Are you looking for the best places to really experience India’s diverse wildlife? With forests, jungles and national parks home to some of the most majestic animals on the planet, it’s no wonder that many visitors put wildlife resorts top of their holiday lists.
In this complete guide, we’ll show you 10 of the best wildlife resorts in India. We’ve done extensive research and made sure to pick each resort for its quality facilities and proximity to a range of wildlife attractions – so you can get as close as possible to elephants, tigers and other incredible animals while feeling safe and well looked-after.
For anyone who enjoys camping or is after an authentic safari experience, this guide also provides tips on what any good resort usually offers and what you should look out for when comparing them. So read on before booking your next stay in India!
10 Best Wildlife Places in India
India is home to some of the richest and most diverse wildlife in the world and so it is no wonder that it also has some of the best wildlife resorts in the world. These wildlife resorts offer a great way to experience the country’s gorgeous wildlife close up and in comfort. In this article, we’ll look at the 10 best wildlife resorts in India, discussing their features and benefits.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Located in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, is one of India’s most popular bird sanctuaries. Spread over an area of 29 km², the park attracts a myriad of local and migratory birds every year. In fact, it is one of the most sought-after destinations for avid birdwatchers who come here to observe and photograph these exotic creatures in their natural habitats.
The Reserve is an important wintering ground for a variety of waterfowl from Afghanistan and Central Asia. Some species found here include the bar-headed geese, ferruginous pochards, and a variety giant hornbill. There are also some resident waterfowl and wading birds represented including painted storks, carmine bee-eaters, white ibis and oriental darters. Many mammals can also be found amongst the sanctuaries surroundings including jungle cats, mongooses, chital (spotted deer) several species of monkeys and more.
With its picturesque setting and abundance of wildlife species to spot and admire this beautiful sanctuary is sure to be a delight for visitors with keen interest in nature tourism!
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park, located in Rajasthan, is one of the most famed wildlife reserves in India and provides the perfect resort getaway for those seeking a taste of wildness. Spread across an area of 400 miles, the park is known for its abundant wildlife comprising over 50 different species of mammals and 300 species of birds as well as 450 species of plants. The star attraction here is the Bengal tiger which can be spotted in its natural habitat from October to June. Other attractions include lakes laden with freshwater turtles and marshy areas offering rich wetlands for bird-watching.
A trip to Ranthambore National Park would be incomplete without a stay at one of the standard wildlife resorts like The Oberoi Vanyavilas or The Oberoi Rajvilas. These 5-star resorts offer visitors a luxurious experience along with breathtaking views and top-notch hospitality services. Guests can find solace just about anywhere on their property –– be it an outdoor pool or a quiet corner near lush greenery or even inside their luxury suites fitted with modern amenities such as air conditioning and high speed internet access. Other features you will enjoy while at these resorts include spas, fitness centers, outdoor swimming pools, specialty restaurants serving international and Indian cuisine and several organized excursions such as jeep safaris and bird watching sessions.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh is easily one of the most popular national parks in India. Bandhavgarh features historical ruins and is spread over 437 sq km amid the Vindhya Hills. It renowned for one of the highest population densities of Bengal tiger anywhere in India. This park is also a home to a vibrant biodiversity as it boasts of housing more than 250 species of resident birds, 70 species of butterflies 81 species of moths, 21 species of reptiles and several other animal species like sloth bears, sambar deer, nilgai, wild boar, blackbuck and so on.
The premier natural attractions are two hills adorned with lush greenery – Bandhavgarh hill and Mahaman hill. Tourists can enjoy jeep safaris and explore the wilderness within the core zone with an abundant array of flora and fauna within salt-lick areas which forms a suitable habitat for herbivores attracting other predators too as they offer easy hunting grounds. If you’re looking for a wildlife resort to stay at then there are couple of options including Kings Lodge (luxury resort), Tiger Den Resort (mid-range) and Tree House Hideaway Resort (budget).
Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is one of the oldest and most popular national parks in India. It was established in 1936 as India’s first national park, and continues to be known for its abundant variety of birds and animals. Corbett is home to more than 50 species of mammals including Tiger-Lion, Leopard, Elephant and more; 580 species of birds including a variety rare species; many reptiles and amphibians; and a vast array of wondrous plants. The park is also the only protected area in India that houses wild Stockland or ‘Horse Deer’.
Accommodations within Corbett National Park provide guests with an exclusive wildlife experience for the full duration of their stay. From tree houses that are set amid dense woods to sophisticated cottages equipped with all modern amenities, here one can live close to nature without compromising on comfort. Some major wildlife resorts inside Corbett National Park include –
– Camp Forktail Creek: Offering a luxurious safari style accommodation in tents next to Kosi River as well as private villas featuring two bedrooms and equipped with every requirement tailored to suit every need visitors might have while on their journey into the wilderness
– Infinity Resorts Corbett: Located right at the threshold of Dhikala zone where visitors can savor a majestic view of the emerald landscape offering majestic views from each cottage amidst peace & serenity
– Tiger Camp Resort: Automatically connected with nature offering eye-catching views & plenty of outdoor activities amid pleasing sounds coming from abundant bird population along with an excellent staff servicing your stays
– Solluna Resort Corbett: Offering breathtaking views from various parts & immaculate service makes it one of the best accommodations inside Corbett making it perfect for tourist planning for leisure trip
– Riverview Retreat: An ideal place for family getaways featuring lusciously thick green trees all over allowing guests live deep into nature without compromising on modern amenities& facilities
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park is located in the northeastern state of Assam and is one of the most important wildlife reserves in India. It spans an impressive 430 square kilometers and has some of the most diverse wildlife population in India. Kaziranga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to two-thirds of livestock and a variety of bird species.
Kaziranga is home to some of the world’s rarest animals, like Bengal tigers, One-horned rhinoceroses,Indian elephants, Water buffaloes, Gaur (Indian Bison), Hogdeer, Barking Deer and Hog Badgers. The National Park also boasts some prolific avifauna species like Spot Billed Pelican, Long Billed Plover, Indian Cormorant Grey Headed Fishing Eagle and Swamp Francolin among others.
The jungle safari at Kaziranga is bound to provide an unforgettable experience with its lush green rolling hills interspersed with wild grasslands which remain lush green during monsoons speckled across hilly terrains covered by thick Assamese forests inhabited by various exotic animals. The safaris are operated using jeeps that have roofs allowing a better view of the wildlife nearby. Apart from jeep safaris there are elephant rides too provided by highly trained mahouts who interact closely with the animals ensuring you get close shots of wildlife as well as be safe during your ride.
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Kanha National Park, located in the Maikal Hills of the Mandla and Balaghat districts in Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s premier tiger reserves. Home to animals such as the Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Indian Leopard, Barasingha (Swamp Deer), Spotted Deer and Peacock, this reserve also has a rich bird life.
Kanha National Park offers some of the best wildlife resorts in India for those who are looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience. This reserve has some of the most luxurious accommodations that will not just make you feel like royalty but also give you a chance to explore this majestic park from close quarters. A few popular resorts include Courtyard Marriot—Kanha, Kaatiya by Aaramdi Haveli—Kanha and Kanha Jungle Lodge—Mandla.
From beautifully decorated cottages nestled amidst lush greenery to villas with sprawling balconies overlooking a vast expanse of wildlife and natural serenity; these resorts offer something for every traveler regardless of their budget or style. With activities ranging from game safaris to spa treatments within the wilds; visitors can get immersed in nature while still enjoying all modern amenities available at these well-appointed properties.
Apart from enjoying a stay here, one can also take part in initiatives aimed at animal conservation and sustainable living by making regular contributions towards charities associated with these properties or by participating in volunteering opportunities . So if you’re looking to experience India’s finest wilderness without compromising on comfort then head straight to Kanha National Park for spectacular views and an unforgettable holiday!
Gir National Park, Gujarat
Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, India. It is the sole home of the Asiatic Lion and is one of India’s most important protected areas. Located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, Gir Forest National Park covers an area of 1412 km². Due to its unique location and diversity in flora and fauna, it has been declared a national park and receives countless visitors from all over the world.
It houses a variety of mammals such as lions, leopards, jackals, wild boar and nilgai. The national park also has 45 species of mammals including sambars, four-horned antelopes (chowsinghas), hyenas, foxes, civets and other small mammals like pangolins and hares. Its bird fauna consists of more than 300 species including the rare fishing eagle.
Gir National Park has some renowned resorts such as The Baghvan Jungle Lodge where you can stay during your visit with more comfort provided by modern luxury facilities. Apart from The Baghvan Jungle Lodge, several other resorts are available at this park-like Akshe Nivas Homestay resort which provides spicy Gujarati delicacies which give an authentic feel with typical Gujarat customary hospitality throughout your stay surrounded by nature’s bounty with open spaces for games or animal watching at night;
Vanya Vilas Sanctuary near Gir Lion Safari where you can find luxurious rooms with all amenities; Machan Wildlife Resort near Gir Interpretation Zone Mountain View Resort offering breathtaking views from its high perch on the mountain range alongside uninhibited animal sighting possibilities; Gold Leaf forest lodge ideal for revelling in wildlife safari to create unforgettable wildlife experiences for visitors;
The Gateway Hotel that offers an exclusive escape nestled amongst acres of lush vegetation complete with an outdoor barbeque pit offering savoury flavoured foods; etcetera which are popular among locals and tourists alike who seek solace amidst exquisitely landscaped gardens while partaking scrumptious delicacies and enjoying nature’s beauty along with expert guides providing insights into gir wildlife habitat on organised guided tours throughout their stay making it truly exhilarating experience like never before to cherish forever!
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the foremost sanctuaries in India, popularly known as ‘Thekkady’. Established in 1950 and declared as a Tiger Reserve reserve in 1978, the sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 sq km and distributed among the three districts – Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta. Owing to its diverse wildlife attractions, this sanctuary is counted among the best wildlife resorts for tourists who visit South India.
Situated at the meeting point of Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats, this serene ambience (Periyar) greets visitors with rich flora and fauna. The abundance of elephant population attracts visitors from all over India while tigers are also present onsite. Apart from tigers and elephants various forms of other species such as gaurs (Indian bison), sloth bears, lion-tailed macaques, sambars along with herd of deer are common sights to behold.
Leopards are also found here but are rarely spotted by visitors due to their shy nature. In addition, around 265 species of birds can be spotted here which includes water-birds such as ibises green pigeons kingfishers herons etc.. In addition if you’re a crocodile fan then you’ll be thrilled to come across 25 different species at Periyar!
Come experience Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for yourself! Witness a great deal of elephants bathing around in mud or silently grazing amidst thick foliage! There are many activities available near Periyar including trekking safari rides wildlife photography bird watching boating and even bamboo rafting! Get ready for surprise visits by wild animals close to your cottage which will certainly make your trip an unforgettable journey!
Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal
Sunderbans National Park, located in the Ganges Delta region of West Bengal, India is well known for its unique mangrove forest and a thriving population of the endangered Bengal Tiger. It is among India’s largest national parks, spread across an area of about 4,260 km2. It houses one of the world’s largest and most important tiger reserves, forming the biggest reserve for this species in the world.
Sunderbans also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is rich in biodiversity, being one of the most densely populated areas for aquatic species like faunas, herpetofaunas and avifaunas. Other than tigers and various other mammals found here like fishing cats and leopards cat among other reptilian species like crocodiles and snakes. The Sunderbans National Park package usually covers accommodation at eco-friendly resorts near these lush forests giving visitors a chance to experience nature’s beauty up close while spotting birds during boat trips or jungle safaris.
The resorts at Sunderbans come with friendly staff as well as hospitality that provide tourists with day trips around these grasslands as well as night stays within these forests so guest can take part in adventure activities such as bird watching or wildlife harvesting on water bodies like rivers and estuaries surrounded by dense mangroves that separate Sunderbans from rest of India’s mainland. One can stay at any of the comfortable cottages built away from core wildlife zones, camping sites or go all out by staying at floating eco-resorts on large bamboo boats fitted with cots for overnight stay amidst this ecosystem.
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
No wildlife tour in India can be complete without a visit to the beautiful Jim Corbett National Park located in Uttarakhand. The Jim Corbett National Park, founded in 1936, is considered India’s first and best national park when it comes to wildlife itineraries. Established mainly for the preservation of the endangered Bengal Tiger, the park offers travelers a great chance to experience the wilderness of India while experiencing excellent accommodation and amenities. Jim Corbett National Park is known for having a varied topography with hills, marshy depressions, grass-lands and flowing rivers.
It is also home to some of India’s most endangered species like Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Indian Rhinoceros etc. The resort here offers exclusive accommodations for overnight stays that rangers recommend for anyone who wants to observe and capture a glimpse of wild animals in their natural habitat. The rooms are equipped with features such as power backup facilities, cafeteria/ restaurant services, among other things. Some activities offered here include jungle safaris along with nature walks through various ecological zones where one can get accustomed with different fauna that exist here at the Corbett Wildlife Resort.
Conclusion
Wildlife resorts are the perfect blend of modern comforts with the raw beauty of nature. They provide you a unique opportunity to get close to nature and observe rare species in their natural habitat.
India has a vast number of wildlife resorts which offer adventurous activities and luxurious experiences. Some of the best wildlife resorts in India are located in forests, rivers, mountains, deserts and many other spectacular locations.
This guide highlighted some of the best wildlife resorts in India that can fit within any budget or requirement. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous trekking experience, luxurious accommodation or an educational excursion – India has plenty of options suitable for any type of traveller!
Take your pick and head out to explore this majestic country’s diverse and unforgettable landscapes – it’s sure to be a lifetime experience!
