National Parks In India That Are Best Visited With Kids

 

India proudly hosts over 100 national parks and approximately 553 wildlife sanctuaries, a remarkable feat globally. Among these, numerous tiger reserves stand as captivating attractions for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. These national parks showcase a breathtaking diversity, spanning from scenic landscapes to rich wildlife, encompassing mountains and mangrove forests. While we have compiled a list of some outstanding national parks in India, it’s important to note that this is just the beginning of the exploration.

 

Renowned in South India, Periyar National Park is situated in Thekkady, Kerala, bordering Tamil Nadu. This protected tiger and elephant reserve captivates with lush greenery and a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, bison, wild boars, and an array of birds. Periyar Lake, an artificial lake within the park, offers boat cruises for observing wildlife. Adventure seekers can indulge in bamboo rafting, Jeep safaris, and guided treks. Notably, the park employs reformed poachers as armed guards and guides, adding an interesting aspect to the experience.

 

As the first national park in India and the oldest in Asia, Jim Corbett National Park, nestled between the Himalayas and Shivalik mountains in Uttarakhand, boasts rich wildlife. Home to around 250 tigers, 600 elephants, golden jackals, deer species, black bears, and leopards, the park offers various safari options across its five zones. Additionally, the Sitabani Buffer Zone, just outside the park, provides opportunities for mountain biking, trekking, bird-watching, and other adventure activities.

 

Spanning India and Bangladesh, the Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a unique ecosystem. As the largest tiger reserve in India, it features Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, Asian elephants, dolphins, and Olive Ridley turtles. The tiger safari, conducted by boat with open decks, allows visitors to explore watchtowers and appreciate the distinctive landscape.

 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, Kaziranga is a haven for the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, housing two-thirds of the global population. With the highest density of tigers worldwide, the park also hosts elephants, water buffaloes, Swamp deer, and numerous bird species. Jeep and elephant safaris are available across four zones.

 

Located in Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park is a paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Apart from tigers, visitors can spot sambar and chital deer, langurs, and marsh crocodiles. The park offers Jeep and Canter safaris, bird safaris, and remains closed during the monsoon.

 

Nestled in the Aravali hills of Rajasthan, Sariska National Park features grasslands, dry deciduous forests, and cliffs. Known for its peafowl population and diverse bird species, the park also hosts tigers, leopards, jackals, and various other wildlife. Jeep and Canter safaris are available, and visitors can explore medieval ruins and temples.

 

The oldest and largest national park in India, Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh is renowned for tiger sightings, Barasingha, wild dogs, and diverse wildlife. Guided safari tours provide the only entry into the park, which remains open from October to the end of June.

 

In Karnataka, Bandipur National Park serves as a tiger reserve with the second-largest population of tigers in the country. The park is home to elephants, deer, bison, monkeys, and an array of bird species. Teak, bamboo, and sandalwood trees add to the picturesque landscape.

 

Gujarat’s Gir National Park, spanning 1412 square kilometers, is known as the land of lions. With around 40 species of mammals and 300 species of birds, Gir offers thrilling safaris and opportunities to explore the indigenous Maldhari and Siddhi tribes’ villages.