2026 Bucket List: Best Winter Wildlife Escapes in North India

Jan 07, 2026, 10:00 AM
Photo Credit : The Statesman

Winter changes everything in the wild. These North India destinations belong on your 2026 bucket list for their raw beauty and rare sightings.

Photo Credit : WWF India

1. Hemis National Park,

Known as India’s high-altitude wildlife capital, winter offers the best chance to track the elusive snow leopard amid dramatic Himalayan landscapes.

Photo Credit : Leh Ladakh

2. Dudhwa National Park, UP

A raw terai wilderness of tall grasslands, tigers, one-horned rhinos, barasingha, leopards, elephants, and riverine forests. Less crowded than Corbett, making it a must for serious wildlife lovers.

Photo Credit : Dudhwa National Park

3. Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan

Ancient ruins, rugged Aravalli hills and roaming tigers. Sariska offers thrilling safaris close to Delhi with a unique mix of history and wildlife.

Photo Credit : Travell.in

4. Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand

Where forests meet the Ganges plains. Rajaji hosts elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, and over 300 bird species — an ideal winter safari for wildlife lovers.

Photo Credit : Instagram/@rajaji_national_park

5. Jim Corbett National Park

India’s oldest national park, Corbett, boasts high tiger density, leopards, elephants, and 600+ birds. Safaris in Dhikala, Bijrani & Dhela make wildlife sightings unforgettable.

Photo Credit : Instagram/@jimcorbettnationalparkofficial

6. Great Himalayan National Park, HP

A UNESCO-listed Himalayan gem, it’s home to rare species like the Western Tragopan. Trek, birdwatch, and camp amid stunning alpine forests and high-altitude wildlife.

Photo Credit : Stamped moments

7. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bharatpur welcomes over 370 bird species. Visit in January for peak winter migration, lush wetlands, and unforgettable birdwatching and photography.

Photo Credit : India tours

8. Ranthambore National Park

Famous for Bengal tigers, leopards, and historic fort ruins, Ranthambore offers dry forests, hills, and lakes. January’s crisp weather makes safaris especially rewarding.

Photo Credit : Instagram/@majesticstripes