Manali Sanctuary, One of the Top Tourist Attractions in the Region

Manali Sanctuary is one of the top of the top tourist attraction of the region. This wildlife sanctuary is situated at a distance of about 2 km from the renowned hill station of Manali in Kullu district, in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh.

 It is placed at an altitude of 2,273 to 5,173 m above sea level.  Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 3,180 hectares and is a home to diverse species of flora and fauna.  It was established in the year 1954, in February.

The area of the sanctuary begins behind the town and stretches over the mountains behind this pristine hill station. This sanctuary is one of the best places to visit while on a tour to Manali as it includes stunning glaciers and dense lush green forests, which is inhabited by different species of birds and wild animals.

Flora: As the sanctuary is located in the northwest Himalayan zone, it includes forests of moist temperate deciduous, sub tropical pine, alpine pastures and western mixed coniferous types. The trees that are found in the lower altitude of this sanctuary are fir, deodar, horse chestnut, poplar, walnut, robinia, willow trees and maple. The ones that are found in the higher altitudes are rhododendrons and junipers.

Fauna: This wildlife sanctuary of Manali has a wide range of wild animals, birds and reptiles. Among birds that are found in this reason, the Kolkass pheasant is easily spotted with its silver grey colored plumage and white colored patches on the neck. 

Other species of birds that are found in this sanctuary are snow pigeon, tree creepers, green backed tit, western tragopan, bar throated minla , chakor, Himalayan monal, rufous bellied niltava, kingfisher, snow partridge and Himalayan snow-cock. 

The different species of mammals that are found in this sanctuary are snow leopard, musk deer, Asiatic black bear, brown bear, Himalayan ibex, barking deer, and jungle cat. Diverse varieties of reptiles are also found in this sanctuary.

Things to do: Ones who are looking for some adventure at this sanctuary can opt for the various trekking routes that are provided in this region. These routes involve both difficult as well as easy climbs. The best time for trekking in this region is from May to June. 

The sanctuary also provides camping during the summers at Lambadug or Gallant thatch. Apart from these, the general activities that you can do in this sanctuary are bird watching and wildlife viewing. Please do not litter around and keep the sanctuary clean.

Climate: The temperature of the wildlife sanctuary ranges from -4 degree Celsius to 30 degree Celsius. The region receives an annual rainfall of around 1,080 millimeters.

Accommodation

As the sanctuary is just at a short distance from Manali, the hill station provides various luxurious as well as budget hotels, resorts and cottages.

Best Time to Visit

Though the sanctuary can be visited through the year, the best time to visit is from October to February.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to this sanctuary is Bhuntar Airport.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to this sanctuary is Pathankot Railway Station.

By Road: As the sanctuary is located at a close distance from the main town of Manali, it is easily accessible through various kinds of transports.