Top 5 National Parks in India with Sustainable Eco-Resorts

India, a land of incredible biodiversity, boasts a vast network of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, each offering unique ecosystems and wildlife encounters. For the conscious traveler seeking to immerse in nature without compromising its integrity, combining wildlife exploration with a stay at a sustainable eco-resort presents the perfect synergy. This blog unveils the top 5 national parks in India that not only promise thrilling wildlife sightings but also feature eco-friendly accommodations committed to responsible tourism.

1. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh: Following Kipling's Footsteps Sustainably

Kanha National Park, the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book," is renowned for its thriving tiger population and its efforts in conserving the endangered Barasingha (swamp deer). The park's diverse landscape of sal and bamboo forests, grasslands, and meandering streams supports a rich array of wildlife, including leopards, wild dogs, and numerous bird species.  

Planning Your Kanha Expedition:

• Best Time to Visit: October to June (park is generally closed during the monsoon from July to September). The winter months (October to February) offer pleasant weather, while the summer months (March to June) increase the chances of tiger sightings due to sparser vegetation and animals congregating near water sources.  

• Getting There: The nearest airport is Jabalpur (approximately 160 km away), well-connected to major Indian cities. Railway stations at Jabalpur and Gondia are also convenient. From these points, taxis or pre-booked transfers to the park are readily available.
• Safari Options: Jeep safaris are the primary mode of wildlife viewing, conducted in designated zones. Morning and afternoon safaris are offered, and permits need to be booked in advance, especially during peak season. Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide for a richer experience.
• Wildlife to Spot: Bengal tiger, Barasingha, leopard, wild dog (Dhole), sloth bear, sambar deer, chital (spotted deer), langur, and a variety of birdlife.

Sustainable Eco-Resort Recommendation: The Banyan Tree Farm

Nestled amidst the buffer zone of Kanha, The Banyan Tree Farm offers a serene and sustainable retreat. This eco-lodge focuses on minimizing its environmental impact through practices like rainwater harvesting, solar energy usage, organic farming, and waste management. Guests can enjoy comfortable cottages built with local materials, farm-to-table cuisine, and nature-based activities like bird watching and village walks. Their commitment to community involvement and conservation makes it an ideal choice for responsible travelers.

2. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh: High Tiger Density with Eco-Conscious Stays

Bandhavgarh, another gem in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its high density of Bengal tigers. The park's varied topography, including rocky hills, dense forests, and grasslands, provides a diverse habitat for a significant wildlife population. The historic Bandhavgarh Fort within the park adds a touch of cultural intrigue to the natural beauty.

Planning Your Bandhavgarh Adventure:

• Best Time to Visit: October to June (park is generally closed during the monsoon from July to September). Similar to Kanha, winter offers pleasant weather, and summer increases tiger sighting opportunities.
• Getting There: The nearest airport is Jabalpur (approximately 200 km away). Umaria and Katni are the closest railway stations, with good connectivity to major cities. Taxis and transfers are available from these points to the park.
• Safari Options: Jeep safaris are the primary way to explore the park, with designated zones and morning/afternoon slots. Advance booking of permits is strongly recommended. Experienced guides are essential for tracking wildlife.
• Wildlife to Spot: Bengal tiger (high probability), leopard, sloth bear, wild dog (Dhole), chital, sambar deer, nilgai, and a rich avian population.

Sustainable Eco-Resort Recommendation: Kings Lodge

Kings Lodge, located near the Tala gate of Bandhavgarh, is a luxurious yet eco-sensitive wildlife lodge. Spread across a large natural forest, the lodge features spacious cottages designed with natural materials. Their sustainability initiatives include rainwater harvesting, solar power, organic gardens, and a strong focus on conservation and community engagement. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, bird watching, and cultural interactions alongside their safaris.

3. Kaziranga National Park, Assam: Land of the One-Horned Rhino and Eco-Friendly Hospitality

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Assam, is the last stronghold of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. The park's vast grasslands, swamps, and forests along the Brahmaputra River also support significant populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and Bengal tigers, along with a remarkable diversity of birdlife.

Planning Your Kaziranga Expedition:

• Best Time to Visit: November to April. The winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather, while March and April provide good wildlife viewing opportunities. The park remains closed from May to October due to the monsoon and flooding.
• Getting There: The nearest airport is Guwahati (approximately 220 km away), with good domestic and some international connections. Furkating and Nagaon are the closest railway stations. Taxis and buses are readily available from Guwahati and other major towns in Assam.
• Safari Options: Jeep safaris are common, but Kaziranga also offers unique elephant safaris, providing a different perspective and access to areas not reachable by jeeps. Boat safaris on the Brahmaputra River offer opportunities for bird watching and spotting aquatic wildlife. Zones are designated for different safari types.
• Wildlife to Spot: One-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, various species of deer, and a plethora of migratory and resident birds.

Sustainable Eco-Resort Recommendation: Diphlu River Lodge

Diphlu River Lodge, situated on the banks of the Diphlu River bordering Kaziranga, offers a tranquil and eco-conscious stay. The lodge features charming bamboo cottages built with local materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Their sustainability efforts include waste management, water conservation, and supporting local communities. Guests can enjoy authentic Assamese cuisine and participate in nature-based activities.

4. Periyar National Park, Kerala: Spice-Scented Wildlife Encounters with Green Stays

Periyar National Park, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The Thekkady Lake at its heart is a focal point for wildlife viewing. The park's spice plantations add a unique aromatic dimension to the jungle experience.

Planning Your Periyar Exploration:

• Best Time to Visit: October to May. The winter months (October to February) offer pleasant weather.
• Getting There: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (approximately 140 km away). Kottayam is the closest major railway station (around 110 km). Taxis and buses connect these points to Thekkady, the main town near the park.
• Safari Options: Boat safaris on Thekkady Lake are a popular and relatively non-intrusive way to observe wildlife along the shores. Jeep safaris and guided nature walks/treks are also available in designated areas.
• Wildlife to Spot: Asian elephant, tiger, leopard, wild dog (Dhole), gaur, sambar deer, various species of monkeys, and a rich diversity of birds and reptiles.

Sustainable Eco-Resort Recommendation: Spice Village - CGH Earth

Spice Village, part of the CGH Earth group known for its commitment to responsible tourism, is an eco-resort that beautifully blends with the natural landscape of Periyar. The resort features cottages designed to resemble tribal huts, built with sustainable materials. Their practices focus on waste reduction, water recycling, renewable energy, and supporting local communities. Guests can enjoy spice plantation tours, nature walks, and authentic Kerala cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

5. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh: Untamed Wilderness with Eco-Friendly Retreats

Satpura National Park, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, offers a more offbeat and less crowded wildlife experience in Madhya Pradesh. Its rugged terrain, comprising sandstone peaks, narrow gorges, and dense forests, provides a unique habitat and opportunities for diverse activities beyond just jeep safaris.

Planning Your Satpura Sojourn:

• Best Time to Visit: October to June (park is generally closed during the monsoon from July to September). Winter offers pleasant weather, while summer increases wildlife sightings near water sources.
• Getting There: The nearest airport is Bhopal (approximately 180 km away). Pipariya is the closest railway station, well-connected to major cities. Taxis and transfers are available from these points to the park.
• Safari Options: Jeep safaris are available, but Satpura also offers unique experiences like walking safaris, canoe safaris on the Denwa River, and even cycling within designated areas, providing a more immersive way to explore the wilderness.
• Wildlife to Spot: Tiger, leopard, sloth bear, wild dog (Dhole), Indian giant squirrel, sambar deer, chital, nilgai, and a variety of birdlife.

Sustainable Eco-Resort Recommendation: Forsyth Lodge

Forsyth Lodge, located near the Madhai entrance of Satpura, is a pioneering eco-lodge committed to conservation and responsible tourism. The lodge features spacious and comfortable cottages designed with natural materials, blending seamlessly with the surrounding forest. Their sustainability initiatives include rainwater harvesting, solar energy, waste management, and active involvement in local conservation projects. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, bird watching, and the unique canoe safaris on the Denwa River.

Choosing to stay at a sustainable eco-resort not only minimizes your environmental footprint but also often contributes directly to local communities and conservation efforts. These top 5 national parks in India offer incredible opportunities to witness majestic wildlife while supporting responsible tourism practices. Plan your eco-conscious adventure today with Hi DMC and connect with nature in its purest form.

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