Great Himalayan National Park
Location : Himachal Pradesh, north India
Tourist Attractions : Tahr, Snow Leopard
Best time to Visit : April & May
About Great Himalayan National Park
The magical Himalayas are home to some of the most enchanting locales on the planet. Located in the Kullu district in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, the Great Himalayan National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and the plethora of rare and exotic species of flora and fauna. The entire region offers numerous opportunities of fun and repose for the tourists with activities such as bird watching, cultural holidays, wildlife vacations and more.
The Great Himalayan national park remains open throughout the year, however, when you should visit depends on what you actually intend to do. While the months of April and May is the time when the weather remains at its best and the conditions are ideal for jungle walking and trekking, winter months is the time when you stand your best chance to spot rare animals like the snow leopard and Nilgiri tahr in the lower reaches of the park.
Wildlife Attractions in Great Himalayan National Park
If you want to watch some of the most rare and exotic species of flora and fauna found anywhere on the planet then the Great Himalayan National Park is the place to head to. Besides the towering trees and other variety of flora, the park is home to over 30 species of mammals, 200 species of birds, 3 reptiles and numerous insect species.
The majorly seen animals inside the Great Himalayan National Park include the rare Nilgiri tahr and snow leopard, serow, bharal, musk deer, ghoral and red fox. Besides animals, a number of bird species also call the place home such as the koklas, western trogpan and monal. Trekking is the best and only way to catch a glimpse of these rare animals and birds, however, the difficult terrain in some of the areas requires a certain level of physical fitness and some basic training.
Stay At Great Himalayan National Park
Not many accommodation options are available at the Great Himalayan National Park. Most of the tourists travelling to the park have to stay inside tents which have to be brought themselves. Another option is the stay in huts built for the patrolling staff. The lack of modern facilities available inside these accommodation places lend these a unique and thrilling feel.
How To Reach Great Himalayan National Park
By Air : Bhuntar airport, situated near Kullu is the nearest airport, however not many flights are available from other major Indian cities. From Bhuntar, taxis can be easily hired to reach the Great Himalayan National Park.
By Rail : The nearest railhead is at Chandigarh, connected to other major Indian cities through daily trains. Taxis and buses are easily available from Chandigarh to reach the Great Himalayan National Park.
By Road : Daily buses connect Kullu with other major north Indian cities including Chandigarh and Delhi. Another option is to hire a private taxi.
Important Information for Travellers
- The entry permits to the park can be obtained from the Tirthan wildlife range office at Sai Ropa or Jiwa Nal Wildlife Range office, located at Larjee. The permit charges are Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners.
- There are four main entry gates to the park at Gushaini, Siund village, Neuli and Barshaini.
- It is advisable to take along a local guide to avoid being lost.
