When it comes to wildlife travel in India, most people think of the usual suspects — Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, Kaziranga. While these sanctuaries are iconic, they’re also crowded, commercialized, and often overbooked. But India, with its vast and varied ecosystem, is home to lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries that remain untouched, unspoiled, and perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude and authenticity.
Among these, Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh is steadily making headlines and chhattisgarh’s local dances is also famous in all reasons — from rising eco-tourism to community conservation efforts. Let’s explore some of these underrated sanctuaries that deserve a spot on your next travel itinerary.
1. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary – Chhattisgarh’s Green Treasure
Situated about 100 km from Raipur, Barnawapara is a relatively small yet richly biodiverse sanctuary. Spanning over 240 square kilometers, this protected zone is named after two nearby forest villages: Bar and Nawapara. The sanctuary is nestled within the Mahasamund district and has become a beacon of eco-conscious travel in Chhattisgarh.
Home to sloth bears, leopards, jackals, barking deer, and a vibrant variety of bird species like crested serpent eagles and hornbills, Barnawapara offers visitors a raw jungle experience without the chaos of tourist crowds. Jeep safaris are conducted with trained local guides who are often members of tribal communities — adding a layer of cultural connection to your adventure.
The best time to visit is from November to June. During monsoons, the sanctuary closes, but the surrounding areas—lush with waterfalls and streams—remain a scenic escape. Dhamtari news often features eco-events, cleanup drives, and state conservation programs taking place here, highlighting the region’s growing role in sustainable tourism.
2. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Rajasthan’s Arid Marvel
Encircling the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sanctuary offers a dramatic setting of rugged hills and dry forests. Wildlife such as chinkara, nilgai, wolves, and hyenas roam the rocky terrain. The sanctuary also provides trekking routes and horseback safaris, combining historical exploration with wildlife experiences.
3. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – Karnataka’s Forested Jewel
Located in the Western Ghats, Bhadra is a part of India’s Project Tiger initiative. The sanctuary is known for its thick forest cover, riverine beauty, and a rich variety of species like tigers, elephants, and gaurs. Jungle lodges and eco-resorts have sprouted around the sanctuary, offering excellent nature retreats.
4. Namdapha National Park – Arunachal’s Remote Wilderness
This park is India’s easternmost and one of its most biologically diverse. Stretching from alpine to tropical zones, Namdapha is home to over 1,000 floral and 1,400 faunal species. Red pandas, clouded leopards, and snow leopards can be found here — but sightings are rare due to the terrain’s density and elevation.
Adventurers who dare to enter Namdapha’s terrain often rely on local tribal guides and homestays, which makes it a deep cultural and environmental immersion.
5. Satkosia Tiger Reserve – Odisha’s Gorges and Gharials
Spread across the confluence of Mahanadi River and Eastern Ghats, Satkosia offers a unique riverine ecosystem. Visitors can spot gharials basking on riverbanks, elephants bathing in the waters, and hornbills flitting through the forests. The sanctuary supports both terrestrial and aquatic life, making it ideal for boat safaris and nature photography.
6. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary – Maharashtra’s Hidden Retreat
Located near Mumbai, Tansa is less crowded but ecologically significant. It supplies drinking water to the city while also serving as a haven for sambar, leopards, and several bird species. Dense forests and tranquil lakes make it a quiet, scenic retreat from the urban rush.
7. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam’s Rhino Paradise
Often overshadowed by Kaziranga, Pobitora boasts a high density of one-horned rhinoceroses. The sanctuary also hosts wild buffaloes, leopards, and a variety of birds, including migratory waterfowl. With only 38 square kilometers of core area, it’s easy to explore in a day and offers close-up views of wildlife.
Conclusion
India’s lesser-known sanctuaries are not just quieter alternatives — they are often richer in biodiversity, deeply connected to local communities, and more conducive to sustainable tourism. Sanctuaries like Barnawapara offer an intimate experience of nature, far from the hustle of commercial parks. As Cg state frequently highlights, these destinations are gaining popularity not just for what they offer, but for how responsibly they are being developed.
So if your idea of travel includes bird calls instead of car horns, forest trails instead of crowded queues, and soulful encounters with wildlife — consider venturing into India’s underrated sanctuaries. They just might offer the wild escape you didn’t know you were looking for.
