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Parks

Great Himalayan National Park

4.5 · 2,040 reviews
Wild, remote, and ecologically pristine
Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh, India
Interesting facts
1

The park contains the highest concentration of the Western Tragopan, one of the world's rarest pheasant species.

2

It forms part of the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot, which contains some of the most ecologically significant areas on Earth.

3

The park acts as a major water catchment area, feeding into the Beas River basin.

4

It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 for its 'outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation'.

5

There are over 800 plant species identified within the park boundaries, including many with medicinal properties.

6

The park landscape features distinctive 'U-shaped' glacial valleys formed during the last ice age.

Overview

Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh, encompassing an area of 1,171 square kilometers. It protects a diverse range of alpine ecosystems, including meadows, glacial lakes, and dense temperate forests. The park serves as a critical habitat for the endangered Western Tragopan and the elusive snow leopard. It is situated at the confluence of the Tirthan, Sainj, and Jiwa Nal rivers. The terrain ranges in altitude from 1,500 meters to over 6,000 meters above sea level. Established in 1984, the park became a national park in 1999 to conserve the unique biodiversity of the Western Himalayas. Visitor access is strictly regulated through a system of permits and registered guides.

Photo spot

The Raktisar glacier area for panoramic views of the high-altitude peaks.

Insider tips

Acclimatize in the lower valleys for at least two days before attempting high-altitude treks.

Hire a local, government-registered guide, as independent trekking without a permit is prohibited.

Carry all necessary medical supplies and high-altitude gear, as there are no facilities inside the core zone.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to enter the core zone or buffer zone without a formal permit issued by the forest department.

Good to know

The park's higher altitudes are inaccessible from December to March due to extreme snowfall.

Etiquette

Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; carrying out all non-biodegradable waste is mandatory.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-7 days
Best time to visit
April to June or September to November to avoid the monsoon rains and heavy winter snows.
Address
Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh, India
31.799, 77.516
Get directions
Details
Key WildlifeWestern Tragopan, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr
Trekking DifficultyStrenuous; requires high physical fitness

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-7 days to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is April to June or September to November to avoid the monsoon rains and heavy winter snows..

The Raktisar glacier area for panoramic views of the high-altitude peaks.

Close by you'll find Shanghar Ground, Barshangharh Waterfall, Tirthan Valley.