If ever your mind gets tired of noise, the valleys of Himachal Pradesh are no less than a magic box for you. Here, there are high mountains and cold winds. You will also find some national parks that are no less than a treasure for nature lovers. These are the places where the rustling of trees, the gurgling of rivers and the chirping of birds together make you meet yourself. Today, we take you on a tour of those 5 best national parks in Himachal Pradesh. Every nature lover should visit these places at least once in their lifetime!
National Parks of Himachal Pradesh: A Magical World of Trees, Plants and Animals
Want to breathe in the lap of the mountains? The national parks of Himachal Pradesh are no less than a treasure. The valleys here are not just filled with cold winds and snow, but also have such trees, plants and animals. Together, they create an environment that is filled with peace, serenity, and adventure.
Did you ever walk in the dense greenery of a vast national park? The dry leaves pressed under your feet and the sunlight peeking from above give a different feeling. These are the top 5 national parks of Himachal Pradesh that you shouldn’t miss out on:
1. Pin Valley National Park
2. Great Himalayan National Park
3. Inderkilla National Park
4. Kheerganga National Park
5. Simbalbara National Park
1. Pin Valley National Park
Snow-capped peaks, a river flowing between the rocks, and a valley create a heavenly picture of the Pin Valley. This park is beautiful to look at and also offers a peaceful experience beyond all the noise of life.
Here you can also get a chance to see the rare Snow Leopard, which is very special in itself. Also, creatures like Siberian Ibex and Red Fox are also seen here.
What’s special here for nature lovers? Changing scenery at every turn during trekking and the amazing peace of the Himalayas!
Location: Lahaul-Spiti district
Timings to visit: 6am to 6pm
Altitude: About 3,500 to 6,000 meters
2. Great Himalayan National Park
The Great Himalayan National Park seems straight out of the pages of a book. Dense forests, flowing rivers, tall deodars and snowcapped mountains make it a dreamy place. The park is home to more than 375 species of animals and over 180 species of birds. It is one of the most biodiverse parks in India.
The experience of trekking here is like discovering yourself while walking in the lap of nature.
Special for nature lovers: Biodiversity, cultural experience, and connection with local villages.
Location: Forest Office Rd, Shamshi, Himachal Pradesh
Timing to Visit: 10 am to pm
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Speciality : Eco-Conservation
3. Inderkilla National Park
Inderkilla National Park is a place where there is peace, no crowd and only nature. This is a relatively new and less famous park, known for its snowy peaks, mountain pastures and rare fauna.
Here you can see Himalayan black bears, blue sheep, and many types of birds.
Special for nature lovers: Offbeat destination, where freshness is found at every step.
Location: Near Kullu, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Best time: 10 am TO 5 pm
Specialty: More than 250 species of birds
How to Reach:
You can reach it two ways:
By Air: From KulluKullu Airport, Inderkilla National Park is 46km
By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway, which is 41 km away from Inderkilla National Park
4. Khirganga National Park
Kheerganga is not just a trekking destination, it is a feeling. Kheerganga National Park gives a chance to live that experience even more deeply. The valleys, forests and natural waterfalls here are so beautiful that the mind wants to stop again and again.
Location: Parvati Valley, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Timing: 6: 00 Am to 6: 00 Om
Specialty: Hot water Springs, wild bears, and Camping
5. Simbalbara National Park
Simbalbara National Park is not very big, but its beauty is no less than any big place. Want to experience a beautiful forest in a short time? Then this park is a perfect option for you.
Here dense sal trees, calm river streams and colorful birds come together to create a scene that relaxes the mind.
Special for nature lovers: Weekend getaway, peace and melodious music of birds
Location: State Highway 6A, Dhaula Kuan, Himachal Pradesh
Specialty: Trekking
Best Time to Visit National Parks in Himachal Pradesh
- March to June: From March to June, the snow melts and the greenery smiles making it the perfect time for sightseeing.
- September to November: During the period from September to November, the weather is clear and offers spectacular views after the monsoons.
- December to February: For snow lovers only as the amazing white Himalayas become more magnificent in the period between December to February.
Some Important Tips for Travelers
Here’s are some important tips while visiting the national parks in Himachal Pradesh in the form of do’s and dont’ts:
Do’s
- Interact with the locals, learn their culture
- Bring back garbage with you
- Trek with a licensed guide
Don’ts
- Don’t disturb the wildlife
- Avoid loud music and noise
- Don’t pollute natural sources
How to Reach The National Parks in Himachal Pradesh?
- By Rail: Kalka, Chandigarh and Joginder Nagar are the nearest railway stations
- By Air: Bhuntar (Kullu), Gaggal (Dharamshala), Shimla Airport can provide easy access to most of the national parks in Himachal Pradesh.
- By Road: All the national parks are well connected by state and national highways and buses and taxis are easily available.
Final Thoughts
Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of life? Plan a trip to the national parks in Himachal Pradesh with your loved ones. Feel the nature and forget all your worries and sorrows at once!
FAQs of National Park in Himachal Pradesh
1. Which are the forest parks in Himachal?
The five such national parks in Himachal Pradesh include the Great Himalayan Park, Pin Valley Park, Indrakilla Park, Kheerganga Park, and Simbalbara Park. These places are a natural habitat of distinct species of birds, animals, and plants. So, exploring them feels like exploring an enchanted forest!
2. Which is the oldest park in Himachal?
Built in 1958, Simbalbara National Park is the oldest national park in Himachal Pradesh.
3. When is the best time to visit these parks?
The best time to visit the national parks in Himachal is from February to June when it is neither too cold nor too rainy.
4. Which is the biggest park?
The Great Himalayan National Park is big! Even if you go out to visit it in a day, you will not be able to see it all. Spread across 1171 square kilometres, it has tall mountains, rivers and mesmerising paths.
5. Which animals live there?
Snow leopards, musk deers, and many colorful birds are found in the natural habitat of national parks. Every corner of the forest looks like a fairytale where animals, trees, and flowers all live together.
