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Difference Between National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries

Nutan Sheekha

Updated on 20th June, 2024 , 8 min read

Conservation of plants and animals is important for preserving biological diversity and ecological balance. Conservation efforts, protection of habitats, and sustainable practices are important to ensure the survival of many species. Additionally, raising awareness about animals and promoting the role of human behavior plays an important role in preserving our world's flora and fauna. These plants and animals are protected and preserved in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Here we will briefly discuss a few differences between national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

 

National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.

 Are protected areas created to protect the natural environment and the wildlife within it. National parks and wildlife sanctuaries play an important role in biodiversity conservation, environmental education and scientific research. They play an important role in transferring our natural heritage to future generations.

National Parks are aesthetically and ecologically important protected areas managed for protection and intervention purposes. These areas are designated by the government to preserve and protect the landscape, wildlife and culture. National parks are open to the public for recreation, education and recreation, but they also have strict regulations to ensure the protection of the environment.

 

In national parks, visitors can experience a variety of landscapes including forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, deserts and wildlife. These parks often offer opportunities for hiking, camping, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. The main purpose of a national park is to maintain the balance of the region while allowing people to enjoy and connect with nature.

Each country will have its own national parks, usually managed by government agencies or conservation organizations. National parks are established and managed to protect the natural environment, promote biodiversity and provide an environment where people can enjoy the beauty of the world.

A wildlife reserve is a protected area established to preserve and protect habitats and wildlife in an area. These centers are established by government or non-profit organizations to ensure the safety of various animal species. Unlike national parks, wildlife sanctuaries focus more on wildlife conservation, but they often also allow for some human control, such as tourism and research.

Wildlife sanctuaries are very important for the protection of endangered species and the overall biodiversity of a region. They provide a place where animals can live and thrive without threat from human activities, thus preserving the natural heritage for future generations.

 

Top National Parks in India

India is a country with diverse people and fauna, as evidenced by its national parks. Here are 10 national parks in India that you must visit:

1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett National Park is one of the oldest national parks in India. The park is named after hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett. It is famous for Bengal tigers, Indian statues and many species of deer and birds.

 

2. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore National Park Ranthambore National Park is famous for its lion population, making it one of the best places to see these beautiful wildlife in India. The park is also home to leopards, hyenas and many bird species. It is famous for its lion population, making it one of the best places to see India's majestic wildlife. The park is also home to leopards, hyenas and many bird species.

 

3. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to one-horned Indian rhinos. The park is also home to tigers, elephants and many bird species.

 

4. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park is one of the largest parks in India and is located in the center of the country. The park is famous for the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard and many species of deer and antelope.

 

5. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park has the highest density of tigers in India. The park is also home to leopards, deers and many bird species.

 

6. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

Sundarbans National Park is located in the Sundarbans delta and is home to Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, and many birds and reptiles.

 

7. Sariska National Park, Rajasthan

Located in the Aravalli Hills, Sariska National Park is home to tigers, leopards, many deer and antelope species.

 

8. Periyar National Park, Kerala

Periyar National Park is located in the Western Ghats and is home to Indian elephants, Bengal tigers and many bird species. Tourists can enjoy the unique wildlife view by taking a boat tour on Periyar Lake.

 

9. Gir National Park, Gujarat

Gir National Park is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions can be seen in the wild.The park is also home to various species of deer and antelope.

 

10. Hemis National Park, Ladakh

Hemis National Park, at the top of Ladakh, is home to snow leopards, Asian mountain goats and many bird species. Visitors can walk the rugged terrain for a chance to see these elusive creatures.

Visiting one of these national parks will be an unforgettable experience. Get ready for an adventure and explore the diverse wildlife of India.

Insider Tips:

  • For the best wildlife viewing, plan your visit during the dry season (October to May).
  • Take an informative course to improve your knowledge and learn more about animals and plants.
  • respects wildlife and their habitats by not littering or harming the environment.
  • Please enter your address in advance as some parks have limited options.
  • For a more immersive experience, consider going on a safari.

Top Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

There are many wildlife sanctuaries in India that provide habitat to many species of animals and birds. Here are 10 wildlife spots in India, each with their own unique character and appeal:

1. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

Located in the Western Ghats, Badla Wildlife Sanctuary is the best place for nature lovers. The sanctuary is home to the Indian gaur, leopard and many bird species. Visitors can take a jeep from the reserve and hike into the mountains.

2. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats and is famous for its variety of animals and plants. The sanctuary is home to Indian elephants, Bengal tigers and many bird species. Visitors can enjoy rafting adventures and bird watching tours in the reserve.

3. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

Located in the Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is home to Indian elephants, Bengal tigers and many bird species. Visitors can explore the reserve on an elephant safari or jeep safari.

4. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra

Located in the Satpura hills, Najla Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its lush green forests and diversity of wildlife. The sanctuary is home to cheetahs, sloth bears and many species of birds. Visitors can enjoy hiking and bird watching in the reserve.

5. Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu

Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is located in the Western Ghats and is home to Bengal tigers, Indian elephants and many bird species. Visitors can hike to the Agasthyamalai peak or explore the reserve by jeep.

 

6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats and is known for its beautiful scenery and rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to Indian elephants, Bengal tigers and many bird species. Visitors can hike to Chembra Peak or explore the reserve by jeep.

7. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats and is home to the Indian gaur, leopard and many bird species. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by jeep to see nearby wildlife.

8. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh

The Great Himalayan National Park is located in the Himalayas and is famous for its snow-capped mountains and unique flora and fauna. The park is home to snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears and many bird species. Visitors can hike to Tirthan Valley or ride a jeep around the park.

9. Silent Valley National Park, Kerala

Silent Valley National Park is located in the Western Ghats and is home to lion-tailed macaques, Bengal tigers and many bird species. Visitors can hike to the Sairandhri Valley or ride a jeep around the park.

10. Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Eastern Ghats and is famous for its dense forests and diverse wildlife. The sanctuary is home to Indian elephants, Bengal tigers and many bird species. Visitors can hike to Karyandurai peak or explore the reserve by jeep.

Visiting this wildlife is a great way to experience the beauty and biodiversity of India. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities while exploring the reserve, including hiking, bird watching and jeep safari.

Famous National Parks in India

Apart from ten national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, there are other famous national parks in India that are worth visiting. Let's take a look at some of them:

 

1.Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Pench National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh and is famous for its wide variety of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, Indian leopards and sloth bears. The park is also home to many bird species and gives visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful Pench River.

2.Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is one of the best places to see Bengal tigers in India. The sanctuary is also home to Indian leopards, Indian gaurs and various species of deer.

3. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Satpura National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh and is famous for its beautiful scenery and diversity of wildlife. Visitors can spot tigers, leopards and many species of deer, as well as take a boat tour on the Dianyu River..

4. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

Located in the state of Rajasthan, Keoladeo National Park is a paradise for bird watchers. The park is home to more than 370 species of birds, including Siberian cranes and magnificent eagles.

Visiting India's famous national parks is a great way to get to know the country's diverse flora and fauna. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these beautiful parks and the wildlife that lives in them.

 

Best Wildlife Sanctuary in India: Periyar National Park

When it comes to India's best wildlife, Kerala's Periyar National Park is a top contender. A paradise for nature lovers, the park is home to a wide variety of wild animals such as Indian elephants, Bengal tigers, gaur, sambar deer and many species of birds. The park is also home to various animal species, including the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri Tahr monkey.

Difference Between National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries

Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks play a different role in protecting the environment. Wildlife sanctuaries are created to protect certain animals. They limit human activities to minimize disruption. In contrast, national parks serve many purposes. Wildlife conservation includes recreation and landscape protection.

While all wildlife sanctuaries are designed to protect nature, wildlife sanctuaries focus on target species for survival. National Parks are seeking a broader approach. They protect entire ecosystems, diverse landscapes and cultures. All the differences between wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are listed below.

Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

Basis

Wildlife Sanctuary

National Park

Purpose

The main purpose of a wildlife sanctuary is to protect and preserve unique wildlife.

The main purpose of national parks is the protection of wildlife, recreation and landscape protection.

Human Activities

It is limited to minimize impact on wildlife.

Managed recreation such as hiking, camping and wildlife viewing.

Management Focus

Its main purpose is to protect wildlife.

Its main purpose is to protect ecosystems, landscapes and culture..

Size and Boundaries

They vary in size, are mostly small and local.

is larger and encompasses more diverse ecosystems and landscapes.

Importance of National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries

  • Wildlife sanctuaries raise and protect wild animals for the rest of their lives until they die from natural causes. Wildlife sanctuaries are created to protect the country's biodiversity or natural environment.
  • Some wildlife centres also provide medical assistance. The shelter takes in and cares for abandoned and injured animals until they are ready for release. In addition to preventing the extinction of certain species,
  • helps protect and reproduce endangered species by providing a natural habitat for them.
  • Helps protect wild animals and forests.
  • National park land is protected from development, pollution and deforestation and provides a natural habitat for wildlife. 4,444 national parks have preserved historical structures, giving us a clear idea of ​​how people lived in the past. 4,444 tribes live far from civilization in many national parks around the world, where their culture is often preserved.
  • National Parks protect not only wildlife but also tribal people and their culture.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basic difference between a national park and a wildlife sanctuary

National parks are protected areas created by managers to protect and improve wildlife. Wildlife sanctuaries are natural habitats managed by organizations or private organizations that protect specific animal and bird species.

Which is India's largest national park

Hemis National Park is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the largest park in India. It is also the only national park in India north of the Himalayas and is famous for its snow leopards.

Who is the smallest national park in India

South Barton Island National Park is a national park located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands off the coast of India. The total area of ​​this protected island is approximately 5 square kilometres (2 square miles), making India the smallest country.

Which state has no national park in India

There are no national parks in Punjab. Punjab is a state in western India, whose capital is Chandigarh. The three major rivers flowing through Punjab are Ravi, Beas and Sutlej.

What is the smallest national park

The smallest park is Arches National Park in Missouri and covers 192.83 acres (0.7804 km²). The total area protected by national parks is approximately 52.4 million acres (212,000 km2), with an average area of ​​833,000 acres (3,370 km2), but the average area is only 220,000 acres (890 km2).

Which is Asia's largest national park

Janeshwar Mishra Park in Uttar Pradesh is Asia's largest park spread over 376 acres and has many attractions such as gondola rides and natural shows. There is also a story house with digital content and traditional trains.

Which is the only floating national park of India

The park on the western bank of Loktak Lake. This is the last location of Sangai, the dancing deer in Manipur. Keibul Lamjao National Park is the only water park in the world.

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