National Parks In Uttarakhand: Explore India’s Exotic Wildlife

A spotted deer crossing a road inside Jim Corbett national park, Uttarakhand, India

Uttarakhand, located within the Himalaya circle, is one of the most beautiful places on earth because of its valleys and rainforests. The state has many national parks, each one helping to conserve different species of plants and animals in the country. Most of these conserved areas are designed to protect the endangered species however they also provide retreat for nature admirers, trekkers as well as animal lovers. Visiting the national parks in Uttarakhand is an opportunity to enjoy the undisturbed Himalayan wilderness.

The Ultimate Guide To National Parks In Uttarakhand

Here are 6 national parks in Uttarakhand that you should not miss out on

1. Jim Corbett National Park

A picture of a tigress roaming around the gypsy track at a national park in Uttarakhand

Photo: Soumyajit Nandy / Wikimedia Commons

Being the oldest national park in India, Jim Corbett draws an inherent inclination towards wildlife tourism. This section attracts many visitors who wish to see Bengal tigers in the wild. Needless to say, this makes it one of the most sought-after national parks in India for wildlife lovers. The National Park comprises extensive grasslands and forests interspersed with river belts inhabited by various plants and animals such as elephants, leopards and many birds. Tourists can either indulge in jeep safaris, and elephant rides or simply trek the park to appreciate its beauty.

Location: Ramnagar, Uttarakhand
Major Attractions: Bengal tiger, Jeep safaris, Elephant rides
How To Reach: Easily accessible by road from Ramnagar; nearest railhead is Ramnagar station

2. Valley Of Flowers National Park

A picture of Valley of Flowers, one of the best National Parks in Uttarakhand.

Photo: Raghuram. A / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the mountainous region of the Western Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers National Park is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned especially for the vibrant wildflower landscape during the rainy season. The sprawl of the Sundarbans becomes a heavenly abode filled with thousands of blooming trees and flowers such as blue poppies, orchids, and primulas which cover the valley. Bounded by jagged white peaks, it is most suited for trekking for those who appreciate nature and those who enjoy physical activities.

Location: Chamoli, Uttarakhand
Major Attractions: Blooming wildflowers, Snow leopards, Musk deer
How To Reach: Accessible by trekking from Govindghat, which is connected by road to Joshimath

3. Rajaji National Park

A naked tree in the forest with the foothills of the Himalayas in the background.

Photo: Pathik2207 / Wikimedia Commons

Nestled within the breathtaking scenery of the hilly terrains of the Shivalik ranges resides one of the best national parks for wildlife enthusiasts. The Rajaji National Park houses elephants, tigers, leopards and a variety of birds as well. Thanks to the varying landforms, composed of rivers, dense forests as well as open grasslands, the area is very conducive for safaris and leisurely nature strolls. The terrain is pleasurable for watching the flora and fauna without the hindrance of man-made gadgets along with the beauty of the surroundings of Uttarakhand.

Location: Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
Major Attractions: Elephant safaris, Birdwatching, Diverse wildlife
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Haridwar and Dehradun; nearest railhead is Haridwar Junction

4. Nanda Devi National Park

A picture of a green mountain near Trishul Peak, on the way to Roopkund

Photo: Spattadar / Wikimedia Commons

Visit Nanda Devi National Park, a top-tier National Park in Uttarakhand.

Nanda Devi National Park is famous for its breathtaking sceneries, particularly the soaring Nanda Devi Peak, and is a segment of UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is a logistics area for the trekkers as it has very demanding trails over stones, glaciers and into valley regions. Also, the park contains a rich range of flora and fauna such as the Himalayan tahr, snow leopard and Bharal blue sheep among many others. The unspoiled natural beauty of the ecologically rich park makes it one of the best national parks in Uttarakhand.

Location: Chamoli, Uttarakhand
Major Attractions: Nanda Devi Peak, Snow leopards, Alpine meadows
How To Reach: Trekking routes from Joshimath; accessible by road from major towns like Joshimath and Rishikesh

5. Gangotri National Park

Explore Gangotri National Park, a must-visit National Park in Uttarakhand.

Photo: Gauravkaintura1234 / Wikimedia Commons

Situated in the district of Uttarkashi, Gangotri National Park is well-known for its spiritual ambience and amazing sights. This picturesque national park opens up towards the famed Gangotri glacier which is known as the source of the holy river Ganges. It comprises lofty snow-capped mountains, crufty woods, and highland grasslands which delight not only the sightseers but the pilgrims also. Besides the impressive features of the gushing waterfalls and the picturesque endless scenery, the Bhagirathi River adds beauty to the park as it runs within it. Gangotri National Park is somewhere where spiritualism and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

Location: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Major Attractions: Gangotri Glacier, Bhagirathi River, Snow leopards
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Uttarkashi; the nearest railhead is Dehradun

6. Govind Pashu Vihar National Park

A picture of a mountain range filled with lush greenery and trees, taken on a sunny day

Photo: Anshul24Sharma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Found in the less-travelled Uttarkashi district is the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. This park is famous for its thick jungles and extensive wildlife diversity. It harbours some rare creatures such as the snow leopard and the musk deer. The park offers beautiful trails due to its characteristics of deep valleys and tall mountains. Hence, it is a sought-after site for trekking and other forms of adventure. The Har Ki Doon trek, which is one of the highlights, leads the travellers past lovely meadows, through alpine forests, and across rivers.

Location: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Major Attractions: Snow leopards, Har Ki Doon trek, Alpine meadows
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Uttarkashi; trekking routes start from Sankri village

The national parks in Uttarakhand are a picturesque combination of diverse wildlife, lush green serenity, and adventure giving them the tag of heaven for nature enthusiasts and adventure junkies. Each visit holds a promise of a visual treat well complimented with sightings of rare wildlife and remarkable experiences with nature. The parks in Uttarakhand offer the chance for tourists to get close to nature, understand the preservation of the environment, and appreciate the peacefulness of the mountains. So, enjoy your Uttarakhand tour with TripXL making things organised and stress-free. Get your nature holiday booking done now!

Cover Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best period is from October to March for wildlife visit, while April to September is wonderful for highland trekking and attraction of flowers.
In Jim Corbett, there are Bengal tigers, elephants and leopards while snow leopards and unique marine plants can be found in the Valley of Flowers.
Yes, you can find most national parks with naturalists, who conduct the tours and safaris to make your enjoyment of wildlife better.
Along with jeep safaris, trekking, bird watching and camping are also available thereby providing some fun and educational activities to the visitors.
Always stay on the trail and keep quiet, avoid making noise and away from the wild animals, and carry water and observe all the rules of the park.

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