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
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.
Getting There
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.