Perched in the outer Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is a mesmerizing mix of dense deodar forests, alpine pastures, and spiritual charm. Centered around the Churdhar Peak (3,647 m) — the highest summit in the outer Himalayas — this sanctuary is both a haven for biodiversity and a revered pilgrimage site.
From its summit, one can glimpse the distant Badrinath and Kedarnath peaks, the Gangetic plains, and even parts of Shimla and Sirmaur, making Churdhar one of Himachal’s most panoramic destinations.
Wildlife & Flora
Declared a sanctuary in 1985, Churdhar covers about 56 sq. km and harbors rich temperate and sub-alpine forests teeming with life.
Major wildlife species include:
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Himalayan Black Bear
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Leopard
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Barking Deer (Muntjac)
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Langur and Goral
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Musk Deer (rarely sighted)
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Pheasants and Monal — the state bird of Himachal Pradesh.
The forest canopy is dominated by deodar, oak, and rhododendron, while alpine herbs and ferns thrive near the higher ridges. In spring, the slopes burst with blooming rhododendrons, painting the sanctuary in vibrant red and pink hues.
Location & Geography
Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Sirmaur district, near Chaupal in Shimla district, and Nohra Dhar.
It lies within the Shivalik mountain range, forming the highest peak south of the Himachal Himalayas. The area is fed by numerous springs and small streams that nurture both the forest and surrounding villages.
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Coordinates: 30.75°N, 77.5°E
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Altitude range: 2,000 m – 3,647 m (Churdhar Peak)
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Total area: ~56.16 sq. km
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is April to June and September to November.
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Summer: Pleasant weather (10°C–25°C), ideal for trekking.
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Monsoon: Slippery trails; avoid heavy rain months.
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Autumn: Clear skies and golden forest tones.
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Winter (Dec–Mar): Snowfall covers the peak; the upper region becomes inaccessible.
How to Reach
Churdhar can be approached via multiple trekking routes, depending on your starting point:
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From Nohra Dhar (Sirmaur):
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Distance: 18 km trek to Churdhar Peak.
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Trail type: Gradual ascent through thick forests and meadows.
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From Sarain (Chaupal):
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Distance: ~8 km trek.
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Shorter and steeper route; popular with locals.
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From Haripurdhar:
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Distance: ~7 km trek.
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Offers stunning views of Sirmaur’s rolling hills and valleys.
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Nearest major town: Solan (85 km)
Nearest railhead: Solan Railway Station
Nearest airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla, 87 km)
Accommodation Options
While there are no hotels inside the sanctuary, you can stay at:
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Forest Rest Houses: Available at Nohra Dhar, Sarain, and Chaupal (book through Himachal Forest Department).
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Homestays & Guesthouses: Found in nearby villages like Nohra Dhar and Haripurdhar.
Camping: Permitted only in designated areas; carry your own gear and respect forest regulations.
Religious & Cultural Significance
The name Churdhar comes from “Churi-Chandni Dhar”, meaning “Mountain of the Silver Bangle.”
At the summit stands the Shirgul Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva — an ancient shrine that attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. Local legends associate this site with the wanderings of Lord Hanuman, who is said to have visited the peak while bringing the Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas.
Ecological Importance
Churdhar forms part of the catchment area for rivers Giri and Tons, which are lifelines for local agriculture. The sanctuary acts as a green buffer protecting soil, water, and biodiversity in the region.
It’s also an important corridor for wildlife movement between the higher Himalayas and lower forested zones, making its protection vital for Himachal’s ecological balance.
Trekking & Adventure
The Churdhar Peak Trek is one of Himachal’s most rewarding short treks, blending adventure, wildlife, and spirituality.
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Trail Difficulty: Moderate
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Trek Duration: 1–2 days
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Best Months: May–June, September–October
At the top, a colossal Lord Shiva statue overlooks the valley — a perfect spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
Travel Tips
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Start early for the trek; weather changes rapidly.
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Carry warm clothing, even in summer.
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Avoid littering or making noise inside forested sections.
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Hire local guides — they ensure safety and share rich local knowledge.
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Keep buffer days if planning to summit during unpredictable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Where is Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary located?
It is located in Sirmaur district, with access from Nohra Dhar, Haripurdhar, and Chaupal in Himachal Pradesh.
Q2. What is Churdhar famous for?
Churdhar is known for its sacred Shiva temple, the Churdhar Peak (3,647 m), and its rich Himalayan biodiversity.
Q3. How difficult is the trek to Churdhar Peak?
The trek is moderate, with well-defined forest trails. It usually takes 5–7 hours one way depending on the route.
Q4. Are permits required to visit?
No special permits are needed for Indian visitors, but overnight camping or filming may require Forest Department permission.
Q5. What wildlife can be spotted here?
Common sightings include Himalayan Black Bear, Leopard, Monal, and Goral.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Which is the highest peak in the outer Himalayas?
Churdhar Peak (3,647 m) is the highest in the outer Himalayan range.
Can I trek to Churdhar in winter?
The trails remain snowbound from December to March and are generally closed for trekking during that time.
Is Churdhar good for beginners?
Yes. The trek is moderate in difficulty and ideal for beginners with basic fitness.
How far is Churdhar from Shimla?
It’s around 110 km from Shimla via Chaupal, taking about 4–5 hours by road.
Conclusion
The Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary is more than a trek — it’s a journey into the heart of nature and spirituality. With its dense forests, sacred shrines, and sweeping Himalayan views, Churdhar captures the essence of Himachal’s wild and divine spirit.
Whether you come seeking adventure, solitude, or blessings from Shirgul Mahadev, this sanctuary promises an experience that stays etched in your heart — long after the mist fades from its silver peaks.
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