India is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse national parks in the world. From the majestic Bengal tigers to the one-horned rhinoceros, these parks boast an impressive array of wildlife and natural beauty. Here are the five biggest national parks in India that are definitely worth a visit.

National parks in India

With over 100 national parks spread across various states, India offers a diverse range of ecosystems and wildlife habitats. These parks serve as important sanctuaries for endangered species such as tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and lions. They also offer visitors a chance to explore nature's wonders through safaris, trekking, and bird watching.

Top 5 biggest national parks in India

Below are the top five biggest national parks in India.

Hemis National Park

Covering an expansive area of over 4,400 square kilometers, Hemis National Park is located in the eastern part of Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir. It is the largest of the top five biggest national parks in India. Hemis boasts a breathtaking alpine landscape, with snow-capped mountains, high-altitude meadows, and gushing rivers.

The park is home to the elusive snow leopard, making it a coveted destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Other species found here include the Himalayan brown bear, Tibetan wolf, ibex, and many migratory birds.

Hemis National Park is the largest of the top five biggest national parks in India

Nagarhole National Park

Situated in the southern state of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park spans over 640 square kilometers. Its name, which means "snake river" in the local language, is derived from the serpentine Kabini River that flows through the park. Nagarhole is known for its dense forests, pristine water bodies, and thriving wildlife population. The park is a haven for the majestic Indian elephant and is one of the best places in India to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Additionally, visitors can spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and a variety of bird species.

Nagarhole National Park spans over 640 square kilometers

Simlipal National Park

Located in the state of Odisha, Simlipal National Park spans approximately 2,750 square kilometers, making it the third biggest national park in India. The park is characterized by its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills. Simlipal is renowned for its Royal Bengal tigers and is part of the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is also home to elephants, leopards, sambar deer, wild boars, and an astonishing variety of birdlife, including the rare red junglefowl.

Simlipal National Park is the third biggest national park in India

Sundarbans National Park

Covering an area of around 1,330 square kilometers, Sundarbans National Park in the top biggest national parks in India is located in the Sundarbans Delta, shared by India and Bangladesh. This unique mangrove ecosystem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its iconic Royal Bengal tigers that swim in its waters.

The Sundarbans, known as the world's largest delta, is a maze of interconnecting waterways, mudflats, and dense mangrove forests. Besides the Bengal tiger, visitors may also encounter saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars, and an incredible variety of avian species.

Sundarbans National Park is located in the Sundarbans Delta

Desert National Park

Situated in the western state of Rajasthan, Desert National Park in the top biggest national parks in India spans across 3,162 square kilometers of the Thar Desert. This vast expanse of arid wilderness is a unique ecosystem, characterized by sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and scrubland. Despite its harsh conditions, the Desert National Park is home to a surprising array of wildlife, including the endangered Great Indian Bustard, blackbuck, chinkara, desert fox, and desert cat. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 120 resident and migratory bird species.

Desert National Park is a unique ecosystem

These five biggest national parks in India are a testament to India's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, a visit to India and exploring these parks is sure to be an unforgettable experience.