List of national parks of India
India is widely regarded as a country with a rich natural heritage and wildlife. Most of the nation has established numerous conservation zones to protect forests, wildlife, and rare ecosystems. National parks dominate these areas that have been safeguarded. They preserve wildlife ecosystems and allow nature to develop without continuous human intervention.
The national parks in India list is ever-growing as conservation efforts expand across the country. The forests, grasslands, wetlands, mountains, and coastal ecosystems are safeguarded in these parks. They are also useful for preserving ecological balance and protecting endangered species.
For nature lovers, researchers, and travelers alike, the network of wildlife national parks in India would offer opportunities to experience rare species and observe how ecosystems function. These conservation areas are also significant in preserving the country’s biodiversity for future generations.
Table of Contents
National Parks in India: What Are They?
National parks are government initiatives set aside to preserve wildlife, forests, and natural ecosystems. The Wildlife Protection Act covers such regions and has stringent conservation regulations.
Within national parks, there are no activities that involve hunting, logging, or grazing. This is a mere objective: to enable the existence of wildlife and plants in their natural habitat with the least disturbance.
Forest departments and wildlife authorities manage the protected parks in India. Their activities include protecting habitats, monitoring wildlife, and conducting ecological studies.
The national parks also help sustain the natural balance among animals, plants, and the environment.
What Is the Number of Indian National Parks?
Over 100 national parks are currently found across various states and union territories in India. This has continued to increase over the years as more people have become aware of the need to protect wildlife.
These parks constitute a bigger system of conservation which incorporates:
- Wildlife sanctuaries
- Tiger reserves
- Biosphere reserves
- Conservation reserves
These regions constitute a powerful network of biodiversity parks in India, preserving thousands of plant and animal species.
The growth of the national parks in India list indicates that the country is committed to long-term environmental conservation.
Why National Parks Matter
Parks in the country are not mere forests. They are critical to the preservation of wild animals and the environment.
Protection of Wildlife
The preservation of animals from hunters and the protection of their habitats are among the key reasons why wildlife national parks in India are created. The survival of many rare species today is due to these parks providing safe habitats where animals can live and reproduce.
Conservation of Ecosystems
National parks save whole ecosystems. It consists of forests, rivers, soil, insects, birds, and mammals. In healthy ecosystems, there must be clean air, water sources, and a stable climate.
Scientific Research
In these conservation zones, scientists observe wildlife behavior, plant types, and ecological patterns. Their results are beneficial in enhancing conservation programs and policies on wildlife management.
Environmental Awareness
When visitors visit these parks, they can learn about nature, wildlife, and its conservation. This consciousness makes individuals know why nature should be meaningfully preserved.
Ecosystems found in Indian National Parks.
There is a vast array of landscapes in India, as manifested in its national parks.
Forest Ecosystems
Many national parks in India maintain thick forests with tall trees, abundant flora, and fauna. These forests sustain mammals, birds, reptiles, and thousands of plant species.
Grassland Ecosystems
There are large areas of preserved land in some parks. These regions have homemade grazers and predators that depend on open habitats. Grasslands also help maintain balance in wildlife populations.
Wetland Ecosystems
The wetlands parks safeguard lakes, rivers, marshes, and floodplains. These habitats host migratory birds, aquatic plants, and various freshwater animals.
Mountain Ecosystems
Mountain forests, glaciers, and alpine meadows are conserved in high-altitude parks. These are habitats of animals that can live in cold weather and mountainous environments.
Oceanic and Marine Life.
In some national parks, there are mangroves, coral reefs, and forests. These areas save the lives of marine life, birds, and rare plants. There are Indian biodiversity parks, among the most diverse natural habitats in the world, due to the variety of ecosystems.
Wildlife in Indian National Parks.
Many iconic animals in India, as well as some rare species, are protected parks in India.
Large Mammals
Several parks do have big cats, elephants, deer, and wild cattle. These animals require extensive territories and well-functioning biosystems to live.
Birds
India is a paradise for birdwatchers. National parks provide secure nesting sites for resident and migratory birds.
Hundreds of bird species live in wetlands and forests each year.
Reptiles and Amphibians
It is also home to snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and crocodiles. The animals play significant roles in pest control and maintaining the food chain.
Insects and Small Species
Numerous smaller species inhabit forests and wetlands. Insects such as butterflies, bees, and ants are essential for pollination and soil health.
The variety of life within India’s national parks underscores the importance of these habitats to conservation.
Government role in protecting national parks.
The government plays a significant role in ensuring that secure parks in India are maintained. These parks are run by forest departments with the help of wildlife experts who preserve wildlife and their habitats.
Their work includes:
Restoration of habitat, anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, and forest fire prevention. During collaborations with local communities residing near the parks, authorities are also involved. Raising awareness and sustainable livelihoods are the key areas of several conservation programs. These activities help minimize man-wildlife conflicts.
Tourism and National Parks
National park landscapes have a significant tourism component. Several individuals tour the parks annually to catch a glimpse of wildlife and have fun.
Nonetheless, internal tourism within famous national parks India is subject to strict rules.
Tourists are required to adhere to principles like:
- Remaining on specific tracks.
- Not feeding animals
- Avoiding loud noise
- Respecting park rules
Responsible tourism is the only way individuals can observe wildlife without destroying natural habitats.
Tourism also contributes to local economies by employing people in surrounding communities.
Problems National Parks are Experiencing.
Despite vigorous conservation efforts, numerous Indian biodiversity parks face challenges.
Residential Development Near Parks.
The surrounding environment of parks can be impacted by urban growth and by agricultural and other infrastructure developments within wildlife habitats.
Animals occasionally leave the reservations in pursuit of food and water.
Human-Wildlife Conflict
Conflicts arise when wildlife enters nearby villages or farms.
The conservation programs aim to minimize these occurrences by raising awareness and improving wildlife management.
Climate Change
Climate patterns have altered, impacting forests, rivers, and animal migration. These changes are difficult for certain species to adjust to.
Illegal Poaching
In certain areas, poaching is still a menace. The government has been reinforcing surveillance and prosecution.
Any protection of national parks in India cannot be achieved without the arduous, concerted efforts of government agencies, researchers, and local communities.
| S.No | State / UT | National Park | Established |
| 1 | Andaman and Nicobar | Campbell Bay National Park | 1992 |
| 2 | Andaman and Nicobar | Galathea National Park | 1992 |
| 3 | Andaman and Nicobar | Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (previously : Wandur National Park) | 1983 |
| 4 | Andaman and Nicobar | Middle Button Island National Park | 1987 |
| 5 | Andaman and Nicobar | Mount Harriet National Park | 1987 |
| 6 | Andaman and Nicobar | North Button Island National Park | 1987 |
| 7 | Andaman and Nicobar | Rani Jhansi Marine National Park | 1996 |
| 8 | Andaman and Nicobar | Saddle Peak National Park | 1987 |
| 9 | Andaman and Nicobar | South Button Island National Park | 1987 |
| 10 | Andhra Pradesh | Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park | 1994 |
| 11 | Andhra Pradesh | Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park | 1994 |
| 12 | Andhra Pradesh | Mrugavani National Park | 1994 |
| 13 | Andhra Pradesh | Sri Venkateswara National Park | 1989 |
| 14 | Arunachal Pradesh | Mouling National Park | 1986 |
| 15 | Arunachal Pradesh | Namdapha National Park | 1983 |
| 16 | Assam | Dibru Saikhowa National Park | 1999 |
| 17 | Assam | Kaziranga National Park | 1974 |
| 18 | Assam | Manas National Park | 1990 |
| 19 | Assam | Nameri National Park | 1998 |
| 20 | Assam | Orang National Park | 1999 |
| 21 | Bihar | Valmiki National Park | 1989 |
| 22 | Bihar | Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary | 1987 |
| 23 | Bihar | Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary | 2009 |
| 24 | Chhattisgarh | Indravati National Park | 1981 |
| 25 | Chhattisgarh | Kanger Ghati National Park (Kanger Valley) | 1982 |
| 26 | Chhattisgarh | Sanjay National Park | 1981 |
| 27 | Goa | Mollem National Park | 1978 |
| 28 | Gujarat | Vansda National Park | 1979 |
| 29 | Gujarat | Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar | 1976 |
| 30 | Gujarat | Gir National Park | 1965 |
| 31 | Gujarat | Gulf of Kachchh Marine National Park | 1980 |
| 32 | Haryana | Kalesar National Park | 2003 |
| 33 | Haryana | Sultanpur National Park | 1989 |
| 34 | Himachal Pradesh | Great Himalayan National Park | 1984 |
| 35 | Himachal Pradesh | Pin Valley National Park | 1987 |
| 36 | Haryana | Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary | 1991 |
| 37 | Jammu and Kashmir | Hemis National Park | 1981 |
| 38 | Jammu and Kashmir | Kishtwar National Park | 1981 |
| 39 | Jammu and Kashmir | Salim Ali National Park | 1992 |
| 40 | Jharkhand | Betla National Park | 1986 |
| 41 | Jharkhand | Hazaribag National Park | 1954 |
| 42 | Jharkhand | Dimna National Park | 1975 |
| 43 | Karnataka | Anshi National Park | 1987 |
| 44 | Karnataka | Bandipur National Park | 1974 |
| 45 | Karnataka | Bannerghatta National Park | 1974 |
| 46 | Karnataka | Kudremukh National Park | 1987 |
| 47 | Karnataka | Rajiv Gandhi National Park (prev: Nagarhole National Park) | 1988 |
| 48 | Kerala | Eravikulam National Park | 1978 |
| 49 | Kerala | Mathikettan Shola National Park | 2003 |
| 50 | Kerala | Periyar National Park | 1982 |
| 51 | Kerala | Silent Valley National Park | 1984 |
| 52 | Madhya Pradesh | Bandhavgarh National Park | 1982 |
| 53 | Madhya Pradesh | Fossil National Park | 1983 |
| 54 | Madhya Pradesh | Kanha National Park | 1955 |
| 55 | Madhya Pradesh | Madhav National Park | 1959 |
| 56 | Madhya Pradesh | Panna National Park | 1973 |
| 57 | Tamil Nadu | Palani National Park | 2008 |
| 58 | Madhya Pradesh | Sanjay National Park | 1981 |
| 59 | Madhya Pradesh | Satpura National Park | 1981 |
| 60 | Madhya Pradesh | Van Vihar National Park | 1979 |
| 61 | Maharashtra | Chandoli National Park | 2004 |
| 62 | Maharashtra | Gugamal National Park | 1987 |
| 63 | Maharashtra | Navegaon National Park | 1975 |
| 64 | Maharashtra | Pench National Park | 1975 |
| 65 | Maharashtra | Sanjay Gandhi National Park a.k.a. Borivili National Park, Mumbai | 1983 |
| 66 | Maharashtra | Tadoba National Park | 1955 |
| 67 | Manipur | Keibul Lamjao National Park | 1977 |
| 68 | Manipur | Sirohi National Park | 1982 |
| 69 | Meghalaya | Balphakram National Park | 1986 |
| 70 | Meghalaya | Nokrek National Park | 1986 |
| 71 | Mizoram | Murlen National Park | 1991 |
| 72 | Mizoram | Phawngpui Blue National Park | 1997 |
| 73 | Nagaland | Ntangki National Park | 1993 |
| 74 | Orissa | Bhitarkanika National Park | 1988 |
| 75 | Orissa | Nandankanan National Park | 1976 |
| 76 | Orissa | Simlipal National Park | 1980 |
| 77 | Punjab | Harike Wetland | 1987 |
| 78 | Rajasthan | Darrah National Park | 2004 |
| 79 | Rajasthan | Desert National Park | 1980 |
| 80 | Rajasthan | Keoladeo National Park | 1981 |
| 81 | Rajasthan | Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary | 1960 |
| 82 | Rajasthan | Ranthambore National Park | 1980 |
| 83 | Rajasthan | Sariska National Park | 1982 |
| 84 | Sikkim | Khangchendzonga National Park | 1977 |
| 85 | Tamil Nadu | Guindy National Park | 1976 |
| 86 | Tamil Nadu | Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park | 1980 |
| 87 | Tamil Nadu | Indira Gandhi National Park (prev: Annamalai National Park) | 1989 |
| 88 | Tamil Nadu | Mudumalai National Park | 1990 |
| 89 | Tamil Nadu | Mukurthi National Park | 1990 |
| 90 | Tamil Nadu | Palani Hills National Park | Proposed |
| 91 | Uttar Pradesh | Dudhwa National Park | 1977 |
| 92 | Uttarakhand | Jim Corbett National Park | 1936 |
| 93 | Uttarakhand | Gangotri National Park | 1989 |
| 94 | Uttarakhand | Govind Pashu Vihar National Park | 1990 |
| 95 | Uttarakhand | Nanda Devi National Park | 1982 |
| 96 | Uttarakhand | Rajaji National Park | 1983 |
| 97 | Uttarakhand | Valley of Flowers National Park | 1982 |
| 98 | West Bengal | Buxa Tiger Reserve | 1992 |
| 99 | West Bengal | Gorumara National Park | 1994 |
| 100 | West Bengal | Neora Valley National Park | 1986 |
| 101 | West Bengal | Singalila National Park | 1992 |
| 102 | West Bengal | Sundarbans National Park | 1984 |
| 103 | West Bengal | Nadankanan National Park | 1960 |
| 104 | Tamil Nadu | Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary | 1940 |
| 105 | Sikkim | Kanchenjunga National Park | 1977 |
| 106 | Tamil Nadu | Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary | 1976 |
| 107 | Madhya Pradesh | Hazaribagh National Park | 1970 |
| 108 | Punjab | Harike National Park | 1953 |
| 109 | Tamil Nadu | Gulf of Mannar National Park | 1989 |
| 110 | Gujarat | Gulf of Kacch Marine National Park | 1980 |
| 111 | Jammu and Kashmir | Dachigam National Park | 1981 |
| 112 | Meghalaya | Balpakram National Park | – |
FAQs
What is the number of national parks in India?
There are over 100 national parks across various states and union territories. The figure is on the rise because new areas are being protected.
What is the national park in India?
The national parks preserve the wildlife, forests, and natural ecosystems. They remove human interference with animals and plants, enabling them to survive in their natural habitats.
Do national parks differ from wildlife sanctuaries?
Yes. National parks tend to have more stringent protection regulations than game reserves. In national parks, human activities are further restricted.
Is it possible to go to national parks in India?
No, there are many parks that visitors are permitted to visit. Tourism is controlled in a way that protects wildlife and habitats.
What is the importance of national parks as far as biodiversity is concerned?
In national parks, thousands of plant and animal species are protected. They are regions that can contribute to ecological balance and preserve the country’s heritage.