National Parks in Jammu and Kashmir

Although Kashmir is a globally famous tourist destination, it has emerged as an ideal spot for exhilarating wildlife tours. There are majorly 3 National Parks in Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, there are different types of National Parks found in the valley namely Wildlife National Park( Dachigam National Park), Scenic National Park( Kishtwar National Park), Wilderness National Park( Salim Ali National Park), etc. While some focus on preservation of rare species of animals like Hangul, Snow Leopard and Himalayan Black Bear, etc., others contain abundant natural beauty and a scenic trip of the valley’s biodiversity. They are known to provide a safe habitat and preservation efforts for endangered species. Do explore The Zanskar Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO heritage site, designated in 2019. 

With abundant national parks in Jammu and Kashmir and wildlife sanctuaries, you can surely add a visit in your itinerary on your next trip. Deep dive in the exploration of pristine beauty at these National Parks and Wildlife sanctuaries. 

Top 5 National Parks to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir

1. Dachigam National Park

Located amidst the towering Himalayan peaks, it stands at the top among the most-visited national parks in Kashmir. It is one of the most breathtaking areas of the valley. Dachigam translates to “ten villages” as about ten villages were relocated years ago to establish it. As you visit the park, you’ll be stunned to see the beauty of the place. With different species found here such as Hangul, Snow Leopards and more, you’ll be in the presence of  nature’s best work. There are many picnic spots in the park to spend some time admiring the majestic beauty encircling you.

• Location: Dachigam Road, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.  
• Flora and Fauna: The significant flora found here are Kashmir fir, Himalayan cedar, blue pine, oak, beech, etc. Some of the endangered species inhabiting the park are Hangul, Snow Leopard, Himalayan ibex, Golden eagle, Himalayan monal, etc. 
• Best time: June to October 
• Timing: 8AM to 6PM
• Entry Fees: Nil 

2. Kazinag National Park

Kazinag National Park, as a famous park of Kashmir, is spread in a huge area of about 362 sq. kilometres. The place shows the magical meadows on one side and mighty Himalayan peaks on the other creating a mesmerising landscape. It is inhabited by different Himalayan species like Markhor, snow leopard, Black bear, etc. The pristine and unspoiled terrain of the national park offers many activities as well such as hiking, wildlife photography, picnics etc. 

Kazinag National Park has such a serene atmosphere and majestic natural beauty that many movies and scenes have been shot here including popular superhits like Haidar, Tubelight, Raazi, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, etc.  

• Location: Baramulla district, Jammu And Kashmir, India. 
• Flora and Fauna: Diversa fauna includes Deodar cedar, blue pine, chestnut, and medicinal plants like Gentiana, Digitalis etc. Animals to spot here are golden eagle, snowpack, Himalayan bear, Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Himalayan ibex etc.
• Best time: May to September 
• Timing: it is accessible for the entire day. 
• Entry Fees: Nil 

3. Hemis National Park

Covering a vast area of 4400 sq. kilometres, Hemis National Park is the largest national park of India. It inhabits the elusive snow leopards and is one of the best places to look out for them. Moreover, it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. With welcoming nature-lovers and thrill seekers alike, it is widely popular as a “Hidden Kingdom”. 

Other than an exciting wildlife tour, the place offers other activities as well like trekking and hiking, picnic, camping amidst a breathtaking landscape against the backdrop of snow-laden mountains. Birdwatching is another activity to indulge in with many migratory birds like Golden Eagle and Lammergeier often making a visit. 

• Location: Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 
• Flora and Fauna: many alpine plants such as Picrorhiza, Digitalis, and shrubs like Caragana, Kobresia, Stipa, etc. are part of this national park. Look for endangered animal species such as Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Blue Sheep, Eurasian lynx, Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan brown bear etc. 
• Best time: June to October 
• Timing: open throughout the week 
• Entry Fees: INR 20 (for Indian tourists), INR 100 ( for foreigners). 

4. Salim Ali National Park

Named after the renowned naturalist and ornithologist of our country, Salim Ali. The Salim Ali National Park or City Forest National Park is established in about 9 sq. kilometres. 

The park serves as a green lung for the capital city of Srinagar, furnishing fresh air. The place is a safe abode to animals like Hangul, leopard, musk deer and over 70 species of birds. It is every birdwatcher’s bliss. The place offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity for both nature admirers and thrill seekers. Immerse in the rich biodiversity of Kashmir with a visit to one of the famous national parks of the valley. 

• Location: Srinagar, Kishtwar district. Jammu and Kashmir, India. 
• Flora and Fauna: The trees found here include Chinar, Kashmir willow, and Himalayan fir, etc. Faunas like Himalayan Black bear, leopard, musk deer with Himalayan monal, Kashmir flycatcher, Tytler’s leaf warbler, etc. 
• Best time: April to September 
• Timing: Open throughout the day. 
• Entry Fees: INR 10 for Indian Visitors and INR 100 for foreigners.

5. Kishtwar National Park

Popular among locals as “Kishtwar Amaaz”, the Kishtwar National Park has been one of the famous parks of Kashmir. Sprawled in 400 sq. miles, the place inhabits a wide range of species. Here, you may get a glimpse of snow leopards, found exclusively in Himalayan regions. Catch a sight of other animals like musk deer, Himalayan brown bear and red fox. 

There are a few water streams meandering in lush meadows nearby. The park has attracted the interest of many Bollywood directors as scenes around and of the Kishtwar National Park have featured in super hit movies like Bjarangi Bhaijaan, Haidar, Highway, etc. 

• Location: Forest Block, Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir. 
• Flora and Fauna: The verdant forests here are dotted with Blue pine, Himalayan fir, Deodar cedar, oak, beech, etc. Faunas to spot here are Black bear, snow leopard, Blue sheep, Himalayan brown bear, etc. 
• Best time: March to October
• Timing: Open for the entire day. 
• Entry Fees: Nil