India, known for its bustling cities, ancient temples, and diverse culture, also boasts an extraordinary wealth of wildlife sanctuaries. While places like Jim Corbett and Ranthambore get the lion’s share of attention, several lesser known sanctuaries lie hidden in the folds of India’s vast geography. These offbeat wildlife destinations offer incredible opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in pristine landscapes teeming with wildlife.
Here’s a list of lesser known wildlife sanctuaries in India that offer not just rare flora and fauna but also unique experiences.
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Though gaining recognition, Tadoba still remains off the radar for many wildlife lovers compared to more famous reserves. Located in Maharashtra, it is home to a significant tiger population and a rich ecosystem of leopards, sloth bears, and wild dogs.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Tiger Safari: Embark on an exhilarating safari to spot tigers, leopards, and a plethora of bird species.
- Night Walks: Tadoba offers thrilling night walks, allowing visitors to witness nocturnal wildlife in action.
- Photography Workshops: The rich biodiversity and landscape make Tadoba a paradise for budding photographers.
Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra
Located near the Koyna Dam and in the Sahyadri ranges, this sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The sanctuary offers refuge to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various endemic flora.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Waterfall Hikes: Explore several hidden waterfalls that lie deep within the forests, perfect for picnics and photo sessions.
- River Rafting: During the monsoon season, Koyna River turns into a hub for adventure lovers seeking river rafting thrills.
- Wildlife Safari: Go on a safari to spot leopards, wild boars, and gaur (Indian bison) in their natural habitat.
Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra
Nestled in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, Nagzira is a lesser known sanctuary that is rich in biodiversity. It offers a peaceful retreat, far from the crowds, and is home to tigers, leopards, and a host of other wildlife.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Jeep Safari: Experience an offbeat jungle safari where you can spot tigers, leopards, and wild dogs.
- Night Safari: Nagzira offers unique night safaris where nocturnal wildlife can be observed.
- Camping: The sanctuary offers camping experiences for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
Tucked away near the Goa-Karnataka border, Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem that harbors the endangered Wroughton’s free-tailed bat, found only in the caves here. The sanctuary is a blend of lush evergreen forests and scenic landscapes.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Cave Exploration: Discover the mysterious caves that house the endangered bats and learn about their unique habitat.
- Trekking: Explore the dense forest on foot, which provides breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and vibrant flora.
- Bird Watching: With over 200 species of birds, it’s a paradise for ornithologists and bird watchers alike.
Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
Kabini, part of the Nagarhole National Park, is one of South India’s lesser-explored gems. Known for its dense forests and riverside beauty, it is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Boat Safari on Kabini River: Witness wildlife, especially elephants, bathing or grazing along the riverbanks.
- Jeep Safari: Explore the forest interiors to spot tigers, leopards, and Indian gaur.
- Bird Watching: The sanctuary is rich in birdlife, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Nokrek National Park, Meghalaya
This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya remains untouched by mass tourism. Nokrek is home to the endangered red panda, elephants, and several rare orchids and medicinal plants. The park is also part of one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots—the Eastern Himalayas.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Hiking and Trekking: Traverse through dense tropical forests, exploring pristine rivers and waterfalls.
- Ethnic Village Visits: Nokrek is close to several Garo tribal villages, offering visitors a chance to interact with the locals and experience their way of life.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for elusive red pandas, clouded leopards, and rare species of butterflies in the park.
Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Far from the deserts, the Sitamata Sanctuary is an oasis of greenery in southern Rajasthan. This offbeat sanctuary is famous for its population of flying squirrels and the Indian giant squirrel.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Night Safari: Spot the elusive flying squirrel gliding between trees during a night safari.
- Nature Walks: Wander through dense deciduous forests filled with teak, bamboo, and flame of the forest trees.
- Cultural Tours: The sanctuary is located near ancient temples and historic sites, allowing you to combine wildlife viewing with cultural exploration.
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Rajasthan
A lesser known gem in Rajasthan, Tal Chhapar is a sanctuary dedicated to blackbucks and is characterized by its open grasslands. It provides a unique setting that contrasts with the usual forested sanctuaries.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Blackbuck Safari: Observe herds of blackbucks grazing in the golden grasslands.
- Bird Watching: The sanctuary is a haven for raptors like the Montagu’s harrier and other migratory birds.
- Photography: The open landscapes offer brilliant opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
National Chambal Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh
Located along the Chambal River, this sanctuary is famous for its critically endangered gharials (a species of crocodile) and the rare Gangetic dolphin. The rugged and ravine-laden landscape offers a unique experience.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Boat Safari: Drift along the Chambal River to spot gharials, mugger crocodiles, and dolphins.
- Bird Watching: The sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory birds, including the Indian skimmer and flamingos.
- Photography: Capture stunning images of the river landscape and rare species.
Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh
Part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Katarniaghat is known for its lush forests and the presence of Gangetic dolphins. It offers a quieter alternative to other wildlife sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Boat Ride on the Ghaghra River: Spot dolphins and mugger crocodiles along the river.
- Jeep Safari: Go on an offbeat safari to see tigers, leopards, and swamp deer.
- Nature Walks: The sanctuary offers serene walking trails that allow you to enjoy the forest’s beauty.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, Chhattisgarh
Tucked away in Chhattisgarh, Achanakmar Tiger Reserve offers serene landscapes and rich wildlife. It’s one of the quieter tiger reserves, perfect for those who want to enjoy wildlife in peace.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Tiger Safari: Spot tigers, leopards, and other large mammals in the lush green landscape.
- Trekking: Explore the forest trails while learning about the local flora and fauna.
- Cultural Tours: Visit nearby tribal villages to experience the unique culture of the region.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam
Often overshadowed by Kaziranga National Park, Pobitora is a lesser known wildlife sanctuary located in Assam. Despite its smaller size, it has the highest concentration (density) of Indian one-horned rhinoceros in the world.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Jeep Safari: Pobitora is one of the best places to see rhinos in their natural habitat.
- Boat Rides on River Brahmaputra: Go for a scenic boat ride on the Brahmaputra river to witness river dolphins and migratory birds.
- Village Tours: Engage with local communities to experience the traditional Assamese lifestyle and indulge in the region’s delicious cuisine.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam
This lesser known national park in Assam is a biodiversity hotspot, known for its semi-evergreen forests and grasslands. Dibru-Saikhowa is home to feral horses, wild buffalo, and river dolphins.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Boat Safari: Drift along the Brahmaputra and its tributaries to spot rare wildlife and river dolphins.
- Bird Watching: The park is renowned for its birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
- Wildlife Safari: Spot unique wildlife species like feral horses and elephants.
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha
Located near the Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, this sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds, both resident and migratory, including flamingos, pelicans, and sandpipers.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Boat Ride in Chilika Lake: Spot dolphins and explore the tranquil islands dotting the lake while witnessing breathtaking sunsets.
- Bird Watching: During winter months, the sanctuary becomes a haven for migratory birds from Siberia, making it a perfect destination for bird lovers.
- Fishing Village Tour: Visit the local fishing villages around the lake and learn about their traditional practices and way of life.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa
Often overshadowed by Goa’s beaches, this sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats, offers rich biodiversity, including leopards, pangolins, and over 200 species of birds. It’s a great retreat for those looking to combine a beach holiday with some wildlife exploration.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Trekking to Dudhsagar Falls: Trek through the sanctuary to reach the stunning Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of India’s highest waterfalls.
- Nature Walks: Meander through dense forests filled with unique plant and animal species.
- Temple and Fort Visit: Explore the ancient Tambdi Surla Temple and the historic Dudhsagar Fort, located within the sanctuary.
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat
Located near Jamnagar, Gujarat, Khijadiya is an important wetland ecosystem that attracts a wide variety of migratory birds. Despite its importance, it remains relatively unexplored by tourists.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Bird Watching: Spot over 300 species of birds, including pelicans, flamingos, and various ducks.
- Photography: The sanctuary’s wetlands provide stunning backdrops for bird photography.
- Boat Rides: During certain seasons, boat rides offer a close look at aquatic birds and fish-eating predators.
Pampadum Shola National Park, Kerala
Tucked away in Kerala’s Western Ghats, Pampadum Shola is the smallest national park in Kerala but holds immense biodiversity. It’s perfect for those looking for tranquility and unique flora and fauna.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Trekking: Explore the park’s scenic trekking trails, filled with endemic plants and rich birdlife.
- Camping: Spend the night under the stars at eco-friendly campsites within the park.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for Nilgiri martens, elephants, and several species of birds.
Dachigam National Park, Jammu & Kashmir
Nestled in the Kashmir Valley, Dachigam is known for its breathtaking landscapes and the critically endangered Kashmir stag, also called Hangul. The park boasts a variety of habitats, from lush green valleys to rocky ridges.
Top Activities to Enjoy:
- Wildlife Safari: Spot the elusive Hangul, leopards, and Himalayan black bears.
- Trekking: Explore the park’s rugged terrain with scenic trekking trails.
- Bird Watching: Watch out for several species of birds, including the Himalayan monal and koklass pheasant.
India’s lesser known wildlife sanctuaries offer unique and offbeat experiences that are often missed by tourists seeking more popular destinations. These hidden gems not only provide an intimate connection with nature but also support the conservation of endangered species and local ecosystems. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or someone simply seeking tranquility, these sanctuaries promise unforgettable adventures in the heart of India’s wilderness.
