5 Lesser-Known Wildlife Sanctuaries In India For A Refreshing Escape

When it comes to exploring India's wildlife, most travellers flock to the popular national parks like Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, or Kaziranga. However, a few other untouched sanctuaries for wildlife conservation bear the beauty of another world.

From the snow-covered terrains of Ladakh to the verdant jungles of Arunachal Pradesh, these lesser-known places promise rare flora and fauna and a refreshing escape. This off-beaten wildlife sanctuary will be the best option if you are searching for inner peace with nature.

ALSO READ: Kerala's Beautiful Beaches For A Refreshing Summer Escape

1. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Ladakh:

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the high-altitude desert conditions of Ladakh, where peaks of snow blend extravagantly with emerald lakes, rising to heights of 4500 meters above sea level. It is the only area in India where you can spot the Tibetan wild ass, Pallas’s cat, and the extremely rare black-necked crane. Nature lovers can find an exceptional wildlife experience in the lap of the beautiful Himalayas.

2. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh:

Nestled in the scenic beauty of Himachal Pradesh, Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the treasures of biodiversity and high-altitude beauty. Besides being the home of the Himalayan monal and snow leopard and over 200 feathered inhabitants, this wooded heaven is also ideal for trekking.

3. Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh:

Dudhwa is located near the border of India and Nepal. This national park offers peaceful Terai grasslands where one could get lost. The very famous Barasingha (swamp deer) and one-horned rhinoceros, over 400 of the country's avian species are sheltered within this Indian birdwatcher paradise. 

4. Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh:

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled in the lush Eastern Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh. It has mystical forests and vibrant birdlife. The Bugun liocichla, as well as the elusive red panda, was discovered within these borders, making the place a curiosity for birdwatchers and scientists. This sanctuary encompasses nature with biodiversity and tribal culture in one enriching journey. 

5. National Chambal Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh:

Among the unique sanctuaries across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, this is a sanctuary stretching along the quiet, soothing banks of the River Chambal. Travellers can spot the rare and endangered species like gharial, Gangetic dolphin, and red-crowned roof turtle found in waters that are relatively free from pollution. 

lifestyle