When talking about the wildlife safaris in India, similar names are often mentioned. Jim Corbett. Ranthambore. Kaziranga. They deserve recognition, certainly. However, they also have jam-packed safari jeeps, a huge demand for entry and availability at the last minute. Many travellers don’t realise that India has more than 100 national parks as well as over 550 wildlife sanctuaries. The majority of them receive only less than a tiny fraction of the tourists. Planning trips to these places does not require a lot of effort. A lot of these parks are connected to towns nearby by rail. Booking train tickets in advance usually allows the trip to be easy and affordable.
Before leaving, it’s also advisable to confirm the train’s status prior to the day you travel. Some destinations require a transfer from the station closest to you, and a delay could alter your pick-up or entry time.
Satpura Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
In contrast, Kanha and Bandhavgarh get constant safari activity; Satpura remains relatively quiet. It is located close to the city of Pipariya and offers something unique. Canoe and walking safaris are permitted in specific zones that are not permitted in Indian reserves.
The terrain is rough, with Sandstone peaks, dry deciduous forests, and valleys of rivers. Because the number of visitors is restricted and less than that of central India’s most famous parks, it is less hectic.
Wildlife sightings include leopards, wild dogs, and sloth bears, as well as a thriving bird population. Even if you don’t encounter a tiger, the overall ecosystem is healthy.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
It is located within the Western Ghats, and often get overshadowed by Nagarhole and Bandipur. The sanctuary is located between Chikkamagaluru and Shimoga and is a mix of grasslands and forests, along with a dam.
The park is home to a large population of gaurs and elephants. Birdwatchers enjoy it due to the variety of species. Boat excursions in the Bhadra River offer a new dimension to jeep trips.
Visitor density remains moderate, even during peak season. This makes the experience more peaceful and more intimate.
Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh
Near the border between India and Nepal, Dudhwa rarely makes it on the top lists of wildlife. However, it is home to swamp deer, rhinoceroses relocated from Assam, and a significant number of tigers.
The landscape is significantly different from that of central India. The tall grasslands and wetlands are the dominant portions within the park. The Terai ecosystem is home to species that are not typically found elsewhere.
The stream of visitors is steady, but not overbearing. Accommodation options are more accessible and can help you stay focused on the forest rather than on luxury.
Balpakram National Park, Meghalaya
Balpakram is located in southern Meghalaya and is among the least-explored national parks in India. It is often referred to as a place of spirits by local communities.
The terrain comprises cliffs, plateaus, and forested valleys. The wildlife here includes wild buffalo, clouded leopards, and many uncommon bird species.
Since infrastructure is still in development, travelling is a process that requires patience. That’s one reason visitor numbers remain lower. If one is willing to make an effort to visit, the feeling of being in a secluded area is apparent.
Kawal Tiger Reserve, Telangana
Kawal isn’t receiving the same level of attention as the reserves in central India. However, it is home to an ever-growing tiger population. The Kawal forest is a dry-deciduous forest interspersed with grasslands.
The reserve is easily accessible from Hyderabad. Safari bookings are simpler to secure than those at more popular parks. There is a chance that you won’t see huge groups of tourists fighting for space at the tourist spots.
The slower pace permits you to focus on the smallest specifics, from deer herds to raptors’ activity.
Why Do These Parks Feel Different
The most well-known parks are often well-managed systems, with fixed safari circuits and extensive surveillance. The less well-known parks operate with fewer vehicles and lower expectations.
It doesn’t mean that they aren’t populated with animals. This means encounters with wildlife are less predictable and sometimes more rewarding. There’s less chatter between jeeps, and less pressure to chase one animal.
In these parks, you’re more likely to be observing the landscape and hearing the sounds of the forest rather than pursuing a single headline species.
A Well-Planned Strategy Can Make A Difference.
Remote reserves may require a little more planning. Access permits might require prior reservation. In forest areas, accommodation may be restricted.
Transportation is typically a mix of road and train. Finding the nearest railhead and arranging for the transfer will help keep costs down. This is the reason timing is crucial. Monitoring schedules will ensure you arrive at the park gate without stress. It is always necessary to check the train running status while travelling.
Carrying essentials such as drinking water, snacks, and a power bank can be helpful, particularly in areas with poor internet connectivity.
The Benefit of Lesser Tourist Pressure
Crowd pressure can alter wildlife behaviour. Wildlife in frequently visited parks becomes used to vehicles; however, the surroundings can be somewhat competitive.
In less well-known areas, there are fewer safari vehicles. Guides are often able to take more time to talk about the ecology instead of racing to rumours of sightings.
The experience is less transactional. There is no need to go through an agenda. You’re observing an active habitat.
Realistic Expectations Are Important
Going to quieter reserves means adjustments to expectations. There is a chance that you won’t witness a tiger or a spectacular chase scene. You may instead notice birds calling as well as fresh pugmarks. An entire herd of deer is moving carefully through the thick grass.
This shift in perspective can make the trip more enjoyable. Wildlife travel is not just about photos. It’s about knowing patterns and habitats.
A Wider View of India’s Wild Spaces
The protected areas of India cover about five per cent of the surface. This includes grasslands, forests, wetlands, and mountain ecosystems. While the most famous parks attract attention to their surroundings, other areas quietly promote biodiversity.
Experimenting beyond the well-known ones allows for more equitable tourism and aids local communities in towns that are smaller. If you’re looking to get away from the routine, these lesser-known reserves provide something new. There are fewer vehicles. Quieter trails. A slower interaction with nature. Sometimes, unforgettable wildlife encounters happen in areas where fewer people are.
