10 Best Tiger Reserves in India

Once the hunting spot of the royal Jaipur Maharajas, Ranthambore is one of the largest tiger reserves in India. The reserve is sprawled over an area of 1.134 sq. km with a significant population of tigers. It is particularly known as the abode of Bengal tigers. Three serene three lakes, Padam Talao, Raj Talao, and Malik Talao, located within the reserve, act as the wildlife hotspot.

When you are here, you cannot miss a safari ride. Apart from tigers, you may also witness other species, including sloth bears, hyenas, Indian foxes, and jackals.

Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is indeed the best tiger reserve in India. Covering an enormous area of 500 sq. km, the national park was established in 1936. Only a few tiger reserves are blessed with as lush greenery as Jim Corbett in Uttarakhand. Grab your hats, enjoy a fascinating jungle safari or a thrilling trek amid the wilderness. Elephant safari is another enticing way to explore the entire region. Besides Bengal tigers, the tiger reserve is home to over 585 species of birds and 7 species of amphibians, among other varieties of fauna.

Visited by thousands of tourists every day, the Bandhavgarh tiger reserve ranks high on the list of the best tiger reserves in India. Why? Because it has the highest density of the Royal Bengal Tigers. Spread across a distance of 820 sq. km, the national park is home to the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort. With its rich biodiversity, natural beauty, and glorious history, a trip to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve attracts wildlife enthusiasts from far and wide.

Set up in 1983, Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve is the largest tiger reserve in India, with an area of 3,728 sq. km. Besides being home to Bengal tigers, the reserve is known for its variety of flora and fauna. You can enjoy a jeep safari to catch a glimpse of other mammals like sloth bears and Indian leopards. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve also boasts of a majestic temple of Lord Mallikarjuna, visited by many tourists.

A World Heritage Site, Sunderbans Tiger Reserve is the much-acclaimed home to the Royal Bengal tiger. The biggest tiger reserve in India, this tiger reserve also houses a significant number of endangered species, including aquatic mammals, birds, and reptiles. Are you wondering what is the most interesting about the Sunderbans Tiger Reserve? Unlike the country’s most national parks and reserves, Sunderbans does not offer jeep safari. Instead, you have to hop on a boat for transportation and sightseeing around the region.

Located in close proximity to the national capital, Sariska National Park is one of the top tiger reserves in India. Sariska offers incredible opportunities for wildlife fanatics and nature lovers to get up in close with rich wilderness. If you are lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, and crocodiles. So, if you are looking for a weekend getaway from Delhi or Jaipur, Sariska National Park can be the perfect spot.

If you are looking for an epic opportunity to enjoy the enchanting beauty and amazing wildlife in Kerala, Periyar Tiger Reserve is an ideal destination. One of the famous tiger reserves in India has a large population of Bengal tigers, white tigers, Asian elephants, wild boar, and sambar. With a total area of about 777 sq. km, it also boasts of an artificial lake adding to its beauty and charm.

With picturesque surroundings, abundant wildlife, and numerous exciting things to do, Bandipur Tiger Reserve is one of the biggest tiger reserves in India. It is the beautiful abode of tigers and other animals like Indian elephants, gaurs, jackals, and sloth bears. But what makes it stand out from the rest is an array of adventure activities, like camping, nature trails, white water rappelling, jeep safari, and river rafting.

Lush green forest, glittering streams, and a magnanimous variety of flora and fauna make Kanha Tiger Reserve among India biggest tiger reserves. It is the largest national park in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Also known as Kanha-Kisli National Park, it hosts Bengal tigers, along with sloth bear, Indian Leopard, and barasingha.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site on the list, Manas National Park, is a treasure trove of charming landscapes and exquisite wildlife. With a core area of 500 sq. km, it is known for its plentiful population of tigers. Apart from this, the park boasts of an elephant reserve. Tourists can enjoy an array of fun activities like elephant ride and boating in the crystalline in the Manas River. So, whether you are an ardent wildlife lover, nature lover, or thrill-seekers, Manas National Park is a paradise for everyone.

Blessed with scenic natural beauty, a bountiful population of tigers, exquisite wildlife, lovely lakes, and endemic flora, these tiger reserves in India are a perfect escapade from city life. Plan a family picnic or quench your thirst for a wildlife tour at one of these best tiger reserves.