Monsoon Restrictions: Tourist Entry Remains Closed in These Indian National Parks

Tourist Entry Remains Closed in These 11 Indian National Parks

Many National parks and wildlife sanctuaries across the country close their doors to visitors during the monsoon season every year. The exact closure dates depend on the arrival of the monsoon, which is announced in advance by the state governments.

This precautionary measure is taken to ensure the safety of both wildlife and visitors, as the monsoon season is also the breeding season for animals. The reasons for closure vary from region to region.

In the northeastern part of the country, where rainfall is highest, the parks get waterlogged annually. In other parts of the country, heavy forestation and unfavorable road conditions during the monsoon make it inconvenient for tourists.

However, this year, the monsoon has been delayed, resulting in some National parks and sanctuaries closing later than usual or still awaiting closure. Let's take a look at the sanctuaries that have closed or will close soon.

1. Chandauli National Park, Maharashtra:

Chandauli National Park in Maharashtra is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife species. The park, along with the Chandauli dam, has closed due to the arrival of the monsoon. Safaris in Chandauli National Park will stop from June 15, with plans to reopen for tourists on October 15.

2. Radhanagari-Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra:

Radhanagari-Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra is a protected area that showcases the rich biodiversity of the region. This sanctuary has closed with the onset of the monsoon and will reopen for tourists on November 1st. It is known for its Gaur sightings.

3. Gir National Park, Gujarat:

Adjacent to the Girnar forest lies Gir National Park, a must-visit destination when exploring Girnar Hills. This wildlife sanctuary and reserve forest is the exclusive habitat of the majestic Asiatic Lions. Recognized as a crucial conservation area, it safeguards several significant species, making it a prominent reserve forest in Asia.

The park, home to the majestic Asiatic lion, remains closed until October 15. However, Devalia Safari Park, a good place for lion spotting, remains open.

4. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan:

Located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spread over a vast area, the park is known for its thriving ecosystem and the presence of the royal Bengal tigers. The park and tiger reserve generally close from the end of June until October.

5. Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra:

Tadoba National Park in Maharashtra is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with abundant wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. From the majestic Bengal tiger to the graceful Indian leopard, the park is a haven for wildlife sightings. Tadoba National Park closes from June to October, but the buffer zones remain open throughout the year.

6. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh:

Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is a renowned wildlife destination, known for its thriving tiger population and stunning natural landscapes.

The core zones of Bandhavgarh National Park remain closed from July to the end of September. However, the buffer zones of Panpatha, Johila, and Dhamokhar remain open all year round.

7. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh:

Kanha National Park, also known as Kanha Tiger Reserve, is located in Madhya Pradesh. It's home to majestic tigers and diverse wildlife. All gates of the park usually remain for the tourist season from July until the end of September due to blocked roads caused by the monsoon.

8. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh:

Situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Satpura National Park is a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled within the Satpura ranges of the Hoshangabad district, this park is renowned for its stunning mountains and abundant biodiversity.

Satpura National Park remains closed to tourists from July to September. Safaris often get canceled due to rain, and no refunds are given in such cases.

9. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand:

Located in Nainital, Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park stands as one of the premier wildlife destinations. Exploring its diverse landscapes reveals a plethora of animals amidst dense forests, grasslands, river belts, and hilly regions, showcasing the park's rich biodiversity.

Certain zones of Jim Corbett National Park, such as Dhikala and Bijrani, remain closed from June to October/November due to the risk of floods. However, tourists can still visit the Dhela and Jhirna zones throughout the year.

10. Kaziranga National Park, Assam:

This national park holds the prestigious status of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kaziranga National Park, a source of immense pride for Assam, deserves special recognition for its role in protecting the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros.

Designated as a tiger reserve in 2006, it boasts the highest density of tigers worldwide. The park, known for its Indian one-horned rhinoceros, is closed from May to October due to heavy rains and floods in Assam. This closure includes all elephant and jeep safaris.

11. Manas National Park, Assam:

Manas National Park, situated in Assam, is renowned for its prestigious status as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. It serves as a Project Tiger Reserve, Biosphere Reserve, and Elephant Reserve.

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, it stretches into Bhutan, where it transforms into the Royal Manas National Park. Similar to Kaziranga National Park, Manas remains closed for the tourist season from May to October. The park faces challenges with heavy rains and floods, just like Kaziranga.

These closures aim to protect both wildlife and visitors during the monsoon season, ensuring a safe and sustainable environment for all. We suggest planning any trip accordingly.