Spot Wild Cats At These Top 10 National Parks In India

OT Staff

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

A premier destination for tiger sightings, Ranthambore offers stunning opportunities to see big cats in their natural surroundings. The park’s ancient ruins and fort add a unique charm, and it’s also home to leopards and caracals.

A Bengal tiger at Ranthambore National Park | Shutterstock

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Known for its high density of Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh provides a thrilling wildlife experience. Its diverse landscapes, including grasslands, dense forests, and rocky terrain, make it a hotspot for big cat enthusiasts.

A tiger at the Bandhavgarh National Park, | Shutterstock

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

India’s oldest national park is a haven for spotting tigers amidst sprawling forests and grasslands. The scenic Ramganga River flowing through the park enhances its biodiversity, also attracting leopards and jungle cats.

A leopard sleeps on a tree at Jim Corbett National Park | Shutterstock

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The inspiration behind The Jungle Book, Kanha offers exceptional opportunities to spot Bengal tigers, leopards, and jungle cats. Its vibrant ecosystem is enriched by barasingha, making it a well-rounded wildlife destination.

A tiger at Kanha National Park | Shutterstock

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans is famed for its Royal Bengal tigers, known for their ability to swim in the mangrove-lined waters. This unique ecosystem offers an unparalleled experience of wildlife exploration.

A big cat bathes in a pond in Sundarbans National Park | Shutterstock

Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Spread across stunning landscapes, Pench is known for its tiger population and smaller wild cats like jungle cats. The serene Pench River adds to its beauty, making it a favourite spot for wildlife photography.

Leopard on a tree at Pench National Park | Shutterstock

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

One of India’s oldest tiger reserves, Tadoba is renowned for frequent and close tiger sightings. Its dense teak forests and waterholes also attract leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of other wildlife.

Nayantara from Tadoba andhari tiger reserve | Shutterstock

Periyar National Park, Kerala

Though famous for its elephant population, Periyar is also home to leopards and tigers, offering occasional sightings. The picturesque Periyar Lake provides a tranquil setting to spot wildlife during boat rides.

Malabar Giant Squirrel or Ratufa indica in a forest in Periyar, Kerala | Shutterstock

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka

Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Nagarhole is a thriving habitat for leopards, tigers, and other big cats. The park’s scenic landscapes, with waterfalls, forests, and hills, make it a picturesque wildlife retreat.

An Indian tiger at Nagarhole National Park | Shutterstock

Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Once facing near extinction of its tiger population, Panna has made a remarkable recovery through conservation efforts. Its rugged plateaus, gorges, and forested areas are now home to tigers, leopards, and even caracals.

A female tigress looks back into the camera at Panna National Park | Shutterstock

10 Things To Know Before Your First Safari In India

Read More