Going on a jungle safari for the first time? These 10 wildlife sanctuaries of India are perfect for you
If you are a nature lover and are planning to go on a jungle safari in India for the first time, then you must be a little confused to decide where to start. India is a country full of diversity – it has high mountains, deep forests, plains and even marshy areas near the sea. This is the reason why you get to see every kind of wildlife here.
There are some national parks in India that are considered most suitable for first-time safari goers – where the safari facilities are good, the paths are easy and the chances of seeing animals are also high. So let’s know about those 10 selected wildlife sanctuaries, where your first safari experience can be memorable.
1. Jim Corbett National Park
Adventure in the green valleys of Uttarakhand
How can a trip to an interesting & intriguing destination like the Jim Corbett National Park help one unwind Wander in its scenic valleys!!! One of India’s oldest wildlife sanctuaries, it was established in 1936.
The safari experience here is very organized and safe. Divided into different zones, you can go on a safari by jeep or canter in this park and if luck favors you, you can get a glimpse of tigers, elephants, leopards and rare birds.
- The safari is well organized
- There is a plethora of resorts and hotels
- The guides are trained
2. Ranthambore National Park
Roar of tigers in the desert of Rajasthan
Rajasthan is known not only for palaces and deserts, but also for tigers. Ranthambore National Park located in Sawai Madhopur district is famous for its historic fort and tiger sidings.
The atmosphere here is a bit different – when a tiger comes out among the dry bushes, its movement is heart-wrenching.
- Tigers, crocodiles, bears
- Ranthambhore Fort in the middle of the forest
- Perfect location for cameramen
3. Bandhavgarh National Park
Tiger Hotspot of Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh is not called the stronghold of tigers for nothing. The number of tigers here is dense and the chances of seeing them during the safari are the highest. Due to the small and dense forest, it is easy to track the movement of animals.
Here you will also get a glimpse of history – ancient caves and statues are settled in the forest.
- Small area, more chances
- Safari amidst beautiful natural scenery
- Assistance of experienced guides
4. Kaziranga National Park
Rhinoceros reigns on the land of Assam
Kaziranga National Park is on the bank of the Brahmaputra River, Assam, and one-horned rhinoceros make it the world-famous national park. It is UNESCO World Heritage Site and it renders one chance to explore the terrain through an elephant safari.
Seeing rhinoceros up close, buffalos roaming in the marshy plains and deer running – everything feels like a new experience.
- Home to the one-horned rhinoceros
- Diversity of wildlife
- Safe and exciting for novice tourists
5. Gir National Park
The last refuge of the Asiatic lions
If you want to see a lion in its natural habitat, then Gir National Park in Gujarat is the place to be; it has the only population of the Asiatic lion in open forests anywhere in the world.
The forest is dry and open so one can see the lion from quite a distance.
- The only lion habitat outside Africa
- Family friendly safari
- Diversity of birds and small animals too
6. Kanha National Park
A paradise on the land of Jungle Book
If you liked ‘Mowgli’, then you must visit Kanha once. The greenery, calm atmosphere and behavior of the guides make it an ideal place.
The ‘Barasingha’ here is a special attraction which is now found in very few places.
- Experience in beautiful forests
- Educational for children
- Reality of the stories related to the Jungle Book
7. Periyar National Park
Wildlife amidst the lake in Kerala
Such verdant expanses are tucked into the folds of Kerala, and here, Periyar Park stands as a national park unique for the fact that all safaris are conducted on boats. In these boats navigating the waters of the Periyar lake, the sight of elephants taking water on the shores brings the movement of a scene into a dreamlike image.
It is supposed to be a hiding ground for tigers too, although the possibility of spotting one there is relatively rare.
- Experience of water safari
- Peaceful environment
- Beauty of South India
8. Sundarban
A combination of tigers, crocodiles and mangroves
If you are looking for a little adventure and a little mystery, then go to Sundarban in West Bengal. The mangrove forests here are the largest in the world and the Royal Bengal Tigers here are famous for their swimming.
Travelling in a boat through the narrow canals of the jungle is a different kind of adventure.
- Be cautious and rely on guides
- Unique experience
- Recognised by UNESCO
9. Tadoba-Andhari
Maharashtra’s most underrated safari
Tadoba is becoming very popular among tiger lovers these days. It offers less crowds, good roads and an organised safari experience.
The chances of spotting a tiger are also quite high here, and the experience of the guides makes it even better.
- Peace, wilderness and adventure
- Bears, leopards and deer species
- An authentic jungle safari
10. Hemis National Park
Spot the snow leopard in the snowy hills
If you are a little adventurous and want to experience trekking at high altitudes, then Hemis National Park is for you. Located in Ladakh, this park is home to the snow leopard.
Here A safari is not easy – trekking on foot, braving the cold – but if you spot a snow leopard, all the fatigue is gone.
- A unique experience
- High Himalayan wildlife
- Meeting with local culture too
Final tips
If you are going on a safari for the first time, always keep these things in mind:
- Do proper research and avoid off-season
- Always listen to the guide and do not disturb the animals
- Carry a camera, but do not use flash
- Maintain peace in the forest
Conclusion
Wildlife sanctuaries in India are not just places to visit, but a way to connect with nature. For first-time safari goers, the 10 places mentioned above are not only safe and convenient, but will give you a combination of adventure, knowledge and natural beauty that you will never forget.
