5 Lesser-Known National Parks for Wildlife Watching in India

India is a land of diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. While many travelers flock to famous national parks like Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, and Kaziranga, the country is also home to several lesser-known but equally mesmerizing wildlife destinations. These hidden gems not only offer incredible wildlife viewing opportunities but also provide a serene and uncrowded experience for nature lovers. Here's a guide to five lesser-known national parks and reserves you must explore.

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1. Raimona National Park, Assam

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Overview:Declared as a national park in 2021, Raimona is located in the western part of Assam, adjacent to the Bhutan border. The park is part of the greater Manas Biosphere Reserve and is known for its pristine beauty, rich flora and fauna, and unique landscape. Once the land filled with hunters but now they left this and become a member of forest to save this beautiful wild land.

Key Wildlife: Golden langur (endemic), Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, gaur, and over 150 species of birds.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati), about 220 km away.

  • By Train: Nearest railway station is Kokrajhar (approx. 40 km).

  • By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Kokrajhar and Guwahati.

Estimated Cost:

  • Transport: INR 2,500 - 5,000

  • Accommodation: INR 1,000 - 3,000 per night (basic eco-resorts or guesthouses)

  • Park Entry & Safari: INR 500 - 1,000

Special Point: It’s one of the few places in India where you can spot the elusive golden langur.

 

2. Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal


 

Overview:Located in the Alipurduar district, Buxa Tiger Reserve is a lush forest area tucked in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. It is less commercialized, making it ideal for those looking for tranquility and authentic wildlife experiences. In Buxa Tiger Reserve you can see dense forest alongside exotic mountain even some grassland means its a full package of journey. This is heart of Alipurduar and Alipurduar called the queen of Dooars (A region of North Bengal)

Key Wildlife: Royal Bengal tiger, leopards, elephants, Himalayan black bear, and over 300 bird species.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Bagdogra Airport (170 km)

  • By Train: Alipurduar Junction (approx. 20 km)

  • By Road: Easily accessible by road from Siliguri and Alipurduar.

Estimated Cost:

  • Transport: INR 2,000 - 4,000

  • Accommodation: INR 800 - 2,500

  • Park Entry & Safari: INR 400 - 800

Special Point: Buxa also offers a chance to trek to historical ruins and Bhutanese monasteries inside the forest.

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3. Simlipal National Park, Odisha

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Overview:Simlipal is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in India and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It boasts a mix of dense sal forests, rolling hills, and vibrant meadows, creating a perfect habitat for a variety of wildlife. This national park has extremely rare melanistic Tiger which roams the jungle

Key Wildlife: Tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, sloth bears, and 200+ bird species.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (270 km)

  • By Train: Baripada is the nearest station (approx. 50 km)

  • By Road: Well-connected via NH18 to Baripada and Jashipur.

Estimated Cost:

  • Transport: INR 3,000 - 6,000

  • Accommodation: INR 1,000 - 2,000

  • Entry & Safari: INR 600 - 1,200

Special Point: The Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls inside the park are must-see attractions.

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4. Neora Valley National Park, West Bengal

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Overview: Nestled in the Kalimpong district, Neora Valley is one of the richest biological zones in the Northeast. It's a paradise for bird watchers and is part of the Eastern Himalayas biodiversity hotspot.

Key Wildlife: Red panda, clouded leopard, Himalayan black bear, and exotic birds like satyr tragopan and hornbills.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Bagdogra Airport (100 km)

  • By Train: New Jalpaiguri (90 km)

  • By Road: Accessible from Kalimpong and Lava (25 km)

Estimated Cost:

  • Transport: INR 2,000 - 4,000

  • Stay: INR 1,200 - 3,000 (homestays or forest lodges)

  • Entry Fee: INR 400 - 800

Special Point: Offers great trekking routes and an unmatched view of the Kanchenjunga range.

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5. Kakoijana Reserve Forest, Assam

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Overview: This little-known gem in Assam is famed for the conservation of the golden langur. It’s a community-driven conservation effort that has turned a degraded forest into a vibrant biodiversity hotspot.

Key Wildlife: Golden langur, civet, leopard cat, pangolin, and various reptiles and birds.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Guwahati Airport (180 km)

  • By Train: Bongaigaon Railway Station (15 km)

  • By Road: Easily accessible from Bongaigaon town.

Estimated Cost:

  • Transport: INR 1,000 - 2,000

  • Accommodation: INR 800 - 1,500

  • Entry: Nominal or free, depending on the local guides

Special Point: It’s a model of successful community-led wildlife protection and eco-tourism.

 

Final Thoughts

Exploring these lesser-known national parks not only contributes to sustainable tourism but also provides a chance to witness India’s biodiversity in its purest form. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, reconnect with nature, and discover offbeat trails, these hidden wildlife paradises are perfect for your next adventure.

Pro Tip: Always check for park opening seasons, required permits, and local weather conditions before planning your visit.