UNESCO-Recognized Biosphere Reserves in India
India is home to 21 National Biosphere Reserves, of which 13 are recognized by UNESCO under the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). These sites highlight the country’s rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and sustainable development practices.
UNESCO recognition emphasizes:
- Conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems
- Sustainable interaction between humans and nature
- Research, education, and eco-tourism opportunities
List of UNESCO-Recognized Biosphere Reserves in India
| Biosphere Reserve | State(s) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve | Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka | Tropical forests, elephants, tigers, endemic flora |
| Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve | West Bengal | Mangroves, Royal Bengal Tiger, estuarine ecosystem |
| Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve | Uttarakhand | High-altitude Himalayas, glaciers, snow leopard |
| Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve | Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Rainforests, indigenous tribes, endemic species |
| Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve | Tamil Nadu | Coral reefs, marine biodiversity, dugongs |
| Manas Biosphere Reserve | Assam | Grasslands, tigers, elephants, riverine ecosystem |
| Seshachalam Hills Biosphere Reserve | Andhra Pradesh | Dry deciduous forests, medicinal plants |
| Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve | Himachal Pradesh | High-altitude cold desert, snow leopards, alpine meadows |
| Simlipal Biosphere Reserve | Odisha | Tigers, elephants, tropical forests |
| Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve | Arunachal Pradesh | Eastern Himalayas, rare orchids, hornbills |
| Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve | Sikkim | Kangchenjunga range, rhododendrons, snow leopard |
| Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve | Kerala, Tamil Nadu | Western Ghats, endemic flora and fauna |
| Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve | Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh | Plateau forests, sacred rivers, biodiversity hotspot |
Why Visit These Biosphere Reserves?
- Nature & Wildlife: Spot tigers, snow leopards, elephants, hornbills, and endemic species
- Adventure & Trekking: Himalayas, Western Ghats, and forest trails offer trekking and adventure tourism
- Eco-Tourism & Education: Learn about sustainable development, community-led conservation, and biodiversity research
- Photography & Landscape: Stunning landscapes, forests, deserts, rivers, coral reefs, and mangroves
Travel Tips for UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in India
- Best season varies by region; Himalayan reserves are ideal May–October
- Carry layered clothing for high-altitude reserves
- Book homestays or eco-lodges in advance for immersive experiences
- Follow local rules, respect wildlife, and minimize plastic use
- Check accessibility as some areas have restricted entry to protect fragile ecosystems
Suggested Reading:
- Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve – full travel news + guide article
- Pin Valley National Park – trekking & wildlife guide
- Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary – snow leopard spotting and village tourism
- Other UNESCO Biosphere Reserves – dedicated travel guides for Nilgiri, Sundarbans, Nanda Devi, etc.
