5 National Parks Within 300 Km Of Delhi For The Perfect Nature Break

As board exams wrap up and the school bags are finally zipped shut for a while, families across Delhi start looking for that much-needed breather. And what could be better than swapping traffic jams for forest trails, and screen time for safari time? The late-winter and early-summer window is perfect for quick wildlife getaways—clear skies, active animals, and just enough chill in the air to make early morning drives enjoyable. The best part? You don’t have to travel far. Within 300 km of the capital lie some of India’s most rewarding national parks and tiger reserves. Whether you’re travelling with curious kids, first-time safari-goers, or simply craving silence after months of chaos, these five parks promise a reset button—complete with birdsong, rustling leaves, and the thrilling possibility of spotting the wild where it belongs.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

India’s oldest national park still holds its ground as a classic wildlife escape. Located around 245 km from Delhi, Jim Corbett is where many travellers have their first tiger sighting—and then keep coming back for more. Spread across diverse zones like Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, and Dhela, the park offers a mix of grasslands, river belts, and dense sal forests. Beyond the iconic Bengal tiger, you may spot Asian elephants, leopards, gharials along the Ramganga River, and over 600 species of birds. Early morning safaris here feel cinematic, especially when mist lifts off the river and alarm calls echo through the forest. Corbett also has well-developed stay options, making it comfortable for families and first-time visitors.

What to see: Dhikala grasslands, Ramganga River, Corbett Museum, Garjia Devi Temple

Best time to visit: November to June (Dhikala Zone typically open mid-November to mid-June)

Estimated travel time: 5 hours (approx.)

Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan

Located roughly 220 km from Delhi, Sariska shows you don't have to go too far from the city to feel like you're in a different world. Located in the Aravalli hills, this place used to be a royal hunting area and now mixes history with wildlife protection. The dry forests and rocky areas are home to Bengal tigers (which were brought back), leopards, striped hyenas, nilgai, and sambar deer. Taking a jeep safari in the winter or early summer is a good experience because that's when animals come to the water. What makes Sariska special is its historical setting. Old temples and the Kankwari Fort, which was built in the 10th century, are located inside the reserve. It’s small enough for a quick weekend trip but still makes you feel like you're out in the wild.

What to see: Kankwari Fort, Pandupol Temple, Siliserh Lake

Best time to visit: October to March (pleasant weather and good visibility)

Estimated travel time: 3 hours 40 minutes (Approx.)

Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

Located roughly 200 km from Delhi, Keoladeo National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for bird lovers. Unlike tiger reserves, this park invites you to slow down—explore on foot, cycle, or take a rickshaw ride through wetlands alive with sound. This place has records of more than 370 kinds of birds. These include painted storks, pelicans, cranes, and birds that fly in from Central Asia during the winter. The foggy mornings between November and February are quite special, especially when groups of birds suddenly fly up from the swamps. It's a great, easy way for kids and families to see wild animals.

What to see: Wetland trails, birdwatching towers, Bharatpur Palace, Lohagarh Fort
Best time to visit: October to February (peak migratory season)

Estimated travel time: 3 hours 36 minutes (approx.)

National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh/Rajasthan/Madhya Pradesh

If you want a change from the usual tiger trips, think about visiting the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary. It's about 300 km from Delhi and features a rough river landscape. Instead of forests, you'll find dramatic ravines, clean rivers, and unusual water creatures. The sanctuary stretches along the Chambal River through three states.

Chambal is a key area in India for protecting the critically endangered gharial. The best part is taking a boat trip. You'll drift by sandbanks where you can see gharials, mugger crocodiles, freshwater turtles, and maybe even the hard-to-spot Gangetic river dolphin.

The sanctuary is also home to over 290 species of birds, including Indian skimmers and migratory waterfowl. It’s quiet, stark, and unexpectedly beautiful—a true hidden gem for families who want something educational yet adventurous.

What to see: Gharial breeding centre, boat safari on Chambal River, ravine landscapes, Bateshwar temples nearby

Best time to visit: October to March

Estimated travel time: 5 hours 26 minutes (approx.)

Sultanpur National Park, Haryana

If you’re short on time but still craving nature, Sultanpur National Park—just 50 km from Delhi—is the easiest escape. Compact yet vibrant, this wetland sanctuary is home to over 250 species of resident and migratory birds. Winter sees an influx of flamingos, pelicans, Siberian cranes (historically), and various ducks and raptors. Well-marked walking trails and watchtowers make it accessible even for first-time visitors and young children. It’s less about dramatic wildlife chases and more about quiet observation—binoculars in hand, sunlight glinting off the water, and the gentle hum of nature replacing city noise. Perfect for a day trip that still feels restorative.

What to see: Birdwatching trails, observation towers, Basai wetlands nearby

Best time to visit: October to March

Estimated travel time: 1 hour (approx.)

FAQs

1. Which national park near Delhi is best for tiger sightings?
Jim Corbett, Sariska, and Dudhwa offer strong chances, especially between November and April.

2. What is the nearest wildlife sanctuary to Delhi?
Sultanpur National Park in Haryana, about 50 km away, is the closest and ideal for a day trip.

3. Is advance safari booking necessary?
Yes. Safaris often sell out on weekends and holidays, so booking online in advance is recommended.

4. What is the best season to visit these parks?
October to March is ideal, with pleasant weather and better wildlife visibility.

5. Are these parks suitable for children and first-time visitors?
Yes. Most parks have guided safaris, safe zones, and family-friendly stay options.