India is the proud home of over 70% of the world’s wild tigers, with 3,682 majestic Bengal tigers roaming its forests (2022 NTCA census). Thanks to Project Tiger, launched in 1973 by Indira Gandhi, India now boasts 58 tiger reserves across 18 states, protecting these big cats from near-extinction. These reserves not only save tigers but also preserve rich ecosystems and boost eco-tourism. In this article, we’ll take you on a state-wise tour of all tiger reserves in India as of 2025, including the newest addition, Madhav Tiger Reserve, and share tips for visiting them. Ready to explore India’s tiger havens?
What Are Tiger Reserves and Their Role in Conservation?
Tiger reserves are protected areas dedicated to conserving the endangered Bengal tiger, established under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and managed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Launched in 1973, Project Tiger aimed to save tigers when their numbers dropped below 2,000. Today, India’s 58 reserves safeguard 3,682 tigers, support co-predators like leopards, and preserve biodiversity. These reserves also involve local communities to reduce poaching and promote sustainable tourism. From the mangroves of Sundarbans to the hills of Madhya Pradesh, tiger reserves are vital for India’s ecological balance. Learn more about wildlife protection laws in India or visit NTCA’s official site for detailed insights.
Complete List of Tiger Reserves in India 2025
State-Wise Breakdown and Key Details
India’s 58 tiger reserves span 18 states, with Madhya Pradesh leading as the “Tiger State” with nine reserves and around 785 tigers. Below is a state-wise overview, highlighting key reserves, their establishment years, and tiger populations (based on the latest NTCA data). New reserves like Madhav (2025) and Dholpur-Karauli (2023) show India’s ongoing commitment to tiger conservation.
Check out our guide on Tiger Reserves in Madhya Pradesh 2025 for a deeper dive or explore the full list at NTCA’s website.
If you want to explore more visit https://indiantigersafaris.com/
Top Tiger Reserves for Tourism and Conservation
Largest, Smallest, and Most Visited Reserves India’s tiger reserves offer unique experiences for tourists and conservationists. The largest tiger reserve in India, Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh, ~3,296 sq km), hosts 58 tigers in the scenic Nallamala Hills. The smallest tiger reserve in India, Orang (Assam, 79.2 sq km), supports 16 tigers, showcasing dense populations in compact areas. For tourism, Jim Corbett (Uttarakhand, 260 tigers) is famous for its lush Ramganga River landscapes, Ranthambore (Rajasthan, 57 tigers) blends forts with wildlife, and Bandipur (Karnataka, 150 tigers) offers stunning Nilgiri views. Winter (October–March) is the best time for safaris. Plan your trip with our Best Tiger Safaris in India guide or check NTCA’s ecotourism guidelines.
New Tiger Reserves and Conservation Efforts in 2025 Latest Additions to India’s Tiger Network India’s tiger conservation efforts continue to grow, with new tiger reserves in 2025 like Madhav Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh, 5 tigers, including two cubs) leading the way. Other recent additions include Dholpur-Karauli (Rajasthan, 2023) and Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla (Chhattisgarh, 2021). Successful reintroduction programs, like in Panna (55 tigers) and Sariska (19 tigers), show progress, while transboundary corridors like Sundarbans (100+ tigers) with Bangladesh boost global efforts. However, reserves like Kawal (Telangana) and Dampa (Mizoram) report zero tigers, needing urgent action. Learn about India’s conservation success stories or check the Bengal tiger’s status on the IUCN Red List.
Conclusion
India’s 58 tiger reserves in 2025 are a testament to the success of Project Tiger and the country’s commitment to saving the Bengal tiger. From the lush forests of Jim Corbett to the mangroves of Sundarbans, these reserves protect biodiversity and offer unforgettable eco-tourism experiences. Explore them responsibly and support conservation efforts. Visit our wildlife blog for more updates or donate to conservation at NTCA’s donation page. Share this guide to spread awareness!
