Fast facts

About Dachigam Wildlife National Park

The Dachigam National Park is at a distance of 22 km the city of Srinagar, the capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The forest provides a picturesque landscape, which always attracts the tourists. The park is spread over 141 sq km of area and is divided into two divisions, namely, the Lower and Upper Dachigam. The altitude of both the regions vary in altitude ranging from 1700 m to 4300 m. Two steep ridges provide a natural enclosure to the park. The Dachigam Park offers a variety in landscape from alpine pastures, deep ravines, rocky ridges and steep slopes. The Masrar Lake located in the higher Dachigam is the source of the Dachigam River. The river is considered the lifeline of the park as it passes through the entire Lower Dachigam region from its originating point. The river provides water to the entire lower region.

The park provides a natural habitat to the endangered Hangul or the Kashmiri stag. It is the only species of red deer to be found in India. Various efforts are being made to save this rare and beautiful species. Besides the Hangul or the Kashmiri Stag, the park is home to Himalayan Black Bear, Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Marmot and Species of Wild Goats like the Makhor. The varieties of exotic Himalayan Birds are the colorful Pheasants like Crimson Tapogan, Blood Pheasant, Golden Eagle and Bearded Vulture.

Although the winters are harsh over here, the winter season is the best time to view the Hangul, when it comes down to the lower valleys of sanctuary. The leopard is the only predatory animal in the area but has rarely been spotted. However, the tourists can see these wild cats if they possess resilience, patience and a little luck.

Around Dachigam Wildlife National Park

Srinagar is the city, which is nearest to the Dachigam National Park. The communication links like telephone and medical facilities are available at Srinagar. Nowadays, Internet/E-mail Facilities and Mobile Phone Services are also available at the city.

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Travel Tips

Tourists should not cause any damage floral and faunal life. The flora should not be plucked to take back home. You should not kindle any kind of fire; throw lit matches and cigarette buds. Do not throw or leave trash, litter and polyethylene bags in the forest. Firearms and chemicals should not be taken into the forests as they may cause harm to the wildlife and the vegetation. Never play radio and tape recorders as their frequency and voice might disturb, scare or irritate the animals.

The access to Jammu and Kashmir is restricted for non-Indian nationals. Therefore, foreigners must have prior permission in the form of a permit to visit Dachigam National Park. This must be acquired from the Indian Foreign Office.

Climate

The Dachigam National Park remains cold throughout the year. The summer season lasts from May to August and is cool and very pleasant. The temperatures ranges from 8°C to 14°C during the summers. The winters lasts from September to December. The winters are very cold with the drop in the temperature to a range of 2 °C to 4°C. Light woolen clothes are suitable for the summers and heavy woolens are required during winters.

How To Reach

The region of the Lower Dachigam is easily accessible through a metaled road. The region of the Higher Dachigam is accessible only on foot. The nearest rail junction is at Jammu, which is at a distance of 200 km from Dachigam National Park. Srinagar is the nearest city, which is situated at a distance of 22 km. Srinagar is well connected to Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary by a proper metaled road. The Srinagar Airport is the closest air link to the National Park.

The accommodation for the Wildlife Sanctuary is available at Srinagar city. There are a plenty of hotels, rest houses and lodges to select from. They are priced reasonably according to the amenities that are available. There are enough options for the budgeted tourist as well as the luxury travelers.

The Wildlife Tours of India offers tour packages for the Dachigam Wildlife National Park. To book a tour or for more information, fill up the form now.