The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a protected area in India's Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It was established in 1984 and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. The park covers an area of 1,171 sq km and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The GHNP is in the western Himalayas and is part of the larger Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. It is characterized by its rugged terrain, high-altitude peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys. The park is home to several Himalayan peaks, including Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba, and Indrasan.
The park is known for its rich biodiversity, and it is home to several endangered species, such as the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and Western Tragopan. It is also home to over 375 species of birds, including the Himalayan monal, western tragopan, and koklass pheasant.
The park's vegetation is diverse, including a mix of alpine, temperate, and sub-tropical forests. The park is home to several species of trees, such as oak, deodar, pine, and fir. The park also has medicinal plants, such as Valeriana wallichii, Aconitum heterophyllum, and Picrorhiza kurroa.
The park is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. The park has several trekking trails, including the Tirthan Valley Trek, Sainj Valley Trek, and the GHNP Trek. The walk to the park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys. The park is also a popular destination for camping and bird watching.
The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department manages the GHNP, and they have taken several measures to conserve the park's biodiversity. The park has several conservation programs that focus on protecting endangered species, controlling poaching, and managing the park's resources sustainably.
Tirthan Valley is a picturesque location and one of the entry points to the Great Himalayan National Park. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush forests, and the Tirthan River. Visitors can go trekking, camping, and bird watching in the valley.
Sainj Valley:
Sainj Valley is another entry point to the Great Himalayan National Park known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It is an ideal place for trekking, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
Raktisar:
Raktisar is a high-altitude lake located in the Great Himalayan National Park. Snow-capped mountains surround the lake and offers stunning views. Visitors can go for a trek to the lake and camp overnight.
Shilt Hut:
Shilt Hut is a scenic location in the Great Himalayan National Park that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular spot for camping and trekking.
GHNP Interpretation Centre:
The GHNP Interpretation Centre is a great place to learn about the flora and fauna of the Great Himalayan National Park. The centre has informative exhibits, audio-visual displays, and a library.
Rolla:
Rolla is a beautiful meadow located in the Great Himalayan National Park. Dense forests surround it and is home to various wildlife species, such as the Himalayan black bear, Himalayan tahr, and the bharal.