Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary Himachal Pradesh | Wildlife, Trekking & Travel Guide

Located deep within the rugged mountains of Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, the Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the region’s most untouched and biologically rich protected areas. Sprawling across 504 sq. km, this sanctuary lies between the Satluj River valley and the high Himalayan ranges, making it a spectacular corridor of biodiversity, alpine meadows, and dense forests.

Similar to the serene environment of Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary, Rupi Bhaba offers tranquility, pristine trekking routes, rare wildlife sightings, and breathtaking nature experiences — but on a grander and wilder scale. 

Highlights of Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary

•  Home to snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, serow, goral, and brown bear

•  Known for rare Himalayan birds — Western Tragopan, Cheer Pheasant, Monal

•  Forests of oak, deodar, fir, spruce, and birch

•  Adventure-friendly landscapes ideal for trekking & nature expeditions

•  Untouched alpine pastures and glacier-fed streams

•  One of Himachal’s most significant protected high-altitude ecosystems

Location

Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Kinnaur, extending from the Rupi Valley to the Bhaba Valley.
It lies close to:

• 12 km from Wangtu

• 40 km from Reckong Peo

• 220 km from Shimla

Its terrain varies from 1,500 m to over 5,000 m, offering sharp climatic changes and rich biodiversity. 

Flora

The sanctuary’s vegetation shifts dramatically with altitude:

Lower & Mid Elevations

• Blue Pine

• Deodar

• Oak

• Horse Chestnut

• Maple

Upper Regions

• Birch

• Rhododendron

• Juniper

• Alpine grasses

High Altitude Zones

• Sparse vegetation

• Rock slopes & glacial meadows

These unique vegetation belts support diverse wildlife and serve as important ecological zones. 

Fauna

Rupi Bhaba is home to some of the most iconic Himalayan species:

Mammals

•  Snow Leopard

•  Himalayan Musk Deer

•  Himalayan Brown Bear

•  Goral

• Serow

• Himalayan Weasel

• Leopard & Langur

Birds

• Western Tragopan

• Cheer Pheasant

• Himalayan Monal

• Snow Partridge

• Himalayan Griffon

This sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, especially during early mornings and post-monsoon months.

Conservation Importance

Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary holds immense ecological value:

• Acts as a major snow leopard conservation zone

• Protects threatened species like Western Tragopan & Musk Deer

• Safeguards alpine meadows and high-altitude watersheds

• Connects with Pin Valley National Park, ensuring wildlife movement

• Supports medicinal plant diversity used by local communities

• A key area in Himachal’s Himalayan biodiversity conservation network 

Best Time to Visit

Season	Months	Why Visit
Summer	May–July	Ideal temperatures, open trekking routes
Autumn	Sept–Oct	Best birdwatching, clear views
Late Spring	April	Blooming flora, pleasant weather

How to Reach

By Air

• Shimla / Jubbarhatti Airport (closest major airport)

• Kullu Airport is another option, ~255 km away

By Rail

• Nearest railhead: Shimla Railway Station

By Road

• Well-connected via NH-5

• Regular buses to Wangtu, Tapri, Reckong Peo

From Wangtu, local taxis can take you toward the sanctuary access points.

Where to Stay

• Forest Rest Houses (FRH) near Bhaba Valley

• Homestays at Kafnoo, Wangtu, and Reckong Peo

• Campsites for trekkers

• Hotels in Sangla, Peo, and Tapri

Things to Do in Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary

✔️ Trekking

Routes from Kafnoo to Bhaba Pass (connecting to Pin Valley) are popular among trekkers.

✔️ Birdwatching

Spot Himalayan pheasants in oak–fir forest zones.

✔️ Photography

Magnificent landscapes, glacial lakes, and wildlife.

✔️ Nature Trails & Village Walks

Explore the cultural-rich villages of Kinnaur.

Nearby Attractions

• Bhaba Valley – Stunning alpine landscapes

• Pin Valley National Park – Known for snow leopards and ibex

• Sangla Valley – Apple orchards and Baspa River views

• Chitkul – India’s last village

• Reckong Peo – Gateway to Kinnaur Kailash 

FAQ – Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Where is Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary located?

It is located between Rupi and Bhaba valleys in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh.

2. What wildlife can be spotted?

Snow leopards, musk deer, serow, brown bear, goral, and many pheasant species.

3. Is trekking allowed?

Yes — especially the famous Bhaba Pass Trek.

4. What is the best season to visit?

May–July and September–October.

5. Are permits required?

Certain trekking routes (like Bhaba Pass) require permits from the Forest Department.

PAA – People Also Ask

Q1. How large is Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary?

It spans approximately 504 sq. km, making it one of Himachal’s vast sanctuaries.

Q2. Is Rupi Bhaba good for snow leopard sightings?

Yes — high-altitude zones are part of the snow leopard landscape.

Q3. What makes Rupi Bhaba special?

Its mix of high-altitude meadows, rare Himalayan wildlife, scenic valleys, and remote trekking routes.

Q4. Is it suitable for beginners?

Lower forest trails are beginner-friendly; high-altitude treks require experience.

Conclusion

The Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary is a masterpiece of Himalayan wilderness — vast, raw, and untouched. Its forests, valleys, and mountain peaks protect some of the rarest wildlife on earth, offering travelers an immersive nature experience.

Just like the calm and scenic Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary, Rupi Bhaba provides serenity, but with a more dramatic landscape and adventure-rich environment. Whether you’re a trekker, photographer, wildlife lover, or simply seeking Himalayan beauty, Rupi Bhaba is a destination that stays with you forever.