Simbalbara Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the Shivalik hills, and is located close to Haryanas Kalesar National Park. It plays host to a large number of colourful birds of varied species, including migratory birds. Also, it shelters animals such as cheetal, goral, sambhar, and more. One can also discover flora typical to Shivaliks.

The Shivalik ridge is said to be the most important physio-graphic feature of this sanctuary. The landscape consists of thick woodlands of Sal forests and lush-green grassy pastures. Shimmering streams criss-cross the verdant terrain of this picturesque sanctuary.

The Simbalwara Forest rest house offers a spectacular and captivating view of the green valleys, serene surroundings, avian life, and more.

Flora: Sal forests

Fauna: Goral, sambhar, cheetal, barking deer, leopard, wild boar

Avian-Fauna: Partridges, red jungle fowl

Major Attractions

Birds: The major attraction of this place is its riotously colourful bird population that also includes migratory birds. For an avid bird watcher, this sanctuary is worth a visit to discover and spot some of the rare and common species. Also, this sanctuary is heaven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Ambling through the verdant sanctuary area, one can spot some wild animals roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Exact Location: Simbalwara Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh.

Area: 19 sq. km

Route: Simbalwara Wildlife Sanctuary is located 12 km off the main Paonta Sahib-Nahan road. There are regular buses from Nahan to Paonta Sahib. There are daily buses that connect Nahan to cities like Manali, Delhi and Hardwar. If you are coming by train, then the closest railway stations are located at Ambala, Chandigarh and Kalka. Ambala railways station is around 100 km from Nahan and there are regular trains running on Ambala-Delhi-Ambala route.

The nearest airport is at Chandigarh, and there are taxis available from here to Nahan. Dehradun is 65 km away from Nahan.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Things to keep in mind

  • Rest houses are at Simbalwara and Majra
  • DFO Wildlife Simla is the controlling officer
  • Carry a binoculars to spot the avian life

Other Places to Visit

Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary is spread in an area of 100 sq. km, the north western side the forest of Kalesar is contiguous with the Simbalwara Wildlife Sanctuary. On the eastern side, the Shivalik range extends till Panchkula. The sanctuary is famous for its bird population. One can also spot wild boars, sambhars, hares, red jungle fowl, porcupine, monkeys, cheetals here.

Gurudwara Paonta Sahib: This place is located southeast of Nahan, and is an important pilgrim center for followers of Sikh religion. The tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singhji is believed to have stayed here for a period of more than four years. Also, it is said that he wrote the Dasham Granth here. There is a Gurudwara dedicated to Guru Gobind Singhji, and also there is a Hindu temple on the bank of Yamuna river that was built by the daughter of Raja Fateh Prakash.