Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most significant tourist attractions in Manali. Established as a sanctuary in 1954, this park is home to a series of endangered wildlife creatures like Himalayan Palm Civet, Kashmiri Flying Squirrel, Flying Fox, Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, Himalayan Black Bear, and Barking Deer. Besides, this sanctuary allows trekking and consists of several camps inside its premises, making it a paradise for adventure lovers.
5 best things to do during your visit
The best way to spend your vacation at Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is to indulge in wildlife viewing, trekking, bird-watching, etc. Listed below are the things to do here to gain that unmatched experience:
Trekking
Trekking in Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is spectacular during the winter. There are numerous trekking routes, ranging from easy to challenging ones that pass through this habitat. Each offers a unique experience.
Zorbing and Paragliding
Fly like a bird across the mountains of Manali and Kullu Valley with the unique paragliding experience. Sail through the amazing sky and spot the beauty of nature beneath. Locations like Khajjiar are the perfect spot to enjoy such adventure activities.
Rafting
The adventure sports in Manali attract several tourists to this location. Rafting is one that you must experience once in a lifetime. Rolling against the tides in the river, you can enjoy this adventure sport with your family or friends. Feel accomplished as you sail through the turbulent water of the Beas River.
Camping
Enjoy an amazing camping experience amidst the foothills of green mountains and majestic Himalayas. You will find several campsites inside the sanctuary premises. So, plan to camp under the starlit sky to get that unparalleled experience. However, the sanctuary permits camping only in the summer. Tourists are granted permission to camp at Gallant Thatch or Lambadug during this period.
Bird-watching
Home to some exotic flora and fauna, you can spot a variety of species of birds in this sanctuary. This includes Western Tragopan, Koklass Pheasant, Tree Creepers, Chakor and Snow Pigeon. Tourists can spend hours walking through nature, spotting these exotic birds and photographing.
Flora and fauna
The Manali Sanctuary is home to an array of exotic and lush tropics and natural habitats. So, do not forget to carry your camera to capture pictures of rare species that you spot here. Listed below are the flora and fauna you will find here during your visit:
- You will find trees such as horse chestnut, Robinia, fir, deodar, walnut, poplar, maple, willow, rhododendrons and junipers.
- Tourists can spot here fauna which includes Tree Creepers, Koklass Pheasant, Western Tragopan, Snow pigeons and Chakor. Besides, you can also spot Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, Himalayan Palm Civet, Kashmiri Flying Squirrel, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer and Flying Fox.
- Other attractions include snakes and a variety of reptiles that you can spot here.
Best time to visit
Although Manali Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh is open throughout the year, the best time to visit this location is from October to February. You can spot flora and fauna during this time. However, if you are an adventure enthusiast, the best time to visit is during May and June.
Extended across 3180 hectares in area, and surrounded by dense tropics, the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is embedded with breathtaking scenic beauty adored by nature and adventure seekers. Walking around the sanctuary you can enjoy these bewitching snow-capped mountains afar and set in the backdrop. This location is an ideal tourist destination for those wanting to enjoy themselves amidst blissful solitude.