Mystical mountains, cosy weather, and rich, diverse wildlife, Uttarakhand is heaven on earth for travellers, especially young couples, solo-travellers, and groups looking for an adventure-filled retreat. The state is most famous for Rishikesh and the innumerable yoga practitioners from all over the world who come here to visit. It is one of the must-see destinations in India, and for nature lovers- a paradise to behold. Travellers who want to enjoy a safari ride and witness animals in their natural habitat can get a car on rent in Delhi and conveniently drive down to all the national parks and reserves in Uttarakhand.

Jim Corbett National Park

With spectacular hiking trails and winding roads, the state of Uttarakhand is home to the legendary Jim Corbett National Park. The tiger sanctuary was established in 1936 as India’s first National park and was named after the tiger hunter Jim Corbett, a famous photographer well-known for shooting down man-eating tigers and much revered amongst the locals.

Surrounded by abundant wildlife and open grasslands, this national park is one of the best places to see the great Bengal Tiger. It also has a variety of elephants, chitals, sambar, and rare species of reptiles. Travellers can also rent a forest house and stay overnight in the reserve itself and enjoy the real jungle life. The park can be visited throughout the year.

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Located in the well-forested areas of the Pilibhit district of Uttarakhand, the Pilibit Tiger Reserve is known for its vast expanse of vibrant flora and fauna. 127 animals, 556 birds, and 2100 species of flowering plants make up a rich and diverse ecosystem. It is also home to rare and threatened species which include the Indian Leopard, the Bengal Tiger, and the Bengal Floricans. For a wildlife adventurer, this is a safe haven to study the animals in their natural habitat and an offbeat destination to visit. One can drive down any time of the year or get a car on rent in Lucknow to head over to Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.

Kalagarh Tiger Reserve

A lesser-known Tiger Reserve, this one is for travellers who want to get away from the tourist hotspots. While the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve is part of the Corbett landscape, it has its own separate options for safaris around the reserve. The cooler months of November and December are the best time to visit this park which hosts the Bengal tiger, elephants, and a variety of birds making it a perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts. You can also view the Himalayan Black bear and sloth in this reserve.

Travellers can book safaris to go and see the animals in their natural habitat. They can also book a lodge within the reserve and enjoy a weekend getaway amongst wildlife and wake up to the sounds of nature.

Travellers who are bird enthusiasts can make a pit stop at Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary near Nainital, Gangotri National Park as well.

So, look beyond stereotypical travel destinations and visit Uttarakhand for your next adventure.