The park serves as a dedicated rescue center for injured leopards, which are frequently caught in human-wildlife conflict zones in Kangra.
It is specifically designed to house species adapted to the Dhauladhar mountain ecosystems, including the Himalayan goral.
The zoo terrain is characterized by a natural slope that utilizes the existing topography of the lower Himalayan foothills.
It is home to the Himalayan black bear, a species distinct for its white V-shaped chest mark.
The facility is officially recognized by the Central Zoo Authority of India.
Dhauladhar Nature Park, situated in Gopalpur, is a recognized zoological facility managed by the Himachal Pradesh Wildlife Department. The park focuses on high-altitude Himalayan fauna, featuring a central enclosure for the Himalayan black bear. The park is nestled within a valley at the base of the Dhauladhar mountain range, providing a naturalistic habitat for captive animals. It serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured or orphaned wildlife found in the region. Leopard sightings are common within the zoo's feline enclosures. The facility incorporates local pine forests into its design, maintaining a temperate forest microclimate. Visitors follow a paved trail that winds through the wooded enclosures. It is officially categorized as a small-scale zoo under Indian zoo authority guidelines.
The elevated viewing deck overlooking the Himalayan black bear enclosure.
Bring binoculars as some animal enclosures are set back from the main visitor path.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the park features inclined dirt and paved sections.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid heavy monsoon rainfall that can make paths muddy.
Avoid visiting during the peak monsoon season (July to September) when path conditions deteriorate and outdoor visibility is reduced.
Closed on Mondays for maintenance and animal rest.
Do not feed the animals, maintain a quiet volume to avoid distressing the fauna, and do not litter.
