It’s no secret that the top 7 wildlife sanctuaries in India house some of the world’s most fascinatingly elusive flora and fauna. After all, the country is blessed with the snow-capped Himalayas to the north, arid deserts to the west, a mighty tropical peninsula in the south, and lush green forests to the east. With so much variety in its climatic conditions, an abundantly diverse range of species roam India’s wildlife sanctuaries. If you are keen about knowing more of India’s natural bounty, it is the best place to start your journey.
Our list of the top 7 wildlife sanctuaries in India is more like a complete travel companion for you. So, without any further ado, pack your bags and let’s start our adventure with this handy guide!
Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries In India
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
- Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
- Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary
- Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
- Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat
This sanctuary proudly stands as the largest wildlife sanctuary in India with an area of roughly 7,505.22 square kilometers (sq km). While many sanctuaries are famous for the more ‘popular’ animals like tigers, lions, elephants, and others, this one is known for its elegant flamingos. This migration of bright pink flamingos dotting the pristine white Kutch desert is a seasonal affair and that is what has led to the desert being known as the world famous ‘Flamingo City’. It is located at a distance of around 10 kilometers (km) from the Nir outpost on Kala Dungar.
Moreover, the ancient Harappan-age buried city of Dholavira was also excavated here. Many fossils dating back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous eras have been found in this very desert. A speciality of this sanctuary is that it is one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas and attracts thousands of eager travelers.
Famous fauna: Flamingo, Indian porcupine, cormorant, chinkara, wild ass, desert fox, black-necked stork
Best time to visit: November to March
Closest major city: Bhuj (110 km)
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
The Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary has a sprawling and productive ecosystem spread across the Chilika Lake. It is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and covers a staggering 1100 km. One of India’s top biodiversity hotspots, there are several rare, endangered, and vulnerable species that call it their home.
This wildlife sanctuary in India is famous for supporting large congregations of migratory birds during winters, especially flamingos and waterfowls. With its vast expanse and pleasant climate, the lake provides a comfortable habitat for migratory birds and aquatic species. This also allows many aquatic species to thrive within the Chilika waters. While the lake itself is a picturesque and breathtaking experience, there are many spots around it that travelers can visit. These include the Kalijai Temple, Satpada, Rambha Bay, and Honeymoon Island among others.
Famous fauna: Flamingo, jacana, white-bellied sea eagle, heron, waterfowl, golden jackal, blackbuck, hyena
Best time to visit: November to February
Closest major city: Puri (50 km) and Bhubaneswar (120 km)
Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary
Also known as Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary, it is also a natural World Heritage site of category ix and x since 2012. It is home to more than 300 species each of plants and birds as well as hundreds of other animals.
The sanctuary is explorable through a safari or by trekking through its narrow, yet picturesque trails. Additionally, there are small temples inside that you can visit while on a mission to spot your favorite animal. There are viewing points dotted within the sanctuary that you can climb onto and experience the exhilarating beauty of the Sahyadri mountains. And also, if you are lucky enough, you might spot a four-legged being lapping up water from a pond.
Famous fauna: Nilgiri wood pigeon, Malabar gray hornbill, Malabar whistling thrush, giant squirrel, barking deer, bison, sambar, Ceylon frogmouth
Best time to visit: November to March
Closest major city: Kolhapur city (55 km) is the closest city that is also well connected via air, rail, and road.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in southeast Goa, this sanctuary is more famous for its scenic monsoon views than the usual winter season. We’re talking about abundantly flowing waterfalls and verdant green landscapes spread across 211 sq km. But if you dislike frequent rains, slippery terrain, and the general dampness, winters can also be a good time to visit.
The Savri and Mainapi waterfalls are key attractions here, accessible by hiking from the main Matoni Gate. There are no safaris or forest department guides within the sanctuary, but worry not! The trails are frequented often and clearly marked for nature enthusiasts. This sanctuary might not be as popular as others on the list, and that is why it is quite an underrated gem for you to explore.
Famous fauna: Leopard, bison, mouse deer, civet, Nilgiri wood pigeon, Ceylon frogmouth
Best time to visit: November to February; June to September
Closest major city: Margao (45 km) and Dabolim (73 km)
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Also famous as Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, it is situated in Kerala, God’s Own Country. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a component of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve as well as of the Elephant Reserve No. 7. A number of tribes call this place their home, including the Adiyar, Paniya, and the Kuruma.
To explore the beauty of this sanctuary, there are jungle safaris available from Muthanga and Tholpettey. If you prefer walking your way through the wilderness, there are also nature trails here. The wildlife sanctuary is known for its conservation efforts for vultures as well as sightings of the rare Ullaman (four-horned antelope)
Famous fauna: Egyptian vulture, four-horned antelope, wild boar, sambar, gaur, stripe-necked mongoose, Asian elephant, and tiger
Best time to visit: November to February
Closest major city: Kozhikode (111 km)
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Periyar Tiger Reserve or Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is a magnificent 777 sq km area known for its varied fauna and lush vegetation. It lies tucked away in the southern region of the Western Ghats. With lush, evergreen forests, the reserve is home to a wide range of species, including rare and endangered ones.
The valley is known for the 244 km long Periyar River, which is Kerala’s largest one. This perennial river is essential to the area since it supplies drinking water to a number of municipalities. It also makes a substantial contribution to the state’s electricity production through the Idukki Dam. Frequently referred to as the ‘Lifeline of Kerala’, the river and its tributaries constitute the Periyar Valley, an exceptional and essential natural asset.
Famous fauna: Royal Bengal Tiger, Travancore flying squirrel, Nilgiri langur, stripe-necked mongoose, gaur, sambar, Nilgiri wood pigeon
Best time to visit: October to March
Closest major city: Cochin (149 km)
Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
The Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, in addition to being well-known for its other species, is now a popular tiger reserve. Here you can indulge in exciting guided and unguided treks and educational safaris and see the undisturbed splendor of the Anamalai Hills.
You can engage with the elephants and observe how they are fed in designated camps. Famous for its crocodiles and other aquatic life, the Amaravathi Reservoir is also located within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. It is home to more than 800 plant and 250 bird species, making it a sanctuary for those who love nature.
Famous fauna: Spotted deer, sloth bear, Nilgiri tahr, panther, elephant, tiger
Best time to visit: October to March
Closest major city: Coimbatore (75 km)
Summing Up
These top 7 wildlife sanctuaries in India provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience nature. Every sanctuary showcases the nation’s abundant biodiversity in a different way, whether it’s the tranquil Chilika Lake, the verdant forests of Periyar, or the distinct desert vistas of Kutch. These sanctuaries are ideal for anyone who wants to experience more of what India has to offer, whether they are wildlife or nature lovers.
FAQs
Which Is The Smallest Wildlife Sanctuary In India?
The Bor Tiger Reserve is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in India, sprawling across roughly 121 sq km.
How Many Wildlife Sanctuaries Are There In India?
According to the National Wildlife Database, Nov. 2023, there are a total of 573 wildlife sanctuaries in India. They cover about 3.7% of India’s land area.
Which Is The Largest Bird Sanctuary In India?
The Keoladeo or Bharatpur Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest bird sanctuary in India. Around 400 species of birds call it their home.
Which Is The Largest Sanctuary In India?
The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest sanctuary in terms of size. It is situated in the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.
