When you think of Kashmir, what comes first to your mind? The snow-capped mountains, perhaps, the Dal Lake, and the gorgeous aqua-colored rivers cutting their way through the hills! But Kashmir’s beauty transcends those snow-laden mountains, mesmerizing gardens, and rivers. Probably, a relatively unexplored part of Kashmir’s beauty is its national parks. Featuring an incredible range of flora and fauna, national parks in J&K pack surprises across every square inch and are worth a visit during your trip to Kashmir. Accordingly, let us look at some famous national parks in Kashmir.
5 Must-see National Parks in Jammu and Kashmir – J&K National Parks
While the union territory is home to over 15 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries put together, we will look at the five most popular ones that epitomize natural beauty and tranquility. Let’s proceed to look at five national parks in J&K.
1. Dachigam National Park
Dachigam translates to ten villages. It highlights those ten villages that had to be relocated to build this national park, features spectacular views and diverse wildlife. Speaking of the wildlife at Dachigam National Park, you can spot the Himalayan Black Bear, jackal, Himalayan weasel, long-tailed marmot, leopard, and yes, not to forget, the state animal, Hangul (Kashmir stag). Additionally, the park forms a place of attraction for birdwatchers as well.
Dachigam lies around 22 kilometers from Srinagar. So, the nearest airport and railway station is Srinagar. The best time to visit Dachigam National Park is between June and August.
2. Kishtwar National Park
Snow leopards have been a unique feature of Kashmir’s wildlife. However, the plummeting number of snow leopards across the region raised concerns, and thus, the Kishtwar National Park was formed. So, when it comes to wildlife, while snow leopards form the primary attraction, you may enjoy watching the musk deer, Indian Muntijal, serow, Markhor, etc., and birds like koklass, Himalayan Monal, etc.
Additionally, the park is home to alpine forests, meadows, and coniferous trees. Moreover, the constant sight of the towering snow-smitten mountains, sparkling waters of the Rinnay river, rocky ridges, and the delightful weather would make your visit to the park a memorable one! The best time to visit Kishtwar is from March to October. The town of Kishtwar town lies around 210 kilometers from Srinagar, and the distance from Jammu is about 214 kilometers.
3. Salim Ali National Park
The Salim Ali National Park aims to conserve endangered or rare biodiversity and wildlife. The national park is named after the famous ornithologist Salim Ali. It is home to over 70 species of resident and migratory aviaries such as Pintail, Kingfisher, flycock, Swamp Francolin, Bengal Florican, Eastern Imperial Eagle, and Baya Weaver. However, you can also spot the Himalayan Serow, Himalayan Black Bear, Chakkar, Hangul, Flying Fox, etc.
Additionally, the park has diverse flora, the most significant one being Mangrove shrubberies. The place is also famous for recreation, adventure, and family outings and can be a part of one’s Srinagar itinerary. The nearest railway station is Srinagar (about 80 kilometers). The best time to visit the national park is from April to November.
4. Kazinag National Park
The primary goal that drove the inception of this national park was the conservation of the Markhor Wild Goat. Located in the Baramulla district of Kashmir, the national park was built from the Trans-Karakoram peace park proposal with Pakistan after the Kargil War ceasefire. Kazinag, also known as Qazinad, houses many different animals such as brown bears, musk deer, snow leopard, etc. Furthermore, you can also see various species of butterflies across the national park.
Kazinag is popular among adventurers and nature lovers, as it offers several overnight camping sites. The best time to visit Kazinag National Park is from May to September. The nearest airport is Srinagar Airport (62 kilometers), and the closest railway station is Srinagar Railway Station, which is around 54 kilometers.
5. Hemis National Park
If you want to spot the snow leopard, Hemis National Park is the place to go! However, Hemis also hosts other animals such as the red fox, Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan mouse hare, etc. But Hemis has much more than just animals. It also hosts the world-famous Hemis Monastery and is an excellent site for trekkers.
Hemis National Park is located in Leh. It is open on all days; however, the best time to visit is from June to October. The nearest airport to Hemis is the Leh Airport, which is located at a distance of around 48 kilometers.
Apart from the above, you may consider paying a visit to various other wildlife sanctuaries. Some famous ones include Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary, and Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary. So, if you plan to visit J&K while immersing yourself in the beauty of the most famous tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir, walk into the trails to explore the above stunning national parks in J&K and give your trip a new dimension.
