Wildlife
Nestled within the embrace of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh unfolds as
a treasure trove of rich flora and fauna. The varied and rugged terrain has
nurtured a diverse array of plant and animal species, endowing the region
with a bountiful natural heritage. With a significant portion of the state
enveloped in forests, wildlife and biodiversity thrive in nearly every corner.
However, the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change have
cast shadows over the ecological balance, posing threats to various
species. In response, Himachal Pradesh has taken proactive measures by
designating specific areas as wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. These
protected zones serve as sanctuaries for the myriad of life that calls the
region home, providing a crucial buffer against the encroachments of
modernization.
As we embark on this journey, let's delve into the sanctuaries and national
parks that stand as guardians of Himachal Pradesh's natural heritage.
These protected areas not only preserve the region's unique ecosystems
but also offer a glimpse into the untamed beauty that defines this pristine
mountainous landscape.
Great Himalayan National Park
he Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a national park in India, located in Kullu region in
the state of Himachal Pradesh. The park was established in 1984 and is spread over an area of
1171 km 2 ; elevations within the park range between 1500 and 6000 m. The Great Himalayan
National Park is a habitat to numerous flora and more than 375 fauna species, including
approximately 31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and
127 insects. They are protected under the strict guidelines of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972;
hence any sort of hunting is not permitted.
In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World
Heritage Sites, [1] under the criterion of “outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation”.
Fauna
The Great Himalayan National Park is home to more than 375 faunal species. So far species of
31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and 127 insects
belonging to six orders have been identified and documented. Most of the Himalayan fauna has
been given protection under the high priority protection category of Schedule I of the Indian
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The state government of Himachal Pradesh has banned hunting
in the state for more than ten years. A trek of 35 to 45 km in any of the park's valleys brings one
into the high elevation habitat (3,500 m and above) of animals such as blue sheep, snow
leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer. Best sightings can be made in
autumn (September–November) as animals start their seasonal migration to lower elevations.
Flora
The GHNP also supports a great diversity of plant life, thanks to its wide elevation range and
relatively undisturbed habitats. From the lofty pines and spruces and the great, spreading horse
chestnuts of the lower valleys, to the dense cushions and prostrate branches of the alpine herbs
and junipers, the park presents an endless variety of vegetation. Although some areas have
been modified by grazing, this is one of the few areas of the Western Himalayas where the
forests and alpine meadows can be seen in something approaching their original state.
The subalpine zone is richest in species, followed by the alpine and upper temperate zones.
Pin Valley national Park
Pin Valley National Park is the only National Park in Himachal Pradesh which is situated in
the cold desert area. The park covering an area of 675 sq km as core zone and 1150 km as
buffer zone.
There are about 17 villages situated in the periphery of the park with a total population of
about 1600 people. Besides this there are about 17 Dogharies (Summer settlements) with
some cultivation inside the park. These Dogharies are used as summer residences by these
people. The local residents in the whole Pin Valley conists of scheduled tribes belonging to
Buddhist community. There is a famous Gompa in the Kungri vilage which is situated on the
buffer zone of this park. The Chham dance and Buchen dance by the Lamas of this Gompa
are very famous dances in the valley.
Fauna:
There are more than 20 species of animals and birds in the Park. This park is specially
renowned for the protection of endangered Snow-Leopard, the estimated population of
which is about twelve. Other species are Ibex, Bharal, Red Fox, Marten, Weasel, Pika, Snow
Cock, Beareded Vulture, Chukor, Golden Eagle, Griffon, Himalayan Chough, Raven etc. Lynx,
Marmat & Tibetan Wolf may also be found in this area, but so for no sightings have been
recorded by Park Authorities.
Flora:
Pin Valley is characterized by alpine pasture or dry alpine Scrub Forest. Juniper & Birch trees
are on the verge of extinction. Valley bottoms have regenerated naturally with Salix spp. &
Myricaria spp. Myricaria Shrubs are eaten by Snow Leopard during crucial winter season. So
far more than 400 plants species have been reported in this area. The area is very rich in
medicinal herbs and spices. These herbs and spices are collected by local Pharmacists for
the preparations of medicines.