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Wildlife Tourism in India: Safari Adventures and National Park Delights

Posted on By Blog Admin

Wildlife tourism in India is a major attraction for all kinds of travellers – both for people travelling to India and for people from within India itself. This blog will cover all you need to know for your next wildlife encounters in India!

Table of Contents

Wildlife Tourism – Why is it important?

At Flying Squirrel Holidays, we define wildlife tourism as any visit to a place with the main objective being to see the natural flora and fauna of that particular destination.

Wildlife tourism is the best way to learn about the importance of nature. You get to see every aspect of the natural world working together in harmony to sustain this magical experience we all call life. You see the role of every single thing in nature, from the majestic animals to the mesmerising trees.

WIldlife tourism in India is an incredible experience for nature lovers. India is the seventh largest country in the world by area, with a myriad of ecosystems that result in a rich and varied biodiversity. 

Each part of India is rich in biodiversity and filled with unique flora and fauna. The climatic conditions and geographical differences between different parts of the country make wildlife tourism in India a nationwide affair. 

The Most Important Wildlife Zones in India – UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The unique climatic, biological and geographical diversity in India has been recognised throughout history. The importance of India’s biodiversity has resulted in many of India’s protected forests being named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These particular protected areas represent unique combinations of biodiversity, geology and climatic conditions that cannot be found anywhere else.

Here are the biodiversity hotspots named as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India

  • Kaziranga National Park – Assam
  • Keoladeo National Park – Rajasthan
  • Khangchendzonga National Park – Sikkim
  • Manas Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam
  • Sundarbans National Park – West Bengal
  • Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks – Uttarakhand
  • Western Ghats –  Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu
  • Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area – Himachal Pradesh

North India’s Wildlife Treasures-The Best Wildlife Safaris of North India

North India features a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes – mesmerizing plains, the majestic Himalayas and the hypnotic beauty of the Thar Desert. Apart from the well-known Golden Triangle and the myriad incredible cultural experiences in the region, it also contains many ecological treasures.

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks. Image Credit: (Exoticmiles.com)

These adjacent National Parks combined to form the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, covering over 70,000 hectares. Centered around the highest mountain located entirely within India’s borders, this region of the country contains a wealth of natural treasures.

The park is home to over 500 species of fauna, including rare species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, and Himalayan brown bear. It is also known for having over 1000 species of plants, with over 300 different flowering varieties.

Nearest City: Joshimath
Famous For: Stunning views, rhododendrons, snow leopards, black bears, brown bears
Recommended For: Trekking and camping lovers, couples, friends groups
Best Time to Visit: June, July, August, September.
Operating Months: May to October
Accommodation Options: Camping options are available. The Uttarakhand Government’s Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam also operates a guesthouse within the Park’s borders. The Tattva at Joshimath is a popular option for travelers looking for luxury.

Corbett Tiger Reserve

Royal Bengal Tiger at Corbett National Park
Royal Bengal Tiger at Corbett National Park. Image Credit: (edition.cnn.com)

Named after one of the most famous personalities of Indian wildlife conservation, the Corbett National Park covers over 52,000 hectares of stunning forests. This natural treasure has the distinction of being the first National Park declared by the Indian Government.

The Park is famed for its tigers, immortalized by the writings of the Park’s namesake. It is home to over 617 plant species, 50 mammal species, 580 bird species, and 25 reptile species

Nearest City: Ramnagar
Famous For: Tigers, Elephant herds, Corbett Falls, Kalagarh Dam
Recommended For: Photography lovers, families.
Best Time to Visit: December, January, February, March, April, May, June
Operating Months: The Park operates year-round. However, fewer permits are issued during July, August, and September as the monsoon creates difficult conditions.
Accommodation Options: Camping options are available. Multiple government-owned guest houses are available within the Park. Vanya River Resort is a popular choice for accommodations near the Park.

Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area

Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area
Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area. Image Credit: (flickr.com)

The Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site during the 38th World Heritage Committee meeting in Doha, Qatar. This site covers over 90,000 hectares, containing 25 different types of forests. 

The stunning beauty of the Himalayas accompanies an incredible range of biodiversity. The park is home to 31 different mammal species, over 200 bird species, and a wealth of invertebrates and reptiles still being documented. It is suspected by naturalists and forest officials that there are many endemic species yet to be discovered in the rugged terrain of the National Park.

Nearest Cities: Kullu, Manali
Famous For: Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, incredible landscapes
Recommended For: The most dedicated trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers – one must trek to the park to begin with.
Best Time to Visit: April, May, June, October, November
Operating Months: The Park operates year-round. However, during August, the monsoon creates difficult conditions.
Accommodation Options: Camping is the only option for accommodation within the Park. All activities within the Park are conducted on foot, and no civilian vehicles are allowed past the buffer zone.

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park
Tigers at Ranthambore National Park. Image Credit: (ranthamborenationalpark.com)

Once a hunting ground for the Royal Family of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park covers over 13,34,000 hectares of the State of Rajasthan. This National Park is famous for being one of the first sites chosen for Project Tiger in 1973. 

Ranthambore is most famous for its tigers, although various endangered species such as the Indian pangolin, blackbuck and Indian flapshell turtle. The park is home to over 50 species of mammals, 160 species of birds and 40 species of reptiles.

Nearest City: Sawai Madhopur
Famous For: Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Pangolin, Blackbuck
Recommended For: Families, couples
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Operating Months: January to June, October to December
Accommodation Options: Multiple government-owned guest houses are available within the Park. At Sawai Madhopur, many options for accommodations are available, the most popular ones being Abhyaran Resort & Spa and Regenta Resort Vanya Mahal.

Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)

Keoladeo National Park
Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan.Image Credit: (aryango.com)

Formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is a haven for birds. More than 350 avian species reside within the 2,873 hectares of this green oasis adjacent to the city of Bharatpur.

The Park is an artificially created and managed wetland, originally created between 1726 and 1763 by the erstwhile ruler, Maharaja Suraj Mal. The Park is near the confluence of the Gambhir and Banganga rivers. It is one of two Ramsar Conservation Sites in Rajasthan.

Nearest City: Bharatpur
Famous For: Siberian Crane (winters only), Greater Spotted Eagle, Eastern Imperial Eagle
Recommended For: Families, couples, Senior citizens
Best Time to Visit: August to November
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: Multiple government-owned guest houses are available within the Park. There is a great variety of options for accommodation at Bharatpur, the most popular options being Amritara Chandra Mahal Haveli and Regenta Resort Bharatpur.

The Best Wildlife Destinations of Western India

Known for its hot climate and stunning coastlines, Western India has a diverse range of ecosystems. Ranging from the semi-arid terrain of Kutch to the lush forests of Maharashtra, this part of India is filled with ecological wonders.

Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks

Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks
Gir National Park in Gujarat is home to at least 674 Asiatic lions.Image Credit: (htoindia.com)

The last home of the Asiatic Lion, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, and National Parks represents a legacy of environmental stewardship. The unique nature of the biodiversity of the region makes this one of India’s most important protected forests.

The Park is home to 38 different varieties of mammals, 37 species of reptiles and over 300 species of birds. There are over 2000 species of insects within the Park, many of which have only been observed here. Over 120,000 tons of fuel wood is collected from this forest by the neighboring villages every year. 

Nearest Cities: Talala, Veraval
Famous For: Asiatic lion, pangolin, chousingha
Recommended For: Families and couples
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: Multiple government-owned guest houses are available within the Park. The most popular private accommodation options are The Fern Gir Forest Resort and Jagira Ananta Elite.

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Ghudkhur (wild ass) in Kutch. Image Credit: (ahmedabadtourism.in)

Right next to the India-Pakistan border, the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of ecological and historical wealth. The Park has an area covering over 75,000 hectares of seasonal saline wetlands and a true saline desert.

The major attraction of the Park is Flamingo City, where thousands of flamingos arrive during the monsoons. The area is also the only place where the rosy pelican has been observed to breed. The Park is also home to fossil beds, giving researchers a view into the history of the land itself going back millenia. Another recent discovery within the Park is the remains of the ancient Harappan city of Dholavira.

Nearest City: Bhuj
Famous For: Flamingo, rosy pelican, fossil beds, ancient ruins
Recommended For: Couples, families, history lovers
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: No accommodations are available within the Park. The most popular private accommodation options nearby are The Fern Royal Farm Resort and White Rann Resort.

Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary

The Malabar giant squirrel, native to India, inhabits the upper canopies of forests throughout the Western and Eastern Ghats. These squirrels can grow up to 45cm, with their tails accounting for half of that length.
The Malabar giant squirrel, native to India, inhabits the upper canopies of forests throughout the Western and Eastern Ghats. Photo: Shashank MB. Image Credit: (thekodaichronicle.com)

Located in the picturesque State of Goa, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary covers over 21,000 hectares. The Park is considered an important wildlife corridor for the wildlife in the adjacent protected areas – Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, and Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary.

The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna due to its topology and abundance of perennial streams. The park is home to many rare animals, such as leopards, Indian sloth bears, Indian giant squirrels, and chousingha. The Park is best known for its extensive variety of butterflies, such as the Malabar banded swallowtail and Malabar banded peacock.

Nearest City: Netravali
Famous For: Leopards, sloth bear, butterflies, birdwatching
Recommended For: Couples, friends groups
Best Time to Visit: June to August
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: One government-owned guesthouse is available within the Park. The most popular private accommodation options nearby are The Postcard Hideaway at Netravali and Mangaal Farmstay at Quepem.

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
Elephants in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. Image Credit: (appealingindia.com)

Located at the southwestern portion of Maharashtra, the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderland for wildlife lovers. Covering over 420,000 hectares of area, this protected area forms the northern half of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, the southern half being Chandoli National Park.

Koyna has deep roots for Marathis, with many stories of this forest being a refuge for the tactical master. The undulating terrain of the area lends to the myth, although today the verdant landscapes of this park hide a wealth of biodiversity. The park is home to royal Bengal tigers, leopards, sambar deer and other rare mammals. Over 1500 species of fauna and 2000 species of flora, this national park in Maharashtra is a gem worth exploring.

Nearest City: Satara
Famous For: Tigers, leopards, Malabar pied hornbill
Recommended For: Trekkers, friends groups
Best Time to Visit: June to August – Monsoons make the forest more lush.
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: A wide variety of accommodations are available at Satara. The most popular choices are The Fern Residency Satara Maharashtra and Treebo Trend City Inn.

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
There are 115 plus tigers in Tadoba, 88 in the forest, and 27 immediately outside the reserve. Image Credit: (mpforest.co.in)

Maharashtra’s oldest and largest National Park, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve covers over 62,500 hectares of deep forests, hills, caves and valleys. Parts of the forest are considered sacred by the neighbouring villagers and tribes. 

Tadoba is home to one of the largest tiger populations in India. Additionally, it also is the habitat of over 40 different mammal species, 20 reptile species and over 1500 insect species. There are over 100 different types of medicinal plants and trees that are native to this forest. 

Nearest City: Chandrapur
Famous For: Tigers, leopards, Mugger crocodile
Recommended For: Trekkers, families
Best Time to Visit: For those interested in birdwatching, February to April is the best time. During the extremely hot months from April to June, wildlife spotting is the easiest as the vegetation is at its thinnest.
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: A wide variety of accommodations are available within the Park. The most popular choices are Irai Safari Retreat and Jharna Resort Tadoba.

Mangroves, Mountains and More: The Best Wildlife Tourism Destinations in Eastern India

Eastern India is filled with diverse landscapes – the plains of Bengal, the rolling hills of Sikkim and the lush jungles of Assam. Wildlife enthusiasts will be enamoured by the wondrous beauty of Eastern India.

Sundarbans

Sundarbans
Spotted deer at Sundarban. Image Credit: (sundarbantravel.com)

The Sundarbans National Park of West Bengal represents a part of the world’s largest river delta ecosystem. The Park covers over 130,000 hectares of intersecting streams and silt islands.

The Park is known for its mangrove forests, and being the place where the Royal Bengal Tiger got its name. The tiger is the mascot of the Park, and it was chosen among one of the first sites for the implementation of Project Tiger in 1973. Over 240 species of birds are found in the Park, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Nearest City: Kolkata
Famous For: Tigers, saltwater crocodiles, lesser adjutant
Recommended For: Families, couples, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Operating Months: The Park operates throughout the year.
Accommodation Options: A wide variety of accommodations are available within the Park. The most popular choices are Sundarban Tiger Camp and Sundarban Tiger Roar Resort.

Kaziranga National Park

One horned rhinos in Kaziranga National Park
Assam is home to the largest population of greater-one-horned rhinos, with more than 90% in Kaziranga National Park. Image Credit: (kaziranganationalpark-india.com)

Home to two thirds of the world’s Indian rhinoceros population, Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve is a haven for any wildlife lover. The National Park spans over 37,800 hectares, containing grasslands, meadows and deciduous forests.

The forest is home to 35 species of mammals, 479 species of birds, 42 species of reptiles and over 1,000 species of trees and plants. The park is not only home to the largest population of Indian rhinoceroses, but also of wild water buffaloes and barasinghas. It is also considered an important habitat for the asian elephant.

Nearest City: Golaghat
Famous For: One-horned rhino, tigers, elephants, barasingha.
Recommended For: Families, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Operating Months: November to April.
Accommodation Options: A wide variety of accommodations are available within the Park. The most popular choices are Green Reed Resort and Kodom Bari Retreat.

Manas National Park

Elephant in Manas National Park
This National park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, a Project Tiger reserve, an elephant reserve, and a biosphere reserve in Assam. Image Credit: (alightindia.com)

Located on the border with Bhutan, Manas National Park is home to some of the rarest species in India. This 50,000 hectare National Park shares its northern border with the Royal Manas National Park of Bhutan, making it one of the most ecologically sensitive areas of the Himalayas.

The Park has 55 recorded species of mammals, 50 reptile species and over 450 avian species. The core zone alone is home to over 500 species of plants. The neighbouring villages rely on the park’s biodiversity for firewood, fruits and other natural products.

Nearest City: Barpeta Road
Famous For: Pygmy hog, golden langur, Assam roofed turtle, Bengal florican.
Recommended For: Couples, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: November to January
Operating Months: October to May.
Accommodation Options: A wide variety of accommodations are available within the Park. The most popular choices are Bansbari Lodge and Musa Jungle Retreat.

Khangchendzonga National Park

Rare species like red panda can be spotted in n Khangchendzonga National Park
Rare species like red panda can be spotted in n Khangchendzonga National Park. Image Credit: (nativeplanet.com)

Named after the world’s third highest mountain, Khangchendzonga National Park is a testament to the unique relationship between man and nature. Spanning an area of over 84,000 hectares, this Park joins the Qomolangma National Nature Preserve of Tibet on its northern boundary and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area of Nepal on its western side.

Khangchendzonga National Park is home to a variety of rare Himalayan species, including the mainland serow, red panda and takin. Over 500 species of birds have been sighted in the Park boundaries. The Park also has a significant role in the spiritual beliefs of the Khasi and Lepcha tribes, and also contains the Tholung Monastery – one of the holiest buddhist sites in Sikkim.

Nearest Cities: Chungthang, Yuksom
Famous For: Red panda, takin, bearded vulture, Himalayan vulture, stunning views
Recommended For: Friends groups, couples, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year, however June to September are known for heavy showers and unpredictable conditions.
Accommodation Options: Camping is allowed within the Park, but only with a licenced guide and a Park Authority Permit. Ejam Residency at Yuksom and Chungthang Teesta Homestay at Chungthang are popular choices.

Jaldapara National Park

Elephant Ride in Jaldapara National Park
An adventurous Elephant Ride or Elephant Safari in the morning is the most enjoyable thing to do in Jaldapara National Park. . Image Credit: (wbsfda.org)

Situated at the Himalayan foothills, Jaldapara National Park is known for its stunning scenery and vast grasslands. The Park is spread over 20,000 hectares, containing a unique combination of higher altitude grasslands and riverine forests. 

Although the Park is best known for its Indian rhinoceros population, it is also home to leopards, elephants and gaur. The Park is also famous among birdwatchers, and is one of the few places where the Bengal florican can still be seen. 

Nearest City: Siliguri
Famous For: Indian rhinoceros, leopard, Bengal florican
Recommended For: Families, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: January to March
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Camping is allowed within the Park. Multiple guesthouses are available within the Park itself. The most popular choices are The Mystic Forest and Jaldapara Wildhut Resort.

Amazing Places For Wildlife Tourism In South India

South India is known for its stunning coastlines and lush forests. Home to both the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats, this part of India is filled with gems for wildlife lovers.

Bandipur National Park

Over 300 leopards are found in Bandipur National Park.
Over 300 leopards are found in Bandipur National Park. Image Credit: (wildvoyager.com)

Located at the meeting point of the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats, Bandipur National Park is a stunning amalgamation of a wide variety of biomes. Spanning an area of over 90,000 hectares, this Park was one of the original sites for Project Tiger in 1973.

Bandipur is most famously associated with sandalwood and is considered one of the last homes for this sacred tree. The Park is home to over 80 different species of mammals, 50 species of snakes and over 200 species of birds. 

Nearest City: Chamarajanagar
Famous For: Tiger, elephant, chousingha, sloth bear, sandalwood forest
Recommended For: Couples, friends groups, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: May to October is the best time for animal sightings. November to April is the best time for birdwatching.
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Camping is allowed within the Park. Multiple guesthouses are available within the Park itself. The most popular choices are The Serai Bandipur and Dhole’s Den.

Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Lion-Tailed Macaque in Anamalai Tiger Reserve
#Endangered: Lion-Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus), Anamalai Tiger Reserve. Image Credit: (wildlifeworldwide.com)

Located on the Western side of Tamil Nadu, Anamalai Tiger Reserve is home to a vast number of species endemic to this part of India. Covering an area of over 95,000 hectares, there are over 6 different biomes represented in this Park.

The park is home to over 2000 varieties of plants, 400 of which are medicinal. Over 250 bird species are known to live within the Park. The park is home to at least 5 endemic species of reptiles and 15 endemic species of birds.

Nearest City: Coimbatore
Famous For: Tiger, elephant, lion-tailed macaque
Recommended For: Couples, families, birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: May to October is the best time for animal sightings. November to April is the best time for birdwatching.
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Camping is allowed within the Park. Multiple guesthouses are available within the Park itself. 

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, It is home to 80 tigers
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, It is home to 80 tigers. Image Credit: (tripoto.com)

Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is an essential part of the ecosystem of South India. Covering an area of over 140,000 hectares, it is the largest protected area of Tamil Nadu.

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is one of India’s newest tiger reserves, named so in 2013. Aside from tigers the park is home to an impressive 72 species of mammals, over 200 bird species and 42 species of reptiles. 

Nearest City: Sathyamangalam
Famous For: Tiger, sloth bear, striped hyena
Recommended For: Birdwatchers, couples, families.
Best Time to Visit: October to March is the best time to visit. The temperatures are the lowest during this time.
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Multiple guesthouses are available within the Park itself. The most popular choices are Mavallam Farms & Resorts and Bull and Bush Resort.

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve 

Bengal Tiger in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Graceful and powerful, a majestic Bengal tiger prowls through the lush landscapes of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, embodying the untamed beauty of the wild. Image Credit: (wikipedia.org)

Bandipur’s neighbor to the South, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve has everything a wildlife lover is looking for. With an expanse of over 68,000 hectares, this forest is an essential part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

The forest is most famously associated with teak and rosewood, important for the economy of the State. Over 1000 faunal species reside in the park, including endangered animals such as Malabar giant squirrel, dhole and jaguars. During the monsoons, the park is popular among birdwatchers, who come to see the over 250 different species of birds here.

Nearest City: Mudumalai
Famous For: Tiger, leopard, Malabar giant squirrel
Recommended For: Birdwatchers, friends groups
Best Time to Visit: March to August is the best time for spotting wildlife. From September to October is the best time for birdwatching. December to February has the lowest temperatures.
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Camping is allowed within the Park. Multiple guesthouses are available within the Park itself. The most popular choices are Greenwoods Nature Camp and Mammoth’s Cliff Jungle Resort. 

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Periyar Tiger Reserve, where lush green landscapes meet the majestic wildlife.
Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Periyar Tiger Reserve, where lush green landscapes meet the majestic wildlife. Image Credit: (wikipedia.org)

Periyar Tiger Reserve stands as a beacon of conservation, offering an enchanting eco-tourism experience amidst Kerala’s rich biodiversity and majestic tigers.

Recently awarded the title of “Best Managed Tiger Reserve” by the National Tiger Conservation Authority, Periyar Tiger Reserve is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The Reserve covers over 30,000 hectares of a variety of unique forests and ecosystems.

The Reserve is a treasure trove of biodiversity, protecting over 60 species of mammals, 340  bird species, 60 amphibian species and 65 species of reptiles. Additionally, over 4,800 varieties of flowering plants are found within the Reserve.

Nearest City: Kumily
Famous For: Tiger, lion tailed macaque, asian elephant
Recommended For: Birdwatchers, friends groups
Best Time to Visit: September to April
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Cottages are available within the Reserve itself. Outside the Reserve, the most popular choices are Poetree Thekkady and Forest Canopy Thekkady. 

Don’t Miss These Hidden Gems For Birdwatching In India

Birdwatching in India is a delight, with an incredible diversity of species in different parts of the nation. Discover the best birdwatching sites in India.

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
The sanctuary is home to over 473 species of birds and rare animals, including sandpipers, mynahs, curlews, cormorants, and eagles. Image Credit: (travelogyindia.com)

Named after India’s most famous ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a stunning mangrove forest on the Mandovi River of Goa. The ecosystem here attracts many varieties of fishing birds, such as cranes and kingfishers. It is also a haven for estuarine fishes and crustaceans. Over 470 species of birds have been observed here.

Nearest City: Panaji
Famous For: Spoonbills, pintails, crabs
Recommended For: Birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: June to August
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: No accommodations are available within the Park. Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon and Goa Marriott Resort & Spa are the most popular choices at Panjim.

Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary

Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary
In 2002, Wetlands International reported that more than 1,000 Demoiselle Cranes (Grus virgo) can be seen in and around the sanctuary. Image Credit: (.lickr.com)

Maharashtra’s first Ramsar Site, Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary is an amalgamation of lakes and forests around the Godavari. After the construction of the Nandur Madhyameshwar stone pick up weir over the Godavari river in 1913, the landscape of the area transformed into a lush forest, perfect for bird life. Over 536 species of birds have been recorded here.

Nearest City: Nashik
Famous For: Black Ibis, Brahminy duck, garganey
Recommended For: Birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: August to October
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: The most popular choices at Nashik are Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa and  The Source at Sula. 

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

One of the major wildlife attractions of Gujarat, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a protected lake and marshlands ecosystem that attracts a wide variety of migratory birds throughout the year. Covering around 12 hectares of area, the lake and its surrounding marshes are the habitat of over 220 species of birds. 

Nearest City: Ahmedabad
Famous For: Flamingo, cranes, cormorants
Recommended For: Birdwatchers
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Operating Months: The Park operates for the entire year.
Accommodation Options: Cottages are available within the Reserve itself. Outside the Reserve, the most popular choices are  Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Ashram Road and The Hillock Ahmedabad.

Important Note For Wildlife Photographers and Videographers

India is a popular destination for wildlife photographers from around the world. Visiting Photographers and Video teams should always ensure that they are taking the appropriate permits with park authorities. Additionally, drone photography and the use of camera support equipment require special permits as well. In the case of drone photography, all aerial vehicles in India must conform to DGCA guidelines.

Why Sustainable Tourism And Wildlife Conservation Are Important For India’s Tourism Industry?

Wildlife conservation has played an important role in developing India’s tourism industry. Seeing iconic Indian wildlife, such as tigers and elephants, in their natural habitat is a major draw for visitors to India. Sustainable tourism in India is still mainly based around the major National Parks of India, such as at Ranthambore and Gir. Many National Parks, such as Periyar and Nanda Devi, are developing low-impact tourism activities to encourage the growth of sustainable tourism.

FAQs

What do you mean by wildlife tourism in India?

When we say Wildlife Tourism in India, we mean going to a place where interacting with the biodiversity of India – this could be animals, plants or just enjoying the great outdoors. Wildlife tourism has special considerations over other kinds of tourism, as permits and other paperwork is required for ensuring a safe and hassle-free trip. 

How fast is wildlife tourism growing in India?

Wildlife Tourism in India is a very popular activity for both foreign and domestic travelers. India’s stunning wildlife and mesmerizing forests have been documented extensively throughout history, from seals of the Indus Valley Civilisation to modern documentaries made by the likes of National Geographic and others. Recently, the Oscar-winning documentary “Elephant Whisperers” has resulted in an increased interest in visiting South India’s forests.

How can wildlife tourism be promoted in India?

Wildlife Tourism can be promoted in India by promoting eco-friendly tourism activities and helping people to learn about India’s rich biodiversity.

What kind of wildlife is India famous for?

India is famous for all kinds of wildlife. There are charismatic megafauna species such as Asian elephant, Royal Bengal tiger, blackbuck, and Indian rhinoceros. India is also famous for birds, like peacocks, hornbills, kingfishers, and egrets. India is home to iconic reptiles such as the king cobra, reticulated python, and gharial. 

What is the most popular example of wildlife tourism?

The most popular example of wildlife tourism would be a jeep safari at one of India’s many National Parks. Jeep safaris are the safest way for people to see wild animals.

Incredible Wildlife Tourism in India With Flying Squirrel Holidays

Wildlife tourism in India is an incredible experience for all ages. Witnessing the majestic beauty of a tiger, or catching a glimpse of a stunningly colored bird are experiences that will be remembered for your entire life.

Choose Flying Squirrel Holidays for the best Wildlife tourism in India.