The Indian Himalayan region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and pristine natural beauty. It is home to several national parks that offer unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. This comprehensive guide explores the top national parks in the Indian Himalayan region, highlighting their key attractions, biodiversity, and visitor information to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
List of 15 National Parks in the Indian Himalayan Region
1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, is the oldest national park in India. It is named after the famous hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett. Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, this park is known for its rich biodiversity and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Check more details:
Key Attractions
- Flora and Fauna: Jim Corbett is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, leopard, and over 600 species of birds. The park’s vegetation ranges from dense sal forests to grasslands.
- Safari Zones: The park is divided into several zones, including Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Durgadevi, and Dhela, each offering unique wildlife experiences.
- Riverine Beauty: The Ramganga River flows through the park, adding to its scenic beauty and providing a habitat for crocodiles and gharials.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open from mid-November to mid-June. The best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is pleasant. Read More: Best Time to Visit Corbett National Park – A Complete Month-by-Month Guide
Entry Fees
- Indian Nationals: INR 200-1000 (varies by zone and type of vehicle)
- Foreign Nationals: INR 1000-3500 (varies by zone and type of vehicle)
- Safari Fees: INR 4000-6000 for jeep safaris (up to 6 people)
Accommodation
- Forest Rest Houses: Available within the park at Dhikala, Bijrani, and other zones.
- Luxury Resorts: Options like The Riverview Retreat, Namah, and Aahana Resort.
- Budget Hotels: Numerous options in nearby Ramnagar town.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, 80 km away. From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Ramnagar.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, 12 km away. Direct trains available from Delhi.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Delhi (260 km) takes around 6-7 hours. Buses and taxis available from Delhi, Nainital, and other major cities.
Jim Corbett National Park 2 Night 3 Days Itinerary
4 Days Nainital Corbett National Park Trip
2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the state of Assam. It is famous for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros and is one of the most well-preserved natural habitats in India. Read Also: Why Kaziranga National Park is Famous? 10 Interesting Facts
Key Attractions
- One-Horned Rhinoceros: Kaziranga is home to two-thirds of the world’s population of the one-horned rhinoceros.
- Diverse Wildlife: The park also hosts tigers, elephants, wild buffaloes, and a variety of bird species.
- Scenic Landscapes: The park’s landscape includes grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests, making it a picturesque destination.
Read also: Best Destinations to Explore in North East India During October
Best Time to Visit
The park is open from November to April. The best time to visit is between November and February.
Entry Fees
- Indian Nationals: INR 100 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 650 per person
- Vehicle Entry Fee: INR 200 for four-wheelers
- Safari Fees: INR 3500-4500 for jeep safaris (up to 6 people)
Accommodation
- Luxury Resorts: Iora – The Retreat, Diphlu River Lodge, and Infinity Resorts.
- Budget Hotels: Bonhabi Resort, Wild Grass Lodge, and Aranya Tourist Lodge.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jorhat Airport, 97 km away. Also accessible via Guwahati Airport, 217 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Kaziranga.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Furkating Junction, 75 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Guwahati (217 km) takes around 4-5 hours. Buses and taxis available from Guwahati, Jorhat, and other nearby towns.
5 Days Kaziranga Guwahati Tour Package
3. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh
The Great Himalayan National Park, located in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. It is one of the most significant protected areas in the Indian Himalayas.
Key Attractions
- Biodiversity: The park is home to over 375 species of fauna, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, and blue sheep.
- Scenic Beauty: The park’s terrain includes alpine meadows, dense forests, and towering peaks, offering breathtaking views.
- Trekking: The park is a popular destination for trekking, with several trails that provide access to its remote and beautiful areas.
Visitor Information
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from April to June and September to November.
- Entry Fees: Visitors need permits to enter the park, which can be obtained from the park authorities.
- Accommodation: Options include guesthouses in nearby villages and camping within the park.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 50 per person per day
- Foreign Nationals: INR 200 per person per day
- Camping Fee: INR 100 per person per day
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in nearby villages like Gushaini, Banjar, and Sainj.
- Homestays: Numerous options in the Tirthan Valley and Sainj Valley.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), 60 km away. Hire a taxi from the airport to Gushaini or Banjar.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, 145 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Delhi (500 km) takes around 12-14 hours. Buses available from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali to Aut, from where taxis can be hired.
9 Nights 10 Days Himachal Tour
4. Nanda Devi National Park, Uttarakhand
Nanda Devi National Park, part of the Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is named after Nanda Devi, the second highest peak in India.
Key Attractions
- Nanda Devi Peak: The park is dominated by the majestic Nanda Devi Peak, which towers at 7,816 meters.
- Rich Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a variety of species, including the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, and several species of birds.
- Valley of Flowers: The adjacent Valley of Flowers National Park is famous for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and rich biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit:
The park is open from May to October. The best time to visit is between June and August when the valley is in full bloom.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 100 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 600 per person
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Joshimath and Lata Village.
- Homestays: Options in nearby villages like Lata, Tolma, and Reni.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 295 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 276 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Delhi (500 km) takes around 12-14 hours. Buses available from Delhi and Dehradun to Joshimath.
7 Nights 8 Days Uttarakhand Itinerary
5. Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Hemis National Park, located in the Union Territory of Ladakh, is the largest national park in India. It is renowned for its unique high-altitude ecosystem and is a prime destination for snow leopard sightings.
Key Attractions
- Snow Leopards: Hemis National Park is one of the best places in the world to see snow leopards in their natural habitat.
- Tibetan Culture: The park is home to several ancient monasteries, including the famous Hemis Monastery.
- Stunning Landscapes: The park’s terrain includes rugged mountains, deep gorges, and high-altitude meadows.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from May to September. For snow leopard sightings, visit during winter (January to March).
Entry Fees
- Indian Nationals: INR 20 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 100 per person
Accommodation
- Homestays: Numerous options in nearby villages like Rumbak, Sku, and Markha.
- Guesthouses: Available in Leh and surrounding areas.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh), 40 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Hemis.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Leh. Drive from Leh (40 km) takes around 1-2 hours. Taxis and buses available from Leh.
6. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand
Valley of Flowers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is famous for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and diverse fauna. Read Also: Why Should You Take Valley of Flowers Trek at Least Once
Key Attractions
- Floral Diversity: The park is home to over 500 species of flowering plants, making it a botanist’s paradise.
- Wildlife: The park hosts a variety of species, including the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, and Himalayan monal.
- Scenic Beauty: The valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers stunning views.
Visitor Information
- Best Time to Visit: The park is open from June to October. The best time to visit is between July and August when the flowers are in full bloom.
Entry Fees
- Indian Nationals: INR 150 per person for 3 days
- Foreign Nationals: INR 600 per person for 3 days
Accommodation
- Guesthouses: Available in Ghangaria.
- Homestays: Options in nearby villages like Govindghat and Pulna.
- Camping: Not permitted within the park, but available in designated areas nearby.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 292 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Govindghat.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 273 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Delhi (500 km) takes around 12-14 hours. Buses available from Delhi and Dehradun to Joshimath, from where taxis can be hired to Govindghat. Trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria.
7. Manas National Park, Assam
Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the state of Assam. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is a part of the Manas Tiger Reserve.
Key Attractions
- Wildlife: Manas is home to a variety of species, including tigers, elephants, Indian rhinoceros, and the rare pygmy hog.
- Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 450 species of birds.
- Scenic Landscapes: The park’s terrain includes grasslands, tropical forests, and riverine habitats.
Visitor Information
- Best Time to Visit: The park is open from October to April. The best time to visit is between November and February.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 20 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 250 per person
- Vehicle Entry Fee: INR 300 for four-wheelers
- Safari Fees: INR 3500-4500 for jeep safaris (up to 6 people)
Accommodation:
- Eco-Camps: Options like Manas Maozigendri Jungle Camp and Smiling Tusker Elephant Camp.
- Forest Lodges: Available within the park at Mathanguri.
- Guesthouses: Available in nearby towns like Barpeta Road.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati), 176 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Manas.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Barpeta Road, 22 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Guwahati (176 km) takes around 4-5 hours. Buses and taxis are available from Guwahati and Barpeta Road.
8 Days Assam & Arunachal Trip Package
8. Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh
Pin Valley National Park, located in the Lahaul and Spiti districts of Himachal Pradesh, is known for its high-altitude desert ecosystem and unique wildlife.
Key Attractions
- Snow Leopards: The park is one of the few places in India where you can spot snow leopards.
- Unique Flora and Fauna: The park is home to several rare and endangered species, including the ibex, Tibetan gazelle, and Himalayan wolf.
- Breathtaking Landscapes: The park’s terrain includes rugged mountains, deep gorges, and high-altitude meadows.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from July to October.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 50 per person per day
- Foreign Nationals: INR 200 per person per day
- Camping Fee: INR 100 per person per day
Accommodation:
- Homestays: Available in nearby villages like Mudh, Kaza, and Tabo.
- Guesthouses: Options in Kaza and surrounding areas.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu), 250 km away. Hire a taxi from the airport to Kaza.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, 350 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Manali (200 km) or Shimla (445 km). Buses available from Manali and Shimla to Kaza.
9. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh
Namdapha National Park, located in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalayas. It is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. Read More: Namdapha National Park Travel Guide: Attractions, Entry Fees and Accommodation
Key Attractions
- Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a variety of species, including tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, and over 450 species of birds.
- Diverse Ecosystems: The park’s terrain ranges from tropical rain forests to alpine meadows, offering a unique biodiversity.
- Adventure Activities: The park is a popular destination for trekking and bird watching.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from October to April.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 50 per person per day
- Foreign Nationals: INR 500 per person per day
- Vehicle Entry Fee: INR 300 for four-wheelers
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Miao.
- Forest Rest Houses: Available within the park.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Mohanbari Airport (Dibrugarh), 182 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Miao.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Tinsukia, 141 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to Miao.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Dibrugarh (182 km) or Tinsukia (141 km) takes around 4-5 hours. Buses and taxis available from these cities to Miao.
7 Nights 8 Days Arunachal and Assam Tour
10. Kanchenjunga National Park, Sikkim
Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the state of Sikkim. It is named after Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, and is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Key Attractions
- Kanchenjunga Peak: The park offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga Peak, which towers at 8,586 meters.
- Rich Biodiversity: The park is home to several species, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and red panda.
- Trekking: The park is a popular destination for trekking, with several trails offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 200 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 400 per person
- Trekking Permit: INR 500 per person
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Yuksom and other nearby villages.
- Homestays: Numerous options in the buffer zone of the park.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, 122 km away. Hire a taxi to Yuksom.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, 150 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Yuksom.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Siliguri (145 km) or Gangtok (120 km). Taxis and shared jeeps available from these cities to Yuksom.
6 Days Gangtok Lachung Sikkim Tour
11. Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh
Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh, is known for its high-altitude forests and diverse wildlife.
Key Attractions
- Unique Wildlife: The sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species, including the Mishmi takin, red panda, and snow leopard.
- Bird Watching: The sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers, with over 300 species of birds.
- Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary’s terrain includes lush forests, high-altitude meadows, and snow-capped peaks.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is from October to April.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 50 per person per day
- Foreign Nationals: INR 500 per person per day
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Anini.
- Homestays: Numerous options in nearby villages.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the sanctuary.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport, 400 km away. Hire a taxi to Anini.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Tinsukia, 450 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Anini.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Dibrugarh (400 km) or Tinsukia (450 km). Buses and taxis available from these cities to Anini.
16 Nights 17 Days North East India Itinerary
12. Singalila National Park, West Bengal
Singalila National Park, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, is known for its high-altitude forests and stunning views of the Himalayas.
Key Attractions
- Red Panda: The park is one of the few places in India where you can spot red pandas.
- Trekking: The park is a popular destination for trekking, with the Singalila Ridge offering stunning views of Kanchenjunga and Everest.
- Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a variety of species, including the Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard, and over 120 species of birds.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 100 per person per day
- Foreign Nationals: INR 200 per person per day
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Manebhanjan, Tonglu, and Sandakphu.
- Homestays: Numerous options in villages along the trekking route.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, 95 km away. Hire a taxi to Manebhanjan.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, 90 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Manebhanjan.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Darjeeling (51 km) or Siliguri (90 km). Taxis and shared jeeps available from these cities to Manebhanjan.
3 Nights 4 Days Darjeeling Kalimpong Tour
13. Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand
Gangotri National Park, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, is known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The park is named after the Gangotri Glacier, the source of the Ganges River.
Key Attractions
- Gangotri Glacier: The park offers stunning views of the Gangotri Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas.
- Rich Biodiversity: The park is home to several species, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and blue sheep.
- Trekking: The park is a popular destination for trekking, with several trails offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from April to October.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 150 per person for 3 days
- Foreign Nationals: INR 600 per person for 3 days
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Gangotri and Bhojwasa.
- Homestays: Options in nearby villages.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 268 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Gangotri.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Dehradun, 250 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus from the station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Dehradun (250 km) or Rishikesh (270 km). Buses available from these cities to Gangotri.
5 Days Gangotri Trip Itinerary from Delhi
14. Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim
Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the state of Sikkim. It is named after Khangchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world, and is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Key Attractions
- Khangchendzonga Peak: The park offers stunning views of Khangchendzonga Peak, which towers at 8,586 meters.
- Rich Biodiversity: The park is home to several species, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and red panda.
- Trekking: The park is a popular destination for trekking, with several trails offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Visitor Information
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 200 per person
- Foreign Nationals: INR 400 per person
- Trekking Permit: INR 500 per person
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Yuksom and other nearby villages.
- Homestays: Numerous options in the buffer zone of the park.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, 122 km away. Hire a taxi to Yuksom.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, 150 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Yuksom.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Siliguri (145 km) or Gangtok (120 km). Taxis and shared jeeps available from these cities to Yuksom.
15. Neora Valley National Park, West Bengal
Neora Valley National Park, located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, is known for its pristine forests and rich biodiversity.
Key Attractions
- Unique Wildlife: The park is home to several rare and endangered species, including the red panda, clouded leopard, and Himalayan black bear.
- Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 300 species of birds.
- Scenic Beauty: The park’s terrain includes lush forests, high-altitude meadows, and snow-capped peaks.
Visitor Information
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from October to April.
Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: INR 100 per person per day
- Foreign Nationals: INR 200 per person per day
Accommodation:
- Guesthouses: Available in Lava and Kolakham.
- Homestays: Numerous options in nearby villages.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas within the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, 105 km away. Hire a taxi to Lava.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, 110 km away. Hire a taxi or take a bus to Lava.
- By Road: Well-connected by road. Drive from Siliguri (100 km) or Kalimpong (32 km). Taxis and shared jeeps available from these cities to Lava.
Conclusion
The Indian Himalayan region is home to some of the most stunning and diverse national parks in the world. From the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh to the lush forests of Arunachal Pradesh, these parks offer a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of the Himalayas. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, these national parks provide an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to these top national parks in the Indian Himalayan region and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of the Himalayas.
For more information on planning your visit to the Indian Himalayan region, check out Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages and other related articles on our website.
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