India is renowned for its iconic wildlife sanctuaries like Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, and Kaziranga. But beyond these popular destinations lie lesser-known parks that are just as rich in biodiversity, and often more peaceful and pristine. If you’re seeking a wildlife adventure away from the usual tourist trails, these 15 underrated national parks are well worth exploring.
1. Namdapha National Park – Arunachal Pradesh
Deep in the Eastern Himalayas, Namdapha’s pristine forests shelter some of Earth’s rarest species. It’s one of the few places where four big cat species — tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, and snow leopard — coexist.
2. Sanjay Dubri National Park – Madhya Pradesh
This lesser-known park offers dense forests and tranquil wildlife experiences. You may encounter sloth bears, leopards, and Indian foxes in their natural habitats.
3. Khangchendzonga National Park – Sikkim
Named after India’s third-highest peak, this high-altitude park features alpine forests, rare orchids, and endangered species like the red panda and Himalayan musk deer.
4. Nokrek National Park – Meghalaya
Home to Meghalaya’s only biosphere reserve, Nokrek is ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Rare citrus species and the elusive Western Hoolock gibbon can be found here.
5. Bhitarkanika National Park – Odisha
Often dubbed India’s mini-Sundarbans, Bhitarkanika’s mangrove wetlands support massive saltwater crocodiles and a rich variety of birdlife, especially during the winter migration season.
6. Phawngpui (Blue Mountain) National Park – Mizoram
Famed for its mystical blue mountains, this serene park in Mizoram is a sanctuary for exotic birds and animals including serows and clouded leopards.
7. Mollem National Park – Goa
Beyond Goa’s beaches lies Mollem — part of the Western Ghats — offering scenic treks, butterfly trails, and chances to spot black panthers and Indian bison.
8. Valmiki Tiger Reserve – Bihar
Tucked along the Indo-Nepal border, Valmiki Reserve shelters Bengal tigers, leopards, and exotic birds, making it an emerging spot for eco-tourism in eastern India.
9. Keibul Lamjao National Park – Manipur
Unique for being the world’s only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao rests on Loktak Lake and is the last natural habitat of the endangered sangai deer.
10. Pakke Tiger Reserve – Arunachal Pradesh
A model for community-driven conservation, Pakke is one of the best places for birdwatching in India, with over 300 avian species documented.
11. Tadoba’s Buffer Zones – Maharashtra
While Tadoba’s core is well-known, its buffer zones offer quieter wildlife sightings — especially for tigers, wild boars, and dhole packs — with fewer vehicles around.
12. Simlipal National Park – Odisha
Recognized as a biosphere reserve, Simlipal is a blend of lush hills and meadows, supporting tigers, elephants, and over 200 species of medicinal plants.
13. Kuno National Park – Madhya Pradesh
Kuno has emerged as a thrilling wildlife destination, capturing global interest with India’s ambitious cheetah reintroduction program—a magnet for eco-tourists and conservation enthusiasts alike
14. Sri Venkateswara National Park – Andhra Pradesh
Lying near the Tirupati Hills, this park is often overshadowed by nearby temples. Yet it hides spectacular biodiversity, including sloth bears and panthers, along with cascading waterfalls.
15. Pench Buffer Zones – MP-Maharashtra Border
While Pench’s core attracts the spotlight, its surrounding buffer zones offer a more raw experience, rich with dry teak forests and lesser-disturbed wildlife corridors.
Why Choose These Offbeat Parks?
Exploring lesser-known national parks ensures:
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Fewer crowds and more serene wildlife encounters
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Authentic, community-rich eco-tourism
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Greater chances to support sustainable and responsible travel
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Unique flora and fauna not commonly seen elsewhere
Tips for a Responsible Wildlife Adventure
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Choose certified guides for safer and informed safaris
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Avoid plastic and littering inside protected areas
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Maintain silence and respect wildlife zones
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Use eco-lodges or homestays to support local communities
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Travel during the dry seasons for better animal sightings
Final Words
India’s offbeat national parks are treasures waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an avid birder, a wildlife photographer, or simply someone who cherishes nature, these destinations offer enriching experiences without the tourist rush. They not only present opportunities for a wildlife adventure, but also connect you deeply to India’s ecological heritage.
If you’re ready to discover nature at its most raw and beautiful, start planning your visit to one of these hidden sanctuaries today.
🔗 Recommended Resource:
Learn more about India’s conservation efforts and biodiversity from the official WWF India website.
