Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful mountains and peaceful temples. But not many people know that it is also home to some amazing wildlife. The national parks of Uttarakhand are full of hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. From thick forests to quiet rivers, these parks offer the perfect chance to see nature up close.

In this article, we will take you through the hidden wildlife treasures of Uttarakhand’s national parks. Whether you're a wildlife lover, bird watcher, or someone who just loves nature, these parks have something special for everyone.

1. Jim Corbett National Park – More Than Just Tigers

Jim Corbett is India’s first national park and the most famous in Uttarakhand. While many come here to spot tigers, there is so much more to see. You can find elephants, leopards, deer, and hundreds of bird species.

Hidden gem: The Dhikala zone is a great spot to see rare animals and enjoy beautiful views of the Ramganga River.

Best time to visit: November to June

2. Rajaji National Park – A Bird Watcher’s Heaven

Located near Haridwar and Dehradun, Rajaji National Park is full of rich wildlife. It is especially popular with bird watchers. With over 300 species of birds, it’s a great place to see hornbills, kingfishers, and even the rare great pied hornbill.

Hidden gem: The Chilla Range is less crowded and perfect for quiet safaris and bird watching.

Best time to visit: November to June

3. Nanda Devi National Park – Where Nature Stays Wild

This park is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most untouched areas of Uttarakhand. It is located in the high Himalayan ranges, and getting here takes some effort—but it’s worth it.

You won’t see tigers here, but you might spot snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan black bears.

Hidden gem: The Valley of Flowers, which is part of the park, blooms with rare flowers from July to September.

Best time to visit: May to October

4. Govind Pashu Vihar National Park – A Peaceful Escape

This lesser-known park is located in the Uttarkashi district. It’s a quiet place, far from the tourist crowd. You can see Himalayan tahrs, monals, and even snow leopards if you're lucky.

The park is also the starting point of the popular Har Ki Dun trek.

Hidden gem: The Ruinsara Tal, a peaceful alpine lake, is a great stop for trekkers.

Best time to visit: April to June, and September to November

5. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary – A Hidden Himalayan Treasure

Near the Indo-Nepal border, Askot is one of the least explored wildlife areas in Uttarakhand. It is home to rare animals like the Himalayan musk deer and leopards. The peaceful environment makes it ideal for nature lovers.

Hidden gem: The Kailash Mansarovar route passes nearby, adding spiritual beauty to your wildlife trip.

Best time to visit: March to June, and September to November

Why Visit These Hidden Gems?

• Peaceful experience – Lesser-known parks have fewer tourists, so you can enjoy nature in peace.
• Rare wildlife sightings – You may see animals and birds that are hard to find elsewhere.
• Unspoiled beauty – These parks offer stunning views of forests, rivers, and mountains.

Travel Tips

• Always follow park rules and do not disturb wildlife.
• Hire a local guide for a better experience and safety.
• Carry warm clothes, even in summer, as some parks are in high altitudes.
• Book your safari permits in advance during the tourist season.

Conclusion

Uttarakhand’s national parks are full of hidden wildlife gems. While Jim Corbett is well-known, parks like Govind Pashu Vihar and Askot offer unique experiences that many travelers miss. So, if you're planning a trip to the hills, add one of these national parks to your list. You’ll return with unforgettable memories and a deeper connection with nature.