10 Largest Tiger Reserves in India
India is home to the largest population of tigers in the world, making it the most important country for tiger conservation. To protect this majestic species, the government launched Project Tiger in 1973, which led to the establishment of several tiger reserves across the country.
Today, India has over 50 tiger reserves, spread across different states. These reserves not only protect tigers but also conserve biodiversity, forests, rivers, and countless other species. In this article, we will explore the 10 largest tiger reserves in India based on area, along with their key details.
✅ 1. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve – Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
- Area: 3,728 sq. km
- State: Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
- Highlights: The largest tiger reserve in India, spread across the Nallamala Hills. Known for deep valleys, rivers, and rich wildlife.
✅ 2. Palamau Tiger Reserve – Jharkhand
- Area: 3,133 sq. km
- State: Jharkhand
- Highlights: Located in the Betla National Park, it is famous for its historical forts and rich flora and fauna.
✅ 3. Manas Tiger Reserve – Assam
- Area: 3,019 sq. km
- State: Assam
- Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manas is known for its rare species like the golden langur and pygmy hog.
✅ 4. Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve – Chhattisgarh
- Area: 2,820 sq. km
- State: Chhattisgarh
- Highlights: Rich in forests and rivers, it is also home to endangered wild buffalo.
✅ 5. Melghat Tiger Reserve – Maharashtra
- Area: 2,768 sq. km
- State: Maharashtra
- Highlights: One of the first nine tiger reserves established in 1973 under Project Tiger. Known for teak forests and diverse wildlife.
✅ 6. Simlipal Tiger Reserve – Odisha
- Area: 2,750 sq. km
- State: Odisha
- Highlights: Famous for waterfalls and meadows, Simlipal is home to tigers, elephants, and rich biodiversity.
✅ 7. Indravati Tiger Reserve – Chhattisgarh
- Area: 2,799 sq. km
- State: Chhattisgarh
- Highlights: A dense forest reserve, it is one of the best places to spot wild buffalo, leopards, and tigers.
✅ 8. Kanha Tiger Reserve – Madhya Pradesh
- Area: 2,051 sq. km
- State: Madhya Pradesh
- Highlights: The inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. Known for Barasingha (swamp deer) and tiger population.
✅ 9. Sundarbans Tiger Reserve – West Bengal
- Area: 2,584 sq. km
- State: West Bengal
- Highlights: The world’s largest mangrove forest, famous for the unique Royal Bengal Tigers that can swim in saline waters.
✅ 10. Satpura Tiger Reserve – Madhya Pradesh
- Area: 2,133 sq. km
- State: Madhya Pradesh
- Highlights: Known for rugged hills, sandstone peaks, and rich flora and fauna. Popular for eco-tourism and safaris.
📊 Summary Table – Largest Tiger Reserves in India
| Rank | Tiger Reserve | State(s) | Area (sq. km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam | Andhra Pradesh & Telangana | 3,728 |
| 2 | Palamau | Jharkhand | 3,133 |
| 3 | Manas | Assam | 3,019 |
| 4 | Udanti-Sitanadi | Chhattisgarh | 2,820 |
| 5 | Indravati | Chhattisgarh | 2,799 |
| 6 | Melghat | Maharashtra | 2,768 |
| 7 | Simlipal | Odisha | 2,750 |
| 8 | Sundarbans | West Bengal | 2,584 |
| 9 | Satpura | Madhya Pradesh | 2,133 |
| 10 | Kanha | Madhya Pradesh | 2,051 |
🌿 Final Thoughts
The tiger reserves of India are not only vital for protecting the majestic Bengal tiger but also for conserving forests, rivers, and ecosystems. From the mangroves of Sundarbans to the dense forests of Kanha, each reserve offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
If you are a nature lover or planning a wildlife safari, these largest tiger reserves in India should definitely be on your travel bucket list.
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