by Tarsem
Wild Life Sanctuaries in Chamba
August 6, 2009 in Chamba, H.P. Govt. Official websites, WildLife sanctuaries and Parks by Tarsem
Chamba is one of the oldest Princely states in India, having been founded during the late 6th century. It is situated in the bosom of the Himalaya Mountains, and the boundaries are as follows: On the north-west and west, Jammu and Kashmir; on the north-east and east, Ladakh, Lahaul and Bara Bangahlaa; on the south-east and south, the districts of Kangra and Gurdaspur. The Ravi river flows through this district, and many hydroelectric generating stations have been developed here. Wild Life Sanctuaries in Chamba :
KALATOP KHAJJIAR SANCTUARY
This small sanctuary lies in the catchment of the Ravi River, and contains patches of good coniferous and Oak forests. A lovely bowl-shaped meadow at Khajjiar, with a lake and a ‘floating’ island, is a popular tourist spot. There is a ‘golden’ domed temple at the edge of this meadow, dedicated to the deity ‘Khajinag’, from whom the area derives its name.
SECHU TUAN NALA SANCTUARY
A very high altitude sanctuary with significant populations of Ibex, Musk deer, and Pheasants. Snow leopards are also reported from here.
THE KUGTI SANCTUARY
This sanctuary is rich in high-altitude Himalayan wildlife, and is one of the last homes of Himalayan tahr in Himachal Pradesh. It is also well-known as a source of many medicinal plants. Abundant water resources, many originating from glaciers, and a diverse topography add to the attraction of the area. To the west it is connected with Tundah Sanctuary by a forest corridor. There is an annual pilgrimage by thousands of people to the Mani Mahesh Temple inside the sanctuary.
THE TUNDAH SANCTUARY
A high altitude sanctuary with good, though disturbed, habitat for Himalayan tahr, Ibex and pheasants. The area also supports a small population of Musk deer. It is connected to Kugti Sanctuary by a forest corridor to the east..
THE GAMGUL SANCTUARY
A high-altitude sanctuary harbouring small populations of Musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and pheasants. This is the only sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh which has reported the presence of Kashmir stag, though none have been observed in the last few years. The sanctuary is under severe human pressure and is heavily grazed. Its northern boundary adjoins the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
