Top 50 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India – A Complete Guide

India is renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, making it one of the world’s most ecologically important countries. Home to over 573 wildlife sanctuaries, these protected areas serve as vital havens for numerous species, including many that are endangered or threatened. From the dense forests of Madhya Pradesh to the coastal mangroves of the Sundarbans, India offers a plethora of wildlife sanctuaries spread across its vast landscapes.

Wild life map of India

Wildlife sanctuaries in India are crucial for conservation, offering refuge for animals and birds in their natural habitats. They provide unique opportunities for eco-tourism, wildlife photography, and bird-watching, attracting tourists and nature lovers from around the globe. If you are planning to explore India's wild side, here’s a complete guide to 50 top wildlife sanctuaries, including their establishment year, name, state, and area.

Top 50 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India
Year	Name	State	Area (km²)
1955	Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary	Madhya Pradesh	940
1974	Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary	Assam	1,032
1975	Gir Wildlife Sanctuary	Gujarat	1,412
1982	Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary	Kerala	925
1984	Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary	West Bengal	2,585
1986	Buxa Wildlife Sanctuary	West Bengal	368.99
1991	Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary	Karnataka	874.2
1990	Manas Wildlife Sanctuary	Assam	500
1980	Simlipal Wildlife Sanctuary	Odisha	2,750
1997	Galathea Bay Wildlife Sanctuary	Andaman & Nicobar	11.44
1987	Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttarakhand	301.18
1997	Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary	Madhya Pradesh	748
1991	Ranthambhore Wildlife Sanctuary	Rajasthan	1,434
1993	Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary	Tamil Nadu	1,400
1987	Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary	Tripura	194.7
1999	Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary	Tamil Nadu	958
2001	Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttarakhand	1,100
1994	Tadoba Wildlife Sanctuary	Maharashtra	1,142
1986	Panna Wildlife Sanctuary	Madhya Pradesh	542.7
1999	Namdapha Wildlife Sanctuary	Arunachal Pradesh	1,985
1997	Khangchendzonga Wildlife Sanctuary	Sikkim	850
1991	Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary	Karnataka	834
1992	Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary	Andhra Pradesh	301
1996	Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary	West Bengal	1,006
1987	Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttarakhand	820
1991	Nanda Devi Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttarakhand	630
1984	Desert National Park	Rajasthan	3,162
1997	Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary	Rajasthan	578
1995	Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary	Himachal Pradesh	61.03
1989	Keshopur-Miani Wildlife Sanctuary	Punjab	40
1998	Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary	Arunachal Pradesh	862
1983	Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve	Uttarakhand	2,236
1999	Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttar Pradesh	435
1987	Dampa Tiger Reserve	Mizoram	500
1996	Sahyadri Wildlife Sanctuary	Maharashtra	2,700
1992	Pichavaram Mangrove Sanctuary	Tamil Nadu	18
1999	Sariska Tiger Reserve	Rajasthan	1,291
1991	Keoladeo Ghana Wildlife Sanctuary	Rajasthan	29
1987	Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary	Chhattisgarh	557
1995	Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary	Maharashtra	422
1999	Indravati Wildlife Sanctuary	Chhattisgarh	1,258
1980	Biligiri Ranganatha Wildlife Sanctuary	Karnataka	524
1997	Khao La Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttar Pradesh	40
1985	Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary	Telangana	900
1999	Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary	Uttar Pradesh	70
1994	Mahavir Harina Wildlife Sanctuary	Telangana	20
1995	Banjara Wildlife Sanctuary	Madhya Pradesh	50
1985	Kolar Gold Fields Wildlife Sanctuary	Karnataka	180
1992	Srivilliputhur Wildlife Sanctuary	Tamil Nadu	475
1994	Rajiv Gandhi National Park	Karnataka	1,200
1997	Jimbhiri Wildlife Sanctuary	Gujarat	300

Top FAQs About Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

1. How many wildlife sanctuaries are there in India? India has more than 573 wildlife sanctuaries that are spread across different states, making it one of the largest networks of protected wildlife areas in the world.

2. What is the purpose of a wildlife sanctuary? The primary purpose of a wildlife sanctuary is to provide a safe environment for wildlife and to conserve endangered species. Human interference is minimized to protect natural habitats.

3. Which wildlife sanctuary is the largest in India? The Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal is the largest in India, covering an area of 2,585 km², and is famous for its Bengal tigers and mangrove forests.

4. Can tourists visit these sanctuaries? Yes, many wildlife sanctuaries in India are open to tourists. Visitors can enjoy safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching. However, some areas may require permits for entry.

5. What is the best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries in India? The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife is more active.

---

Conclusion

India’s wildlife sanctuaries are a treasure trove of natural wonders and a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its biodiversity. With over 573 sanctuaries scattered across the nation, they provide vital protection to endangered species while offering eco-tourism opportunities for travelers. Whether you are a wildlife photographer, a nature enthusiast, or just someone looking to escape into the wild, India’s top 50 sanctuaries offer unparalleled experiences in some of the most scenic environments in the world. Visit these sanctuaries and immerse yourself in the beauty of India’s wildlife.