India is not only known for its rich cultural diversity but also for its abundant flora and fauna. The country is home to numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that play a crucial role in conserving the wildlife in its natural habitat. Unlike national parks, where human activities are completely restricted, wildlife sanctuaries allow some human activities, such as grazing and cattle movement, while ensuring the protection of wildlife.
Wildlife Sanctuaries in India
Wildlife sanctuaries are designated areas that offer protection to various species of animals, birds, and plants. Here is a detailed list of some of the well-known wildlife sanctuaries in India:
| State/UT | Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Great Nicobar |
| Andhra Pradesh | Nagarjuna Sagar Srisailam, Eturnagaram, Kolleru, Pulicat |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Pakui-bameri |
| Assam | Garampani |
| Bihar | Gautam Buddha (Gaya) |
| Himachal Pradesh | Gobind Sagar, Shikari Devi (Mandi) |
| Jharkhand | Palamau, Hazaribagh |
| Karnataka | Bhadra, Dandeli, Ranganathittu |
| Kerala | Wayanad, Neyyar |
| Madhya Pradesh | Bori-Satpura, Pachmarhi, National Chambal |
| Goa | Bhagwan Mahaveer |
| Maharashtra | Kanheri, Melghat |
| Mizoram | Dampa |
| Odisha | Satkosia, Nandan Kanan (Bhubaneshwar), Chandka, Chilika Lake |
| Punjab | Abohar |
| Rajasthan | Mount Abu, Tal Chhapar |
| Tamil Nadu | Vedanthangal, Point Calimere, Mundanthurai |
| Uttar Pradesh | Chandraprabha (Varanasi) |
| West Bengal | Mahanadi, Jaldapara, Sajanakhali |
National Parks in India
National parks are areas protected under strict regulations where no human activity, including grazing or hunting, is permitted. Below are some important national parks in India:
| State/UT | National Park |
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Campbell, Galathea, Mahatma Gandhi Marine, Middle Button Island, Mount Harriet, North Button Island, Rani Jhansi Marine, Saddle Peak, South Button Island |
| Andhra Pradesh | Kasu Brahmananda Reddy, Mahaveer Harina Vanasthal, Mrugavani, Sri Venkateswara |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Mouling, Namdapha |
| Assam | Dibru-Saikhowa, Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri, Orang |
| Bihar | Valmikinagar |
| Chhattisgarh | Indravati, Kangerghati, Sanjay |
| Goa | Mollen |
| Gujarat | Bansda, Gir, Marine (Gulf of Kachchh), Blackbuck |
| Haryana | Sultanpur |
| Himachal Pradesh | Great Himalayan, Pin Valley |
| Jammu & Kashmir | City Forest (Salim Ali), Dachigam, Hemis, Kistwar |
| Jharkhand | Betla |
| Karnataka | Anshi, Bandipur, Bannerghatta, Kudremukh, Nagarahole |
| Kerala | Eravikulam, Periyar, Silent Valley |
| Madhya Pradesh | Bandhavgarh, Fossil, Kanha, Madhav, Panna, Pench (Priyadarshini), Sanjay, Satpura, Van Vihar |
| Manipur | Keibul-Lamjao |
| Maharashtra | Gugamal, Nawegaon, Pench, Sanjay Gandhi (Borivilli), Tadoba |
| Meghalaya | Balphakram, Nokrek Ridge |
| Mizoram | Murlen, Phawngpui Blue Mountain |
| Nagaland | Intanki |
| Odisha | Bhitarkanika, Similipal |
| Rajasthan | Desert, Keoladeo Ghana, Ranthambore, Sariska |
| Sikkim | Khangchendzonga (Kanchenjunga) |
| Tamil Nadu | Guindy, Gulf of Mannar Marine, Indira Gandhi (Annamalai), Mudumalai, Mukurthi |
| Uttarakhand | Corbett, Gangotri, Gobind, Nanda Devi, Rajaji, Valley of Flowers (Phoolon ki Ghati) |
| Uttar Pradesh | Dudhwa |
| West Bengal | Buxa, Gorumara, Neora Valley, Singhlila, Sunderbans |
Bird Sanctuaries in India
Bird sanctuaries in India are specific areas focused on the protection of various bird species. Some well-known bird sanctuaries are:
| Bird Sanctuary | Location |
| Ghana Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo) | Bharatpur, Rajasthan |
| Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary | Mysore, Karnataka |
| Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary | Chingleput, Tamil Nadu |
| Nalapati Bird Sanctuary | Nellore, Andhra Pradesh |
| Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary | Chorao, Goa |
| Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary | Kottayam, Kerala |
| Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary | Sanand, Gujarat |
| Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary | Karnataka |
| Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary | Narendrapur, West Bengal |
| Chilika Bird Sanctuary | Odisha |
Wildlife Sanctuaries in India (Detailed)
Great Nicobar Wildlife Sanctuary (Andaman and Nicobar Islands)
Located in the Great Nicobar Island, this sanctuary is home to rare species like the Nicobar pigeon and the Malayan box turtle. It also harbors a significant population of saltwater crocodiles and various endemic flora.
- Nagarjuna Sagar Srisailam Sanctuary (Andhra Pradesh)
- Spanning across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, this is one of the largest sanctuaries in India, known for its tiger population and a diverse range of species, including leopards, antelopes, and several bird species.
- Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary (Andhra Pradesh)
- One of the oldest sanctuaries in the region, it is known for its rich biodiversity, including species like the giant squirrel, spotted deer, and several bird species. The forest also consists of dense teak and bamboo.
- Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary (Andhra Pradesh)
Situated around the Kolleru Lake, this sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds, including pelicans and painted storks. The lake’s ecosystem supports a variety of aquatic life, making it vital for biodiversity. - Pulicat Wildlife Sanctuary (Andhra Pradesh)
This sanctuary is primarily focused on protecting the Pulicat Lake’s wetland ecosystem, which attracts migratory birds, including flamingos. The sanctuary is a significant spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. - Pakui-bameri Wildlife Sanctuary (Arunachal Pradesh)
This sanctuary, known for its rich forests and rivers, is home to tigers, leopards, and various species of birds and reptiles. It also houses rare species like the clouded leopard and capped langur. - Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam)
Known for its hot springs, Garampani also supports a variety of wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and leopards. It is an important conservation area in Assam for flora and fauna. - Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary (Bihar)
Located in the Gaya district, this sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife, including sloth bears, sambars, and peafowl. The sanctuary’s flora is equally diverse, with tropical dry deciduous forests. - Gobind Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (Himachal Pradesh)
Gobind Sagar is primarily a reservoir formed by the Bhakra Dam, providing a habitat for various species of birds and aquatic life. The surrounding forests are home to leopards, deer, and bears. - Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary (Himachal Pradesh)
This sanctuary in the Mandi district is known for its scenic landscapes and rich biodiversity, housing species like Himalayan black bears, leopards, and various bird species. - Palamau Wildlife Sanctuary (Jharkhand)
Famous for its tiger reserve status, this sanctuary also houses elephants, sloth bears, and various bird species. It is situated in the Palamau district and is rich in teak and sal forests. - Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary (Jharkhand)
Located in the Hazaribagh district, this sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, and sambar deer. Its rolling hills and plateaus create a unique landscape for the wildlife. - Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka)
Known for its tiger population, this sanctuary also hosts elephants, black panthers, and various bird species. The lush forests are part of the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot. - Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka)
Dandeli is famous for its dense forests and river valleys, which are home to black panthers, leopards, and tigers. It is also known for its rich birdlife, particularly hornbills. - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (Karnataka)
A major spot for birdwatchers, this sanctuary is home to storks, pelicans, and other migratory birds. Situated along the Kaveri River, it also offers boat rides for wildlife viewing. - Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Wayanad is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its tigers, leopards, and elephants. The sanctuary’s lush forests are also home to many endemic bird species. - Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Located in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is home to a wide range of fauna, including elephants, tigers, and several species of reptiles. The Neyyar Dam also provides an important water source for the area. - Bori-Satpura Wildlife Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh)
Part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve, this sanctuary offers rich biodiversity with species like tigers, sloth bears, and leopards. The rugged terrain adds to its scenic beauty. - Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh)
Located in the Pachmarhi hills, this sanctuary is known for its tigers, leopards, and wild boars. It is also home to dense sal forests and picturesque landscapes. - National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh)
Focused on conserving the critically endangered gharial (crocodile), this sanctuary is situated along the Chambal River. It also supports species like the Indian skimmer and the Gangetic dolphin. - Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary (Goa)
This sanctuary, along with Mollem National Park, forms one of Goa’s most important conservation areas. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including leopards, deer, and various bird species. - Kanheri Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharashtra)
Located within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai, Kanheri provides a habitat for leopards, deer, and various reptiles. It is also home to ancient rock-cut caves that attract tourists. - Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharashtra)
Part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve, this sanctuary is known for its dense forests and rich biodiversity, including species like the Indian gaur and several bird species. - Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary (Mizoram)
This sanctuary, known for its picturesque landscapes, is home to tigers, leopards, and hoolock gibbons. It also has a significant population of wild elephants. - Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
Satkosia is known for its scenic landscapes and rich biodiversity, particularly its population of mugger crocodiles and the endangered gharial. It is situated along the Mahanadi River. - Nandan Kanan Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
Located near Bhubaneshwar, Nandan Kanan is famous for its zoological park and white tigers. The sanctuary also houses various other species, including lions, elephants, and reptiles. - Chandka Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
This sanctuary near Bhubaneshwar is home to elephants and leopards, among other species. It is part of the larger Chandaka Elephant Reserve, which aims to protect the region’s elephant population. - Chilika Lake Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, attracting numerous migratory birds during the winter season. The sanctuary provides habitat to a wide range of avian species, making it an important birdwatching site. - Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary (Punjab)
This sanctuary is known for its large population of blackbucks, which roam freely in the region. It is unique as it is maintained in collaboration with local farming communities. - Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
Located in the Aravalli Range, this sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. The sanctuary also hosts the famous Dilwara Temples. - Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
A grassland sanctuary, Tal Chhapar is home to the blackbuck and a variety of bird species. It is one of the best places to spot raptors in India, particularly during migration seasons. - Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
This is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India, attracting migra - tory birds like herons, storks, and ibises. The sanctuary is located near Chennai and is popular among birdwatchers.
- Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Known for its unique coastal ecosystems, this sanctuary is home to blackbucks, flamingos, and other migratory birds. The sanctuary’s wetlands are crucial for bird conservation. - Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Part of the Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, this sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including tigers, leopards, and various species of reptiles and birds. - Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh)
Located near Varanasi, Chandraprabha is known for its waterfalls and scenic landscapes. The sanctuary is home to panthers, chinkara, and sambar deer. - Mahanadi Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal)
Situated near the Mahanadi River, this sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, particularly its aquatic life and various bird species. The sanctuary also supports species like tigers and leopards. - Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal)
Jaldapara is famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceros. It also supports elephants, tigers, and numerous bird species, including peafowls and hornbills. - Sajanakhali Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal)
Located in the Sunderbans, this sanctuary is known for its mangrove ecosystem and Bengal tigers. It is also a haven for various bird species, including kingfishers and egrets.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary (Goa)
Encompassing dense forests and home to a variety of wildlife such as leopards, deer, and Indian bison, this sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats. It also features the popular Dudhsagar Falls and ancient temples.
Kanheri Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharashtra)
Located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park, this sanctuary is home to leopards, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. It is also known for the ancient Kanheri Caves, a major historical attraction.
Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharashtra)
Part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve, this sanctuary boasts a large population of tigers and leopards. It is also a conservation area for several endangered species, including the Indian gaur.
Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary (Mizoram)
Known for its picturesque landscapes, this sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, and hoolock gibbons. It also shelters elephants and offers an excellent birdwatching experience.
Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
Nestled along the Mahanadi River, Satkosia is famous for its rich biodiversity and conservation of gharials (fish-eating crocodiles). The sanctuary is also home to tigers, elephants, and mugger crocodiles.
Nandan Kanan Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
Located near Bhubaneswar, this sanctuary is known for its zoological park and white tigers. It offers a habitat for elephants, lions, reptiles, and other species in the wild and through captive breeding.
Chandka Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
This sanctuary, primarily focused on the protection of elephants, features dry deciduous forests. It is part of a larger conservation effort to protect Odisha’s elephant population.
Chilika Lake Wildlife Sanctuary (Odisha)
This sanctuary protects one of the largest brackish water lagoons in Asia. Chilika is home to over 160 species of birds and is a prime wintering ground for migratory species, including flamingos and pelicans.
Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary (Punjab)
This sanctuary is unique as it is maintained in collaboration with local farmers. It is well known for its blackbuck population, which freely roams the region alongside farmlands.
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
Situated in the Aravalli Range, this sanctuary is known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species. It is also famous for the stunning Dilwara Temples.
Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
This grassland sanctuary is home to the blackbuck and a variety of bird species, including raptors. It is considered one of the best places for birdwatching during migratory seasons.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Located in the Chingleput district, this sanctuary is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India. It attracts thousands of migratory birds, including pelicans, herons, and spoonbills during the winter months.
Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Known for its coastal ecosystem and flamingo population, this sanctuary also houses blackbucks, dolphins, and several species of migratory birds, especially in its salt marshes and mangroves.
Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Part of the Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, this sanctuary protects rich biodiversity, including tigers, leopards, and various species of reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh)
Located near Varanasi, Chandraprabha is known for its scenic waterfalls and rich wildlife, including panthers, sambars, and chinkara. It provides a scenic escape with its hilly terrain and waterfalls.
Mahanadi Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal)
This sanctuary, located near the Mahanadi River, is known for its aquatic ecosystems and dense forests, which provide a habitat for various bird species and mammals like tigers and leopards.
Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal)
Jaldapara is famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceros and elephants. The sanctuary also supports a wide variety of bird species, including peafowls and hornbills, making it an important birdwatching destination.
Sajanakhali Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal)
Located in the Sunderbans, this sanctuary is known for its mangrove ecosystem and Bengal tigers. It also provides a habitat for various migratory bird species, crocodiles, and rare mammals.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
Wildlife sanctuaries aim to protect endangered species by allowing controlled human activities without harming the wildlife.
Kaziranga is renowned for housing the largest population of one-horned rhinoceros in the world.
Hunting, grazing, and any form of land development are prohibited in national parks.
Sundarbans National Park is located in West Bengal and is known for its Bengal tiger population.
Hemis National Park in Jammu & Kashmir is the largest national park in India.
Yes, most national parks and wildlife sanctuaries allow tourism under strict regulations to preserve the environment.
Bird sanctuaries protect various species of birds, some of which are migratory, by providing a safe habitat.
Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936, is the oldest national park in India.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is famous for its vast variety of bird species, especially during the migratory season.
Poaching, habitat destruction, and illegal hunting are some of the major threats to wildlife.
Wildlife sanctuaries are maintained through government initiatives, local involvement, and conservation programs.
Kanha National Park is crucial for tiger conservation and has been a part of Project Tiger.
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Great Nicobar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Project Tiger is a conservation program launched in India in 1973 to protect tigers.
South Button Island National Park in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the smallest national park in India.
Valley of Flowers is known for its scenic beauty and diverse alpine flora.
Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary in Karnataka is famous for its peacock population.
