Wildlife in Himachal Pradesh offers a breathtaking landscape, rare species of birds and animals, and a range of adventurous activities. Indeed it is a fascinating and thrilling aspect of Himachal tourism. With 14,668 sq km, Himachal Pradesh has about 26.3% of its total geographic area under forests. These are home to a wide range of flora (3295 species) and fauna (5721 species) spread across the Himalayan mountain ranges.
However, due to their endemic habitat, medicinal value, and commercial significance, they are threatened with depletion. Therefore, the forest department established and manages many wildlife-protected areas to conserve these, including 2 national parks and 33 wildlife sanctuaries. You can visit these national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh to enjoy the variety of unique plants, birds, and animals. Indianholiday.com brings you the details.
When you visit a protected area in Himachal Pradesh, you can look out for the species endemic to that particular area of the Himalayas. The forests are at varying altitudes of about 900 to 5000 m above sea level. In the higher altitudes, the terrain is steep and undulating with sparse vegetation, and in the lower altitudes, there are gentle slopes and valleys with gushing streams.
Vegetations in these terrains of Himachal Pradesh range from sub-tropical to alpine. In the Trans Himalayan areas of Lahaul & Spiti, you can visit the Pin Valley National Park which covers the area above the tree line. The animals here, including snow leopards, snow partridge, and Himalayan snowcock, are adapted to the freezing climate.
Wildlife sanctuaries have animals and birds adapted to the temperate climate in the lower altitudes. They include endangered bird species of cheer pheasant and western tragopan and rare animal species of musk deer and Himalayan thar. If you are a bird lover, Himachal Pradesh has a number of rivers, glacial lakes, and artificial reservoirs that receives various migratory birds during the summer and autumn seasons. You can visit sanctuaries in Maharana Pratap Sagar Reservoir, Renuka Lake and Khajjiar Lake to enjoy bird watching.
The state government encourages wildlife tourism in Himachal Pradesh by building rest houses, allotting land for campsites, and providing information regarding trek and safari routes. Moreover, roads in Himachal Pradesh are motorable even at elevations of around 3000 m. No wonder the state receives an increasing number of wildlife tourists from India and abroad every year.
How many national park in Himachal Pradesh
There are 5 national parks in Himachal Pradesh. Here are:
- Great Himalayan National Park
- Pin Valley National Park
- Inderkilla National Park
- Simbalbara National Park
- Khirganga National Park
- Rupi Bhaba wildlife sanctuary
Great Himalayan National Park
At an altitude ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 meters, the Great Himalayan National Park offers an extraordinary biodiversity experience. It is also considered the perfect spot for Trekkers seeking adventure and tranquility. While trekking through pristine landscapes, you can spot unique species like the snow leopard and Himalayan brown bear. The park’s alpine meadows, dense forests, and high-altitude lakes provide a serene backdrop for nature walks. Bird-watching and photography are also possible here. It is one of the few remaining untouched Himalayan ecosystems, making this park a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Pin Valley National Park
This national park in Himachal Pradesh has a unique desert ecosystem in the cold desert of Spiti, with an altitude of 3,500 and 6,000 meters. Hence, it is a place that will intrigue any adventure seeker. Apart from its high-altitude landscapes, its rare wildlife draws tourists annually. It is home to snow leopard and Siberian ibex.
You can experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas through challenging treks. The best part is that you can explore ancient Buddhist monasteries near this national park. It has terrain and cultural richness that offer different adventures for those seeking a connection with nature.
Inderkilla National Park
Inderkilla National Park is an emerging destination for nature lovers in Kullu of Himachal Pradesh. It is nestled at 1,800 to 4,000 meters and offers scenic views. The park’s dense oak, pine, and deodar forests and diverse wildlife amaze every wildlife lover. You can also spot leopards, Himalayan black bears, and various species of deer. Visitors can enjoy peaceful treks, bird-watching, and the tranquility of the less-explored terrains. The park’s relatively untouched natural beauty and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife. All these things make it a hidden gem for those seeking a quiet retreat.
Simbalbara National Park
This national park in Himachal Pradesh is located at lower altitudes of 300 to 650 meters in the Sirmour district. Hence, Simbalbara stands out because of its easily accessible location and diverse wildlife. Its dense Sal forests and lush green landscapes provide a habitat for various wildlife species. This park is home to Goral, sambhar, and Himalayan black bears. You can also enjoy well-maintained trails, bird-watching, and wildlife photography. The park’s tranquil environment and scenic beauty make it an excellent spot for nature walks. On top of that, the short excursions offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Khirganga National Park
Khirganga is well-known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. This national park surely deserves your visit. The park is home to species like the Himalayan brown bear and snow leopard. Also, its lush forests and alpine meadows are perfect for trekking and camping. The highlight is the Khirganga hot springs, where trekkers can relax in the warm waters. Moreover, a serene environment also allows you to have peace. Hence, Kheerganga National Park is an ideal hotspot for adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery.
Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary
Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary in Kinnaur offers a unique and immersive experience. The sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh is home to species like the musk deer and Himalayan tahr and features a mix of dense forests and alpine meadows. However, its rugged landscapes let you enjoy challenging treks and wildlife spotting. The pristine beauty of the Himalayas adds a layer of calmness to this thrilling site. The sanctuary’s remote location and untouched natural beauty provide adventure seekers and nature lovers with a one-of-a-kind experience.
Lakes and River for Birdwatching in Himachal Pradesh
If you are a bird lover, Himachal Pradesh has some rivers, glacial lakes, and artificial reservoirs that receive various migratory birds during the summer and autumn. To enjoy bird watching, you can visit sanctuaries in Maharana Pratap Sagar Reservoir, Renuka Lake, and Khajjiar Lake.
Wildlife Tourism in Himachal Pradesh
The state government encourages wildlife tourism in Himachal Pradesh by building rest houses, allotting land for campsites, and providing information regarding trek and safari routes. Moreover, roads in Himachal Pradesh are motorable even at elevations of around 3000 m. No wonder the state receives an increasing number of wildlife tourists from India and abroad yearly.
Why Choose Indian Holiday For Wildlife Exploration in Himachal Pradesh
You can check out other protected areas to enjoy these and other wildlife adventures. Make your wildlife vacation in Himachal Pradesh memorable by booking a tour from Indian Holiday. Please click on the desired name for more information on wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Himachal Pradesh.
Our wildlife tour packages are well-designed and fully customizable to make your every moment special. We include meals, transfers, safari trips, and stays to let you enjoy a hassle-free trip. So, what holds you to planning a fantastic adventure amidst the jungle in Himachal? Book your tour now and enrich your travel experience with us.
Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages
Things To Do in Himachal Pradesh
- Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages
- Chail Tourism
- Best Time to Visit Himachal Pradesh
- How to Reach Himachal Pradesh
- Things to do in Chail
- Chamba Tourism
- Things to Do in Chamba
- Dalhousie Tourism
- Eating Out in Dalhousie
- Shopping in Dalhousie
- Weekend Getaways from Dalhousie
- Dharamshala Tourism
- Shopping in Dharamsala
- Fairs and Festivals in Himachal Pradesh
- Festival of Sair in Shimla
- Losar Festival Himachal Pradesh
- Minjar Fair, Himachal Pradesh
- Dusshera Festival in Kullu
- Ice Skating Carnival in Shimla
- Shimla Summer festival
- Hamirpur Tourism
- Himachal Pradesh Tourism
- Activities in Himachal Pradesh
- Arts of Himachal Pradesh
- Nati Folk Dance Himachal Pradesh
- Cities in Himachal Pradesh
- Climate in Himachal Pradesh
- Crafts of Himachal Pradesh
- Shawls and Woolen Garments
- Wood Crafts in Himachal Pradesh
- Cuisine of Himachal Pradesh
- Culture of Himachal Pradesh
- History of Himachal Pradesh
- Restaurants in Himachal Pradesh
- Shopping in Himachal Pradesh
- Kalpa Tourism
- Things to do in Kalpa
- Kangra Tourism
- Kasauli Tourism
- Khajjiar Tourism
- Kinnaur Tourism
- Things to do in Kinnaur
- Kufri Tourism
- Things to do in Kufri
- Kullu Manali Tourism
- Shopping in Kullu Manali
- Weekend Getaways From Kullu Manali
- Kullu Tourism
- Lahaul and Spiti Tourism
- Manali Tourism
- Manali Weather & Temperature
- Mandi Tourism
- Things to do in Mandi
- Nahan Tourism
- Things to do in Nahan
- Nalagarh Tourism
- Things to do in Nalagarh
- Palampur Tourism
- Things to do in Palampur
- Parwanoo Tourism
- Pragpur Tourism
- Rohtang Pass Tourism
- Shimla Tourism
- Eating out in Shimla
- Shopping in Shimla
- Himachal Emporium Shimla
- Lakkar Bazaar in Shimla
- Mall Road Shimla
- Ridge Road Shimla
- Tibetan Market in Shimla
- Snowfall in Shimla
- Shimla Weather & Temperature
- Weekend Getaways from Shimla
- Solan Tourism
- Spiti Tourism
- Chamera Lake, Dalhousie
- Dainkund Peak
- Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza in Dalhousie
- Ganji Pahari
- Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary in Dalhousie
- Panchpula in Dalhousie
- Rock Garden, Dalhousie
- Sach Pass, Dalhousie
- Satdhara Falls, Dalhousie
- St. John’s Church in Dalhousie
- Bhagsunag Waterfall
- Cricket Stadium Dharamshala
- Dalai Lama Temple in Dharamshala
- Kalachakra Temple in Dharamshala
- Namgyal Monastery in Dharamshala
- Nearby Places in Dharamshala
- St. John Church in Dharamshala
- Tse Choklilng Gompa in McLeodganj
- Tourist Attraction in Himachal Pradesh
- Adventure Sports Activities in Himachal Pradesh
- Angling & Fishing in Himachal Pradesh
- Camping in Himachal Pradesh
- Heli-Skiing in Himachal Pradesh
- Himalayan Motor Sport Himachal Pradesh
- Mountain Cycling in Himachal Pradesh
- Mountaineering & Rock Climbing
- Paragliding in Himachal Pradesh
- Trekking in Himachal Pradesh
- Vehicle Safaris in Himachal Pradesh
- Water Sports in Himachal Pradesh
- Buddhist Monasteries in Himachal Pradesh
- Gurudwaras in Himachal Pradesh
- Manikaran Gurudwara Manali
- Paonta Sahib Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh
- Gurudwara Rewalsar Himachal Pradesh
- Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh
- Chail Hill Station
- Chamba Hill Station
- Dalhousie Hill Station
- Dharamsala Hill Station
- Kasauli Hill Stations
- Khajjiar Hill Station
- Kufri Hill Station
- Manali Hill Station
- Mashobra Hill Station Himachal Pradesh
- Parwanoo Hill Station
- Shimla Hill Station
- Lakes in Himachal Pradesh
- Bhrigu Lake Kullu
- Chamera Lake Dalhousie
- Chandratal Lake Spiti
- Dal Lake Kangra
- Dashir Lake Manali
- Gobind Sagar Lake Una, Himachal Pradesh
- Khajjiar Lake
- Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake Kangra
- Manimahesh Lake Himachal Pradesh
- Nako Lake Kinnaur
- Prashar Lake Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
- Renuka Lake Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh
- Rewalsar Lake Mandi
- Serolsar Lake Kullu
- Suraj Tal Lake Lahaul Spiti
- Pilgrimage Destinations in Himachal Pradesh
- Temples in Himachal Pradesh
- Baba Balak Nath Temple Hamirpur
- Baijnath Temple Kangra
- Bajreshwari Temple Kangra
- Bijli Mahadev Temple Kullu
- Chamunda Devi Temple Himachal Pradesh
- Chattari Temple Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
- Chaurasi Temple Chamba
- Chintpurni Temple Una, Himachal Pradesh
- Dhankar Monastery Lahaul Spiti
- Guru Ghantal Monastery Lahaul Spiti
- Hanogi Mata Temple Kullu
- Hatkoti Durga Temple Shimla
- Jakhu and Sankat Mochan Shimla Himachal Pradesh
- Jwala Devi Temple Kangra
- Kardang Monastery Lahaul & Spiti Valley
- Kungri Gompa Lahaul & Spiti Valley
- Kye Monastery Spiti
- Lakshmi Narayan Temple Chamba
- Temples in Mandi Himachal Pradesh
- Naina Devi Temple Bilaspur
- Nako Monastery Manali
- Parashar Temple Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
- Raghunath Ji Temple Kullu
- Renuka Temple Nahan, Himachal Pradesh
- Rewalsar Temples Mandi
- Rewalsar Monastery Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
- Shashur Monastery Lahaul & Spiti Valley
- Shikari Devi Temple Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
- Tabo Monastery Spiti Valley
- Tashigang Gompa in Spiti
- Tayul Gompa Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh
- Thang Yug Gompa Lahaul & Spiti
- Tilasangh Monastery Kaa, Himachal Pradeh
- Trilokpur Temple Nahan, Himachal Pradesh
- Tourist Attractions in Khajjiar
- Tourist Attractions in Kullu Manali
- Adventure Sports in Kullu
- Camping in Kullu
- Mountaineering in Kullu
- River Rafting in Kullu
- Trekking in Kullu
- Religious Places in Kullu
- Bijli Mahadev Temple in Kullu
- Raghunath Temple in Kullu
- Adventure Sports in Manali
- Paragliding in Manali
- River Rafting in Manali
- Skiing in Manali
- Trekking in Manali
- Zorbing in Manali
- Nearby Places to Manali
- Gulaba
- Kothi
- Naggar Castle
- Rohtang Pass
- Solang Valley
- Religious Places in Manali
- Hidimba Devi Temple in Manali
- Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa
- Manali Gompa
- Manikaran Gurudwara Manali
- Manu Temple in Manali
- Vashisht Temple in Manali
- Waterfalls in Manali
- Jana waterfall in Manali
- Rahala Waterfall in Manali
- Rozy Waterfall in Manali
- Adventure Sports in Shimla
- Fishing in Shimla
- Golfing in Shimla
- Ice Skating in Shimla
- Skiing in Shimla
- Chadwick Falls
- Historical Places in Shimla
- Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
- Indian Institute of Advanced Study
- Scandal Point Shimla
- Shimla State Museum
- Jakhoo Ropeway in Shimla
- Religious Places in Shimla
- Bhimakali Temple
- Christ Church Shimla
- Jakhu Temple Shimla
- Kali Bari Temple Shimla
- Sankat Mochan Temple Shimla
- Tara Devi Temple in Shimla
- Summer Hill in Shimla
- Toy Train in Shimla
- Viceregal Lodge, Shimla
- Places to Visit in Spiti
- Places to Visit around Kaza
- Places to Visit in Dhankar
- Gramphu to Kaza
- Hikkim
- Kaza in Lauhaul & Spiti
- Kibber
- Komic Village Spiti
- Langza Village Spiti
- Lhalung in Spiti
- Tabo to Sumdo
- Tabo in Spiti
- Lakes in Spiti
- Chandratal Lake
- Dhankar Lake Spiti
- Suraj Tal Spiti
- Monasteries in Spiti
- Dhankar Gompa Spiti
- Key Monastery Spiti
- Lhalung Monastery Spiti
- Tabo Monastery Spiti
- Ugyen Sangnak Choling Gompa, Spiti
- Una Tourism