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Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary is a special place in Anantnag where nature is at its best. It is adorned with the natural beauty of vast green fields, and tall trees like deodars and pines. This wildlife sanctuary is abode to a diverse range of species, including the rare ones like Himalayan black bear, musk deer and hangul. The lush vegetation present here comprises coniferous trees and subalpine pastures . It is an ideal location for tourists to get lost in the serene beauty and enchanting music of the chirping birds.
Quick Details
Location: Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary is a little southwest of Srinagar in the Anantnag district at approximately 90 km.
Opening Year: 1981
Area: Approximately 20 square kilometres
How To Reach: Air, Rail and Road-all are accessible
Nearest Airport: Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag
Best Time To Visit: July to November
Animal Viewing: July to November
Bird Viewing: July to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days short trip
How To Reach Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Suhayl091 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Srinagar Airport is the nearest airport to this beautiful sanctuary, only 80 km away. Tourists can easily avail the taxi and bus services that can drop them off at their desired destination directly from the airport.
By Rail: Anantnag Railway Station is the nearest railway station. This station is very well connected with major railway stations.
By Road: Travellers can get a local bus that comes at frequent intervals or else hire a cab to reach this wildlife sanctuary.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar
Things To Do At Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary
Here are the must things to do in Rajparian wildlife sanctuary to experience it at fullest on your next visit
1. Wildlife Watching
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The sanctuary is home to a rich biodiversity including several bear species, such as brown bears, musk deer, and leopards. If you are an avifauna enthusiast , with its diverse variety of birds, Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary is your ideal destination in Srinagar.
2. Trekking
Photo: Liam Quinn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sinthan Top is one of the most popular routes for hikers as it offers various adventurous sweeping turns and the chance to explore the area’s natural wonders. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and meanders through lush forests here, which serve as a pure treat to the eyes.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar In Winter
3. Camping
Photo: icon0com / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
This wildlife sanctuary offers campsites for tourists to set a tent in a safe place and enjoy the starry night away from the hustle of busy city life. Make the most of evening bonfires, blended with food and drinks. It is a perfect combination for relaxing and exchanging stories.
4. Fishing
Photo: Andy Morffew / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
Trout fishing is a popular activity here and is available in the neighbouring streams and rivers. The Bringhi river is full of fishes and you can get a permit for fishing here from the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department.
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Places To Visit Near Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary
Here is a list of more natural wonders to visit and explore around the Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary:
1. Daksum
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled amidst the Pir Panjal range, this quaint village in Kashmir is famous for its verdant meadows, deep forests, and meandering streams. The village is renowned for its trout. Daksum is an ideal trekkers destination offering an escape from the bustling city life. It is great for nature hikes, trout fishing, and picnics.
Distance: Approx 10-15 km
2. Sinthan Top Mountain Pass
Photo: Ashoksngh2010 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Kishwar district, this high-altitude mountain pass provides picturesque views of the valleys and mountains around. Situated in the Chenab valley, this spot is famous for its adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding, and skiing. The pass offers magnificent views of the snow covered peaks, emerald valleys, pine forests and fruit orchards all around.
Entry Fees: There is no admission price, although adventure activities may incur costs depending on the service providers
Distance: Approx 20-30 km
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3. Kokernag Gardens
Photo: Suhayl091 / Wikimedia Commons
Known for its tiered lawns, springs, botanical garden and fish hatchery, this place can also be a heaven to visit. These gardens are known as pleasure gardens due to their enchanting beauty of verdant meadows and vibrant flowerbeds. There are about 1 lakh types of flora in this garden. Enjoy fresh fish and witness the breeding process by visiting the trout hatchery.
Entry Fee: None but there can be a minor cost to see a trout hatchery
Distance: 35 km
4. Verinag Mughal Garden
Photo: Akshey25 / Wikimedia Commons
Verinag, a small town in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its star tourist attraction, Verinag spring. Situated at the feet of snow covered mountains this spring is considered the source of Jhelum river. Emperor Jahangir also built a garden beside this spring. This beautifully crafted Mughal garden here is also popular among tourists.
Entry Fee: None
Distance: Approx. 60 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir
5. Achabal Mughal Garden
This Mughal garden is very popular among tourists for its lush green arena. It also houses varied beautiful flowers and fountains and showcases various beautiful arrangements of bushes. Walk here to witness a location perfectly curated to de-stress.
Entry Fee: ₹40 per person
Distance: About 50 kilometres
Where To Stay
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The Forest Rest Houses Of Daksum are forest department-run rest cottages offer basic but comfortable accommodation in Daksum’s serene natural magnificence. The Forest Rest Houses of Daksum are surrounded by many trees and shrubs and are located inside this wildlife sanctuary. JKTDC Tourist Bungalow is under the care of Tourism Development Corporation of Jammu & Kashmir (JKTDC). You can find different types of rooms with flexible budgets according to your needs.
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Where To Eat
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Restaurants near this wildlife sanctuary offer different cuisines from the authentic Kashmiri flavours to your comfort meals. Some of these restaurants are Green valley restaurant, Taha restaurant, Arbar restaurant, Hill top and Mughal Darbar.
Best Time To Visit
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The ideal time to explore Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary is from April to October. This period offers pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and increased wildlife activity. It helps make the trip a delightful experience for tourists. However, visiting during the colder winter, with snowfall and low temperatures, may limit exploration opportunities. Hence, scheduling a trip in the warmer months guarantees a more pleasant visit.
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Rajparian Wildlife Sanctuary is a must visit destination whilst unveiling the outworldly beauty of Jammu and Kashmir. From camping evenings to trekking to magnificent sunrises and once in a lifetime experience of trout fishing, this wildlife sanctuary offers an entire experience apart from its rich and rare biodiversity. Plan your visit with Trip XL and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of this wildlife sanctuary!
Cover Photo: Suhayl091 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
