The Himalayan National Park, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh India

Adventurous trekkers, birdwatchers and naturalists can all soak in these rich coniferous forests, alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks and glaciers in what forms the largest protected area in Himachal Pradesh. The 1736 sq. km. Great Himalayan National Park is one of only two national parks in the world to house a significant population of the endangered Western Tragopan (with the other in Pakistan) and is an absolutely pristine area. The forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity and replete with medicinal herbs. 

Great Himalayan National Park(GHNP) is a relatively new National Park created in 1999. It is known as GHNP. It protects a himalayan ecosystem with rare plants and animals. Himalayan black bear, brown bear, leopard, snow leopard and Himalayan tahr are found here but they are all very elusive. The colourful Himalayan Monal Pheasant and the Western Tragopan represent the birdlife.

GHNP has well developed trekking infrastructure. There are camping grounds located at strategic places and the forest department can arrange guides. Porters can be hired locally. There are no facilities on the way and all provisions and blankets etc have to be carried.

Great Himalayan National Park is the latest addition to India’s National Parks System. The area comprising of the watersheds of Jiwa, Sainj, and Tirthan rivers became the Great Himalayan National Park in 1984. It is spread over an area of 1,171 sq kms with altitudes varying from 1500 to 6000m.