Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the picturesque mountains of northern India, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
With its diverse range of flora and fauna, the state boasts of some incredible wildlife sanctuaries that are a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. Some of the top wildlife sanctuaries to visit in Himachal Pradesh include the Great Himalayan National Park, Pin Valley National Park, and Kanwar Sanctuary.
In addition to these sanctuaries, many other protected areas in Himachal Pradesh offer visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
Himachal Pradesh wildlife tour packages
It is one of the most beautiful northern Indian states, nestled in the Himalayas. It is undeniably proud of its gorgeous and panoramic mountain villages. And, if you go deep into what it has in store for you, then you will find wildlife reserves in Himachal Pradesh that are waiting for you to be explored and experienced!. We shall cover the key topics briefly here so that you can get a sense of them before visiting the sanctuaries.
Top Wildlife Sanctuaries In Himachal Pradesh:
- Pin Valley National Park
The Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is home to Pin Valley National Park. It is situated south of the Dhankar Gompa, close to the Tibetan border. Pin Valley National Park is a pristine and evergreen vacation spot for nature lovers. A visual treat is a lush wilderness and the majestic majesty of the Himalayan cedars. A day spent strolling and conversing is perfect for trekking in this area. Discover ten different areas where endangered plant species can be found.
Entry Fees ~ No Entry Fee
Visiting Hour ~ 6 AM – 6 PM.
Location ~ Forest Office Road, Shamshi.
- Bandli Sanctuary
Nature and wildlife lovers will find heaven at Bandli Sanctuary. Bandli Sanctuary, which lies in Himachal Pradesh and covers an area of more than 303 square kilometers, is home to a wide variety of vegetation and animals. The sanctuary boasts an impressive collection of wildlife such as leopards, wild boars, barking deer, Himalayan black bears, and several bird species.
Apart from wildlife, Bandli Sanctuary is also known for its pristine natural beauty. With its lush green forests, majestic mountains, and crystal-clear streams running through the sanctuary, it offers visitors a truly immersive experience of the unspoiled wilderness of Himachal Pradesh.
Entry Fees ~ 10Rs.
Visiting Hour ~ 8 AM – 4 PM.
Location ~ Sunder Nagar Road.
- Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary
The Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh in India. Established in 1974, the Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary spans an area of approximately 167.32 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The sanctuary is known for its scenic beauty, with dense forests of oak and deodar trees, picturesque mountain streams, and snow-capped peaks. It serves as a vital habitat for many endangered species, including the musk deer and snow leopard. The Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers who can explore the beauty of the region through various treks and trails, such as the Daranghati-Janglik trek, which offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad mountains and valleys.
Entry Fees ~ No Entry Fee.
Visiting Hour ~ 9 AM – 5 PM.
Location ~ Shimla Himachal Pradesh.
- Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Spread across an area of approximately 30.69 sq. km, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1185-2768 meters above sea level and offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife spotting experiences in a serene environment. The sanctuary is surrounded by dense deodar forests, and visitors can witness a variety of animals like the Himalayan black bear, barking goral, serow, and the elusive leopard. Visitors can also take part in adventure activities like trekking and camping, which add to the overall experience of exploring Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.
Entry Fees ~ 250RS.
Visiting Hour ~ 7 AM – 6 PM.
Location ~ Dalhousie Himachal Pradesh.
- Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It covers an area of 61 square kilometers and is situated in the Paonta Valley of the Sirmaur district. Established in 1954, the Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species such as the Cheer Pheasant, Goral, and Barking Deer. The sanctuary is surrounded by the Shivalik ranges and the River Giri which adds to its pristine beauty. The Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary attracts a large number of tourists and nature enthusiasts every year who come to explore its exotic wildlife, dense forests, and panoramic landscapes
Entry Fees ~ 250Rs.
Visiting Hour ~ 6 AM – 7 PM.
Location ~ Kullu District.
- Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
The Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular protected area situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Spread across an area of 110 square kilometers, it was established in 1976 and is located in the Solan district. The Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its vast forest cover, including the Chir Pine and Himalayan Oak trees, which provide a natural habitat to a variety of animals such as the Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, and Indian Muntjac. Tourists visiting the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy wildlife safaris to catch a glimpse of these wild animals in their natural habitat.
Entry Fees ~ 30Rs.
Visiting Hour ~ 7 AM – 6 PM.
Location ~ Sadhupul, HP.
- Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary
Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Covering an area of about 942 sq. km, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, black bears, barking deer, porcupines, and several species of birds. Visitors to the Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris in the lush green forests amidst snow-capped mountains. The sanctuary also offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the local communities living around it, making it an ideal destination for nature and culture lovers.
Entry Fees ~ 200Rs.
Visiting Hour ~ 8 AM – 5 PM.
Location ~ Bowen, HP.
- Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Established in 1978, the sanctuary covers an area of approximately 951 hectares and is located adjacent to the Shimla Municipal Corporation’s water supply catchment reservoir. The sanctuary serves as an important catchment area for the city of Shimla, providing it with a sustained supply of water. Apart from its importance as a water source, the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is also significant as an ecological hotspot that supports numerous species of plants and animals.
Entry Fees ~ No Entry Fee.
Visiting Hour ~ 10 AM – 4 PM.
Location ~ Chharabra Mashobra.
- Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
The Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Himachal Pradesh, India is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Spread across an area of 31.8 square kilometers, it is home to a variety of endangered and rare species such as the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, snow leopard, and brown bear. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of birds, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.
Entry Fees ~ 20Rs.
Visiting Hour ~ 9 AM – 6 PM.
Location ~ Nasogi, HP.
- Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary
There are uncommon plants and animals there, making it one of Himachal Pradesh’s greatest wildlife reserves. The lovely deodar and coniferous plants allow you to glimpse the mesmerizing nature right in front of you. Photographs of animals such as the ibex, snow leopard, brown langur, and Indian serow can be taken.
Entry Fees ~ No Entry Fee.
Visiting Hour ~ 8 AM – 4 PM.
Location ~ Hadsar, HP.
Conclusion
Himachal Pradesh is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife, as evidenced by the variety of wildlife sanctuaries available for tourists to explore.
These sanctuaries not only offer a chance to witness rare plant and animal species and enjoy nature at its finest but also serve as important ecological hotspots and sources of water for the local communities.
In conclusion, Himachal Pradesh’s wildlife sanctuaries are an ideal destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts alike. Himachal Pradesh’s wildlife sanctuaries offer a unique opportunity for tourists to witness the beauty of nature and explore the diverse species of plants and animals that thrive in these sanctuaries.
