Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, Gir and Kaziranga are among the most famous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India. However, these are not the only wildlife areas that the country has to offer. The map of India is laced with national parks and wildlife sanctuaries where you can come across fascinating fauna. If you have explored all the renowned wildlife areas in the country or simply wish to go offbeat, then the following national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India are perfect for you to visit.
Unexplored Wildlife Destinations in India
Gorumara National Park, West Bengal
Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in the Terai region, Gorumara National Park is a great place to behold the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Over the past decade, the 80-square km national park has witnessed a significant rise in footfall of wildlife enthusiasts and the development of infrastructure. While on a safari, you can admire leopards, elephants, rhinos, gaurs, peacocks, deer and more. Hundreds of species of birds can be found in the area.
How to reach: The nearest airport to Gorumara National Park is Bagdogra Airport. You can fly to the airport and then take a bus or cab from there.
Other places to see: About 100 km from Gorumara National Park in the serene hill station of Darjeeling which is perfect for a revitalising excursion.
Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
An integral part of the well-known Nagarhole National Park, Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary is a realm of steep valleys, tranquil lakes, dense forests and meandering streams. The 55-acre park is also a birdwatchers’ paradise, housing a vast number of vivid feathered creatures. Once a hunting ground exclusively for the monarchs of Mysore, the area takes you on a jungle safari and brings you across intriguing animals of the Western Ghats.
How to reach: You can book a cheap flight ticket to Bangalore, which is a 220 km drive from here.
Other places to see: The city of Mysore is only a 90 km drive away. Its points of interest like Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple and Brindavan Gardens are a major draw for tourists. Click to find out more adventure travel destinations in India.
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan
The state of Rajasthan may be dry and arid but it has abundant species of flora and fauna that make it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts. Hence, it is an important centre for wildlife tourism in India. Ranthambore, Nahargarh and Sariska are among the most sought-after wildlife areas in Rajasthan, drawing a number of holidaymakers from near and far. And, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is on its way to becoming a part of this list. While on a jungle safari, you can come across sambars, hares, nilgai, sloth bears, jackals, hyenas, leopards and numerous other interesting animals.
How to reach: The nearest airport to Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is Maharana Pratap Airport of Udaipur. You can conveniently book flight tickets to the aviation hub on HappyEasyGo and save money on your journey.
Other places to see: While Udaipur is 111 km from the national park, Jodhpur is merely 155 km away and can be reached within 3 hours. The two are splendid destinations that you can explore during your trip to Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park is not only the most famous national park in Assam but in the entire country. Overshadowed by the fame of this magnificent park in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, which is a gem in the crown of Assam. The place is especially known for being home to rare species of fish. Besides, you can also spot capped langurs, parrotbills, tigers and water buffaloes.
How to reach: The easiest way to reach Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is flying to Dibrugarh Airport and then travelling 86 km to the park by road.
Other places to see: Dibrugarh is a significant tourist destination in itself. Spend a few hours or a day or two here to explore the local attractions.
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary in Sachana, Gujarat has built quite a reputation among ornithologists in the past some time. During the migration season, you can spot birds hailing from more than 300 species. The area is dominated by marshlands, freshwater lakes and creeks. While on a visit to this wildlife sanctuary in India, you get the chance to spot numerously endangered and globally threatened species like a black-necked stork, darter, black-headed ibis and Dalmatian pelican.
How to reach: About 82 km from Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is Rajkot Airport connecting the area to other parts of the country. Book flight tickets to the airport to reach the wildlife park conveniently.
Other places to see: Rajkot is a great place to spend a few hours. Alternatively, you can also head to Jamnagar (14 km) and visit points of attractions like Lakhota Lake, Lakhota Palace and Museum and Ranmal Lake Park.
Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim
Northeast India is one of the least explored parts of the country, and this stands true for the region’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries as well. Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim is a UNESCO-listed area that is home to one of the highest mountains in the world, Mount Khangchendzonga and an unparalleled wealth of biodiversity. Numerous lakes and glaciers also mark the landscape of this park.
How to reach: The nearest airport is located in Bagdogra. A scenic road journey will then bring you to your destination.
Other places to see: Luksom, Pelling and Lachung are some serene towns in the area where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and capture some awe-inspiring vistas of nature.
Indravati National Park, Chhattisgarh
Indravati National Park is counted among the finest protected areas in the state of Chhatisgarh. It is one of the best places to spot wild water buffalo also known as Indian wild buffalo which finds a place on IUCN Red List. The park covers an area of about 2800 square kilometres and derives its name from the Indravati River which navigates through the area.
How to reach: About 500 km from the wildlife area is Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur. You can then travel to Indravati National Park by road or rail.
Other places to see: Spend a day or two in Raipur exploring the local attractions.
So, the next time you are planning a trip to come across wildlife, ditch the famed national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India and go for some lesser-known ones. We guarantee you a memorable time. Book flights and accommodation with HappyEasyGo to save money.
