India’s Best Wildlife Safaris 2026: Top National Parks & Reserves

OT Staff & Waquar Habib

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore’s dramatic tiger safaris amid ancient forts and dry forests offer iconic wildlife experiences. Frequent tiger sightings make it a must-visit for nature photographers and big-cat enthusiasts.

A tiger roars as another one looks on in Ranthambore National Park | Shutterstock

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

India’s oldest national park blends riverine forests, grasslands and diverse habitats. Jeep safaris here deliver sought-after Bengal tiger and elephant encounters plus rich birdlife.

A tiger among the grasslands of Jim Corbett National Park | Shutterstock

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

High tiger density and compact core zones yield rewarding sightings. With historic ruins and abundant wildlife, Bandhavgarh is a photographer’s favourite for safari adventures.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh | Sourabh Bharti/Shutterstock

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Beautiful sal forests and grasslands define Kanha, home to barasingha deer and tigers. Safari drives offer classic jungle experiences and excellent wildlife photography chances.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh | Sumon's photography/Shutterstock

Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

Tadoba’s open terrain and waterholes make tiger sightings frequent, especially in dry months. This reserve is prized for raw safari action and biodiversity.

Nayantara from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve | Shutterstock

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga showcases one-horned rhinos with elephants, swamp deer and abundant birdlife against Brahmaputra floodplains on thrilling jeep or elephant safaris.

Winter photography at Kaziranga National Park | nhm_wpy/instagram

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

Tidal river channels and dense mangroves define Sundarbans, where boat safaris may reveal elusive Royal Bengal tigers and estuarine fauna amid dramatic landscapes.

Winter photography at Sundarbans National Park | pujadey_wildlife/instagram

Gir National Park, Gujarat

Gir stands as the last natural home of the Asiatic lion. Dry woodlands and open grasslands provide superb lion sightings and rich safari diversity.

An Asiatic lion at the Gir National Park | Shutterstock

Hemis National Park, Ladakh

At high altitude, Hemis offers a rare chance to see the elusive snow leopard alongside Himalayan wildlife, dramatic mountains and cold-desert safari trails.

A snow leopard sits at the Hemis National Park, Kashmir | Shutterstock

Pench National Park (Madhya Pradesh-Maharashtra)

Pench’s gentle forests, leopards, and birdlife create a tranquil safari experience, ideal for both enthusiasts and first-time wildlife travellers seeking diverse encounters.

A leopard at Pench National Park | Shutterstock

Best Time To Visit Kaziranga National Park: Winter Safari Guide

A one-horned rhino crosses a track at Kaziranga National Park | Shutterstock
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