Dachigam National Park, National park in Jammu and Kashmir, India
Dachigam spreads across the forested slopes and high valleys of the Zabarwan range, with clear streams running through conifer and broadleaf woods. The upper elevations open into grassy meadows where grass and low shrubs grow between rocks.
A maharaja established the area in 1910 as hunting grounds and relocated villages to make room for game. Decades later it was redesignated as a conservation zone to protect threatened species.
The name means 'ten villages' and recalls settlements that disappeared when the area came under protection. Local communities still speak of the old paths and meadows where their ancestors lived.
Those wishing to enter the reserve need authorization obtained in Srinagar, roughly 22 kilometers away. Early morning hours and late afternoon work best for spotting animals and avoiding heat.
The hangul deer lives only here and occurs nowhere else in the world. Visitors occasionally spot it in the lower forests, where it forages between trees.
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