Widely known as “Paradise on Hearth, Jammu and Kashmir is globally popular for its natural beauty, beautiful lakes, and high-altitude landscapes. The place is the natural habitat of several wildlife species including some rare species. In order to preserve them, several National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Jammu and Kashmir are established.
It is quite exciting to spot wildlife in Jammu and Kashmir due to the diverse flora and fauna. If you are planning to travel to Kashmir in the summer season then do check out these 5 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Jammu and Kashmir for an adventurous, yet unforgettable trip.
Also Read: Top-rated places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir
Top 5 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Jammu and Kashmir
1. Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary
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If you are looking for one of the most diverse and popular wildlife sanctuaries in Jammu and Kashmir, then do visit Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary. You can spot over 130 birds species in the Hirpora along with rich flora and fauna. The wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 341 square km and includes gentle as well moderate slopes.
Some of the notable species you can spot within this national park are the Tibetan wolf, musk deer, leopard, and some endangered species. Also, there are various unique bird species among which the white-capped redstart and Himalayan woodpecker are the major tourist attractions.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Entry Fee: Not Required
Location: Shopian district, Kashmir
2. Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary
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Gulmarg is home to one of the most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries in Jammu and Kashmir. Gulmarg is around 48 km away from the magnificent city of Srinagar. The wildlife sanctuary of Gulmarg is situated in the Pir Panjal Range which is also popular for golf courses. It covers a total area of 180 square km and also houses some rare and endangered species.
The most popular tourist attraction in the Gulmarg wildlife sanctuary is the musk deer and it can be easily spotted between the months of September to March. The wildlife sanctuary of Gulmarg is surrounded by an alpine forest that includes plants species like Picea smithiana, Pinus Griffith, and others.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry Fee: 500 INR
Location: Baramulla District, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Also Read: Kerala’s 10 Worth-Visiting National Parks And Wildlife Sanctuaries
3. Kazinag National Park
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The Kazinag National park was initially established by the Wildlife Trust of India to preserve the rare goat species i.e wild markhor goat. The temperature in this national park remains between -20 degrees to +30 degrees celsius. There are more than 17 unique butterfly species, most of which are now endangered.
The major attractions in Kazinag national park include Kashmir flying squirrel, Himalayan marmot, Himalayan musk deer, black deer, leopard, and others. Overall, there are more than 120 mammal species and 20 bird species residing in the Kazinag National Park.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Visiting Hours: 24 Hours
Entry Fee: Not Required
Location: Baramulla District, Srinagar
4. Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary
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Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries which is also known for its landscape views and majestic mountains. The word Dachigam means “10 villages” since 10 villages were shifted from this place to establish a national park. The park was first declared a protected area in the year 1920 and later became a national park in 1981.
In Dachigam wildlife sanctuary, you can spot several wildlife species among which the top attractions are the Himalayan black deer, jackal, leopard, hill fox, and Himalayan weasel. The state animal of Kashmir “Hangul” also lives here.
Best Time To Visit: June and August
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Not Required
5. Kishtwar High Altitude National Park
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The Kishtwar national park was established to preserve the snow leopard. The national park also accommodates several other species such as Ibex, markhor, wild bear, brown beer, Indian muntijal, and musk deer. During the winter season, the state animal i.e Hangul migrates to Kishtwar from the Dachim wildlife sanctuaries.
Apart from numerous mammals, you can also spot various bird species among which the most popular are the Himalayan snowcock, golden oriole, Indian mynah, koklass, Himalayan jungle crow, griffon vulture, and bearded vulture. While in the national park, you can spend some of your time near the waterfall, river rinnay, or high rocky ridges.
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Visiting Hours: 24 Hours
Entry Fee: Not Required
Location: Forest Block, Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir