11 Underrated Wildlife Sanctuaries in India You Need to Explore

India’s wildlife is as diverse as its landscapes, yet some of its most spectacular sanctuaries remain undiscovered. If you’re craving an offbeat adventure away from the tourist rush, these 12 hidden gems will take you deep into nature’s untouched wilderness. (Image: Canva)

1. Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Tamil Nadu
Imagine snorkeling through crystal-clear waters as dolphins, sea turtles, and rare dugongs glide past. This marine paradise, spread across 21 islands, boasts vibrant coral reefs and is one of India’s most underrated coastal escapes. (Image: Canva)

2. Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Best known for India’s cheetah reintroduction project, Kuno’s vast grasslands and rugged forests are home to leopards, sloth bears, and wolves. It’s an exciting alternative to crowded national parks for spotting big cats in their natural habitat. (Image: Kuno National park)

3. Jawai Leopard Conservation Reserve, Rajasthan
Jawai’s surreal rocky landscapes make it India’s top destination for spotting leopards in the wild. With minimal forest cover, these majestic creatures can be seen lounging on boulders against breathtaking sunset backdrops. (Image: Canva)

4. Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh
This hidden treasure in the Eastern Himalayas is a birdwatcher’s dream, home to over 450 species, including the rare Bugun Liocichla. Misty forests, winding trails, and an unmatched sense of solitude make it a must-visit. (Image: Canva)

5. Papikonda National Park, Andhra Pradesh
Flowing alongside the scenic Godavari River, this remote sanctuary is best explored by boat safari. The lush forests are home to tigers, leopards, and wild dogs, offering a thrilling yet peaceful escape into the wild. (Image: Canva)

6. Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha
Nicknamed the “Mini Amazon of India,” Bhitarkanika’s vast mangrove forests shelter massive saltwater crocodiles, rare king cobras, and thousands of migratory birds. A boat ride through these waters is an unforgettable wildlife experience. (Image: Canva)

7. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam
Feral ponies roam freely in this enchanting riverine park, where boat safaris along the Brahmaputra reveal river dolphins, big cats, and a mesmerizing variety of migratory birds. (Image: Canva)

8. Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh
A true hidden gem, Sitanadi’s dense teak forests are home to elusive tigers, wild elephants, and the rare Indian pangolin. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, especially during the lush monsoon season. (Image: Canva)

9. Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam
Dubbed the “Amazon of the East,” this tropical rainforest is one of India’s last untouched green lungs. Spot clouded leopards, hoolock gibbons, and vibrant hornbills in its dense canopies. (Image: Canva)

10. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra
An offbeat alternative to the famous Tadoba National Park, Nagzira offers thrilling tiger and leopard sightings amid peaceful lakes and thick forests, making it a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. (Image: Canva)

11. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort, this rugged sanctuary is home to Indian wolves, leopards, and hyenas. The mix of history and wildlife makes it a unique, must-visit destination. (Image: Canva)