GHNP - Great Himalayan National Park

A UNESCO world heritage site, the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a fascinating destination. Situated in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, the pristine nature here is speckled with snow capped Himalayan peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows and coniferous forests that attract trekkers, bird watchers and nature lovers from across the globe.

In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The Unesco World Heritage Site Committee granted the status to the park under the criteria of "outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation".

The Great Himalayan National park is pure trekking country, spread over an area of 1,171km2 that lies at an altitude of 1500 - 6000m. The spectacular beauty of the park unravels through time spent in exploration on foot through a multitude of trails available in the gorgeous wilderness. Most of the areas of the park have remained unexplored, because of the sheer difficulty of the terrain, which lends the place a unique thrill and rawness that few other parks in the country can offer. 

Home to some of the finest eco systems in the world, there are numerous habitats to explore. Spectacular views from high altitudes, pristine rivers and brooks, lush forests of oak, conifer, gentle alpine meadows, swift flowing rivers, high elevation glaciers, jungle trails and its wildlife make the park a photographers paradise.

With a bit of luck, there could be opportunities to observe endangered species of the Western Himalayas in their natural habitat. The most strikingly coloured Monal pheasants and Western Tragopan are found here. The Himalayan red fox, civet, Ghoral, Bharal (blue sheep), Giant Indian Flying Squirrel, brown and black bear and the most elusive of them all the snow leopard call the park their home.

Causal hikers and serious trekkers alike can find a wide range of trails from relatively easy day walks, to challenging 1 week or longer treks through arduous and spectacular terrain. 

The Tirthan sanctuary, Rupi Bhaba and Pin Valley National Park were merged to form the Great Himalayan National Park in 1989. The complete park is run according to strict eco-tourism policies.

Park Open : Throughout the year

Best Season : December - February for Snow Leopards

Main Attraction : Himalayan red fox, civet, Ghoral, Bharal (blue sheep), Giant Indian Flying Squirrel, brown and black bear and the most elusive of them all the snow leopard.  

Avifauna : Western Tragopan. Four other species of pheasant,Monal,Raptors - Lammergeiers, Himalayan Griffon Vultures and Golden Eagles. A great variety of other birds occurs (a total of 209 species).

Shortest Route : Fly to Kullu and drive to GHNP

State : Himachal Pradesh

Area : 1,171 sq. km

Altitude: 1,500 - 5,800 m

Vegetation : Thin high-alpine desert

Major City: Kullu (25 km)

Airport : Kullu (25 km)

Railway Station : NA