Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary

Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in Shopian district featuring diverse terrain that ranges from gentle slopes to steep cliffs. The landscape includes various elevations that support different plant and animal communities.

The Indian government designated this area as a sanctuary in 1987 to protect natural habitats and local wildlife populations. The designation reflected growing efforts to preserve Himalayan ecosystems.

The Gujjar and Bakerwal communities practice traditional herding in designated areas of the sanctuary, maintaining a way of life that shapes the landscape. Their presence reflects a long coexistence between people and the land.

The sanctuary lies about 70 kilometers south of Srinagar and can be reached via the Mughal Road, which passes through the area. Visitors should prepare for mountainous terrain and variable accessibility conditions.

The sanctuary is home to around 50 Pir Panjal markhors, a wild goat species with distinctive curved horns found in this mountain range. This population represents a significant conservation achievement.