, striped hyena, jackal, porcupine, hare, black buck, chital, leopard, gazelle, nilgai, wild ass, spotted deer and the four-horned antelope. Marsh crocodiles can be spotted easily in the lake of the Kamaleshwar dam.
There are over 200 avian species dwelling in the Park. The most popular birds in the region are Bonelli’s eagle, peafowl, grey partridge, painted sand grouse, crested serpent eagle, jungle bush quail, common green pigeon, and several species of doves.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the early hours of dawn from dawn to dusk. The summer season is unsuitable for visits as it hottest period with average minimum and maximum temperature ranges between 10ºC to nearly 45ºC. Due to scarcity of water and the area being in a rain shadow area experiencing less rain, the park staff maintains around 350 artificial water holes and replenishes water through water tankers from time to time.
Dudhwa National Park (Uttar Pradesh)
In the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Dudhwa National Park provides a home to a number of tigers and other animals. Dudhwa National Park spreads over an area of 811 square kilometers and lies in the belt of warm tropical forests of the terai region. The Park was established in 1968 to protect Swamp deer. Later on, in 1976, the sanctuary attained the status of a National Park and other animals were introduced into the Park
The vegetation of the Park consists of thick sal forests, extensive grasslands, and wet marshes. An extensive range of wildlife including civets, leopard cats, swamp deer (barasingha), jackals, sloth bears, jungle cats, elephants, fishing cats,s and a vast number of birds is found in the forest. The great Indian one-horned rhino has now been reintroduced in Dudhwa from other sanctuaries in Nepal and India. The reptilian population consists of pythons, reptiles, and monitor lizards.
The birds sighted in the Park are the painted stork, white stork, open-billed stork, sarus cranes, the great Indian horned owl, the brown fish owl, orioles, pittas, barbets, woodpeckers, the forest eagle owl, the tawny owl, the dusky horned owl, the scops owl, brown wood owl, and the jungle owlet and minivets. Bengal Florican, one of the rare species is also found in the Park. Birds are seen around Banke Tal.
Tourists can hire vehicles to go on a tour of the park. An elephant safari is an option for those who are adventure-loving. Enjoy the rustic style of spotting animals in the jungle.
The best time to visit the Sanctuary is the months between November and May. Rest of the year the sanctuary experiences a hot and moist climate in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Dudhwa National Park provides a home to a number of tigers and other animals. Dudhwa National Park spreads over an area of 811 square kilometers and lies in the belt of warm tropical forests of the terai region. The Park was established in 1968 to protect Swamp deer. Later on, in 1976, the sanctuary attained the status of National Park, and other animals were introduced into the Park
The vegetation of the Park consists of thick sal forests, extensive grasslands, and wet marshes. An extensive range of wildlife including civets, leopard cats, swamp deer (barasingha), jackals, sloth bears, jungle cats, elephants, fishing cats, and a vast number of birds is found in the forest. The great Indian one-horned rhino has now been reintroduced in Dudhwa from other sanctuaries in Nepal and India. The reptilian population consists of pythons, reptiles, and monitor lizards.
The birds sighted in the Park are the painted stork, white stork, open-billed stork, sarus cranes, the great Indian horned owl, the brown fish owl, orioles, pittas, barbets, woodpeckers, the forest eagle owl, the tawny owl, the dusky horned owl, the scops owl, brown wood owl, and the jungle owlet and minivets. Bengal Florican, one of the rare species is also found in the Park. Birds are seen around Banke Tal.
Tourists can hire vehicles to go on a tour of the park. An elephant safari is an option for those who are adventure-loving. Enjoy the rustic style of spotting animals in the jungle.
The best time to visit the Sanctuary is the months between November and May. Rest of the year the sanctuary experiences a hot and moist climate
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary was granted the status of a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1983. The terrain of the Park is quite hilly. The sanctuary spreads over an area of 53 square kilometers. Peppara Dam built over river Karamana supplies water throughout Thiruvananthapuram city.
Butterflies and moths in the region attract many birds in the region. The birds found in the Park are water birds like little cormorants, darters, pied kingfishers,s and egrets. While walking in the jungle be careful of a number of snakes crawling in the reserve. It is reported that 13 tribal settlements are presently living in the Peppara National Park.
Peppara Sanctuary also includes the Palode reserve (24 square kilometers) and the Kottoor reserve (29 square kilometers). Peppara National Park provides habitat to panthers, tigers, elephants, wild dogs, gaur, Nilgiri langur, sambhar, barking deer, wild boar, lion-tailed macaque, mouse deer, Malabar squirrel, etc.
There are three major forest belts in this region namely southern hilltop tropical evergreen forest (at an altitude of 1000 meters), west coast semi-evergreen forests (150 to 1050 meters), and southern moist mixed deciduous forests (in the lower slopes).
The best time to visit the sanctuary is the months between January to May. In the months between October to December because of the chilling cold, the animals go into hibernation, so visiting the sanctuary becomes a waste and during rains, the park becomes difficult to penetrate.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
In 1984, Chinnar acquired the status of a wildlife sanctuary. It is located at Devikulam Taluka of Idukki district in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary receives rainfall for only 48 days annually. Spreading over an area of about 90.422 square kilometers, the sanctuary provides habitat to endangered giant grizzled squirrels in India. There are xerophytic species in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
The vegetation in the Park consists of Dry deciduous forests, high sholas, and wet grasslands. The following species of plants are found in the thorny scrub forests: Acacia arabica (Karivelam), Acacia leucofolia (Velvelam), Acacia concinna (Cheevaka), Prosopis juliflora (Prosopis) and Opuntia dillenii (Kallimul). Dry Deciduous Vegetation consists of Terminialia arjuna (Nirmaruthu), Santalum album (Chandanam), Anogeissuslatifolia (Mazhukanjiram), Tamarindus Indica (Puli), Pongamia lanceolata (Ventheku), Emblic officianalis (Nelli), Tectona grandis (Teak), Cassia Fistula (Konna), Terminalia bellerica (Thanni), Dalbergia latifolia (Rosewood) etc
While walking through the Park you will feel that it is a dream world. There are a lot of beautiful butterflies flying about in the sanctuary. The animals residing in the Park are Elephants, Spotted Deer, rabbits, Sambhar, Hanuman monkey,s and Peacocks.
Kuthumkal Waterfalls offer a breathtaking and stress-relieving view of the water falling down from high mountains. Throughout the sanctuary, many watch towers have been constructed to make it easier to look at the sanctuary. The park is open officially only between 7 am and 6 pm.
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (Tamil Nadu)
Located at a distance of 40 kilometers from Mannarkkad in Kerala, was declared a reserved forest by the Government of Madras in 1914. The Park covers an area of about 77 square kilometers. Butterflies are the main highlight of the Park. The Park is locally known as Sairandhrivanam (the forest in the valley). As the name suggests, there does seem silence in this Park due to the wilderness. But the animals and the birds at the Park are always making sounds. It is difficult to locate animals in this sanctuary because of its thick forests.
The park forms the core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Park has a rocky terrain and therefore is difficult to penetrate. The pristine beauty of this place is still maintained. The birds found in the sanctuary are Bonelli’s hawk-eagle, house martin, shaheen falcon, Indian black-crested baza, short-eared owl, peninsular scops owl, Ceylon frog mouth, great Indian hornbill, Niligiri laughing thrush, rufous bellied hawk eagle, rufous bellied shortwing and Malay bittern. There are over 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths and other fauna like the Ceylon Frog Moth, the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, the Great Indian Hornbill, and the Lion-tailed Macaque in the Park.
The Park has a cool atmosphere because of a higher rate of transpiration. Crystal clear perennial River Kunthi flows through the Park and falls from an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level.
The best time to visit the Park is between the months of September and March.
