India is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes, which are preserved in its many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. While places like Jim Corbett, Kaziranga, and Ranthambhore are household names, there are numerous lesser-known national parks across the country that offer equally captivating experiences. These hidden gems, though often overshadowed by their more famous counterparts, are home to diverse ecosystems, unique wildlife, and pristine natural beauty. Here are some hidden national parks in India that deserve more attention and exploration.
1. Mouling National Park (Arunachal Pradesh)
Tucked away in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, Mouling National Park is a relatively undiscovered treasure. The park lies in the Upper Siang district, surrounded by the majestic Eastern Himalayas. Known for its dense forests, rugged terrains, and high-altitude ecosystems, Mouling is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The park is home to several endangered species such as the snow leopard, Bengal tiger, and clouded leopard, along with a variety of birds, including the Himalayan griffon vulture and the black-headed ibis. Its remote location ensures minimal human interference, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. The park’s beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and trekking trails add to its charm, making it a must-visit for offbeat travelers.
2. Kuno National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Located in Madhya Pradesh, Kuno National Park has long been overshadowed by the more famous Kanha and Bandhavgarh parks. However, it’s an important conservation site that has been garnering attention in recent years, especially due to its role in the reintroduction of the Asiatic lion. The park, which spans 748 square kilometers, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Indian wolf, leopard, and the endangered nilgai.
Kuno’s efforts to revive the Asiatic lion population are part of a long-term strategy to establish a second home for this iconic species outside Gujarat’s Gir National Park. Kuno is also rich in birdlife, with over 200 species recorded, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Its vast, untouched wilderness and the ongoing conservation work make Kuno a park that truly deserves more attention.
3. Great Himalayan National Park (Himachal Pradesh)
The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is often overshadowed by other Himalayan parks in terms of tourist footfall. Located in Himachal Pradesh, the park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna, including species like the Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, and musk deer.
The park is a paradise for trekkers, with several trekking routes that offer panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. Unlike more commercialized Himalayan destinations, the Great Himalayan National Park remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. Its peaceful environment, coupled with its rich natural heritage, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking an immersive wildlife experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
4. Valley of Flowers National Park (Uttarakhand)
While the Valley of Flowers National Park is slowly gaining popularity, it still remains relatively unknown compared to other national parks in India. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its stunning meadows filled with a wide variety of flowers. The park, nestled in the Western Himalayas, offers a breathtaking spectacle of wildflowers, particularly during the monsoon season.
The park is also home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Asiatic black bear, blue sheep, and snow leopard. It’s a paradise for botanists, nature lovers, and photographers. The valley is accessible via a scenic trek, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers who want to experience the flora and fauna of the Himalayas in all its glory.
5. Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal)
Although the Sundarbans is known internationally for its unique mangrove forests and the Bengal tiger, it is still underrated in terms of its conservation efforts and biodiversity. Located in the southern part of West Bengal, the Sundarbans is the largest tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world and serves as a vital ecosystem for many species, including the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, crocodiles, and various migratory birds.
What sets Sundarbans apart from other parks is its unique environment—spanning both land and water. Visitors can take boat safaris through the intricate network of tidal rivers, enjoying an intimate experience with the wildlife in this UNESCO World Heritage site. While it may not boast the same level of fame as other tiger reserves, the Sundarbans’ remarkable ecosystem and its important role in biodiversity conservation make it a national treasure that deserves more recognition.
6. Pench National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Pench National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is often overshadowed by the more famous Kanha and Bandhavgarh national parks. However, Pench is a hidden gem, known for its dense forests, rich wildlife, and picturesque landscapes. The park is particularly famous for its tiger population, and its forests served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s famous work, The Jungle Book.
The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, wild boars, and several species of deer. It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 285 species of birds recorded. Pench’s serene atmosphere, coupled with its lesser crowd, offers a peaceful and enriching wildlife experience.
7. Simlipal National Park (Odisha)
Located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, Simlipal National Park is often overlooked by mainstream tourists. However, it is one of the largest national parks in India, covering an area of over 2,700 square kilometers. The park is known for its diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and several species of deer.
Simlipal is also rich in plant life, with dense forests of sal trees and other medicinal plants. The park’s unique geography, coupled with its tranquility and fewer tourists, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Odisha’s wilderness.
India’s lesser-known national parks offer a rich array of biodiversity, unique landscapes, and opportunities for adventure. While parks like Jim Corbett and Ranthambhore are on every wildlife enthusiast’s radar, these hidden gems provide a more intimate, undisturbed experience of India’s natural beauty. Whether it’s the remote mountains of Arunachal Pradesh, the flowering meadows of Uttarakhand, or the mangrove forests of West Bengal, these parks are waiting to be explored by those looking for something off the beaten path. They deserve more attention, not just for their beauty, but for their vital role in preserving India’s environmental legacy.