By Nivritti Khatri | August 5, 2025
The Black Panther in India is a melanistic leopard with excess dark pigmentation, making it appear entirely black. Rare and stealthy, it roams the densest forests of India. Here’s 10 best places to spot rare Black Panther:
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1. Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
Home to the famous Black Panther “Saya,” Kabini offers the highest chances of a sighting during safaris in Nagarhole’s backwaters region.
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2. Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
This thick forest in the Western Ghats offers a real shot at spotting a Black Panther, especially in the quieter Anshi section.
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3. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, TN & Kerala
Includes Bandipur, Wayanad, and Mudumalai—all with confirmed sightings, though rare and highly dependent on luck.
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4. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
Remote and scenic, Bhadra has seen occasional Black Panther activity, especially around Lakkavalli and Muthodi zones.
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5. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Tadoba’s Kolsa zone has reported sporadic sightings of the elusive melanistic leopard deep within tiger country.
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6. Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu
Camera traps have confirmed their presence, though sightings are rare due to the thick, hilly terrain and shy nature.
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7. Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, Goa
Goa’s dense jungle has seen recent Black Panther sightings. Best explored with local guides on early morning safaris.
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8. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa
An emerging site where trackers and camera traps hint at a resident Black Panther in the deep, shadowy valleys.
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9. Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
Still under the radar, this forest offers raw wilderness and has recorded Black Panther movements via traps.
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10. Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
Next to Kabini, Nagarhole shares the same leopard population and occasionally rewards visitors with rare glimpses.
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