The “Land of Gods” is the most popular tourist destination in North India for all seasons due to its diverse, unique attractions. Being home to an extensive variety of flora and fauna, this scenic paradise is one of the favorite destinations for wildlife lovers across India. If you’re seeking a visit to the best wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh, then this blog will help you. Let’s dive into an exciting exploration of the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries in Dev Bhoomi to help you select your next holiday destination.
Explore Himachal’s Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries
10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh:
1. Great Himalayan National Park
Located in the serene Banjar sub-division of Kullu town, Great Himalayan National Park is a great destination to witness the exotic Himalayan wildlife. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the park is home to a variety of plants and animal species. Chances that you’ll encounter sightings of Himalayan brown bears, snow leopards, western tragopans, and blue sheep here are higher than at other sanctuaries in the state. This park is a quiet and rejuvenating place and offers some of the best treks in Himachal Pradesh.
2. Bandli Wildlife Sanctuary
Located 7 km from the Sunder Nagar town of Chhoti Kashi, Bandli Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh. Renowned for its lush green scenery and natural streams, this sanctuary is home to four of the seven pheasant species found in Dev Bhoomi. Other threatened species, including leopards, black bears, Indian hares, barking deer, etc., can be seen here in their natural habitat. This sanctuary was formerly a protected forest, which was then converted into a wildlife sanctuary to protect the state’s wildlife.
3. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in a scenic setting at the quaint hill station, Khajjiar, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This place is easily accessible from another beautiful hill station of Dev Bhoomi, Dalhousie. Kalatop houses a variety of endangered species, including the Himalayan serow, black bear, and leopard. Its location amidst the panoramic snow-capped Himalayan peaks allows visitors to experience an unforgettable picnic with families and friends.
4. Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary
Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary is a fantastic place in the capital of Himachal Pradesh for wildlife sightings. Formerly this sanctuary was a hunting ground for the royal dynasty of Rampur Bushehar. This place is greatly recommended as a vacation spot in Shimla and allows visitors to witness the natural charm and alluring views of this lovely destination. Additionally, it is considered the best spot for sightings of the King of Birds, Jujurana.
5. Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary
Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to relax and please your inner soul in the quaint Sirmaur district of Dev Bhoomi. This higher forest region is a perfect spot for the sightings of monal, musk deer, Himalayan Black Bear, and other endangered species. This beautiful sanctuary can be explored through the exciting and moderate Churdhar trek that offers serene views of this destination.
6. Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake, Kanwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh is a great place for wildlife photographers. This spectacular place is home to over 100 species of migratory birds, including purple-rumped sunbird and crested serpent eagle. This sanctuary features a healthy population of Himalayan Thar. Other 30 animal species housed here include gorals, leopards, ibex, bears, etc.
7. Rupi Bhawa Sanctuary
Named after the two beautiful valleys, Rupi and Bhawa of Kinnaur district, this wildlife sanctuary is located on the left bank of the Satluj River. From endangered animal species like snow leopards, black bears, and serows to uncommon birds like monals and white-throated tits can be seen here. Nestled in the foothills of the Shrikhand mountains, this sanctuary is popular for its hiking trails.
8. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
Covered in dense forests of pine and deodar, the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary in the Chamba district is another favorite destination for wildlife lovers in Dev Bhoomi. From wildlife sightings and trekking to angling and bird-watching, this sanctuary is popular for so many activities. Wild boar, sambar, leopard, and black bear are the most common animal species that can be seen here. Kandaghat-Chail and Chail-Rajgarh are the two most popular trekking trails in this sanctuary. It is a kids-friendly location and features picnic tables and an expansive play area.
9. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
Located within walking distance of the main town of the winter wonderland, Manali, this wildlife sanctuary is a good place for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Snow-capped mountains and lush green forests provide a picturesque atmosphere to visitors. Many trekking trails pass through the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, among which Hampta Pass and Deo Tibba trails are the most popular. It is home to many animal species, including flying foxes, barking deer, ibex herds, black bears, leopards, etc. Due to high sightings of exotic and rare bird species like snow pigeons, tragopans, and kingfishers, this sanctuary is renowned as a birdwatcher’s paradise.
10. Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary
Named after the goddess Shikari Devi, this wildlife sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh is a great place for wildlife sightings. It houses a temple dedicated to Devi Shikari, which is situated at an elevation of 2,850 meters from the sea level. This wonderful place is a must-visit in Chhoti Kashi of Dev Bhoomi due to its scenic natural charm featuring grassy hills and deep pine forests. You might see a goral, snow leopard, black bear, monal, and black bear here.
Conclusion
Endless opportunities for wildlife sightings are presented to tourists in Himachal Pradesh through these top 10 wildlife sanctuaries. Experience a tranquil escape through these top wildlife sighting destinations in the scenic valleys and hill stations of Dev Bhoomi. Additionally, an unmatched thrilling experience is guaranteed by diverse options of adventure activities within and near these sanctuaries.
Also read: Top 10 Railway Stations in Himachal Pradesh