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Manali Wildlife Sanctuary Overview

Located only two kilometres from Manali, this wildlife sanctuary is a naturalistic paradise that spreads over 3,000 hectares. The terrain here is characterized by lush green forests and snow capped mountains. On a trip to this sanctuary, you are always inundated with the sights and sounds of colourful birds and exotic flora and fauna.

While deodar, fir, chestnut, walnut and robinia are the most commonly found vegetation in this sanctuary, you can also easily spot snow leopards, brown bears, musk deer and ibex herds in the picturesque vicinity of the sanctuary.

Addition to this, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for the birdwatchers and the shutterbugs. Amongst the many rare and exotic species, a plenitude of tree creepers, kokla and kingfisher are the most commonly found species.

Also check: Must to do things in Manali

Encapsulated with lush tropics and rich species of wildlife creatures, the Manali Sanctuary is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Manali. Built and proclaimed as a sanctuary for wildlife under the Punjab Birds and Wild Animals Protection Act of 1933 in the year 1954, the Manali Sanctuary holds a number of reptiles, mammals, birds, and various other animal culture. The sanctuary also homes a trekking route and various camps inside its premise making it an instant attraction for adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Spread in a massive 3180 hectares of area, the top tourist magnets in the area includes a series of endangered wildlife creatures like Kashmiri Flying Squirrel, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, Barking Deer, Flying Fox, Himalayan Palm Civet and more. Surrounded by a dense tropics of a varied kind, the Manali Sanctuary is also embedded with picturesque natural magnificence adored by nature-lovers. Walking around the sanctuary tourists are able to relish these bewitching hills set in the backdrop.

Trees like willow, pine, poplar and Robinia, maple, deodar, fir are few of the many species of the tropics the sanctuary is decorated with. Additionally, visitors here enjoy a series of activities like bird watching, natural tails and walking amidst the true essence of nature, the hills, among other adventures like hiking and camping. All in all, the adorable beauty of the Manali Sanctuary packed with a host of wildlife species, dense towering trees and hills, the place is a must-visit among tourists who tour Manali for a holiday with family and friends. Experience the enchanting wonders of the Manali Sanctuary firsthand by booking our exclusive Manali holiday package. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of nature as you explore this sanctuary, where adventure and tranquility converge. 

How To Reach

The nearest airport from Manali Sanctuary is the Kullu - Manali Airport which is at an approximate distance of 51 kilometers. There are several options visitors can employ to travel. To start with, Private cab service can be hired from the airport that will drop the tourists directly at the Manali Sanctuary. Public transportation like bus service is also available at timely and frequent hours from the airport for the Sanctuary. 

The bus will drop the travelers at the main bus stop in the Manali city from where the sanctuary is about 2 kilometers and local transportation service is available to travel from here. Although traveling by bus is amongst the cheapest option to use, it is always preferred to go for a private cab, especially if you are with a large group of family or friends. However, if you are traveling solo, go for the bus service. Many air-conditioned buses also run between the airport and Manali city.

Best Time To Visit

Although the Manali Sanctuary is open all day throughout the year, the best time to enjoy a visit to this place is between the months of October and February. During this time the atmosphere is cold and cozy and the mountains are draped with snow, making the place a magnificent delight of nature. Many wildlife creatures and birds also come out more often and at much more visible around this time of the year.

However, if you are an adventurer looking to trek through the majestic lands of the Sanctuary, the best time to visit is during the summer season between the months of May and June. Camping can also be much enjoyed during these months in the Sanctuary. Additionally, if you are visiting Manali Sanctuary for sightseeing the best time to tour the place in the day is early in the morning between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The entire exploration can take up to 4 hours.

Other Essential Information

- Location: Manali Sanctuary, Circuit House Marg, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

- Distance from Nearest Airport: The nearest airport from Manali Sanctuary is the Kullu-Manali Airport which is close to 51 kilometers away. It takes around 1 hr 30 minutes to reach the sanctuary from the airport through the NH3 route. 

History of Manali Sanctuary

The magnificent Manali Sanctuary that is spread across in an area of more than 31 square kilometers of territory was declared as a land to preserve the endangered flora and fauna on 26 February in the year 1954. The same was fashioned under the Punjab Birds and Wild Animals Protection Act of 1933. Since its creation, many wildlife creatures have found themselves a home at the Manali Sanctuary. Throughout the years a number of changes have been made in the sanctuary and rare, endangered wildlife creatures have been bought in for conservation from time to time.

Flora at Manali Sanctuary

The Manali sanctuary holds an array of exotic and lush tropics. These include a spread of oak trees that the sanctuary is surrounded by. Visitors can also enjoy trees like fir, deodar, walnut, horse chestnut, Robinia, poplar, maple and willow at the lower three lines of the sanctuary. As tourists ascent towards the hilly region of the sanctuary, they can find various other rare species of tropics including rhododendrons and junipers. In short, the Manali Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of trees making the place an absolute delight of nature. 

Fauna at Manali Sanctuary 

The Manali Sanctuary is also home to a number of extraordinary and fascinating animals. The species of fauna here range from exotic birds to animals and even mammals. Birds like Koklass Pheasant, Snow pigeon, Chakor, Western Tragopan, and Tree Creepers are commonly spotted by tourists here. 

Talking about animals, the sanctuary holds both common as well as rare species of animals including Kashmiri Flying Squirrel, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, Barking Deer, Flying Fox, Himalayan Palm Civet. Other attractions including snakes and a varied of reptiles are also spotted throughout the Manali Sanctuary making it a complete shed for all kinds of species. 

Places to Stay near Manali Sanctuary

1. Hotel Manali Mahal by DLS Hotels: Pocket-friendly and comfortable, this hotel comes with amenities that include free wifi, free parking, room service and more. 

2. Johnson Lodge & Spa: With a distinct architecture that depicts the local culture, the Johnson Lodge is fitted with various luxurious including a spa, room service, free wifi, and parking among others. The place can also accommodate up to 6 guests and comes with a terrace and a warm fireplace. 

3. Hotel Kanishka Manali: With the backdrop of the glorious mountains of Manali, the Kanishka Hotel offers an alluring view of the valleys from each room. Amenities like a pool, free wifi, restaurant, and free parking are provided by the hotel. 

Places to Eat near Manali Sanctuary 

1. The Johnson's Cafe and Hotel: Enjoy a delicious meal sitting amidst the valleys of Manali at Johnson's Cafes open-air terrace. Favored among many tourists, the place offers a variety of Indian, Italian and Continental dishes. 

2. The Corner House Restaurant: Acknowledged for top customer service and flavorful food, the Corner House Restaurant is a family fiddly place that offers various Indian, Italian and American cuisines. 

3. Chopsticks Restaurant: One of the best places to enjoy a wholesome meal, Chopsticks Restaurant provides a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, much enjoyed by the visitors. The place is preferred by tourists for its wide variety of Indian and Chinese food options. 

Tips for Visiting Manali Sanctuary 

1. Carry your camera because the Manali Sanctuary has a bewitching beauty and rich collection of flora and fauna and you would not want to miss out on capturing any aspect of the place. 

2. Carry water: It can take up to 4 hours to completely explore the Manali Sanctuary and you'll need to stay hydrated. 

3. Wear shoes: These are a lot of walking to do and hence, shoes rather than any other type of footwear should be preferred. 

4. Take proper precautions of your skin, wear clothes according to the weather and put all kinds of skin protection to prevent yourself from the cold atmosphere especially during the winter season. 

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Point of Interest for Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
Pray
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Pray

Residing in the vicinity of Manali Sanitary are a number of temples, the closest one being the Siyali Mahadev Temple. Visitors and devotees can visit these temples and relish a great time praying in serenity. 

Trek
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Trek

Manali is celebrated for its magnificent trekking route and visitors can indulge in the same near Manali Sanctuary. Trekking here is even more spectacular during the winters between the months of October and November. 

Zorbing and Paragliding
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Zorbing and Paragliding

Sailing though in the mesmerizing sky of Manali, paragliding is an adventure celebrated among thrill-seekers who visit Manali. Places like Khajjiar are the perfect spot to enjoy such activities. 

Rafting
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Rafting

The adventures at Manali don't stop. Voyaging against the tides in the rocky river, rafting is a once in a lifetime experience at Manali. The activity can be enjoyed in a group with family and friends and is one of the most exciting experiences. 

Camping
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Camping

Spending a day amidst the wildlife of Manali Sanctuary can truly be an extraordinary experience. There are a number of campsites found in the sanctuary and adventures, especially hikers, can choose to spend a night under the twinkling stars, surrounded by lush green tropics. 

Bird Watching
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Bird Watching

Manali Sanctuary is home to some of the most exotic birds in India. From Koklass Pheasant, Snow pigeon to Chakor, Western Tragopan, and Tree Creepers, a varied species of bird can be spotted at the sanctuary. Visitors can spend hours trailing through nature, spotting these exotic birds.

Hadimba Temple
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Hadimba Temple

An ancient holy place of worship, the Hadimba temple is found in the dense tropics of Manali. The temple is dedicated to the wife of Bhima, Hidimba Devi. Built-in the year 1553 by Bahadur Singh, the temple homes a shrine of the Hidimba Devi and various carvings. Additionally, the temple is surrounded by the Cedar forest which gives it an even more mystical look. 

Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art
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Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art

A beautifully designed Museum displaying the intricate details of the rich culture and folk art of Manali, the Museum of Himachal is a place worth visiting. Although it is small, the museum is of great importance in keeping the cultures and ancient traditions of Himachal alive and it does that through its collection of wood stones, clays, artifacts and more. 

Jogini Falls
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Jogini Falls

Dazzling water falling through the rocky terrace from an astounding height of 150 feet, the Jogini falls is an incredible attraction found in the Vashisht Village. Visitors can trek to the fall and enjoy a chilling bath in the pond found right underneath the fall. At the core of the fall also lies a small temple of Jogini Mata and is one of the most sacred spots for localities in the village. 

Manali Bazaar
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Manali Bazaar

Encapsulated with a wide variety of shopping and dining options, Manali Bazar is a preferred spot among tourists. Shop for local ornaments and traditional style clothes, enjoy a scrumptious meal with local flavors or just walk around the market in peace, there is a lot one can do at Manali Bazar. 

Tourism Board Alliances

Manali Wildlife Sanctuary FAQs

Is Manali worth visiting?

Yes. One of the most glamorous places in the county, Manali offers a number of tourist attractions including Manali Sanctuary, Jogini Falls and Hadimba Temple among others. Activities like rafting, trekking, camping, paragliding, bird watching and more are much enjoyed in the beautiful city of Manali.

Why is Manali famous?

Manali is famous for a number of reasons. From it's a rich collection of flora found at the Manali Sanctuary to the cold cozy weather, there is a lot to admire at Manali. The City also has a rich history displayed in an array of ancient temples and monasteries.

How far is Rohtang Pass from Manali?

Rohtang Pass is at a distance of 51 kilometers from Manali which can take up to 2 hours to reach via Leh Manali Highway.

What is there to do in Manali at night?

There are a ton of things to do in Manali at night. Starting from camping amidst the dense forest of the city to partying at clubs like Chelsea and The Buzz, there is a lot to explore in Manali at night.

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