Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Gulmarg biosphere reserve is located at a distance of 48 kilometers from Srinagar. It is spread over an area of 180 sq km, this biosphere reserve is home to many species of flora, fauna, and birds. Musk deer is the main highlight of this reserve. However, you can also spot Brown bears, leopards, hangul, fox and pheasants and birds, etc. Discover Gulmarg tour packages with unforgettable adventures.

Gulmarg biosphere reserve is nothing less than a dreamland for nature lovers. It is well known for its rich vegetation and gifted with many endangered species. Adventure lovers can stay at the camp which is located near the reserve. This is the place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature. You can also go birdwatching in the reserve.

It is largely covered with lush greenery. The area is full of diverse plants and other species. With Cliffhangers India, you may go to many Himalayan wildlife sanctuaries full of wonder and adventure thrills to the Gulmarg biosphere reserve. For nature lovers, this biosphere reserve is paradise. You will see the rarest kind of endangered species here. 

Why is Gulmarg Biosphere Famous?

Gulmarg biosphere is famous for its flora, fauna, and rich vegetation. The biosphere not only has the rarest and endangered species of plants and animals but it has the esteem to protect and nurture them.

Best Time To Visit

You can visit throughout the year. The best time to visit the Gulmarg biosphere reserve is from March to September. During these months the flowers are in full bloom. This period is witness to mountain splendor and to see wild animals closely. If you want to see mammals march is the best time and if you want to go birdwatching April and May are the best months for birdwatchers.

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Srinagar To Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve Distance

The distance from Srinagar to Gulmarg biosphere reserve is 48 kilometers. It can be reached in 1-2 hours. The reserve lies between an altitude of 2,400 and 4,300 meters above sea level.

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How To Reach

To reach the Gulmarg biosphere reserve, there are many options which are mentioned below.

Air: The Srinagar airport is the nearest, from there book a cab/taxi direct to the reserve. Srinagar airport is well connected to the major cities of India.

Rail: The nearest railhead is the Jammu Tawi railway station which is about 342 kilometers. You can hire a cab/taxi or bus to reach the Gulmarg biosphere reserve.

Road: to get to this biosphere reserve, you will have to reach Srinagar first. After reaching Srinagar, then just continue driving towards Gulmarg via Tangmarg. Or one can book a taxi service in Srinagar to reach the final destination.

The reserve is located in Gulmarg at a distance of 48 kilometres from Srinagar and 5 kilometres from Gulmarg. There is no entry fee for this reserve. This is free of cost you can go anytime to see this reserve. The time of the reserve is between 10 am to 4 pm.

Flora and Fauna in Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve 

The rich vegetation of the this biosphere reserve consists of alpine forests of silver fir, silver birch, and blue pine. Picea smithiana and Taxus wallichiana

There are many animals such as the famous musk deer, hangul, brown bear, barking deer, snow cock, chakoor, Asiatic black bear, black bear, and Indian wolf which are found in this biosphere reserve.

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Popular Places to Visit near Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Gulmarg Gondola: Gulmarg Gondola is one the highest cable car rides in the World. Luckily, it is in close proximity to the sanctuary. Take a ride to the alpine regions of Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak. 

Strawberry Valley: Strawberry Valley is a must visit near the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. As you visit here, taste the sweet flavour of the strawberry, plucked right from the huge farms. You can also buy some to take back home. Do visit here in the harvesting season in September and October.

Tangmarg: Tangmarg is an ideal pick for adventure enthusiasts. The mild weather and beautiful scenery of the place makes it a suitable location for family getaways. The lush seen here is unmatched. 

Baba Reshi Shrine: If you are looking to explore religious places around the sanctuary, Baba Reshi Shrine is the perfect choice. The shrine holds immense spiritual significance. There is also a garden near it where you can go for nature walks or strolls. 

St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary’s Church is an ancient church located in the Gulmarg town. It was built in the colonial times in the Victorian Style of Architecture. The church is a popular attraction to explore as you visit Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Things to do at Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary

Various things to do at Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary are as follows: 

• Nature Walk: Taking a nature walk in the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best things to do here. The entire sanctuary is filled with greenery, vibrant wildflowers, water streams and presents a scenic view as you explore it on foot. 
• Wildlife Photography: Since the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary accommodates an endless number of animal species, it is the best place for wildlife photography. Click the animals, birds in their natural habitat. You can also practice natural photography around as raw natural beauty is seen throughout. Bring gears like camera, tripod, lenses, etc. 
• Bird watching: In the sanctuary, you can spot different bird species, flying and chirping. Some of them are Himalayan Bulbul, Grey Heron, Pond Heron, Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, etc. 

You may want to plan the visit in the early morning or late evening to spot them easily. Bring binoculars with 7× or 8× magnification for clear views. 

• Exploring biodiversity: The sanctuary offers treks as well as safaris to explore the rich biodiversity. It contains alpine forests with Silver Birch, Silver Fir, and Blue Pine trees. Here, you can spot animals like Hangul, Musk Deer, Asiatic Black Deer, Indian wolf, Barking Deer, Chakor, etc. Remain at a safe distance from them. 

Conclusion

Gulmarg biosphere reserve is a wildlife sanctuary which is located in the Gulmarg region. This reserve offers visitors several endangered species which are very rare and exotic. It is the home of flora and fauna. This reserve is best for adventure lovers also.