Located very
close to Srinagar (22-km), Dachigam National Park with its splendid
forests and magnificent scenery is easily accessible. Of all the many
sanctuaries in the state, the one at Dachigam is the best known. At one
time the exclusive hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Kashmir, it was
declared a national park in 1951, and owing to a strictly enforced
conservation programme, the Hangul population, once 150, now stands at
over 400 animals.
TheSectors
The two sectors
of the Park - Upper and Lower Dachigam are spread over an area of
141-sq-km. and altitudes vary between 1,700 and 4,300 metres. Two steep
ridges enclose the Park with its great topographical variety - deep
ravines, rocky outcrops, steep wooded slopes and rolling alpine
pastures. Tumbling down from the Masrar Lake (4,300m), up in the high
ranges, the Dachigam River winds through Lower Dachigam.
Flora
The Park is the
habitat of the endangered Hangul or the Kashmir stag - the only species
of red Deer to be found in India. Winter is the best time to view the
Hangul, when they congregate in the shelter of the lower valleys. Other
inhabitants include the Himalayan Black Bear, species of wild Goat like
the Markhor and Ibex and varieties of exotic Himalayan birds.
The leopard,
which is the only predator in this paradise, is rarely seen as also the
elusive snow leopard, which is found in the higher altitudes. Other
animals include the rare musk deer and the Himalayan marmot. A metalled
road takes visitors from Srinagar into Lower Dachigam. Upper Dachigam
can only be explored on foot.
Avifauna
There over 150
species of birds inhabiting park's vicinity. Colourful pheasants include
the Crimson Tragopan, the iridescent Monal Pheasant with its glittering
plumage, the Blood Pheasant and the Koklass Pheasant. The golden Eagle
and the bearded Vulture or Lammergeier are seen circling the brilliant
blue skies.
PRIME ATTRACTION
Amidst forests of
silver birch and conifer roams the Hangul. Rare and on the verge of
extinction till a few years ago, the national park at Dachigam contains
the last viable Hangul population in the world. Related to the red Deer
of Europe, this breed is characterised by its white rump patch and
impressive spread of antlers.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air: The nearest
town and airport is Srinagar 22-km away.
Rail: It is
310-km from Jammu, the nearest railway station.
Road: A metalled
road links Srinagar with Lower Dachigam. Upper Dachigam can be reached
on foot.
WHERE TO STAY
Two lodges and
rest houses in the sanctuary are available for accommodation. For those
staying in Srinagar, hotels and houseboats are available in plenty.
