Winter is the best time to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the national parks of South India. The cool temperatures and clear skies provide an ideal location for wildlife lovers, nature lovers and photographers to enjoy the rich biodiversity in the region. From dense forests to grasslands, South India offers a variety of landscapes, making it a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. Here are the top 8 national parks in South India to visit this winter:
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala
Located in the Western Ghats, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Kerala. Known for its picturesque setting around the Periyar Lake, the sanctuary is home to a variety of animals including elephants, tigers, sambar and wild boar. Winter is an excellent time to visit as the cooler weather makes trekking and boat safaris around the lake more enjoyable. The park is also famous for its rich bird life, including the endangered Nilgiri wood pigeon.
Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
Bandipur National Park, located on the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border, is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is one of the most prominent tiger reserves in India and is a must visit for wildlife lovers. The park is rich in wildlife like tigers, elephants, leopards and deer. In winter, the park has clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it an ideal time for safari. The parkās open grasslands and dry deciduous forests enhance wildlife visibility during the colder months.
Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu
Situated on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Mudumalai National Park is another gem of the Nilgiri Hills. It is known for its unique landscape, which includes dry deciduous forests, dense shola forests and grasslands. Mudumalai is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, sloth bears and several species of primates. Winter is an excellent time to view wildlife, as animals are more likely to come out in search of water and food.
Eravikulam National Park, Kerala
Eravikulam National Park, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is famous for its picturesque landscape and diverse wildlife. Located in the Western Ghats, the park is home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a species of mountain goat that is a primary attraction for visitors. The park is spread across grasslands and shola forests, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also famous for the Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India, which is located within the park limits. Apart from the Nilgiri tahr, Eravikulam is a sanctuary for many other wildlife, including the Indian bison, wild boar, leopard and several species of birds. The park is best visited during the winter months when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for trekking and nature walks.
Kudremukh National Park, Karnataka
Kudremukh, meaning āhorse faceā, is a national park located in the Western Ghats and is named after the horse-shaped peak to which it is home. The park has a variety of landscapes including grasslands, forests and waterfalls, and is home to species such as tigers, leopards, wild boars and langurs. Winter brings cool temperatures, making it ideal for trekking in hilly terrain. The biodiversity of the park, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an ideal winter getaway for nature lovers.
Silent Valley National Park, Kerala
Silent Valley National Park, located in Kerala, is one of the last remaining stretches of tropical rainforest in India. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts a unique ecosystem with a variety of flora and fauna. It is home to several endangered species, including the lion-tailed macaque. The winter season is ideal for trekking on the forest paths of the park and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Dense forests and rich wildlife make it an exciting destination for nature lovers.
Anshi National Park, Karnataka
Anshi National Park, located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, is a lesser-known gem in the Western Ghats, offering a serene and untouched experience in nature. Known for its dense tropical forests, the park is part of the larger Kali Tiger Reserve and is home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, elephants, wild boars and various species of deer. The park is also famous for its diverse bird population, making it a paradise for bird lovers. Apart from its rich wildlife, Anshi National Park is known for its picturesque landscapes, which include dense forests, rolling hills and crystal-clear streams. The cool temperatures of the winter months are an ideal time to visit the park through guided treks and safaris. Visitors to the park can also enjoy a visit to the nearby Supa Dam, which offers a beautiful view of the lush green environment.
Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Karnataka
Rajiv Gandhi National Park, also known as Nagarhole National Park, is located in the Kodagu and Mysuru districts of Karnataka. It is one of the major wildlife destinations of South India and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park is named after former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and is known for its rich biodiversity, which includes tigers, elephants, leopards, wild dogs and a variety of deer species. The park also boasts an impressive bird life, with over 270 species recorded here, making it a bird watcherās paradise. Rajiv Gandhi National Park is famous for its natural beauty, with lush green forests, rolling hills and the Kabini River flowing along its borders, providing an ideal location for wildlife photography and nature walks. The cooler winter months provide an excellent time to visit, as wildlife is more active, and safaris are more enjoyable in moderate temperatures.
