Wildlife in Himachal Pradesh
The naturally beautiful Himachal Pradesh has some of the greatest places to see. It has more than enough to offer to the travellers and tourists. Situated in the northern part of India this hilly state has a great landscape and topography which has allowed it to flourish in tourism, wild life and breath-taking scenic views. Especially the Climate here is of unique type, a beautiful blend of both warm and cool air flows here that also brings ample amount of rainfall. This has allowed the region to grow immense amount of greenery. There is a huge forest cover in Himachal and because of this there is a vast variety of Flora and Fauna. The wildlife in Himachal has attracted people from everywhere. Animal lovers come here to get a glimpse of the beautiful Himalayan animals and birds.
Himachal has tropical forests that have trees of wide variety such as the cedar, pine, oak, fir, birch, alder, etc. Beautiful Rhododendrons make the forests enchanting to see and the green fresh Grasses make a perfect jogging area here. Among these beautiful Plants and flowers there are some beautiful birds and animals such as the pheasants, partridges, patient,kites, snow leopard, bharal, thar, deer and Himalayan bear that have made the Himachal Pradesh wildlife unique and incredible. This amazing state has been blessed with such beautiful wonders and the Himachal Tourism and the State Government has successfully constructed 32 wildlife sanctuaries, 2 national parks and 3 game reserves.
Himachal Pradesh has about 27 per cent of its total area under forests. This makes the wildlife thrilling and exciting. It has been announced recently that there are about 3295 species of flora and about 5721 species of fauna alone in the forests of Himachal. Some of the important wildlife sanctuaries are Manali sanctuary, Churdhar sanctuary, Great Himalayan National Park, Nature Park Gopalpur, Nature Park Manali, Pin Valley National park, Nature Park Kufri and KalatopKhajjiar Sanctuary
The Himalayan animals like the snow leopard, snow partridge and snowcock are adapted to extreme cold climate. In lower altitudes there are birds such as the cheer pheasant and western tragopan and animals like Himalayan thar and musk. There are also a number of lakes, rivers and artificial reservoirs where various migratory birds are found during summer. The Himachal government has shown interest in wildlife and thus has built good standard rest houses in the forests and also has allotted land for camp sites. Wildlife has also provided opportunity for trekking, camping, safaris, etc. in Himachal.
Quick Facts Related to Wildlife in Himachal Pradesh
- In June, 2014, the great Himalayan National park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list under the category of “exceptional natural beauty and conservation of biological diversity”.
- Wildlife trekking in Himachal Pradesh
Kalatop-Khajjiar Sanctuary, Majathal Sanctuary, Daranghati Sanctuary and Pin Valley National Park
- Wildlife Camping in Himachal Pradesh
Chail Sanctuary, Kalatop-Khajjiar Sanctuary, MaharanaPratapSagar Sanctuary and Simbalbara Sanctuary.
- Wildlife Safaris in Himachal Pradesh
Great Himalayan National Park, Renuka Sanctuary, ShriNainadevi Sanctuary and Pin Valley National Park.
National Parks in Himachal Pradesh
The Great Himalayan National Park is crammed with lush forests of oak, conifer and bamboo, alpine meadows, and endangered animals and birds. The national park in Himachal Pradesh covers an area of 1,171 sq. kms. The Great Himalayan National Park is home to animals like musk deer, brown bear, Goral, thar, leopard, snow leopard, bharal, serow, monal, Kali, koklas, cheer, tragopan, snow cock etc. The Sainj Valley trek, RupiBhabha Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sainj-Tirthan valley trek to Parvati River Valley are the best modes to explore the national park. Apart from conserving wildlife, the Park runs programmes that provide a sustainable living for people living on the periphery of the conservation area.
Moreover the Pin Valley National Park is located within the cold Biosphere-reserves/”>Biosphere reserves and is one of the high altitude national parks in India that covers an area of 1,150 sq. kms. as buffer zone and 675 sq. kms. as core zone. The park is home to many animals and birds from like Snow Leopard, Siberian Ibex, Himalayan Snowcock, Chukar Partridge, Snow Partridge, Red Fox and Snowfinch Flourish. There are 22 rare and endangered medicinal plant species in Pin Valley National Park. Himachal Pradesh tourism provides some wonderful eco-tourist facilities and trained guides to tourist for safe excursion.
Wildlife Sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh
33 wildlife sanctuaries are situated here. The wildlife centuries of Himachal Pradesh are the natural habitat of some rare animal and bird species.Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Renuka Sanctuary, Simbalbara Sanctuary, Daranghati Sanctuary, Manali Sanctuary, and Majathal Sanctuary are prominent. Further, some of the mammals that can be spotted are the Himalayan Black Marten, Deer, Goral, Squirrel, Serow, Jackal, Langur, etc. It also indulge Sanctuary and in bird watching at MaharanaPratapSagar Reservoir, Renuka Lake, Kalatope Wildlife Khajjiar Lake.
Nature Parks in Himachal Pradesh
Apart from the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, there are many nature parks in Himachal Pradesh. Here Himalayan animal species are kept in paddocks, quite close to nature. Some of the famous nature parks in Himachal Pradesh are located in Kufri, Manali, and Gopalpur In these national parks, wildlife enthusiasts can get a sight of Musk Deer, Bharal, Black Bear, Tibetan Wolf, Leopard Cat, Sambhar, Ghoral, Barking Deer, Monal, White Crested Kaleej and Cheer pheasant.
The parks of Himachal provide a refuge to a host of animals, from big cats like lions, tigers and leopards, reptiles like rhinos, pythons and crocodiles, to innumerable deer species.
ECOTOURISM IN HIMACHAL PRADESH:
The ‘eco-tourism’ – a tourism that isecologically sustainable and culturally sensitive, and that provides insights to thetourists into natural beauty and cultural richness of the State.
Nestled in the Western Himalayas, the State of Himachal Pradesh offers unlimited opportunities to one and all to enjoy nature in its most pristine state. Thevery mention of the State instantly evokes images of the mighty Himalayas with loftysnow-capped peaks, meandering rivers, perennial springs, vast stretches of alpinemeadows and lush green forests known to harbour a variety of plants and animals.
Himachal Pradesh A State with unlimited eco-tourism Options
The majestic coniferous trees from an enchanting backdrop to the mountainswith broad-leafed species like the Oaks, Maples, Birdcherry, Hazelnut, Walnut,Horsechestnut and Rhododendrons adding grandeur to the landscape. Whereas the levies clinging to the trunks of stately Cedars appear to veil secrets of Nature, the vinesflowing from atop the trees seem to invite the visitors with open arms. The violaspopping up from under the forest floor and the riot of colours provided by theanemones, primulas, buttercups and many other herbs in the alpine meadows lay acolourful feast before eyes of the beholder.
Besides plants, the State also provides a very congenial habitat to a widevariety of Himalayan fauna. The HimalyanTahar and the Ibex can be spotted assilhouettes on the high ridges in the trans-Himalayas. The Brown Bear and Musk Deerroam happily in the temperate forests, in the company of colorful pheasants includingthe Monal, the Western HornesTragopan, the Koklas and the Kalij. The lucky onescan even be treated to rare sight of critically endangered species like the SnowLeopard and Snow Cock.
Also known as the ‘Abode of Gods’, the State conjures up visions of ancienttemples, with exquisitely carved wooden panels, occupying almost every hilltop andthe festivities associated with these religious places. Even a casual glimpse at thetraditionally attired local deities being carried in meticulously decorated palanquins,devotees dancing to the rhythmic play of traditional drums and clarions, leaves alasting imprint on one’s mind.
This natural and cultural richness of the State coupled with its simple peaceloving people and traditional hospitality makes the State a most favoured tourist95destinations. Anybody with a zest for life, a spirit of adventure and a love for naturewill find all that his heart desires amongst the pristine environs of Himachal Pradesh
Eco-Tourism A new era of nature enjoyment and Learning
The State, live to the need for providing better opportunities to the visitors toenjoy its natural beauty and cultural heritage, now aims to allow the use of itsinfrastructure for the benefit of the tourists.
The State Forest Department alone manages more than 400 forest bungalowslocated at vantage-points across the length and breadth of the State. It also manages a5000 kilometres long Network of bridle paths and inspection trails criss-crossingthrough the most beautiful forests of the State. This gives visitors myriadopportunities to trek across mountain passes, to remote temples, crystal clear lakesand traditional villages. These facilities beckon the young and the old alike to comeand enjoy the best of Himachal Pradesh in all its splendour. To assist the tourists, theState Forest Department is actively engaged in identification and development of ecotreksalong these bridle paths. ‘Nature Parks’ are also being developed to provide
tourists a nature Education experience. The ‘eco-tourism’ – a tourism that isecologically sustainable and culturally sensitive, and that provides insights to thetourists into natural beauty and cultural richness of the State.
Eco-Tourism Societies (ETSo)
Eco-tourism Societies have so far been established to cover the following places:
Great Himalayan National Park: Located in Kullu district, this NationalPark is a prime protected area of the country and provides opportunities to the ecotouriststo enjoy nature at its best. To be covered entirely on foot, the Park has welldeveloped eco-treks taking off from an altitude of about 1500 meters to more than6000 meters. The park has many forest bungalows and tenting sites for nights halts.Private guest rooms in traditional housed are also being developed. Prior permissionof park Director is required to visit the park. Local guides and porters are available.
Himalayan Nature Park: Located at an altitude of 2700 meters and about 18kilometers from Shimla on the Hindustan-Tibet Road, this Nature Park covers about
100 hectares of prime Western-Himalayan temperate forest with all its floral diversity.
The nature park also houses high altitude fauna of the State in near natural habitat andprovides the visitors a one stop opportunity to appreciate Brown Bear, Musk Deer,Yak, Bharal, Sambhar, Ghoral, Monal pheasant and many other animals and birds.The park also offers 3-6 hour guided trek to mahasu peak and catchment forests andhas limited lodging facilities.
Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary:Renuka wildlife sanctuary clothes the slopesaround the picturesque Renukalake in the outer Himalayas with deciduous forestcover. Attractions include ancient temples of rishi Jamdagni, goddess Renuka andlord Parshuram, a lion safari, a mini zoo and trekking. Boating facilities are availablein the lake. Limited lodging facilities are also available.
Potters Hill Van Vihar: A new site to enjoy Nature and AdventureLocated at an altitude of 2050 metres and about 7 KM West of Shimla,adjacent to HP University, Summer Hill, Shimla, popularly known as Potter’s Hill,covers 100 hectares of prime Western Himalayan temperature forest with all its floraldiversity. The hill once used by potters to obtain clay has now been developed into anature Park barely 5 KMs from the famous Mall Road.
Objectives
This ‘community based eco-tourism’ policy in the state is proposed with along-term goal of conserving the rich cultural and ecological heritage of the state, sothat various benefits from this conservation endeavour, including the benefits by wayof tourism, could continue to accrue to generations to follow.
The policy also aims at achieving the following immediate objectives:
– To enable the local communities in managing eco-tourism for optimumeconomic benefits to them.
– To develop ways and means to attract responsible nature and adventure lovingtourists to the state so as to broaden the tourism base and place the state firmlyon the international tourist map.
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Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India. It is located in the Himalayas and is known for its beautiful scenery, including snow-capped Mountains, lush forests, and clear rivers. The state is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including animals such as snow leopards, tigers, and elephants.
The wildlife in Himachal Pradesh is facing a number of threats, including poaching, habitat loss, and Climate Change. Poaching is the illegal killing of animals for their fur, skin, or other body parts. Habitat loss is the destruction of natural habitats, such as forests, due to human activities such as deforestation and development. Climate change is the long-term change in the Earth’s climate, which is caused by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels.
The state government of Himachal Pradesh is taking a number of steps to conserve wildlife, including:
- Awareness campaigns to educate people about the importance of wildlife conservation
- Law enforcement to crack down on poaching and other illegal activities
- Habitat restoration to create and protect wildlife habitats
- Reintroduction programs to reintroduce animals that have been poached or lost their habitat
- Captive breeding programs to breed animals in captivity and release them into the wild
- Education and outreach programs to teach people about wildlife and conservation
- Research to study wildlife populations and their habitats
- Monitoring to track the progress of conservation efforts
- Evaluation to assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts
- Collaboration with other organizations to share Resources and expertise
- Partnerships with the private sector to raise funds for conservation efforts
- Funding from the government and other sources
The conservation efforts in Himachal Pradesh have been successful in protecting some wildlife populations. For example, the snow leopard Population has increased from around 200 in the early 1970s to around 600 today. However, there are still many challenges facing wildlife conservation in Himachal Pradesh. Poaching is still a major problem, and habitat loss is continuing due to human activities. Climate change is also having a negative impact on wildlife populations.
The future of wildlife conservation in Himachal Pradesh depends on the success of the state government’s efforts to address these challenges. The government needs to continue to invest in conservation efforts, and it needs to work with other organizations and the private sector to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. The government also needs to crack down on poaching and other illegal activities. If the government can succeed in these efforts, then the wildlife in Himachal Pradesh will have a bright future.
In addition to the government’s efforts, there are a number of things that individuals can do to help conserve wildlife in Himachal Pradesh. These include:
- Reducing your consumption of products that are made from endangered animals, such as ivory and tiger skins
- Supporting organizations that are working to conserve wildlife in Himachal Pradesh
- Volunteering your time to help with conservation efforts
- Educating others about the importance of wildlife conservation
By taking these actions, you can help to ensure that the wildlife in Himachal Pradesh will be around for future generations to enjoy.
Here are some frequently asked questions and short answers about wildlife in Himachal Pradesh:
What is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh for wildlife?
The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh for wildlife is during the winter months (November to March), when the animals are more active and easier to spot.What are the best places to see wildlife in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the best places to see wildlife in Himachal Pradesh include the Great Himalayan National Park, the Pin Valley National Park, and the Keoladeo National Park.What animals can I see in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the animals that you can see in Himachal Pradesh include snow leopards, tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and deer.What are the dangers of visiting Himachal Pradesh for wildlife?
Some of the dangers of visiting Himachal Pradesh for wildlife include the risk of being attacked by wild animals, the risk of contracting diseases from wild animals, and the risk of getting lost in the wilderness.What should I do if I see a wild animal in Himachal Pradesh?
If you see a wild animal in Himachal Pradesh, you should stay calm and avoid making any Sudden Movements. You should also try to back away slowly and leave the area.What are the rules and regulations for visiting wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the rules and regulations for visiting wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh include the need to obtain a permit, the need to stay on designated trails, and the need to avoid feeding or disturbing the animals.What are the best ways to protect wildlife in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the best ways to protect wildlife in Himachal Pradesh include supporting conservation efforts, reducing habitat loss, and avoiding the illegal wildlife trade.What are the benefits of protecting wildlife in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the benefits of protecting wildlife in Himachal Pradesh include the preservation of Biodiversity-2/”>Biodiversity, the maintenance of ecosystem Services, and the promotion of ecotourism.
Which of the following is not a national park in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Great Himalayan National Park
(B) Pin Valley National Park
(C) Keoladeo National Park
(D) Hemis National ParkWhich of the following is not a wildlife sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Simbalbara Wildlife Sanctuary
(B) Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary
(C) Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary
(D) Dachigam National ParkWhich of the following is not a bird sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Pong Dam Lake Bird Sanctuary
(B) Khajjiar Bird Sanctuary
(C) Naina Devi Bird Sanctuary
(D) Deodar Bird SanctuaryWhich of the following is not a tiger reserve in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Rajaji Tiger Reserve
(B) Corbett Tiger Reserve
(C) Kanha Tiger Reserve
(D) Pench Tiger ReserveWhich of the following is not a state animal of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Snow leopard
(B) Red panda
(C) Musk deer
(D) Himalayan tahrWhich of the following is not a state bird of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Western tragopan
(B) Himalayan monal
(C) Snowcock
(D) Blood pheasantWhich of the following is not a state tree of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Deodar
(B) Blue pine
(C) Silver fir
(D) SpruceWhich of the following is not a state flower of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Rhododendron
(B) Blue poppy
(C) Magnolia
(D) Lily of the valleyWhich of the following is not a state fruit of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Apple
(B) Pear
(C) Plum
(D) PeachWhich of the following is not a state vegetable of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Potato
(B) Cauliflower
(C) Cabbage
(D) Carrot