India is home to over 50% of the world's Asian elephant population, making it one of the most important countries for elephant conservation. Several sanctuaries have been established across India to protect these majestic creatures and their habitat. Here are some of the best sanctuaries of elephants in India:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the state of Kerala, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places in India to see wild elephants. The sanctuary is home to over 900 elephants and offers visitors the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary also offers boat safaris, which allow visitors to see elephants and other wildlife from the water.
- Bandipur National Park: Located in the southern state of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is another great place to see elephants in India. The park is home to around 2000 elephants and offers visitors the opportunity to see these animals up close on a jeep safari or elephant-back safari.
- Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary: Also located in the state of Karnataka, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for elephant safaris. The sanctuary is home to around 600 elephants and offers visitors the chance to see these animals up close on an elephant-back safari.
- Kaziranga National Park: Located in the northeastern state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is famous for its one-horned rhinoceroses, but it is also home to a large population of wild elephants. The park is home to around 1200 elephants and offers visitors the opportunity to see these animals on an elephant-back safari or jeep safari.
- Corbett National Park: Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, Corbett National Park is one of the oldest national parks in India and is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild elephants. The park is home to around 200 elephants and offers visitors the chance to see these animals on a jeep safari or elephant-back safari.
- Nagarhole National Park: Located in the southern state of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is another great place to see elephants in India. The park is home to around 1200 elephants and offers visitors the opportunity to see these animals up close on an elephant-back safari or jeep safari.
In addition to these sanctuaries, there are several other parks and reserves across India that are home to wild elephants, including the Mudumalai National Park, Manas National Park, and Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. These sanctuaries play a vital role in protecting India's elephant population and ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to thrive in the wild.