National Parks in India (2026) – Complete Guide with State-Wise List, Area & Wildlife Highlights
India is one of the richest countries in the world when it comes to wildlife. From tigers and lions to rhinos and elephants, from colourful Himalayan birds to the mysterious snow leopard, our country protects it all. The best way to experience this natural treasure is through the National Parks in India.
Over the past 15 years, I have travelled and photographed in more than 30 national parks across India. Each park feels different – the landscapes, the animals, the bird calls, the atmosphere. Some are dense jungles, some are grasslands, some are wetlands, and some are high-altitude deserts. Together, they show the true diversity of India’s nature.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Introduction
- Understanding National Parks and Tiger Reserves in India
- How many national parks are there in India (2026)
- The first, oldest, largest, and smallest national parks
- Top and underrated national parks in India (with experience-based guidance)
- The complete state-wise list of all national parks in India
- Area-wise insights on big, medium, and small parks
- Tables of parks are best for tigers, leopards, and birds
- Best time to visit national parks in India
- Which national park in India should you choose
- Common mistakes travellers make while planning a wildlife trip
- Frequently asked questions about national parks in India
- Travel tips on how to plan safaris and visit responsibly
Introduction
National parks in India are protected areas created primarily for the conservation of wildlife and natural ecosystems. What makes India truly special is the diversity found within these parks. Dense forests, grasslands, wetlands, river systems, and rocky plateaus support an extraordinary range of life, from birds and reptiles to large mammals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and lions.
Over time, some important national parks were brought under focused conservation programmes and notified as tiger reserves when tiger protection became a national priority in India. In many cases, the same landscape functions both as a national park and a tiger reserve. For example, Rajaji National Park is also notified as a tiger reserve. This dual status plays a major role in shaping the visitor experience.
Understanding whether a protected area is only a national park or also a tiger reserve is essential while planning a wildlife trip. Rules, safety protocols, safari styles, and even the pace of exploration can vary significantly, and these differences directly influence what you will see and how you experience the forest.
Understanding National Parks and Tiger Reserves in India
How tiger reserves differ from national parks
Tiger reserves in India operate under strict regulations designed to ensure visitor safety and minimise disturbance to wildlife. Entry is allowed only in authorised safari vehicles, usually open gypsy-style jeeps without roofs. Each vehicle typically accommodates six to seven people, along with a trained driver and a forest department guide.
Every visitor must carry an officially issued permit, and entry fees are charged per person and per vehicle. Stepping out of the vehicle inside the forest is not permitted, except at clearly marked locations such as designated washrooms or forest rest stops. Safari timings are strictly regulated, with fixed morning and evening slots; entry or exit outside these times is not allowed.
National parks without large predators
Some national parks that do not have large predators offer a very different experience. In such parks, visitors may be allowed to explore certain areas on foot or by bicycle, making them especially rewarding for birdwatching and bird photography.
A well-known example is Keoladeo National Park, where slow-paced exploration allows for extended observation of birdlife. While these parks still operate under conservation rules and fixed timings, the overall experience is quieter and more flexible compared to tiger reserves.
How Many National Parks Are There in India in 2026?
As of 2026, India has 107 National Parks.
- Total Area Covered: 44,402.95 km²
- Percentage of India’s Land Area: ~1.35%
These parks are supported by:
- 564 Wildlife Sanctuaries
- 99 Conservation Reserves
- 18 Biosphere Reserves
Together, they form the backbone of India’s conservation story. Wildlife tourism in India is not just about tiger sightings — it is about reconnecting with forests, wetlands, mountains, and the people who protect them.
First and Oldest National Park in India
The first national park in India is Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936 in Uttarakhand. It was originally called Hailey National Park and later renamed after Jim Corbett, the hunter-turned-conservationist.
Corbett is also the oldest national park in India, and today it is world-famous for tiger safaris, rich bird diversity, and its Himalayan foothill landscape.
Largest and Smallest National Parks in India
- Largest National Park: Hemis National Park (Ladakh) – 4,400 km²
- Known for snow leopards, blue sheep, Tibetan wolves, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
- Smallest National Park: South Button Island National Park (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) – 5 km²
- Known for coral reefs, reef fish, turtles, and marine biodiversity.
This contrast itself shows India’s range, from the Himalayas to the coral islands.
Top National Parks in India
Each national park in India offers a distinct experience shaped by its landscape, wildlife density, and management style. While some parks are ideal for first-time visitors, others are better suited for experienced wildlife travellers or photographers.
For each national park listed below, include one practical line, such as:
This park works best for travellers interested in wildlife sightings and structured safaris, but may not be ideal for those looking for flexible exploration or walking trails.
Some national parks have become household names because of their signature wildlife:
- Kaziranga National Park (Assam) – One-horned rhinoceros.
- Gir National Park (Gujarat) – Asiatic lions.
- Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh) – High tiger density.
- Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh) – Landscape that inspired The Jungle Book.
- Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan) – Tigers with fort and lake backdrops.
- Periyar National Park (Kerala) – Elephants and scenic boat safaris.
- Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) – UNESCO birding site.
- Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal) – Mangrove tigers and estuarine biodiversity.
Underrated National Parks in India Worth Experiencing
Manas National Park
Manas National Park is one of India’s most rewarding yet relatively less explored wildlife destinations. Located in Assam along the Indo-Bhutan border, the park supports exceptional biodiversity, including Royal Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, One-horned Rhinos, Wild Water Buffalo, and Indian Bison.
Manas is particularly significant for birdwatchers and bird photographers. The park is home to rare and threatened species such as the critically endangered Bengal Florican, along with Western Hooded Pitta, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Ruddy Kingfisher, Dollarbird, Silver-breasted Broadbill, Collared Falconet, Great Hornbill, and several species of raptors.
What makes Manas unique is its transboundary forest system. The same wilderness continues into Bhutan, where it is known as Royal Manas National Park. Indian travellers can visit the Bhutanese side on a special permit for a limited 24-hour period, offering a rare opportunity to experience two countries within one continuous forest landscape.
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve and Dudhwa National Park
Pilibhit and Dudhwa offer a quieter and visually beautiful forest experience compared to many central Indian reserves. These landscapes are characterised by tall grasslands, sal forests, wetlands, and riverine ecosystems.
Both parks support tigers, leopards, swamp deer, and a rich diversity of birdlife. They are especially rewarding for travellers and photographers who prefer layered forests, misty mornings, and a slower safari pace away from heavy tourism pressure.
Panna National Park
Panna National Park is one of the most scenic wildlife destinations in central India. Known for its successful tiger conservation story, the park now supports a healthy tiger population within a rugged and visually striking landscape.
A defining feature of Panna is the Ken River, which flows through the forest and creates dramatic viewpoints and beautiful light conditions. The combination of river, cliffs, and woodland makes Panna particularly attractive for wildlife photographers and nature-focused travellers.
Complete List of National Parks in India – State-Wise (2026)
Below is the state-wise list of all 107 national parks in India based on 2025 data.
| State / UT | No. of National Parks | Names of National Parks |
|---|---|---|
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands | 9 | Campbell Bay, Galathea Bay, Mahatma Gandhi Marine, Mount Harriet, North Button, Middle Button, South Button, Rani Jhansi Marine, Saddle Peak |
| Andhra Pradesh | 3 | Papikonda, Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram), Sri Venkateswara |
| Arunachal Pradesh | 2 | Mouling, Namdapha |
| Assam | 7 | Dibru-Saikhowa, Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri, Orang, Raimona, Dehing Patkai |
| Bihar | 1 | Valmiki |
| Chhattisgarh | 3 | Guru Ghasidas (Sanjay), Indravati, Kanger Ghati |
| Goa | 1 | Mollem |
| Gujarat | 4 | Blackbuck, Gir, Marine (Gulf of Kutch), Vansda |
| Haryana | 2 | Sultanpur, Kalesar |
| Himachal Pradesh | 5 | Great Himalayan, Inderkilla, Khirganga, Pin Valley, Simbalbara |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 3 | Dachigam, Kishtwar, Kazinag |
| Jharkhand | 1 | Betla |
| Ladakh | 1 | Hemis |
| Karnataka | 5 | Anshi (Kali), Bandipur, Bannerghatta, Kudremukh, Nagarhole |
| Kerala | 6 | Anamudi Shola, Eravikulam, Mathikettan Shola, Pambadum Shola, Periyar, Silent Valley |
| Madhya Pradesh | 11 | Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Satpura, Panna, Pench, Sanjay-Dubri, Kuno, Madhav, Fossil (Ghughua), Van Vihar |
| Maharashtra | 6 | Chandoli, Gugamal, Navegaon, Pench (MH), Sanjay Gandhi, Tadoba |
| Manipur | 1 | Keibul Lamjao |
| Meghalaya | 2 | Balphakram, Nokrek |
| Mizoram | 2 | Murlen, Phawngpui (Blue Mountain) |
| Nagaland | 1 | Intanki |
| Odisha | 2 | Bhitarkanika, Simlipal |
| Rajasthan | 5 | Desert NP, Keoladeo, Mukundra Hills, Ranthambore, Sariska |
| Sikkim | 1 | Khangchendzonga |
| Tamil Nadu | 5 | Guindy, Gulf of Mannar, Indira Gandhi (Anamalai), Mudumalai, Mukurthi |
| Telangana | 3 | Kasu Brahmananda Reddy, Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali, Mrugavani |
| Tripura | 2 | Clouded Leopard, Rajbari (Bison) |
| Uttar Pradesh | 1 | Dudhwa |
| Uttarakhand | 6 | Corbett, Gangotri, Govind, Nanda Devi, Rajaji, Valley of Flowers |
| West Bengal | 6 | Buxa, Gorumara, Jaldapara, Neora Valley, Singalila, Sundarbans |
National Parks of India – Area Wise
- Large National Parks: Hemis (4,400 km²), Desert NP (3,162 km²), Gangotri NP (2,390 km²).
- Medium National Parks: Corbett (1,318 km²), Kanha (940 km²), Kaziranga (884 km²).
- Small National Parks: Guindy NP (2.7 km²), South Button NP (5 km²).
Best National Parks in India for Tigers
| National Park | State | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Bandhavgarh | Madhya Pradesh | Highest tiger density |
| Kanha | Madhya Pradesh | Expansive meadows; tigers & barasingha |
| Tadoba | Maharashtra | Frequent tiger sightings |
| Ranthambore | Rajasthan | Tigers in fort settings |
| Corbett | Uttarakhand | Tigers plus superb bird diversity |
Best National Parks in India for Leopards
| National Park / Reserve | State | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Jhalana Leopard Reserve* | Rajasthan | Famous for urban leopards |
| Kabini (Nagarhole NP) | Karnataka | Black panther (melanistic leopard) sightings |
| Bera & Jawai (near Kumbhalgarh) | Rajasthan | Leopards among granite hills & villages |
| Satpura NP | Madhya Pradesh | Leopards plus sloth bears |
| Rajaji NP | Uttarakhand | Leopards in their natural habitat |
*Jhalana is a leopard reserve (not a national park) but is very popular for leopard safaris.
Best National Parks in India for Birds
| National Park | State | Birding Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Keoladeo (Bharatpur) | Rajasthan | UNESCO site; wintering waterfowl & migrants |
| Kaziranga | Assam | Raptors, waterbirds, grassland specialists |
| Sattal & Pangot (near Corbett) | Uttarakhand | Himalayan species: barbets, laughingthrushes, sunbirds |
| Eaglenest WLS | Arunachal Pradesh | Rare Bugun Liocichla; NE endemics |
| Sundarbans NP | West Bengal | Mangrove specialists & waterbirds |
Best Time to Visit National Parks in India
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Excellent for birding and comfortable weather in central & north India.
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Best for tiger sightings near waterholes; drier forests improve visibility.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Most parks remain closed; some southern parks like Periyar stay open.
Which National Park in India Should You Choose?
Choosing the right national park depends on the experience you are seeking rather than popularity alone.
First-time wildlife travellers
Parks with organised safari systems and predictable timings provide a smoother introduction to Wildlife travel in India.
Wildlife photography-focused travellers
Open landscapes, water bodies, light conditions, and safari flexibility often matter more than animal density alone.
Birdwatchers and bird photographers
National parks without large predators may allow slower exploration or walking trails, which are far more effective for observing birds.
Families and children
Parks with shorter safari routes, easier access, and structured schedules tend to offer a more comfortable experience.
Limited time or budget
Some excellent national parks are closer to major cities and airports and require fewer safari drives for a meaningful visit.
A Common Mistake Travellers Make
Most travellers choose a national park in India without full information about the place. Understanding temperature conditions, the best season to visit, permitted activities, and restrictions is essential. Travellers should also confirm whether a location is only a national park or also a tiger reserve, as rules, safety protocols, safari styles, and overall experience can differ significantly.
Being informed in advance makes the difference between a rushed visit and a genuinely rewarding wildlife experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About National Parks in India
Which is the best national park in India for first-time visitors?
The best park depends on individual interests, but well-managed parks with structured safaris are generally suitable for first-time visitors.
What is the best time to visit national parks in India?
Most national parks are best visited between October and April. Summer often offers better wildlife sightings, while winter is ideal for birdlife.
How many days are enough for a national park safari?
Two to three days allow multiple safaris and increase the chances of meaningful wildlife sightings.
Are national parks in India suitable for birdwatching?
Yes. Many national parks are excellent for birdwatching, especially those with wetlands and grasslands.
Do I need permits to visit national parks in India?
Yes. Most national parks and all tiger reserves require advance permits issued per visitor and per vehicle.
Conclusion
The National Parks in India are more than protected areas. They are living, breathing ecosystems that protect our tigers, lions, rhinos, elephants, and thousands of lesser-known species. Whether you dream of hearing a tiger roar, watching elephants in the wild, or photographing Himalayan birds, India’s national parks will stay with you forever.
Travel responsibly, follow park rules, hire registered guides, and choose ethical operators. That’s how we keep these places wild.
Planning your next wildlife trip? Explore our in-depth guides and book trusted experiences at
- Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve Safari,
- Dudhwa Tiger Reserve,
- Rajaji Tiger Reserve,
- Jhalana Leopard Safari,
- Kaziranga National Park,
- Manas National Park,
- Jim Corbett Tiger Safari, and
- Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Safari.
Sources
- Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC)
- National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)
- Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
- WWF India
- Personal field experience across 30+ Indian national parks
About the Author – Manmohan Uniyal
Manmohan is a wildlife photographer and co-founder of
World of Wild (WOW). He has photographed across India’s major wildlife parks — from Corbett, Rajaji, and Dudhwa in the north to Kaziranga and Manas in the northeast — and specialises in creating ethical, experience-rich wildlife tours for travellers.
