India is a treasure trove of biodiversity, and when it comes to preserving its most majestic inhabitant, the tiger, the country boasts some remarkable reserves. These top 5 tiger reserves in India harbor these magnificent big cats and provide a safe haven for countless other species. Join us on a journey through these exceptional sanctuaries, where nature’s beauty and the power of conservation converge.
List of Tiger Reserves in India
India’s rich wilderness is home to the iconic Bengal tiger, and its protection is crucial. There are 53 tiger reserves in India among which these are the top in the list of tiger reserves in India dedicated to safeguarding these magnificent creatures.
- Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve: Uttarakhand’s Wild Wonder!
- Bandipur National Park: Karnataka’s Nature Haven.
- Nagarhole National Park: Where Karnataka Roars.
- Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve: Madhya Pradesh’s Tiger Gem.
- Kanha Tiger Reserve: Madya Pradesh’s Jungle Book.
- Ranthambore Tiger Reserve: Rajasthan’s Royal Wilderness.
Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is India’s oldest and one of the most visited tiger spots in India. It’s not just about tigers; the reserve’s diverse ecosystems encompass lush forests, glistening rivers, and a myriad of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. This is also one of the best places to see tigers in India.
Location: Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, northern India.
Famous For: Known for its picturesque landscapes and being the first national park in India.
Safari Price: Prices vary by zone and type of safari, ranging from approximately INR 4,000 to 8,000 per jeep safari.
Tiger Spotting Zones: Popular zones include Dhikala, Bijrani, and Jhirna.
Best Time to Visit: November to June is the best time; the park remains closed during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Jim Corbett
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 50 km away.
- By Train: Ramnagar Railway Station, about 12 km from the park, is the nearest railway station.
- By Bus: Regular bus services are available from major nearby cities.
Bandipur National Park, Karnataka:
In the southern state of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is a thriving tiger haven. Its sprawling landscapes are a haven for the elusive big cats. While on safari, you can also spot elephants, deer, and countless avian species, making it a well-rounded wildlife sanctuary in India.
Location: Located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, southern India.
Famous For: Renowned for its tiger conservation and diverse wildlife.
Safari Price: Jeep safaris cost around INR 2,000 to 4,000 per person.
Tiger Spotting Zones: Key zones include Bandipur, Gundre, and Maddur.
Best Time to Visit: October to May is the ideal time; the park is closed during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Bandipur National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, about 80 km away.
- By Train: Mysore Railway Station, approximately 80 km from Bandipur, is the closest railway station.
- By Bus: Regular bus services are run by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation KSRTC which connects Bandipur to major cities in Karnataka.
Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
Adjacent to Bandipur, Nagarhole National Park is another jewel in Karnataka’s wildlife crown. Lush teak forests, serene rivers, and picturesque landscapes provide a scenic backdrop to tiger sightings. The park’s pristine environment is a testament to successful conservation efforts. It is one of the best tiger reserves in South India.
Location: Located in the Mysore district of Karnataka, southern India.
Famous For: Known for its lush forests and thriving tiger population.
Safari Price: Jeep safari costs range from INR 2,000 to 4,000 per person.
Tiger Spotting Zones: Popular zones include Kabini and Veeranahosalli.
Best Time to Visit: October to May is the best time; the park closes during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Nagarhole National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, around 96 km away.
- By Train: Mysore Railway Station is the closest railway station, approximately 96 km from Nagarhole.
- By Bus: Regular buses connect Nagarhole to Mysore, Bangalore and other nearby towns.
Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh:
Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is renowned for its high tiger density. The undulating landscapes, ancient ruins, and dense vegetation create a mystical aura. Here, the odds of tiger sightings are exceptional, making it a favored destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Location: Located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, central India.
Famous For: Renowned for its high tiger density and historic Bandhavgarh Fort.
Safari Price: Jeep safari prices range from INR 4,000 to 8,000 per person.
Tiger Spotting Zones: Popular zones include Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli.
Best Time to Visit: October to June is the best time to visit; the park remains closed during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, approximately 164 km away.
- By Train: Umaria Railway Station, around 37 km from the reserve, is the closest railway station.
- By Bus: Regular buses connect Bandhavgarh to Umaria and nearby cities.
Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
Kanha Tiger Reserve, often referred to as the inspiration for “The Jungle Book,” is a prime example of India’s lush central forests. Tigers, leopards, and sloth bears roam freely amidst sal and bamboo forests. It’s a place where Rudyard Kipling’s tales come to life.
Location: Located in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, central India.
Famous For: Known as the inspiration for “The Jungle Book” and its diverse wildlife.
Safari Price: Jeep safari prices vary from INR 4,000 to 8,000 per person.
Tiger Spotting Zones: Key zones include Kanha, Mukki, and Kisli.
Best Time to Visit: October to June is the best time; the park closes during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Kanha Tiger Reserve
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, approximately 160 km away.
- By Train: Jabalpur Railway Station is the nearest major railway station, about 175 km from Kanha.
- By Bus: Regular buses connect Kanha to nearby towns and cities.
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
In the heart of Rajasthan, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve combines regal history with wild beauty. The ancient Ranthambore Fort overlooks the reserve’s landscapes, where tigers roam amidst the ruins and water bodies. This unique blend of heritage and wildlife is a must-visit for any traveler.
Location: Located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, northern India.
Famous For: Renowned for its unique blend of wildlife and historic Ranthambore Fort.
Safari Price: Jeep safari prices range from INR 1,000 to 2,000 per person.
Tiger Spotting Zones: Popular zones include Zone 1 to Zone 10.
Best Time to Visit: October to June is the ideal time to visit; the park remains closed during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur Airport, approximately 180 km away.
- By Train: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, about 11 km from the park, is the nearest railway station.
- By Bus: Regular bus services run by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation RSRTC to connect Ranthambore to nearby towns and cities.
In conclusion, these top 5 tiger reserves in India not only serve as vital sanctuaries for our national pride, and also offer us a glimpse into the raw beauty and wonder of the natural world. As we celebrate these sanctuaries of biodiversity and conservation, let us also remember our shared responsibility to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures and their habitats for generations to come. These tiger reserves in India are not just places on a map; they are vital lifelines, connecting us to the world of wildlife and reminding us of the importance of coexisting harmoniously with nature. You can easily book bus tickets on AbhiBus, and plan your visit to one of these tiger reserves in India, and let the magic of the wild take you on an unforgettable journey.
FAQ’s about Tiger Reserves in India
How many tiger reserves are there in India?
The total tiger reserves in India are 53.
Where is the largest tiger reserve in India which state is it located?
The largest tiger reserve in India is the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR), which is located in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Which is the first tiger reserve in India?
The first tiger reserve in India is the Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, formerly known as the Hailey National Park. It was established in 1936 and is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.
Which is the wildlife sanctuary famous for Royal Bengal Tigers?
The name of tiger reserve in India which is famous for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers is Sundarbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This wildlife sanctuary is located in the Sundarbans Delta in the southern part of West Bengal, India, and extends into Bangladesh.
