Top 10 National Parks in India You Must Visit

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is where the wild truly feels untamed. Famous for being home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, this Assamese gem offers a rare chance to witness wildlife thriving in vast grasslands, marshes and river-fed ecosystems. From elephants moving through tall reeds to migratory birds painting the sky with colour, Kaziranga is a living example of successful conservation and a paradise for anyone seeking India’s raw natural beauty.

As India’s oldest tiger reserve, Jim Corbett National Park holds a special place in the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled in the foothills of Uttarakhand, it offers landscapes that shift beautifully from dense sal forests to sparkling rivers and open grasslands. Famous for its tiger population, Corbett also delights travellers with elephants, deer, exotic birds and the calming sound of the Ramganga River. For many, it is the park where the journey into wildlife exploration truly begins.

The last refuge of the Asiatic lion, Gir National Park in Gujarat, offers a wildlife experience unlike anywhere else in the world. Here, lions roam freely across rugged hills, teak forests and dry deciduous landscapes, alongside leopards, antelopes and hundreds of bird species. Beyond its wildlife, Gir carries the warmth of local communities and the pride of being the stronghold of a species that once stood on the brink of extinction.

Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan blends ancient history with wilderness. Its iconic fort overlooks lakes where crocodiles bask and deer graze peacefully. Known for its high chances of tiger sightings, Ranthambore offers thrilling safaris wrapped in timeless charm.

Located in the Aravalli hills, Sariska National Park is a landscape shaped by history and nature. Once a royal hunting ground, it is now a thriving tiger reserve that protects diverse wildlife. Its rocky cliffs, dry forests and seasonal streams offer a terrain that changes dramatically with the monsoon. Sariska is culturally rich too, with ancient temples and local legends adding depth to every safari experience.

Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is known for having one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers. Spread across rolling hills and lush valleys, the park combines extraordinary wildlife with archaeological charm, including the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort perched high above the forest. For many travellers, it is the perfect blend of adventure, heritage and natural wonder.

Kanha National Park feels like a storybook landscape and is believed to have inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book”. With sprawling meadows, bamboo forests and clear streams, Kanha is one of India’s best-maintained reserves. From sighting the rare barasingha to watching tigers move silently through the forest, every moment here feels magical.

The mystical world of Sundarbans National Park is unlike any other. Spanning tangled mangrove forests, winding creeks and shifting tides, this UNESCO site is the kingdom of the elusive Bengal tiger. Its unique ecosystem supports crocodiles, birds and marine life, making it a dream destination for travellers seeking adventure wrapped in nature’s drama.

Spread across the Shivalik range in Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and sweeping views of the Himalayan foothills. Elephants, leopards, deer, and countless birds thrive in its thick forests, while the Ganga River adds serenity to the landscape. With a balance of accessibility and wilderness, Rajaji has become a favourite for peaceful yet exciting wildlife experiences.

In the heart of Bhopal lies Van Vihar National Park, a green oasis where wildlife conservation meets lakeside landscapes. Designed to help animals thrive in natural habitats while remaining accessible, the park offers wetlands, woodland slopes and meadows that attract migratory birds. It is a refreshing escape from urban life.

Beyond these ten iconic reserves, India offers countless other wildlife treasures. Parks like Pench National Park and Periyar National Park are equally captivating, each with its own landscapes and conservation stories. No matter which national park in India you choose to explore, the experience brings you closer to nature and highlights the country’s commitment to preserving its ecological heritage. And as you tick off your list of the top 10 national parks in India, seamless travel becomes essential. With its strong nationwide presence, Nayara Energy ensures that long drives, whether through forests, hills or remote corridors, remain smooth, safe and fuelled with reliability. So pack your bags, plan your route and let each journey be an opportunity to reconnect with the wild.

India currently has 106 national parks, covering diverse ecosystems, from mountains and deserts to wetlands and tropical forests.

Jim Corbett National Park is often considered the most visited due to its accessibility, tiger sightings, and wide range of accommodation options.

South Button Island National Park in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the smallest, known for its rich marine life and coral reefs.

Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest, established in 1936 when it was known as Hailey National Park.