Are you looking for places to see leopards in India? Well, then you are in luck because this blog talks about the big cats of India and the national park or wildlife sanctuary home to these elusive, majestic cats. Yes, wildlife parks in India focus more on tigers and preserving these beautiful creatures with stripes. However, leopards have their own fan base! After all, these are the only ones of the big cats who can climb the trees! Thus, they make a great muse for wildlife photographers. Leopards are solitary creatures, but sometimes you will find them in a herd too. This can make it challenging to dive into a forest to spot them or click their photographs. That is why wildlife sanctuaries for leopards in India exist, providing enthusiasts a better opportunity to spot these cats.
Ranthambore and Nagarhole National Parks are quite famous wildlife sanctuaries known for tiger sightings, but you will also come across a few leopards here. If you want a dedicated leopard safari, Jhalana Leopard Safari, Rajasthan, is the perfect destination, as the skilled guides make you spot these beautiful animals known for being strong and steady climbers. So, are you ready to know about the best places to see leopards in India?
List of wildlife sanctuaries for leopards in India
Jawai Leopard Hills, Rajasthan
To witness the big cats of India, one of the best places is undoubtedly Jawai Leopard Hills. Situated in Pali, Rajasthan, the rugged terrain, rich biodiversity, and distinctive rock formation make it ideal for spotting leopards. The most unique thing about spotting leopards here is the bond they share with the locals, especially the Rabari tribe.
The big cats roam here freely without hurting the humans, setting an example of human-animal harmony. Apart from the leopard hills, Jawai is also known for rich birdlife, including the many migratory species. Thus, this is an ideal spot for nature lovers. Due to the rich landscape, finding crocodiles, hyenas, and deer, along with other wildlife, here is easy. Take a jeep or canter safari with expert guides to explore this wildlife sanctuary and spot these elusive creatures.
- Location: Jawai Bandh Leopard Safari, Jawai Bandh, Pali District, Rajasthan 306126, India.
- Timings: 6 am- 9 am; 4 pm- 6:30 pm.
- Unique species and features: Leopards. The bond between humans and leopards.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur-140 km; Jodhpur Airport-150 km.
- Nearest railway station: Falna Railway Station- 30 km.
- By Road: From Jaipur, Udaipur, or Jodhpur, driving through Udaipur-Jodhpur highway takes you to your destination.
Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka
For leopard sightings in India, head to Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary in the South. Yes, Karnataka’s beautiful wildlife sanctuary of Kabini, situated on the river of the same name, has over 100 estimated leopards roaming around in their natural habitat. Kabini is known for tigers, elephants, gaurs, bird species, and the unique couple, Saya, ‘the black panther,’ and Cleopatra, ‘a leopard.’ With the Kabini wildlife safari, like the jeep safari or boat safari, you will be able to explore these animals and the wilderness in its full glory.
The wildlife sanctuary is along the banks of the serene Kabini River, with lush greenery surrounding the area. This makes it the perfect spot for nature lovers or birdwatching. Adventure activities here include kayaking, trekking, and coracle rides.
- Location: Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole, Mysuru District, Karnataka 571114, India.
- Timings: 6:30 am to 6:30 pm
- Unique species and features: Black Panther and bird species. Coracle ride and kayaking.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport—80 km; Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore—272 km.
- Nearest railway station: Mysore Junction: 64 km
- By Road: Take a cab or self-drive from the Bangalore-Mysore expressway to Kabini, covering 200 km.
Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Satpura National Park, or Satpura Tiger Reserve, is situated in the Hoshangabad district, Madhya Pradesh. It derives its name from the Satpura hill range. One of the famous leopard reserves in India, it spans over an area of 524 sq km, becoming a central Indian highland ecosystem. This is along with Pachmarhi and Biri wildlife sanctuaries.
The tourists come here to spot the elusive big cats and to admire the dense forests, narrow gorges, sandstone peaks, and ravines. When visiting Bhopal, a trip to Satpura National Park lets you explore the rich biodiversity, providing habitat to species like mouse deer, porcupine, chital, four-horned antelope, and of course the leopards. The walking safaris, canoeing, and jeep safaris are perfect for exploring the park known for tigers but thriving in the population of leopards.
- Location: Satpura National Park, Hoshangabad District, Madhya Pradesh 461881, India.
- Timings: 6:30 am- 11 am, 3:30 am-5:00 pm.
- Unique species and features: 1300 plant species, four-horned antelopes, Malabar squirrels and more.
- Best time to visit: October to June
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal- 220 km, Dumma Airport, Jabalpur- 180 km.
- Nearest railway stations: Hoshangabad, Pipariya, Sohagpur, and Itarsi.
- By Road: Self-drive to reach Satpura National Park, no direct bus connectivity.
Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
Nagarhole National Park, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna. It is situated between the Mysore plateau and Nilgiri Mountains and spans over 640 sq km. The sanctuary is known to house a variety of wildlife with a focus on the conservation of tigers and Asiatic elephants. Apart from these beauties, leopards are in great numbers here, and spotting them is easier in this beautiful park. Numerous bird species, along with other predators like reptiles, deer, bears, gaurs, and other smaller animals, are also found here. The fauna here is also flourishing with rosewood and teak trees in abundance. To enjoy the national park, hop on to the wildlife safari conducted here daily. Remember to book the safaris in advance because the slots are limited.
- Location: Nagarhole National Park, Kodagu and Mysuru Districts, Karnataka 571250, India.
- Timings: 6:00 am- 8:00 am; 3 pm-5 pm
- Unique species and features: 1300 plant species, four-horned antelopes, Malabar squirrels and more.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mysore Domestic Airport- 94 km,
- Nearest railway station: Mysore Railway Station- 89 km.
- By Road: From Bangalore, the road connectivity to Nagarhole is best, the distance is 220 km.
Jhalana Leopard Reserve, Rajasthan
Jhalana Leopard Reserve is one of the best leopard sanctuaries in India. Here, you will spot the big cats not just inside but also outside of the park. Humans encounter these majestic cats close to human settlements, especially at night. However, there hasn’t been one incident of leopards attacking humans. Thus, the chance of spotting leopards is higher and also a safe experience.
The other species you will find here include jungle cats, jackals, nilgai, sloth bears, striped hyenas, and other mammals. The visit to Jhalana is not just an experience to visit the cat but also to take in the beauty of diverse flora and hills. It is easy to combine a trip to Jhalana leopard park along with other tourist places in Jaipur, as it is close to the city.
- Location: Jhalana Leopard Reserve, Malviya Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302017, India.
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
- Unique species and features: Blue Bulls, leopards, in close proximity to Jaipur city with option to explore nearby forts and monuments.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport- 5.6 km.
- Nearest railway station: Jaipur railway station or junction- 13.5 km.
- By Road: From all regions of Jaipur, buses or cabs run to Jhalana National Park.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park is known for being the home of Royal Bengal Tigers, and people come from long distances to spot them. However, there is another majestic predator here waiting in the shade to be discovered and is a delight for photographers. Yes, talking about the beautiful big cat, a known climber and hunter—leopards. Ranthambore is an ideal wildlife sanctuary for leopard sightings in India because of its diverse terrain providing ample land for hunting their prey.
The Kachida Valley has rocky outcrops and dense vegetation, a prime location for spotting a leopard in Ranthambore. The early morning safaris here are perfect for spotting leopards, who thrive by hunting at a different time than tigers to avoid confrontations and fights.
- Location: Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan 322001, India.
- Timings: 7 am-10:30 am, 2:30 pm-6:00 pm.
- Unique species and features: Royal Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore Fort, and Ganesha Temple.
- Best time to visit: October to April
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport- 5.6 km.
- Nearest railway station: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station- 10 km.
- By Road: From Jaipur or Kota, take the Kota-Ranthambore highway to reach Sawai Madhopur and Ranthambore National Park.
Bandipur National Park, Karnataka
Bandipur National Park recently came into the news after a young wildlife photographer captured different eye-colored leopards in the dense forest here. It is one of the best-managed national parks for leopards and tigers in India. It used to be a private hunting ground of the Maharajas, but the government turned it into a tiger conservation spot. It is one of the 30 reserves known to save the tigers and their habitat.
It is also home to Asiatic wild elephants. Other species you will find here include gaurs, Indian rock pythons, muggers, jackals, mouse deer, chital, sloth bears, and more. The fauna here is also impressive, as you see many timber trees like rosewood, teak, sandalwood, the Indian Kino tree, and Indian laurel, as well as giant clumping bamboo and more.
- Location: Bandipur National Park, Chamarajanagar District, Karnataka 571126, India.
- Timings: 6-8 am, 2:30 pm-4:30 pm.
- Unique species and features: Rare flying lizards, shelters sambhar, spotted deer and 200 species of birds.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport- 63.7 km.
- Nearest railway station: Mysore Junction- 80 km
- By Road: KSRTC runs daily buses from nearby major cities to Bandipur. From Bangalore, the highway of Bangalore-Mysore connects Bandipur to the city.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Maharashtra
Sanjay Gandhi National Park has impressive wildlife including 274 bird species, 35 species of mammals, 179 butterfly species, and 1300 species of trees. Its diverse ecosystem and wildlife makes it an ideal ground for leopard spotting. Previously known as Borivali National Park, it is a must visit national park for spotting leopards and enjoying a picnic. Spanning over a vast areas, it is the perfect place to experience wildlife, rocky cliffs, caves, greenery and so much more. It is the largest national park within the city limits and is known for being the perfect place for spotting leopards.
Other wildlife animals found here include Butterflies, Kingfisher, sunbirds, flying fox, boars and deer. There are two artificial lakes inside ideal for witnessing migratory birds and crocodiles. The park also has Kanheri Caves, a beautiful tourist attraction. Taking a cycling tour here is perfect for exploring the park.
- Location: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066, India.
- Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
- Unique species and features: Porcupine, palm civet, shy mouse-deer, and four-horned antelope. Stargazing and recreational boating.
- Best time to visit: July to mid-October.
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport- 16.4 km
- Nearest railway station: Borivali railway station- 30 km
- By Road: Taxi, bus services or metros are available for heading from anywhere in Mumbai to the park.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
One of the most beautiful national parks in India is Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, prominent for being home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. Also, it is home to leopards who are found in good numbers here. The most unique attraction here is the white tiger, popular all over the world but first found in Rewa. The park has a core area of 105 sq km and 400 sq km of buffer area. It has the highest population of tigers in India. It used to be a hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa but is now a conservation spot for tigers, especially white tigers.
- Location: Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, in the Umaria district, Tala Village.
- Timings: 5 am- 10: 30 pm
- Unique species and features: White tiger, Leopard, elephants, chital, wild dogs, and more.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport- 16.4 km
- Nearest railway station: Katni and Umaria Railway Station, 40-30 minutes from both respectively. 229 km.
- By Road: NH 43 and SH 11, 12 connect Bandhavgarh by road from nearby cities like Jabalpur, Khajuraho, Katni and Umaria.
Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh, is another place to see big cats of India. Spanning over a total area of 758 sq. km, it is located in the districts of Chhindwara and Seoni, sharing a boundary with Maharashtra. It is rich in biodiversity and is divided into two divisions—Mowgli Pench Sanctuary and Priyadarshini National Park, covering the area of 464 sq km and 299 sq km, respectively. Named after the river Pench, the park is divided into eastern and western halves. It was declared a sanctuary in 1965 and a national park in 1975. Moreover, in 1992, it was declared as a tiger reserve. It is home to many flora species: white Kulu, Mahua, Saja, Salai, Dhaora, Amaltas, and more. The wildlife here includes chital, wolf, Indian leopard, gaur, four-horned antelope, sloth bear, and more. Moreover, you will witness beautiful bird species here like the crow pheasant, pintail, peafowl, Indian roller, waterfowl, red-vented bulbul, and more.
- Location: Pench National Park, Seoni and Chhindwara Districts, Madhya Pradesh 480881, India.
- Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
- Unique species and features: Chital, Wolf, Indian Leopard. Four-horned antelope and Sloth Bear. 9 villages on the park’s periphery and one inside the village.
- Best time to visit: July to mid-October.
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport- 16.4 km
- Nearest railway station: Borivali railway station- 30 km
- By Road: Taxi, bus services or metros are available for heading from anywhere in Mumbai to the park.
FAQs About Places to See Leopards in India
India is a prime destination for spotting the big cats, and leopards. These stealthy creatures who are great climbers are found in these popular wildlife sanctuaries:
1. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
2. Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
3. Jhalana Leopard Park, Rajasthan
4. Jawai Leopard Hills, Rajasthan
5. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
6. Periyar National Park, Kerala
Jhalana Leopard Safari in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan is the most famous place to see leopards in India. It has a high density of leopards, making it the best place to see big cats in India. It offers a focused safari experience, ensuring the visitors have a better chance of seeing the leopards up close.
There are not many sanctuaries specific for leopards, one notable wildlife sanctuary is Jawai Leopard Sanctuary, Rajasthan. It is a notable one protecting these majestic creatures. The most unique part about seeing the leopards here is witnessing the bond between the humans and leopards here who live together, and there has not been a single incident of leopards attacking humans or vice versa. Moreover, Sariska and Ranthambore National Park are also focusing on safeguarding the leopards alongside tigers and other wildlife.
Since, Leopards are elusive and nocturnal creatures, the best time to spot them is either early in the morning or in the evening. That is why, most safari timings are during early morning or late evening. Also, the leopards are active during these times as they are hunting for preys during this time.
Yes, leopard safaris in India are generally safe when conducted with licensed and experienced guides. Parks and sanctuaries take safety measures to ensure the well-being of both tourists and wildlife. Vehicles are designed for safety, and guides are knowledgeable about animal behavior. However, it’s important to follow all safety instructions, remain inside the vehicle, and avoid making sudden movements during the safari.
Jawai Hills (Rajasthan) is unique for its landscape, where leopards share space with human settlements. The rugged, rocky terrain, combined with a rich biodiversity, makes it an exceptional location for leopard sightings. Known for its large leopard population, Jawai offers a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors can observe leopards in their natural environment, often in close proximity to the rural villages that coexist with them.
Leopard safari booking is straightforward. You can book a safari as per your time and convenience online through many channels. For instance, national parks and reserves like Jhalana Leopard Safari have their official websites through which you can book the safaris. Moreover, you can book through tour operators or vendors with some good offers or discounts. However, you should ensure you book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you do not have to wait in queues or come back empty-handed.