Conversation of Himachal Pradesh is incomplete without the wildlife sanctuary and national parks. Undoubtedly, you have the options of Kullu, Manali, Kasol, and so on. But for the nature lover, wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are their first choice.
Himachal Pradesh has approximately 40 wildlife sanctuaries. The tourists will get the chance to explore the different and dense wildlife sanctuaries. So, whenever you plan to explore Himachal Pradesh, do not forget to explore various wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
Now, tourists can’t explore all the wildlife sanctuaries in one trip. What they can do is, make a list of the best wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Further, you can explore all these places. What is better than it? To resolve all of your confusion regarding the wildlife sanctuary and National Park, here is the list.
Here is the list of Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks in Himachal Pradesh:
The below-mentioned information is all about the best wildlife sanctuary and national park to explore in Himachal Pradesh.
1. Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary
Do you want to get a thrilling experience in your life? If so, do not forget to explore the Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary. It was established in the year 1985. This wildlife sanctuary is famous for the monal, musk, deer, Himalayan Black bear, etc.
Additionally, there is a statue of Lord Shiva in the sanctuary, which you can explore. The tourists enjoy the beauty of the wildlife sanctuary and spend quality time.
- How to Reach: Located near Sirmour, about 120 km from Shimla. Accessible by road.
- Why Visit: Home to diverse wildlife such as Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and pheasants. Churdhar Peak, the highest peak outside the Himalayan range, offers panoramic views.
- Things to Do: Trekking to Churdhar Peak, birdwatching, and camping.
- Entry Fee: Free (trekking permits may be required).
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2. Simbalbara National Park
The Simbalbara covers an area of 27.88 km and is situated in the Paonta Valley. In 2010 it got the designation of the national park. Additionally, this national park provides shelter to spotted dear, Himalayan Black Bear, Hanuman Langurs, etc.
If you are a trekking lover, you can perform trekking here. You will get an unforgettable experience.
- How to Reach: Located in Paonta Valley, 40 km from Nahan, accessible by road from Chandigarh (125 km).
- Why Visit: Known for its lush greenery and diverse fauna including goral, sambhar, and leopards. It’s a peaceful park, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Things to Do: Wildlife safaris, trekking, and nature walks.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹30 for children (additional fees for safari).
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3. The Great Himalayan National Park
The Great Himalayan National Park is spread over 754 km. It is located in Banjaar, which is a sub-division of district Kullu.
It provides the home to a number of birds and animal species like Indian Pika, Himalayan Black bear, red fox, western tragopan, and so on. To get mesmerizing experience, you must explore this place once.
- How to Reach: Located in the Kullu region, about 60 km from Kullu town. Accessible by road from Kullu.
- Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is known for its biodiversity, including snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep. It’s a haven for trekkers and nature lovers.
- Things to Do: Trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners. Trekking permits required.
4. Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary
This mesmerizing wildlife sanctuary is located in the Kinnaur district. It is surrounded by blue pine and silver fir tree. The Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for two major activities that include trekking and camping.
You will observe the two major species: snow leopard, Brown bear, fox, blue sheep, and so on.
- How to Reach: Located in Kinnaur district, about 100 km from Shimla, accessible by road.
- Why Visit: Known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife including Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and musk deer.
- Things to Do: Trekking, exploring the rich flora and fauna, and birdwatching.
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5. Khirganga National Park
It was founded in 2010 and is situated in the Kullu. It spreads over an area of 710 square kilometers. Additionally, you will find the wild bear here. It is blended with the great flora and fauna.
If you plan to explore the Khirganga National Park, you must visit it between April to June and September to November. At this time, you will get the chance to explore its natural beauty.
- How to Reach: Located near Kullu, about 50 km from Kullu town. Accessible by road followed by trekking.
- Why Visit: Famous for its scenic beauty and hot springs, the park is home to diverse wildlife like leopards and bears. The trek to Khirganga is a popular adventure.
- Things to Do: Trekking, camping, and visiting Khirganga hot springs.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indian tourists, ₹150 for foreigners.
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6. Chail Sanctuary
Do not forget to explore the Chail Sanctuary, which is situated in the Chail. It is one of the prominent hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. You will get the chance to explore various flora and fauna species here. If you want to enjoy the view of Chail Sanctuary, you must explore this in-between March to September.
You will make in fall in love with the pleasant and cool climate. Additionally, the beauty of Chail makes you fall in love with this place. So, all you need to do is add this Wildlife Sanctuary to your bucket list.
- How to Reach: Located near Chail, about 45 km from Shimla, accessible by road.
- Why Visit: A peaceful sanctuary offering sightings of animals like barking deer, leopards, and Himalayan black bears. Chail is also known for its panoramic views and the world’s highest cricket ground.
- Things to Do: Wildlife spotting, hiking, and exploring Chail Palace.
7. Bandli Sanctuary
One of the prominent sanctuaries is the Bandli Sanctuary which you must explore. The tourists will get the chance to explore the snow leopard.
Not only the snow leopard, but you also get the chance to explore the various other wildlife species. If you come to Himachal Pradesh with your kith and kin, you must explore the Bandli Sanctuary.
- How to Reach: Located in Mandi district, about 35 km from Mandi, accessible by road.
- Why Visit: Known for its wildlife, especially the endangered Himalayan tahr, Bandli Sanctuary offers tranquil surroundings and diverse flora.
- Things to Do: Wildlife photography, nature walks, and short treks.
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8. Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary
Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 167.40 sq. km. Additionally, it is considered a great paradise for tourists who want to explore this place deeply. You can become the witness of Himalayan Ibex, flying fox, leopard, striped Hyena, and flawless brown bear.
Whether you are a nature lover or an animal lover, you must explore this place. You will get a unique kind of experience from visiting this place. Additionally, the tourists will get the unique scenario and beauty at Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary.
- How to Reach: Located in Shimla district, about 150 km from Shimla town, accessible by road.
- Why Visit: Nestled in the remote parts of the Himalayas, this sanctuary is home to Himalayan species like musk deer, snow leopards, and pheasants.
- Things to Do: Trekking, wildlife spotting, and nature exploration.
9. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
This prominent wildlife sanctuary is situated between Dalhousie and Khajjiar. The beauty of this place will grab the attention of tourists. You will enjoy the calm and peaceful environment here. What is better than it? You must add this sanctuary to your bucket list.
To explore this wildlife sanctuary, you only require two to three hours. You can easily reach this destination by bus or taxi from the Pathankot. Along with it, do not worry about the staying options; you get options for hotels and lodges.
- How to Reach: Located near Dalhousie, about 10 km from Dalhousie town, accessible by road.
- Why Visit: Famous for its dense forests, this sanctuary offers sightings of animals like leopards, bears, and pheasants. It’s a great destination for trekking and picnics.
- Things to Do: Trekking, picnicking, and wildlife photography.
- Entry Fee: ₹250 for Indian tourists, ₹800 for foreigners.
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10. Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is located nearer to the Shacha and Satpura mountain peaks. The highlighting point of this wildlife sanctuary is Himalayan Thar. This Himalayan Thar is beautiful and grabs the attention of the tourists.
Additionally, there are various other species that you can see in this sanctuary: flying squirrel, snow leopard, golden jackal, etc. You can explore this place with your loved one.
- How to Reach: Located in Kullu district, about 80 km from Manali, accessible by road.
- Why Visit: Known for its dense deodar and fir forests, Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to wildlife such as snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and serows.
- Things to Do: Trekking, birdwatching, and exploring the scenic beauty of the forests.
So, these are the best wildlife sanctuary and national parks that you need to explore to get a great experience. By analyzing all these places, you will closely examine the natural beauty and wildlife. Along with it, wildlife sanctuaries are the best places to explore for the nature lover, wildlife lover, or adventurer person. Additionally, you can visit the sanctuaries with your family and friends.
In the end, these are the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that you need to explore whenever you explore Himachal Pradesh. You get a unique kind of experience from visiting each wildlife sanctuary.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the major wildlife national parks in Himachal Pradesh?
The major wildlife national parks include Great Himalayan National Park, Pin Valley National Park, Khirganga National Park, and Simbalbara National Park.
2. What animals can be seen in the Great Himalayan National Park?
In the Great Himalayan National Park, you can spot animals like the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and various species of birds.
3. Is the Pin Valley National Park known for its wildlife?
Yes, Pin Valley National Park is known for its rich wildlife, including ibex, snow leopards, and blue sheep.
4. What is special about Khirganga National Park?
Khirganga National Park is known for its scenic beauty and being home to species like Himalayan brown bear, serow, and various medicinal plants.
5. Where is the Great Himalayan National Park located?
The Great Himalayan National Park is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh.
6. Are there any tiger reserves in Himachal Pradesh?
No, Himachal Pradesh does not have any official tiger reserves, but you can find leopards and other wildcats in its parks.
7. Can you visit these national parks all year round?
Some parks like Great Himalayan National Park are best visited during the spring and summer months, while others like Pin Valley can be visited during summer as winters are harsh.
8. What birds can be seen in the Simbalbara National Park?
Simbalbara National Park is known for its variety of bird species, including peafowl, red junglefowl, and other migratory birds.
9. Are there any wildlife safaris available in Himachal Pradesh?
Yes, many national parks like the Great Himalayan National Park offer guided trekking and wildlife tours, but traditional jeep safaris are less common due to the terrain.
10. Which is the largest national park in Himachal Pradesh?
The Great Himalayan National Park is the largest national park in Himachal Pradesh, covering an area of about 1,171 square kilometers.
11. What is the best time to visit Pin Valley National Park?
The best time to visit Pin Valley National Park is between May and October, as the winters are extremely cold and snowy.
12. Are permits required to visit any national parks in Himachal Pradesh?
Yes, for parks like the Great Himalayan National Park, you need a permit for entry, which can be obtained from the park office.
13. What is the significance of Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary?
Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary is home to species like the brown bear, Himalayan monal, and pheasants, and is known for its beautiful landscapes.
14. Can I trek inside the Great Himalayan National Park?
Yes, trekking is a popular activity in the Great Himalayan National Park, and you can explore its diverse wildlife and nature on various trekking routes.
15. Is camping allowed in national parks in Himachal Pradesh?
Yes, camping is allowed in designated areas of some parks like the Great Himalayan National Park, but you may need to follow specific guidelines and obtain permits.
