Nestled in the breathtaking Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene, alpine wilderness known for its untouched forests, rugged Himalayan slopes, and rare high-altitude wildlife.
Part of the Western Himalayas, this sanctuary is ideal for wildlife lovers, trekkers, and nature photographers seeking silence, scenic beauty, and raw Himalayan terrain.
Just like the wetlands of Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Tundah is an ecological treasure—only here, the landscapes shift from deep valleys to snow-draped ridges, offering a completely different kind of wilderness.
Wildlife at Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is home to some of the rarest and most elusive Himalayan species.
Major Mammals
-
Snow Leopard
-
Himalayan Musk Deer
-
Himalayan Tahr
-
Himalayan Black Bear
-
Ibex
-
Barking Deer
-
Goral
Birds
-
Monal
-
Himalayan Snowcock
-
Koklass Pheasant
-
Griffon Vulture
-
Red-billed Chough
Reptiles
-
Himalayan pit vipers
-
Cold-climate lizard species
Flora & Landscape
Tundah’s landscape is dominated by:
-
Dense deodar, blue pine, and kail forests
-
High-altitude grasslands and rocky slopes
-
Alpine meadows blooming with wildflowers during summer
-
Snow-covered ridges in winter
This mix of forests and alpine terrain creates excellent habitat diversity.
Conservation Importance
Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary plays an important ecological role:
✔ Protects snow leopard habitat, a globally threatened species
✔ Preserves musk deer and ibex populations
✔ Maintains fragile Himalayan alpine ecosystems
✔ Acts as a corridor between Kugti and Kalatop–Khajjiar sanctuaries
✔ Supports biodiversity crucial for climate resilience in the western Himalayas
Its conservation efforts help maintain ecological balance in Chamba’s high mountains.
Best Time to Visit
-
April to June: Pleasant climate, best for trekking & wildlife viewing
-
September to November: Clear skies, ideal for photography
-
Winter: Extremely cold; higher areas inaccessible due to snow
How to Reach
-
Nearest Town: Chamba (35 km)
-
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (170 km)
-
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot (120 km)
-
By Road: Well connected to Chamba, Dalhousie, Bharmour
Jeep rides and treks are common ways to explore the sanctuary.
Nearby Attractions
1. Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary (Adjacent)
Another high-altitude sanctuary known for snow leopards & pristine meadows.
2. Bharmour (25 km)
The ancient land of Gaddi tribes with 84 historic temples.
3. Khajjiar (40 km)
Known as “Mini Switzerland of India” with pine meadows & lakes.
4. Chamba Town
Rang Mahal, Bhuri Singh Museum & historic temples.
5. Sach Pass
A thrilling high-altitude pass offering spectacular valley views (seasonal).
FAQ – Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Where is Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary located?
It is located in Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, near Bharmour.
2. Which animals are found here?
Snow leopards, musk deer, ibex, Himalayan black bears, and monal pheasants.
3. Is trekking allowed?
Yes, guided trekking routes are available in designated zones.
4. What is the ideal visiting season?
April–June and September–November.
5. Is accommodation available nearby?
Yes, stays are available at Bharmour, Chamba, and Khajjiar.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary open throughout the year?
It remains open, but high-altitude areas are inaccessible in winter.
Are permits required to visit?
Yes, permits may be required for trekking and core-zone entry.
Is it safe to visit Tundah?
Yes, but visitors must follow forest guidelines due to wildlife presence.
Is it suitable for families?
Families can visit the peripheral zones; high-altitude treks are better for experienced travelers.
Conclusion
Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful and untouched Himalayan wilderness destinations—rich in biodiversity, alpine forests, rare wildlife, and scenic trekking routes.
Whether you dream of spotting the elusive snow leopard, wandering through quiet pine forests, or exploring the culture-rich valleys of Chamba, Tundah offers a truly magical experience.
This sanctuary stands as a reminder of the immense natural heritage of Himachal Pradesh—serene, majestic, and worth preserving.
0 comments:
Post a Comment