How to Experience "The Jungle Book" in India

Corbett National Park

A five-hour drive away from Delhi, situated in the foothills of Himalayas, this national park is a place that looks like a live chapter right out of the pages of jungle book. Apart from the wildlife, you can get a glimpse of the beautiful banks of Kosi river, Kalagarh dam, the clear night sky, and the Corbett fall. Famous for the Royal Bengal tigers and Great Indian elephants, this national park is a must visit safari experience.

Things to know: Drinking alcohol and eating non-vegetarian food is not allowed in the park. Also, harming any flora or fauna species in the park is a serious offense.

Best time to visit: From November 15 – June 15.

Park Timings: 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Location:

Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital District, Ramnagar, Uttarakhand 244715

The Banks of Kosi River |© Anamdas / Wikimedia | © Anamdas |Wikimedia.org

Kaziranga National Park

The park with the largest population of horned rhinos in the world, Kaziranga is surrounded by gorgeous tea plantations. Situated in Assam, this national park looks like the source of inspiration for stunning pieces of literature on flora and fauna.

Things to know: Every range of the park holds its own specialty. For example, the central range of the park offers the elephant safari, whereas the northeastern zone boasts of beautiful waters and amazing boat rides.

Best time to visit: November to April

Park timings: Elephant Safaris – 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., then 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Jeep Safaris – 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. then 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Location:

Kaziranga National Park, Kanchanjuri, Assam 784177

© Diganta Talukdar / Wikimedia

Sunderbans National Park

Flushed with a rich wildlife album, like Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book, the Sunderbans are both amazing and adventurous for a short trip in the wild. This West Bengal national park is known for species like the Royal Bengal Tiger, crocodiles, bull sharks, primates, and different species of snakes. One of the best wildlife experiences in India, Sunderbans is notorious for its vigilant tiger species.

Things to know: For safety purposes, it is strictly advised not to get down in the water or at the river bank in Sunderbans. Bringing personal boats in the national park requires lengthy and time-consuming procedures.

Best time to visit: April to June if you want a glimpse of the tigers as they come out in search of water, otherwise from December to February as the weather is pleasant during these months.

Location:

Sunderbans National Park, Dayapur, Gosaba, West Bengal 743370

Ranthambore National Park

One of the best spots to see a tiger in its natural turf, Ranthambore national park enjoys tigers moving around, lazing by the lakes, and hunting in their territory. A three-hour drive from Jaipur, this national park is a cherished experience for wildlife lovers.

Things to know: The temperature at the park can drop to two degrees Celsius at night during November to February.

Best time to visit: November to March

Park Timings: 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the morning and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Location:

Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan 322001

© Mahajanva76 / Wikimedia

Bandhavgarh National Park

Home to the famous white tiger, a trip to this national park is an adventure. Other major attractions in the park include a bird tour and a 14th-century fort. The bio-diversity of this park includes grassy swamps, rocky hills, sharp ridges, and open meadows.

Things to know: The Khujaraho temples are very close to the park. Plan a tour to these erotic temples with your adventure trip.

Best time to visit: February to May

Park timings: Winter – 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Summer – 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Location:

Bandhavgarh National Park, State Highway 10, Near Petrol Pump, Badhavgarh, District Umaria, Tala, Madhya Pradesh 484661

© Demian Smit / Pexels

Pench National Park

A paradise for bird watchers, Pench National Park is home to a huge diversity of wildlife. One can easily spot a leopard, deer, sloth bear, porcupine, or a jungle cat among other animals in this national park. Located in Madhya Pradesh, this jungle story is filled with captivating views and scenic landscapes that leave the visitors spellbound.

Things to know: The park is open from October 16th to June 30th every year. The tiger reserve is closed during the months of July and September due to heavy rainfall.

Best time to visit: February to April

Park Timings: 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location:

Pench National Park, Near Turia Gate, Post:- Turia, Seoni Dist, Kurai, Madhya Pradesh 480661

© Mayurisamudre / Wikimedia | © Mayurisamudre | Wikimedia.org

India’s wildlife is a book filled with fascinating species, stories, and scenic beauties that unfold for those who are patient. You might come across Bagira, Baloo, or Sher Khan in these captivating views and trips. Adventure, inspiration, fear, excitement, and fun, “The Jungle Book” of India is how you perceive it to be.