10 Most Amazing Tiger Reserves in India
Tigers are often associated with words like wild, ferocious, unpredictable, and predatory. While they are indeed formidable creatures, there's no denying their majestic beauty. If you're captivated by the idea of seeing tigers roam freely in their natural habitat, why not plan your next trip to a tiger reserve in India? The country is home to several renowned tiger reserves where you can witness these magnificent beasts up close.
Curious about the best tiger reserves to visit? Here’s a list to help you plan your adventure:
# Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand
Established in 1936, Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is India’s oldest national park and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to numerous Bengal tigers, this reserve boasts rich biodiversity, making every safari an unforgettable experience. If you're lucky, you might even hear the tigers roaring in the wild.
# Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
Founded in 1974, Bandipur Tiger Reserve is one of India's top tiger sanctuaries, housing the second-largest tiger population in the country. Besides the majestic tigers, you can also spot Indian elephants, sloth bears, jackals, gaurs, and four-horned antelopes during your visit.
# Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is a must-visit for those eager to witness tigers in their natural surroundings. Spanning 1,536 square kilometers, the reserve is home to a diverse range of animals, reptiles, and bird species, making it a great destination for a family or group getaway.
# Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Andhra Pradesh
Covering an expansive 3,728 square kilometers, Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve is India's largest. Established in 1983, this reserve is not just about wildlife—here, you’ll also find temples, reservoirs, and breathtaking landscapes. Apart from Bengal tigers, keep an eye out for leopards, sloth bears, snakes, and lizards.
# Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
For those residing in western India, a road trip to Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is a fantastic idea. Established in 1980, it is one of the country’s top reserves, offering visitors the chance to observe royal Bengal tigers up close. The park also features picturesque lakes that enhance its natural charm.
# Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kerala
Periyar Tiger Reserve, originally known as Periyar Lake Reserve, was established in 1899 and later declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1950. In 1978, it gained the status of a tiger reserve. This lush green paradise is home to Bengal and white tigers, as well as Indian giant squirrels and Asian elephants. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting rare species like the Malabar grey hornbill, blue-winged parakeet, and Nilgiri wood pigeon.
# Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, West Bengal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is home to around 400 tigers and over 248 bird species. The reserve is uniquely characterized by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, offering a mesmerizing landscape alongside its diverse wildlife.
# Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra
Tadoba National Park is an excellent destination for those looking to observe tigers basking in the sun. Besides tigers, visitors can also spot sloth bears, leopards, and a variety of rare birds.
# Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Considered one of Asia’s finest national parks, Kanha National Park is famous for its significant tiger population and rare barasingha (swamp deer). The park’s lush elephant grasslands are said to have inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
# Manas National Park, Assam
A UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site and a designated tiger reserve under Project Tiger, Manas National Park is known for its dense tiger population. This park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive jungle experience.
If you love wildlife and adventure, visiting these tiger reserves will be an exhilarating experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to witness the grandeur of India’s wild tigers in their natural habitat!