On a leopard trail: 5 places in India for a ‘guaranteed’ leopard sighting

India is noted for its rich biodiversity which makes it one of the best countries in the world to see wild leopards. These elusive big cats are incredible creatures that can adapt and thrive anywhere. There are several places in India where one can spot leopards making these perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Our country offers some of the best places to spot leopards in the wild, with their elusive beauty found across forests and rocky hills.

A look 5 national parks in India to spot elusive big cats:

Head to Bera if you are looking for an offbeat wildlife experience as this place is not your regular national park or forest. Leopards in Bera roam freely! The village often gets overshadowed by more prominent wildlife parks nearby offering leopard sightings. Situated close to Jawai, the village shares similar terrain as Jawai. Chances of leopard sightings are extremely high here.
Best time to visit: October to March

Set along the Kabini River, the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary is another golden place to spot leopards in the wild. The forest is a part of the larger Nagarhole National Park and a perfect spot for leopard sightings. It boasts a healthy population of leopards. If you are lucky, you can even get the glimpse of the rare and elusive black panther—a melanistic variant of the leopard.​
Best time to visit: November to May

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is among the world’s few national parks within a major city. Though sightings are not that frequent during the day, night cameras have captured several beautiful leopard sights. The park is also a prominent study centre for human-leopard interactions.​
Best time to visit: November to MarchSee more: Leopard safari coming soon to Sanjay Gandhi National Park—here's what to expect​

Jawai Leopard Reserve, nestled in Rajasthan’s Pali district, is arguably one of the best places in India to spot these majestic big cats. Set against a backdrop of dramatic granite hills, the landscape exudes an almost mystical charm. Over time, leopards have made this rugged terrain their home—sheltering in natural caves and coexisting peacefully with the local Rabari community, who regard them as part of the family.
Best time to visit: October to April

Jhalana Leopard Reserve in Jaipur has become a prime spot in India to witness leopards in their natural habitat. The park is more accessible than others in Rajasthan. Despite being surrounded by urban jungle, Jhalana attracts wildlife enthusiasts from all over. Spotting a leopard here is a photographer’s delight.​
Best time to visit: October to June