“Sundarban Tiger” by Soumyajit Nandy is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
Top 5 Largest Forests in India: Where Nature Blooms in Every Corner
India has about 708,273 square kilometers of land covered by forests. Among Indian states, Mizoram has the highest forest density, but when it comes to sheer forest area, Madhya Pradesh ranks first with over 77,000 square kilometers of forest land. Here is detailed information about the top five largest forests in the country:
1. Sundarbans – West Bengal
The Sundarbans Forest in West Bengal is India’s largest forest and is also considered one of the most dangerous due to the presence of Royal Bengal Tigers. Spanning around 10,000 square kilometers, this dense mangrove forest is globally famous for its tiger population. A large number of saltwater crocodiles can also be found here.. The Ganga, Brahmaputra, Padma, and Meghna rivers merge here before meeting the sea. The Sundarbans is shared between India and Bangladesh and consists mostly of swampy and marshy land.
2. Gir Forest – Gujarat
Gir Forest, situated in Gujarat, ranks as India’s second-largest forest and holds the unique distinction of being the sole natural home of the Asiatic lion worldwide. Nestled approximately 43 kilometers from Somnath and around 60 kilometers from Junagadh, this expansive forest spans nearly 1,412 square kilometers. Of this, 258 sq km is a fully protected core area, while 1,153 sq km is designated as a wildlife sanctuary.
3. Khasi Hills – Meghalaya
Located in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, this lush forest is a rainforest, thanks to its proximity to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth. Situated at an altitude of around 1,978 meters, the forest receives heavy rainfall throughout the year. More than 75% of Meghalaya’s land is forested, and the Khasi Hills forest covers an area of approximately 2,741 square kilometers.
4. Namdapha – Arunachal Pradesh
Namdapha Forest, located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most ecologically rich and remote forest reserves. Nestled deep within the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges, this vast forest spans approximately 1,985 square kilometers, making it not only one of the largest protected areas in the country but also one of the coldest due to its high altitude and rugged terrain.
This biodiverse region forms part of the Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, which is globally recognized for its wide variety of flora and fauna. The dense forests, mist-covered hills, and fast-flowing rivers create a unique ecosystem that supports several rare, endangered, and endemic species. Among the most notable are the red panda and the red fox, elusive creatures that are seldom seen in other regions of India.
Namdapha is also home to four big cat species: tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, and snow leopard, a rarity that showcases the region’s wildlife richness. Its untouched beauty, coupled with tribal communities and a rich ecological heritage, makes Namdapha one of the most fascinating forest areas to explore for researchers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure travelers alike.
5. Jim Corbett National Park – Uttarakhand
As India’s oldest national park, Jim Corbett, located in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district, was established in 1936 to protect endangered tigers and now ranks among the five largest forests in the country. The park spans 520 square kilometers and is famous for Bengal tigers, dense Sal and Peepal trees, and scenic grasslands, which make up nearly 10% of the park. It continues to be a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply someone seeking the serene embrace of nature, these Top 5 Largest Forests in India offer experiences that go far beyond ordinary travel. From the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers of Sundarbans to the rare Asiatic Lions of Gir, each forest tells a story of biodiversity and beauty. As you plan your next getaway, consider stepping into the wild where nature speaks in its purest form. And if you’re looking for a peaceful escape nestled in greenery and heritage, don’t miss exploring Silvassa, where nature meets peace.
Which is your favorite forest? Is there any other forest you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your nature-loving friends!
