Great Himalayan National Park

Great Himalayan National Park is a nature reserve and national park in Himachal Pradesh, India, covering forests, meadows and summits across 1,171 square kilometers. Rivers carve through valleys while fir and oak stand on slopes that rise toward the snow line.

India set up the protected zone in 1984 and granted it full national park status in 1999. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site in 2014.

Butterflies found within the reserve display over 180 species that move between the rhododendron forests and the grassland zones at higher altitudes. Plants such as juniper and cedar grow across steep slopes and create woodlands that cast shade over the walking trails.

Trekking and wildlife watching work best between March and June and from September to November when snow has not yet blocked the trails. Visitors should follow guidance from rangers as some zones require permits.

The Western Tragopan, a bird with red plumage and blue markings, lives in dense undergrowth and calls out during early morning hours. Leopards and tahr use rock ledges and forests for shelter and remain mostly hidden from hikers.

Location: Himachal Pradesh

Inception: 1984

Website: http://greathimalayannationalpark.com

GPS coordinates: 31.80429,77.95102

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:26