Top Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttarakhand: Best Places & What to See

Hello everyone, I am Shishir, a true wildlife enthusiast who has been exploring the northern jungles of India for 10+ years now. Uttarakhand is home to some of India’s most diverse wildlife sanctuaries, ranging from famous tiger reserves to quiet Himalayan bird habitats. In this guide, you’ll find the top wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand, along with details on where they are located, what wildlife you can see, and the best time to visit. I will walk you through the complete list of all the major tiger reserves in Uttarakhand that you can visit if you are a nature and wildlife lover and always want to explore new places. These places will make you understand the natural gems we have in our country and why they are so important for us.

12 Must-Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttarakhand

• Jim Corbett National Park
• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Rajaji National Park
• Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve
• Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Gangotri National Park
• Nanda Devi National Park 
• Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
• Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
• Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary
• Sitabani Conservation Reserve

Let’s explore each of these and see what specialty they have, which makes them some of the best places for wildlife and nature exploration in Northern India.

Jim Corbett National Park: Most Famous Tiger Safari Destination

• Uttarakhand’s Corbett National Park is the first and the oldest wildlife park in India. It was established in the Year 1936, and spans a total area of around 1300+ sq. kilometres. It is located near the town of Ramnagar and falls under the Nainital district, and is a premier tiger safari destination in India.
• From Delhi, it’s approximately 250+ kilometers and takes around 5 hours to reach by road. Originally, it was called the Hailey National Park, and was named after Edward James Corbett, who was of British origin. It comprises various zones like Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Dhela, Durga Devi, Phato, Garjia, and Sitabani. 
• Overall, Jim Corbett is divided into the core zones and the buffer zones, and the central region is called Jim Corbett National Park, while the extended buffer areas are termed as Corbett Tiger Reserve. Most famous for various tigers, elephants, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, and other exotic birds Spottings. It has one of the highest tiger densities in India and is most famous and popular for both jeep and canter safaris. 
• It houses various forest rest houses also such as Malani Forest House and Bijrani Forest lodge. 
• Jim Corbett is the most popular choice for wildlife enthusiasts to go on both morning and afternoon safari sessions. It is also the first National Park of India that came under the Project Tiger Initiative, designed to protect India’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Best for Birdwatching

• It is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand and spans a total area of approximately 50 sq. Kilometres. Originally, it was established in 1988 and is termed the Paradise for Birdwatchers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot numerous types of birds across the region, which include various types of eagles, woodpeckers, monals, and much more. It houses over 200+ types of birds.
• It is close to the Himalayan range, and the mountain views are something that every individual will surely admire. 
• Apart from birds, various animals like leopards, Himalayan bears, barking deer, foxes, porcupine, chital, and musk deer are some of the notable animals found in the demographic region. 
• Binsar Sanctuary Museum is one of the notable spots that you must visit if you are deciding to go here for your next nature exploration. Pine, oak, and rhododendron trees predominantly occupy most of the geographical areas of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Rajaji National Park: Elephants, Tigers, & Rich Forest Landscapes

• This is another biggest wildlife sanctuary in the state of Uttarakhand. Also, it’s often termed as the second largest protected area after Jim Corbett. The total geographical area spans around 800+ sq. kilometres approximately. It covers the areas of Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal Districts. It is named after C. Rajagopalachari (often called Rajaji).
• Rajaji National Park was established in the year 1983. It was due to the decision of the local administration to merge Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla Sanctuaries into one. The holy Ganga River passes through the areas of this wildlife sanctuary. It’s famous for its Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, and deer population. It also houses 300+ species of birds that can be found here.
• This national park operates from November to June and is best for jungle safaris, birdwatching, and impromptu nature getaways. It has various Forest stays also, where you can stay if you want to experience the jungle up close. You can also do white-water rafting in the Ganga River. This is one of the best tiger reserves in Uttarakhand after Jim Corbett.
• Another interesting fact is that at one place, the boundary of the Rajaji National Park and the Jim Corbett National Park face each other. Usually, that point is accessed when you go on a jeep safari in the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve: Premier Spot to See Swamp Deer

• Located in the Haridwar district, it spans an area of approximately 38 sq. kilometres, and was established in the year 2005. It is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand that houses the last surviving primordial terai marshland. It also houses the only surviving herd of Swamp Deer, also known as the Barasingha, and acts as a crucial wildlife corridor in the region. 
• Elephants and Leopards are frequently spotted here. The Ganga River passes through this wildlife conservation reserve. Occasionally, tigers are spotted here, but that’s very rare. Other animal species that you can spot here include Chital, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, and Nilgai. 
• It has a great significance in India’s wildlife conservation efforts as it safeguards wetlands, grasslands, forests, and scrublands that are essential for the ecological balance of nature. It also acts as a biodiversity conservation spot for various resident and migratory species in the region. 
• You can go on Jeep Safaris, Birdwatching trips, and educational trips, which are managed by the Haridwar Forest Division. As it is located near the Rajaji National Park, you can do combined tours of both the tiger wildlife sanctuaries.

Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary: Quiet & Serene Wildlife Destination

• It is situated between the Jim Corbett National Park and the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. Another well-renowned and highly visited tiger reserves in Uttarakhand. Before this area became famous, it saw a high amount of activities related to gold panning, which led to its name of Sonanadi/the river of gold. It was founded in the year 1987.
• There are three gates from where you can access the National Park: Vantanvasa, Kalagarh, and Durgadevi. It takes about 4 hours to explore the region completely on a jeep safari. 
• The total area spans just above 300 sq. kilometres and is covered with thick forests of sal, bamboo, and sheesham plants. Also, when it comes to wild animals, it consists of Asiatic elephants, tigers, cheetal, Sambar and Barking deer, wild boar, and leopards. Moreover, it has more than 500 varieties of birds that come and reside in the natural habitat. Hornbill, Hawk eagles, Himalayan Bearded Vulture, and Falcons are some of the popular birds that you can spot here while on a jungle safari expedition.
• The Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is open for tourists from October 15 to June 15 and remains closed during monsoons. You can either opt for a morning jeep safari, which starts at 7 AM, or an evening Safari that starts from 2 PM and goes till 5:30 PM. This is the winter safari timings. During summer, the morning Safari starts at 6 AM and the evening Safari starts at 3 PM. 
• You can either opt to stay at the resort of your choice nearby or also stay in the Halduparao FRH, RathuWadhab Forest Rest House, Mundiyapani FRH, or the Morghatti Forest Lodge. The best time to visit is from the months of November to April.

Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary: For Offbeat Wildlife Experience

• It is one of the newest established wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand, which was set up in the year 2012 and spans approximately 300 sq. kilometres in area. It is named after the Nandhaur river that flows through approximately 30 kilometres through the wildlife reserve. Part of the Haldwani Forest division, it’s home to various tigers, mammals, and more than 200+ bird species. 
• It covers the areas of districts such as Nainital, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar. You can spot lots of tigers here. One of the best places for tiger and other wildlife Spottings for beginner and experienced enthusiasts. As per the last census, there are 35+ tigers present here. It is not so far in preference of individuals who are looking to visit some of the best tiger reserves in Uttarakhand. 
• You can go on jeep safaris in the Haldwani Forest Division Areas of the Jungles in the Wildlife Sanctuary. You can spot Asiatic elephants, barking deer, leopards, and Himalayan black bears, too, here if you are lucky. The region is also a paradise for Birdwatchers. 
• The three main zones of Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary include Nandhaur Tourism Zone, Senapani Zone, and the Surya Devi Zone. All of these are eco-tourism zones, and you must respect the laws set by authorities to ensure a safe and seamless wildlife exploration experience. 
• Also, there are various bird watching trails which include: Ratighat Trail, Sumanthapla Trail, Sharda Ghat to Sharda Barrage, Kakrali Trail, and Danda-Sarpachida-Danaud Trail.

Gangotri National Park: Best for Tracking Himalayan Wildlife

• In terms of geographical area and landmass, this national park is one of the largest in India and covers approximately 2400 sq. kilometres. It lies in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, and authorities established it in 1989. It houses the Gangotri Dham and the Gaumukh glacier, which people consider the source of the sacred Ganga River.
• Gangotri National Park is located at quite a high altitude, and due to that, it is famous for snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr, brown bear, and such kinds of mountainous animal Spottings. It is also one of the best trekking places for adventure enthusiasts, and you can opt for either the Gaumukh Trek, Kedartal Trek, Kalindi Khal Trek, or Gartang Gali Trek.
• The best time to visit spans May to October every year. It has lots of alpine meadows, thick forests, and multiple glaciers. You can also spot various birds like golden eagles, bearded vultures, and many other high-altitude bird species. 
• If you are travelling from Delhi, you must first reach the town of Uttarkashi by bus, and then take a cab/taxi to reach the Gangotri town. Definitely amongst the must-visit wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand.

Nanda Devi National Park: a UNESCO Heritage Site

• It is located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand and spans a total land area of approximately 625 sq. kilometres. It is a part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere, which is a UNESCO heritage site. Snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer are some of the notable animals that you can spot there. 
• This wildlife sanctuary is open from the months of May to October every year and is another great spot for trekking activities in the regions of Kuari Pass, Dharansi Pass, and Nanda Devi Sanctuary. It boasts the presence of the second-highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest, which is Nanda Devi Peak at approximately 7816 metres above sea level. 
• The Northern and Southern glaciers divide the inner sanctuary region of the National Park, while the Trishul and Ramani Glacier basins separate its outer sanctuary region. The entire region is rich in vegetation, and the demography varies from plains to hills and tall mountains. 
• It is another great spot for trekkers, and you can choose from any of the following based on your preferences: Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek, Kuari Pass Trek, Roopkund Trek, Vasuki Tal–Kedarnath Trek, and the Dharansi Pass Trek. Nanda Devi is generally open for tourists from May to October, and overall weather conditions may affect the operations. To reach here, you have to reach the town of Joshimath, and then start your wildlife adventure journey. 

Govind Pashu Vihar National Park: Birthplace of Snow Leopard Project

• This is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand, located in the Uttarkashi district, and was established in the year 1983. Its history dates back to the era of freedom fighter Govind Ballabh Pant, and authorities named it after him. The Government of India also initiated the famous Snow Leopard Project and selected this Wildlife Sanctuary for the program.
• It has a massive snow leopard population. Also, wildlife enthusiasts visit here for extraordinary photography and videography. It is also a very famous trekking spot and is the starting point of famous treks like Kedarkantha, Bali Pass, Har ki Dun, and Rupin Supin Transverse.
• The mountain range view is truly the best you can experience anywhere, as you can see panoramic mountain ranges right in front of your eyes. It’s the perfect place for anyone who wants to have a close encounter with the Himalayas as well as stay close to nature and wildlife. 
• April to June and September to November are the favourable time periods to visit the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. You can reach the town of Sankri or Netwar by bus from Dehradun and start your wildlife adventure journey. 

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: For Spotting Himalayan Wild Animals

• This is another famous and well-known wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand that you can visit on your next wildlife adventure. The sanctuary spans the Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts, and authorities established it in 1972. This wildlife sanctuary acts as the crucial link between Gangotri and Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, and enables the animals in the region, such as deer, leopards, and many others, to move freely across the demography.
• Authorities created the sanctuary primarily to conserve the Musk deer. The Mandakini River flows through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which stretches from Gaurikund to the Kedarnath mountains. Authorities also dedicated this wildlife park to the famous Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand.
• The entire area is about 975 sq. kilometres, and you can find many unique wildlife creatures there, like Snow Leopard, Red Giant Flying Squirrel, Wild Boar, Himalayan Black Bear, Jackal, Royle’s Mountain Vole, Himalayan Musk Deer, Leopard, and Yellow-throated Marten.
• Before its inception, authorities designated the region as a reserve forest. They later declared it a habitat management area and eventually converted it into a proper wildlife sanctuary. The best time to visit is usually between May-June and September-November. To reach here, you can take the NH58, reach Chopta from where you can start your journey to the wildlife park. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, and the nearest airport is Dehradun.

Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary: Best for Birdwatching & Wildlife

• Located in the district of Pithoragarh, it spans an area of 600+ sq. kilometres. Authorities set it up in 1986 primarily to conserve the Musk deer. Also, there are various high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems. 
• You can take the Haldwani-Almora highway to reach there by road. If coming by train, you can first reach the nearest railway station of Tanakpur. The nearest airport is Naini Saini, situated 60 Kilometres from the Askot Sanctuary.
• You can find Tigers, Himalayan jungle cat, goral, Himalayan brown bear, lemurs, and bison here. One of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand that you can visit for bird-watching & wildlife exploration.
• April to September is the best time to visit this national park. During winter, snow covers it fully. This leads to the closure of all wildlife activities.  

Sitabani Conservation Reserve: Premier Birding Paradise

• Established in 2012, the authorities named it the Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve. The reserve spans 58.25 square kilometres in the Nainital District of Uttarakhand. In 2024, officials renamed it the Sitabani Conservation Reserve, dedicating it to Mother Sita and the Maharishi Valmiki Ashram inside the reserve.
• 30+ species of mammals and 350+ species of birds reside here. It is also more famous because of its story of the Bachelor of Pawalgarh. Also, how it dates back to the Man-eater of Kumaon issues. It also has mentions in various books by Edward James Corbett. 
• October to March is the best time to visit the Sitabani Conservation Reserve. You can spot various birds and even tigers here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which are the popular Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttarakhand?

• Jim Corbett National Park
• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Rajaji National Park
• Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve
• Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Gangotri National Park
• Nanda Devi National Park
• Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
• Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
• Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary
• Sitabani Conservation Reserve 

These are some of the most famous and highly visited wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand.

Which is the most popular Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand?

Jim Corbett National Park is the most famous wildlife park in the state because it’s the first wildlife reserve that was established in the country, the leading region for the launch of Project Tiger, and it’s because of Jim Corbett, wildlife conservation has become important and mainstream in India. Also, it’s popular because lots of tiger sightings happen here, and people from across the country visit the region in both summer and winter. 

What should I pack for a jungle Safari in Uttarakhand?

At Jungle Revives, our team has curated a detailed list of items to carry while going on a jungle Safari in Uttarakhand. You can go through the entire list to see the bifurcation of essential and additional items for both men and women. This will help you ensure a seamless travel experience. 

How to pick the right camera for Jungle Safari in Uttarakhand?

You can go through the detailed guide to selecting the best camera for Wildlife trips, which will help you understand the various aspects you must consider before selecting one. It will help you make the right decision between choosing a phone camera, a DSLR, or a mirrorless camera.

How can I plan the Perfect Jim Corbett Safari Trip?

You can go through the detailed Jim Corbett Safari Planning guide to find all the details in one single place. This will help you with ideating and executing the perfect wildlife adventure. It lists the zones, types of Safaris, and the best time to visit as per the seasons.