Blackbuck, also called the Indian antelope, is one of the most beautiful and unique animals found in India. With their graceful leaps and spiral horns, they are a sight to behold. If you’re interested in spotting these animals, here are ten top places in India where you can see blackbuck in their natural habitat.
Know About Blackbuck
The blackbuck, or Indian antelope, is a medium-sized antelope native to India and Nepal, living in grassy plains and light forests near water. Males are larger, weighing up to 57 kg (126 lb) with twisted horns, while females are smaller and may have short horns. Males have dark brown or black coats with white markings, while females are tan with similar white areas. Described in 1758, it’s the only member of its genus.
Top-10 Places to See Blackbucks in India
India is home to several amazing places where you can see the stunning blackbuck, a graceful antelope species with unique spiral horns. From Gujarat’s Velavadar to Rajasthan’s Tal Chhapar, here are the top 10 destinations where you can witness the blackbucks in their natural habitats.
- Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar
- Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar, Gujarat
- Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary, Karnataka
- Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Maharashtra
- National Chambal Sanctuary
- Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
- Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Rajasthan
- Guindy National Park, Tamil Nadu
- Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
- Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Kaimur and Rohtas districts of Bihar, covers 1,504.96 km². Established in 1979, it features diverse forests, including tropical dry mixed deciduous. The sanctuary is home to rare flora and fauna and has historical sites like Rohtasgarh and Shergarh forts.
Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, Gujarat
Velavadar Blackbuck National Park in Gujarat, established in 1976, spans 34.08 km². Located near the Gulf of Khambhat, it was originally a hunting ground for blackbucks. The park features grasslands and agricultural fields, making it an ideal habitat for blackbuck.
Ranebennur Blackbuck Sanctuary, Karnataka
Ranebennur Blackbuck Sanctuary, declared in Karnataka, covers 119 km², with a core zone of 14.87 km². Established to protect blackbucks, it consists of scrub forests and Eucalyptus plantations, surrounded by agricultural fields, making it a vital area for conservation.
Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Maharashtra
The Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary in Maharashtra, established in 1979, is dedicated to the critically endangered great Indian bustard. Located in the semi-arid Deccan thorn scrub forests, it plays a crucial role in the conservation of this majestic bird species.
National Chambal Sanctuary, Tri-State
The National Chambal Sanctuary spans 5,400 km² across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Established in 1978, it protects critically endangered species like the gharial and Ganges River dolphin. The sanctuary features pristine rivers and stunning ravines, providing a unique ecosystem.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
Ranthambore National Park covers 1,334 km² in Rajasthan and is bordered by the Banas and Chambal Rivers. Named after the historic Ranthambore Fort within the park, it is a popular destination for wildlife lovers, including those hoping to see blackbucks.
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, located in Churu district of Rajasthan, is known for its blackbuck population and various bird species. It is about 210 km from Jaipur and lies near the Great Indian Desert, making it a unique spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Guindy National Park, Tamil Nadu
Guindy National Park is a small protected area in Chennai, covering 2.70 km². It is one of the few national parks within a city, featuring forests, lakes, and scrublands, providing a home for blackbucks and other wildlife amid urban surroundings.
Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu covers 21.47 km² along the Palk Strait. Established in 1967 for blackbuck conservation, it is also home to many waterbirds, including flamingos, making it an important area for birdwatching.
Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to protecting blackbuck antelopes. Situated on a hillock in Vallanadu Village, it is the southernmost area in India where a natural population of blackbuck can be found, making it a unique wildlife destination.