Were you planning for a quiet and relaxing break from Delhi’s busy life? National parks near Delhi and bird Sanctuaries are great places to visit. Whether you love watching birds, enjoy wildlife, or just want to be close to nature, these parks have something special for everyone. You can see tigers in Jim Corbett, or enjoy the peaceful views at Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary. Each park is unique, making your choice fun and exciting. Go on a wildlife safari, take a peaceful walk, or just relax and enjoy the beauty around you.
This guide will help you find the best national parks near Delhi. It is time to plan your trip and enjoy some time in nature.
1. Sultanpur National Park
Located just 40 kilometers from Delhi, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a fantastic national park near Delhi destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. This serene sanctuary is home to over 250 species of birds and such as the also home to many resident species Indian roller, purple sunbird, and painted stork. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is especially vibrant during the winter months, from September to March, when migratory birds arrive from distant places like Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia. The sanctuary covers an area of 1.43 square kilometers and features a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery, shrubs, and trees.
Visitor Information
Timings: The sanctuary is open from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM every day except Tuesday.
Entry Fee:
Indians: ₹5
Foreigners: ₹40
Camera: ₹10
Video Camera: ₹500Children: ₹2 per person
How to reach Delhi to Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary
1) By Car
Self-driving to Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a convenient option, especially if you plan a family trip and prefer the flexibility of your schedule.
Starting Point: Dhaula Kuan, Delhi
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Route: Gurgaon-Farukh Nagar Road.
Duration:- 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
2) By Metro
Starting Point: Any metro station in Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Sultanpur Metro Station (on the Yellow Line)
Distance from Metro Station to Sanctuary: About 36 km
3) By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Gurgaon Railway Station (approximately 14 km from the sanctuary)
Once at Gurgaon Railway Station, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw directly to Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, which should take around 20 minutes.
2) Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated near Faridabad, Haryana, about 40 km from Delhi on the Southern Ridge of the Aravalli Hills, just 25 kilometers from the heart of Delhi, the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique national park near Delhi for an urban wildlife haven. Covering an area of approximately 32.71 square kilometers, this sanctuary is a refuge for various species and a vital part of the region’s ecological balance. You can see animals like Nilgai (blue bull), jackals, and even the elusive Indian leopard. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting over 200 species of birds, including common sightings like the Indian Peafowl, Common Woodshrike, and rarer species like the Grey-headed Fish Eagle.
Visitor Information
Timings: The sanctuary is open from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays).
Entry Fee: The entry fee is nominal, typically around ₹10 per person
How to reach Delhi to Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary
1) By Car
Self-driving and car on rent Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most convenient options, allowing you to explore your plan.
Starting Point: Dhaula Kuan, Delhi
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Route: Tughlakabad Road towards the Shooting Range Road.
Duration:– 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.
2) By Metro
Starting Point: Any metro station in Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Tughlakabad Metro Station (on the Violet Line)
Distance from Metro Station to Sanctuary: About 5 km
From Tughlakabad Metro Station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi directly to the sanctuary, which should take around 15 minutes
3) By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Tughlakabad Railway Station
Distance from Railway Station to Sanctuary: Approximately 7 km
After arriving at Tughlakabad Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in about 15-20 minutes.
3. Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world, located just about 200 kilometers from Delhi and a must-visit national park near Delhi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of avian life and stunning landscapes.
The sanctuary was originally a hunting ground for the royal family of Bharatpur and was established in the 18th century when Maharaja Suraj Mal constructed the Ajan Dam. This dam created a large wetland area, which attracted many birds. In 1976, it was declared a protected bird sanctuary and later designated as a national park in 1982. “Keoladeo” comes from an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the park.
Keoladeo National Park spans about 29 square kilometers and consists of wetlands, marshes, grasslands, and woodlands. It is home to over 300 species of birds. The ideal time to visit Keoladeo National Park is between October and March.
Visitor Information
Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan.
Entry Fee: Approximately ₹75 for Indian visitors and ₹500 for foreign visitors.
Timings: The park is open from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM, making it easy for early risers to catch the morning bird activity.
1. )By Car
Driving to Keoladeo National Park is a flexible option for a family trip that allows you to explore at own plan.
Starting Point: Dhaula Kuan, Delhi
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Route: Yamuna Expressway towards Agra.
Duration: The drive typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
2.) By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Bharatpur Railway Station
From Delhi: You can board trains like the Intercity Express or other local trains heading towards Bharatpur.
Duration: The train journey usually takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Getting to the Sanctuary: Once you arrive at Bharatpur Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the sanctuary, which is approximately 5 km away.
3.) By Bus
Several state-run and private buses operate between Delhi and Bharatpur.
Starting Point: Various locations in Delhi, including ISBT Kashmiri Gate.
Duration: The bus journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.
Getting to the Sanctuary: From the bus station in Bharatpur, you can take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Keoladeo National Park.
4. Jim Corbett National Park
About 250 km from Delhi, Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand is India’s famous oldest wildlife park. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was the first national park in India and also the first to come under the Project Tiger initiative in 1973. Covering an expansive area of approximately 520 square kilometers, this park is not only a sanctuary for diverse wildlife but also a vital part of India’s conservation efforts.
The park is home to around 50 species of mammals, including the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, and various deer species such as Sambar and Chital. With a healthy population of over 164 tigers and more than 600 elephants, Corbett is recognized for having one of the highest densities of tiger populations in the country, with approximately 20 tigers per 100 square kilometers.
Visitor Information
Timings: Jim Corbett National Park is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for safaris, depending on the season.
Entry Fee: The entry fee varies based on nationality and vehicle type but generally ranges from ₹150 to ₹600 per person.
How to reach Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park
1)By Car
Self-driving and car rent to Jim Corbett National Park is a convenient option that allows you to explore at your own pace.
Starting Point: Dhaula Kuan, Delhi
Distance: Approximately 260 km
Route: Take NH9 towards Rampur Road, following signs to Ramnagar.
Duration: The drive typically takes about 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
2) By Train
The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, which is well-connected to major cities.
After arriving at Ramnagar Railway Station, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the park entrance (approximately 12 km away).
3)By Air
The nearest airport is in Pantnagar, approximately 80 km from Jim Corbett.
From Pantnagar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
5) Sariska Tiger Reserve
Sariska Tiger Reserve Rajasthan Nestled 200 km from Delhi it is known as a famous national park near Delhi. This is renowned for its tiger conservation efforts and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 881 square kilometers, this reserve is a significant part of India’s wildlife heritage, offering a unique blend of thrilling safari experiences and stunning natural scenery.
Sariska hosts a variety of other big cats, including leopards, caracals, and jungle cats. The reserve also supports a healthy population of herbivores such as sambar deer, chital (spotted deer), and the largest antelope in Asia.
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
Safari Options: Visitors can explore the reserve through guided jeep safaris or canter safaris, which operate twice daily.
Safari Timings: Morning safaris typically run from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM, while evening safaris are from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
How to Reach Sariska Tiger Reserve
1) By Car
Car with Driver,self drive car on rent on car to Sariska Tiger Reserve is convenient for those who plan a road trip.
Starting Point: Dhaula Kuan, Delhi
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Route: Take NH48 towards Alwar, then follow signs to Sariska.
Duration: The drive usually takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
2)By Train
The nearest railway station :- Alwar, which is well-connected to major cities including Delhi.
After arriving at Alwar Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the reserve (approximately 37 km away).
Conclusion
Exploring the national parks and bird sanctuaries near Delhi is a fantastic way to unwind and connect with nature. Each destination offers unique experiences, from birdwatching at Sultanpur National Park to thrilling safaris in Jim Corbett and Ranthambore. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or simply seeking a break from city life, these spots provide a refreshing retreat just a drive away. Plan your self-drive adventure today and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diverse wildlife that surround Delhi. Enjoy the journey and create lasting memories in these scenic getaways.