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There are a few national parks worth visiting if you are in the beautiful region of Jammu and Kashmir. These include Dachigam National Park, close to Srinagar, which has the rare Hangul deer. Kishtwar National Park is known for its conservation efforts for the snow leopard. Salim Ali National Park, which preserves urban biodiversity against development in Srinagar, and Kazinag National Park, which houses more flora and fauna than any state in India. These four national parks encompass some of the rich wildlife and stunning views Jammu and Kashmir have to offer. These parks ultimately provide a wonderful experience for anyone interested in wildlife and nature.
National Parks in Jammu and Kashmir: If you are wondering how many national parks there are in Jammu and Kashmir, the answer is seven! Each park showcases its own distinctive beauty, from the high-altitude habitat of snow leopards to peaceful wetlands filled with birds. You can really experience the wild beauty of Jammu and Kashmir through its magnificent national parks when combined with personalised Kashmir tour packages that let you explore both nature and culture in one trip.
This blog will take you through the list of National Parks in Jammu and Kashmir, the wildlife of each park, the best season to visit each park, and travel tips.
1. Hemis National Park
Spread over 4,400 sq. km, Hemis is not only the largest national park in Jammu and Kashmir but also the largest in South Asia. Situated in Ladakh, it is world-renowned for its population of snow leopards.
Best Time to Visit – May to September.
Attractions – snow leopard, blue sheep, Tibetan wolf, golden eagle.
How to Reach – Fly to Leh and drive 50 km to the park.
Also Check Out: Jammu And Kashmir Tour Packages
2. Dachigam National Park
Home to the endangered Hangul deer, Dachigam National Park is one of the most celebrated national parks in Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled just 22 km from Srinagar, it offers a blend of alpine forests, mountain streams, and rich biodiversity, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Best Time to Visit- April to October.
Attractions- Hangul, leopard, musk deer, western tragopan.
How to Reach- Drive from Srinagar city in under an hour.
3. Kishtwar High Altitude National Park
Perched in the Chenab Valley, Kishtwar High Altitude National Park is known for its alpine landscapes and rich biodiversity. It is among the best places to visit in Kashmir. Trekkers enjoy the scenic meadows and glacial rivers of this park, often spotting snow leopards, ibex, and Himalayan brown bears.
Best Time to Visit- April to October.
Attractions- Snow leopard, brown bear, ibex, markhor.
How to Reach- The Nearest airport is Jammu; continue by road to Kishtwar.
4. Salim Ali National Park
Named after India’s famous ornithologist, this park in Srinagar is a paradise for bird lovers. Migratory birds from Central Asia flock here seasonally, alongside pheasants and Himalayan monals, making it one of the most rewarding birding destinations in the valley.
Best Time to Visit- November to February.
Attractions- Himalayan monal, pheasants, pintail ducks.
How to Reach- Drive from Srinagar; the park is along the River Jhelum.
Also Check Out: Things To Do In Jammu And Kashmir
5. Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated near the popular Pahalgam Valley, Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its mix of forests, alpine meadows, and serene landscapes. It shelters Hangul, snow leopards, and over 80 bird species, making it a tranquil spot for trekking and wildlife spotting.
Best Time to Visit- March to June; September to November.
Attractions- Hangul, Himalayan serow, snow leopard.
How to Reach- Drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam (90 km), then to Aru Valley.
6. Kazinag National Park
Located along the Line of Control in Baramulla, Kazinag is famed for the rare markhor, a majestic wild goat with spiral horns. Its rich forests, alpine slopes, and gushing streams make it ideal for wildlife photography and adventurous nature escapes.
Best Time to Visit – May to September.
Attractions – Markhor, musk deer, and a Himalayan black bear.
How to Reach- Drive from Srinagar to Baramulla, then onward to the park.
7. Mansar–Surinsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Encircling the sacred twin lakes of Mansar and Surinsar, this sanctuary is home to marsh crocodiles, pythons, and countless migratory birds. The scenic blend of hills, forests, and shimmering waters offers visitors a unique chance to combine spirituality with wilderness.
Best Time to Visit- October to March.
Attractions- Indian rock python, marsh crocodiles, migratory birds.
How to Reach- About 60 km by road from Jammu city.
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Tips for Visiting National Parks in Jammu and Kashmir
- April to October is best for most parks, but winter visits are ideal for snow leopard tracking.
- Some parks like Dachigam and Hemis, require special permits; arrange these in advance.
- Warm clothes, trekking gear, and sturdy shoes are must-haves on your visit.
- Avoid littering, maintain silence, and do not disturb wildlife.
- Pair your park visits with authentic Kashmiri food and village experiences for a complete trip.
FAQs
- How many national parks are there in Jammu and Kashmir?
There are seven national parks in Jammu and Kashmir, each with its own charm. From snow leopard habitats in Ladakh to bird sanctuaries in Srinagar, they showcase the region’s rich biodiversity, landscapes, and unique cultural significance.
- Which is the largest national park in Jammu and Kashmir?
The largest national park in Jammu and Kashmir is Hemis National Park, spread over 4,400 sq. km in Ladakh. It is also South Asia’s biggest park, world-famous for snow leopard sightings and high-altitude wildlife.
- Which is the most famous national park in Jammu and Kashmir?
Dachigam National Park is the most famous national park in Jammu and Kashmir due to its endangered Hangul deer population. Located close to Srinagar, it attracts wildlife lovers, photographers, and researchers eager to experience Kashmir’s unique ecosystem and breathtaking forest landscapes.
- What is the best time to visit national parks in Jammu and Kashmir?
The best time to visit national parks in Jammu and Kashmir is generally April to October for pleasant weather. However, winter visits to Hemis are special for snow leopard tracking in icy, rugged landscapes.
- Can tourists visit all national parks in Jammu and Kashmir?
Yes, tourists can visit all national parks in Jammu and Kashmir, though some remote areas require permits. Planning before your visit ensures smooth travel, and guided tours help visitors explore wildlife safely while learning about local ecosystems.