4 of the world's 34 biodiversity hotspots are located in India.These 4 regions are Himalayan Mountains; Western Ghats; Indo-Burma; and the Sundaland (Nicobar Islands).
India is a huge country, and so its biodiversity. Because of its geographical spread, the country witnessed all weather conditions and wild habitats. India possesses almost all types of forests, lakes, mountains, islands, Rivers. This spectacular diversity of habitat is added richness to India's diversified wildlife. India accounts for 2.4% of world land areas but is home to 8% of all recorded species, including 45000 plants and 91000 animal species.
Himalayas, Western Ghats, North-East and Andaman & Nicobar Islands are identified as Global Biodiversity Hotspots.
Types of Forests
About 19% of India's land are forest area. Based on the characteristic of trees, forest areas are categorised under various types. However, administrative-wise, there are three major categories; Reserved Forest, Protected Forest, & Unprotected Forest.
Reserved Forest
This category occupies 53% of total forest cover. Trespassing is strictly prohibited here, even for cattle grazing.
Protected Forest
This category occupies 29% of total forest cover. Only local residents are allowed to enter to collect forest products and cattle grazing.
Unprotected Forest
This category occupies 18% of total forest cover, with no such restrictions.
From a conservation perspective, Indian jungles are again classified under various categories. National Parks, Reserve Forests & Wildlife Sanctuaries are some of the major classifications.
National Park
Currently, India stand for 106 National Parks and 75 more are proposed.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
553 are registered wildlife sanctuaries in India. Andaman & Nicobar Island has the maximum number of the sanctuary (96 nos).
India's wildlife tourism tells the story of human and animal coexistence. India is self-sufficient in this industry as the significant share of wildlife tourism comes from domestic enthusiasts only.
Some of the prominent Wildlife Destinations
Wildlife Travel Planning
Major national parks have a restricted number of visitors, so you need to plan well in advance to secure your safari tickets. Booking starts 45 days in advance for Jim Corbett. For Kanha and Bandhavgarh, it's 120 days in advance. During the peak seasons, tickets sell out within minutes as the booking portal opens. Hence the best practice is to confirm safari booking first then plan for the rest of the itineraries. During monsoon, all major parks are closed. However, buffer areas are open for ecotourism. True nature-lovers utilize the opportunity of buffer areas to explore the sublime beauty of monsoon.
