DACHIGAM NATIONAL PARK

About Dachigam National Park

• Prime Day & Hours: Weekdays (Monday to Friday), Morning between 5:30 AM - 08:00 AM & Late afternoon between 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Suggested Duration: Around 4-5 hours
• Tickets: Online and Offline
• Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station, 32 km away
• Nearest Airport: Srinagar, 22 km away
• Nearest Bus Stop: The New Theed general bus stand, 12 km away

Dachigam National Park, located 22 km from Srinagar, is a pristine wildlife sanctuary spanning 141 sq km in the Himalayas. Famous for its rich biodiversity, it is the last refuge of the endangered Kashmiri stag (Hangul) and home to leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and over 150 bird species. It is a must-visit destination for those exploring Kashmir tour packages, offering a unique blend of wildlife, adventure, and tranquillity. 

In the park, you can enjoy thrilling jeep safaris, scenic trekking trails, and birdwatching tours, offering breathtaking encounters with nature. The park is divided into Lower Dachigam, ideal for wildlife spotting, and Upper Dachigam, known for its rugged treks and stunning alpine meadows. With its serene landscapes, crystal-clear streams, and dense forests, Dachigam is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. Whether you seek thrilling encounters or peaceful escapes, Dachigam National Park, one of the famous places to visit in Srinagar, provides an unforgettable experience.

Must-Try Experiences:

• Have Wildlife Encounters on Jeep Safaris- Embark on an exciting jeep safari through Dachigam’s dense forests and rugged terrains and see rare wildlife like the endangered Hangul deer, leopards, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer. Talking about things to do in Srinagar, you can opt for early morning and late afternoon safaris to get the best chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
• Explore Breathtaking Himalayan Trails- When discussing things to do in Kashmir, you can explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes through thrilling treks. These treks will take you from Lower Dachigam’s lush meadows to Upper Dachigam’s alpine terrains. 
• Spot Rare Birds in Himalayan Haven- With over 150 species of birds, including the golden eagle, Kashmir flycatcher, and Himalayan monal, Dachigam is a haven for birdwatchers. You can bring your binoculars and enjoy spotting some of the rarest and most colourful avian species thriving in this pristine Himalayan ecosystem.

Dachigam National Park Highlights

• See diverse wildlife including exotic Himalayan species like leopards, musk deer, and black bears in their natural habitat while exploring the park.
• Enjoy thrilling treks and guided jeep safaris through dense forests and see breathtaking mountains, lush green valleys, and waterfalls.
• Get to know about conservation efforts as the park protects the endangered Hangul deer, the rare Kashmiri Stag.
• Be amazed by watching more than 150 bird species, including the golden eagle and Kashmir flycatcher in this birdwatcher’s paradise.
• Explore Dachigam National Park in Jammu & Kashmir and admire its untouched beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique Himalayan ecosystem.

How To Reach Dachigam National Park

By Road: Dachigam National Park is 22 km from Srinagar's city centre and can be reached in 40-50 minutes via the Srinagar-Ganderbal Road. Taxis and private vehicles are the most convenient options, as public transport is limited.

Best Time To Visit Dachigam National Park

Peak Season (April to June)

• Weather Insights: Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C 
• Things to Do: Ideal for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and jeep safaris, as animals are more active during this time. Trekking through the park’s scenic trails is also a must-try experience.

Shoulder Season (September to November)

• Weather Insights: Cool and crisp autumn air with temperatures between 5°C to 20°C
• Things to Do: Perfect for trekking, nature walks, and photography, as the park in Srinagar in winter​ transforms into a breathtaking mix of red, orange, and yellow foliage.

Waning Season (December to March)

• Weather Insights: Harsh winters with a temperature range of -10°C to 10°C, heavy snowfall, subzero temperatures, and frozen streams
• Things to Do: Limited activities due to extreme weather, but winter enthusiasts can enjoy snow-covered landscapes, serene walks, and rare glimpses of high-altitude wildlife.

Dachigam National Park Other Essential Information

Why Visit Dachigam National Park?

• Established in 1910, Dachigam National Park was initially created to ensure a clean water supply for Srinagar before becoming a wildlife sanctuary.
• The park’s varying altitudes, ranging from 1,700 to 4,300 meters, create multiple ecosystems, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna.
• It experiences all four seasons distinctly, with each offering a unique landscape, from snow-covered peaks in winter to blooming meadows in summer.
• The park plays a crucial role in scientific research and wildlife conservation, with ongoing efforts to protect endangered species and study Himalayan biodiversity.
• Dachigam remains one of the least disturbed national parks in India, offering an unspoiled, tranquil experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Know Before You Go:

• Entry permit is required so you must obtain an entry permit from the Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife Department before entering the park.
• Please note that no public transport is available and private vehicles or taxis are the only way to reach the park.
• You should wear sturdy shoes, carry binoculars, sunscreen, water, and light snacks, and dress in layers due to unpredictable weather.
• Loud noises can disturb wildlife so you should maintain silence and avoid littering to preserve the park’s natural environment.