From an outsider’s perspective, it might seem that India is bustling with activity, leaving little room for forests and wildlife. However, this perception is far from accurate. India is home to some of the biggest and most captivating forests, brimming with diverse wildlife, varied terrains, and lush vegetation. That’s why we’re here to explore the top 10 biggest forests in India as of 2024. Let’s dive into these remarkable natural treasures.

Top 10 Biggest Forests In India

1. Sundarbans – 10,277 km²

Covering a vast area of 10,277 km², the Sundarbans is India’s largest forest. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is situated at the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers before they flow into the Bay of Bengal. This forest is not only renowned for its incredible biodiversity but also for providing natural protection against cyclones and tsunamis, benefiting millions along the coast. The Sundarbans is home to the Royal Bengal Tigers, which have adapted uniquely to its tidal channels and mudflats.

2. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve – 5,520 km²

The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve spans 5,520 km² across the Western Ghats, covering Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. Named after the ‘blue mountains’ due to the purplish-blue flowers of the Strobilanthes Kunthiana plant, the reserve includes notable national parks and sanctuaries such as Mudumalai, Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Mukurthi. These areas support tigers, Asian elephants, and the Nilgiri tahr.

3. Namdapha National Park – 1,985.23 km²

Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Namdapha National Park covers 1,985.23 km² and is one of the most biodiverse regions in the Eastern Himalayas. The park’s elevation ranges from 200 m to over 4,500 m, creating habitats from tropical rainforests to temperate and alpine forests. It is home to four species of big cats—the tiger, leopard, snow leopard, and clouded leopard—and rare species such as the red panda and Namdapha flying squirrel.

4. Gir National Park – 1,410.30 km²

Gir National Park in Gujarat, covering 1,410.30 km², is the sole habitat of the Asiatic lion. Conservation efforts have been successful in reviving the lion population, which now numbers around 650. The park’s dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grasslands support not only lions but also leopards, hyenas, and chital. Its teak forests and rich bird diversity make it a significant location for avian enthusiasts.

5. Jim Corbett National Park – 1,318 km²

Jim Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand and spanning 1,318 km², is India’s first national park, established in 1936 to protect the Bengal tiger. This park played a crucial role in launching Project Tiger in 1973. It features hilly terrains, riverine belts, large marshy depressions, and grasslands, supporting a wide variety of vegetation and ecosystems.

6. Kanha National Park (Kanha Tiger Reserve) – 940 km²

Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh covers 940 km² and is a critical area for the conservation of Bengal tigers. Established in 1955 and designated as a Tiger Reserve in 1973, it boasts thick sal forests, lush bamboo, and expansive grasslands. The park is also home to the endangered barasingha, which is making a comeback due to conservation efforts. Bird watchers can spot species like the crested serpent eagle and Indian roller.

7. Bandipur National Park – 868.63 km²

Situated in Karnataka, within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Bandipur National Park covers 868.63 km². It lies at the junction of the Western Ghats and the Deccan Plateau, featuring a mix of dry and moist deciduous forests. As one of the initial sites for Bengal Tiger conservation under Project Tiger, it is also home to Indian elephants, gaur, and dhole, and conserves over 200 bird species, including the endangered Indian vulture.

8. Saranda Forest – 820 km²

Saranda Forest in Jharkhand, known as Asia’s largest sal forest, spans 820 km². This forest is rich in biodiversity and plays a crucial role in the livelihood of the local community. It also has significant iron ore deposits, leading to tensions between conservation and mining interests. Saranda Forest sustains elephants, leopards, and various bird species, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to preserving this valuable natural resource.

9. Mawphlang Sacred Grove – 302 km²

Located in Meghalaya, the Mawphlang Sacred Grove covers about 302 km² and represents a unique form of traditional conservation by the local Khasi tribes. Considered holy and untouched by human activity, this grove thrives with medicinal plants and rare species, preserved through the Khasi’s cultural practices.

10. Pichavaram Forest – 110 km²

Near the Tamil Nadu coast, the Pichavaram Forest spans approximately 110 km² and is one of India’s most important mangrove ecosystems. The forest supports various fish, birds, and marine life due to its complex network of islands and water channels. It also serves as a natural barrier against cyclones and tsunamis, exemplifying the protective role of mangroves in coastal defense.

Conclusion

Although our list of the biggest forests in India comes to an end, the country’s vast natural landscapes offer many more fascinating forests and national parks to explore. If you’re intrigued by these immense and diverse forests, there’s much more to discover about India’s rich natural heritage.