Wildlife Wonders of Himachal Pradesh

A heaven for nature lovers where they can not only get spellbound after seeing stunning landscapes but also seeing treasure trove of wildlife in Himachal Pradesh. The state's diverse topography, pleasant climate supports tapestry of wonderful flora and fauna. Himachal is home to India's most well preserved sanctuaries and National parks. Let's go on a journey through this blog and explore Himachal Pradesh's National parks, wildlife sanctuaries and rare species that make this state a true treasure for all the green panthers, environmentalists, naturalists and nature lovers.

Beautiful White Spotted deer 

Let's explore the top wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Himachal Pradesh.

1. The Great Himalayan National Park

• The great Himalayan National park, located in Kullu district was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site Status in 2014, in honour of it's magnificent significance in biodiversity conservation. This park offers breathtaking views of dense thick forest and snow capped Himalayan mountains and peaks.
• This park provides a sanctuary for world's four endangered animals, The Great Himalayan National Park fauna include Snow leopards, Musk deer, Serow and Himalayan Tahr and three of world's globally threatened birds like Koklas, Cheer Pheasant and Western Tragopan.
• This park is home to 37 medicinal plants out of 47 threatened medicinal plants and is home to 10% of world's known plant species.
• Birdwatchers can spot vibrant Monal Pheasant, the Western Tragopan and variety of other bird species and delight themselves.

Male Himalayan Tahr

Monal Pheasant

2. Kalatop Khajjiar Wildife Sanctuary

• The Kalatop Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary park is located in Chamba district near lovely hill station Dalhousie, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
• Presence of beautiful khajjiar lake in midst of dense deodar forests and lush meadows give an enchanting touch to Kalatop Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• This sanctuary has diverse species of wildlife including Barking Goral, Himalayan squirrels, Jackals, Ibex, Himalayan Black Marten, Leopard etc. Birdwatchers get to spot birds like Flycatcher, Black Headed Jay, Chestnut Billed Rock Thrush etc.
• In terms of Flora, there are lot of medicinal plants and herbs that is famous in the region, trees like Cedar and Blue Pine, Deodar trees, Rhododendrons, Firs etc are found here.

Flycatcher Bird

 Himalayan Black Marten

  3. Pin Valley National Park

• Pin Valley National Park located in Lahul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh is a high altitude park known for its sharp landscape and distinctive wildlife. It is one of the last remaining habitat of endangered Snow Leopard with number being only 12. Other species of animals include Himalayan Red Fox, Weasel, Ibex, Bharal, Pika etc.
• Bird species include Himalayan Snowcock, Bearded Vulture, Chukor, Golden Eagle, Griffon, Raven etc.
• The park is naturally rich in medicines and herbs, Juniper and Birch trees are on verge of extinction, mostly the region has Alpine Forests, Scrubs and pastures.

Bearded Vulture

Himalayan Red Fox

4. Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary

• Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary place is located in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, named after the Churdhar peak, the highest peak in the outer Himalayas. It is one of the picturesque Wildlife sanctuary in Himachal.
• Animal species include the Himalayan Black Bear, Gorals, Wild Boars, Langur, Barking Deer etc.
• Bird Species include Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasanr and Kaleej Pheasant.
• Flora include Rhododendron, moses, lichens, ferns, Alpine meadows, Oak and Maple trees, deodar, Pine and Fir trees and lot of medicinal plants and herbs.

Koklass Pheasant

Himalayan Black Bear

5. Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary 

• Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Sirmaur District of Himachal Pradesh ,surrounded by picturesque Renuka lake is an ideal place for birdwatchers.
• This Sanctuary is home to diverse species of animals like Spotted Deer, Hare, Jungle cat, Porcupine, Leopards etc.
• Birdwatchers can spot Hill Crow, Bulbul, Scarlet Minivet, Green Pigeons, Common Coots etc.
• Flora includes Sal tree, Shisham tree and various other species of climbers and creepers also thrive here.

White spotted Deer

Scarlet Minivet

Conservation Efforts and Challenges

The Himachal Pradesh government is making lot of efforts for Wildlife conservation with the help of various NGO's  and Wildlife Conservation organisations. Some of the key efforts include:

• Wildlife Education programs, through which awareness is raised among tourists and locals about respecting nature and protecting wildlife.
• Snow Leopard Project focuses on conservation of endangered snow leopard and its habitat.
• Great Himalayan National Park endures protection of biodiversity within the Park, also involves local communities in conservation.

Challenges of human-wildlife conflicts, and illegal activities like hunting and poaching , climate change are posing serious threat to Himachal's wildlife. Lot of conservation efforts are needed and tourists and locals should be educated and taught to respect nature and animals. Sustainable tourism should be promoted.

Need for responsible tourism

Conclusion

Himachal Pradesh has diverse landscape and rich biodiversity which offers a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience. From magnificent fauna to beautiful flora and fauna, the region offers a glimpse into wonders of nature and enchant the tourists. By promoting responsible tourism and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that future generations can also get chance to get enchanted by nature's wonder. Don't forget to comment and share with your friends if you like the post!!