India is famous for its majestic big cats like the Bengal tiger and the Asiatic lion. However, the Indian leopard, known for its elusive and adaptable nature, is also noteworthy. Tigers are more versatile; leopards can thrive in diverse habitats including forests and hills. They can even adapt to areas where humans live. 

Though leopards are widespread, their ability to camouflage makes them challenging to spot. Fortunately, India’s national parks offer great opportunities to see these amazing predators in the wild. Here are the top six national parks where you can encounter Indian leopards: 

Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary 

Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, a gem in Karnataka is famous for its high leopard density. It is a part of Nagarhole National Park and provides a stunning scenery of dense forests, rolling hills and a river that enhance its wildlife safaris.  

Visitors can explore the sanctuary through Jeep safaris and boat rides, which are great for leopard sightings. The sanctuary’s diverse habitat and plenty of preys make it an ideal environment for leopards. 

Jawai Leopard Reserve 

The Jawai Leopard Reserve located in the Pali district of Rajasthan is known for its unique rocky landscape. Unlike traditional National Parks, Jawai’s rocky hills and open areas provide a great view for spotting leopards.

This reserve is known for its high density of leopards and sightings are relatively frequent. The reserve also attracts various migratory birds and other wildlife, making it a wonderful destination for nature lovers. 

Jhalana Leopard Reserve 

Located near Jaipur, Jhalana Leopard Reserve is a conservation area dedicated to leopards. It covers 23 square kilometers and has a significant leopard population.

The reserve location near Jaipur makes it easy for visitors to reach. It is famous for frequent leopard sightings. Besides leopards, Jhalana is home to other species such as the jungle cat, Indian wolf and various types of birds. 

Nagarhole National Park 

Nagarhole National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The area hosts a vibrant and rich wildlife habitat where people frequently spot leopards. The park’s diverse ecosystem includes dense forests, rivers and grasslands which provide an ideal home for these big cats. 

Tourists can enjoy Jeep safaris and boat rides that offer excellent chances to spot leopards. Nagarhole’s wide range of habitats supports a variety of wildlife, making it the top spot for leopard sightings. 

Satpura National Park  

Satpura National Park is situated in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. People know it for its unique dense forests, deep ravines and sandstone hills. It is famous as a tiger reserve, but visitors can also spot leopards here.

Satpura provides a unique safari experience with walking safaris, canoeing trips and jeep safaris, which increase the chance of encountering leopards in their natural habitat. 

Bandipur National Park 

Bandipur National Park is an important part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife including a significant population of leopards. The reserve established it in 1974.

Bandipur was originally a hunting ground for Maharajas but is now a protected area for wildlife conservation. The park has a variety of plants and animals, with dry deciduous forests and grasslands that make a perfect habitat for leopards.