Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural haven in northern India's scenic state of Himachal Pradesh. The sanctuary covers an area of 1962 hectares and is situated in the Chamba district at an altitude ranging from 1185 meters to 2768 meters above sea level. The shelter is named after Kalatop Peak, one of the region's main attractions.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and bird watchers. The sanctuary has diverse flora and fauna, including oak, deodar, rhododendron, and pine forests. The cover is also known for its abundant wildlife, including Himalayan black bears, barking deer, langurs, jackals, leopards, and various bird species.
The sanctuary is also ideal for trekking, hiking, and camping. Visitors can enjoy the serene natural beauty of the region and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Several trekking trails in the sanctuary offer different levels of difficulty, ranging from easy to challenging. The popular trekking routes in the refuge are the Kalatop-Khajjiar trek, the Dainkund peak trek, and the Khajji Nag temple trek.
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is also an important destination for bird watching. The sanctuary is home to various bird species, including Eurasian jay, black-headed jay, Himalayan monal, and koklass pheasant. The best time to visit the shelter for bird watching is from March to June and September to November.
The sanctuary also has some cultural and historical significance. The refuge is home to several ancient temples and shrines, including the Khajji Nag temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated amidst thick forests and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate wood carvings.
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Himachal Pradesh. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty, experience wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and bird-watching. The sanctuary is easily accessible from the nearby town of Dalhousie, which is well connected by road and rail to the major cities in northern India.
Dalhousie is a popular hill station located near Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, pleasant weather, and colonial-era charm. You can explore attractions like St. John's Church, Subhash Baoli, and Khajjiar (also known as Mini Switzerland) and enjoy leisurely walks amidst the beautiful landscapes.
Khajjiar is a scenic hill station called the "Mini Switzerland of India." It is located approximately 22 kilometres from Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Khajjiar is known for its picturesque meadows, dense forests, and a beautiful lake. You can enjoy activities like horse riding, paragliding, and taking nature walks.
Chamera Lake is an artificial lake near Dalhousie, approximately 35 kilometres from Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. It offers a tranquil environment surrounded by scenic hills. You can enjoy boating, fishing, and relaxing by the lakeside.
Dainkund Peak, also known as the Singing Hill, is the highest peak in Dalhousie. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped mountains. You can trek to the rise and admire the breathtaking vistas.
Panchpula is a picturesque spot located around 3 kilometres from Dalhousie. It is known for its pristine waterfalls, refreshing streams, and a memorial dedicated to the freedom fighter Sardar Ajit Singh. You can take a stroll, have a picnic, and enjoy the place's natural beauty.
These are some of the places you can visit near Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh. It's advisable to plan your transportation and check the current road conditions before travelling to these locations.
Things To Do In Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary:
Wildlife Safari:
A wildlife safari is a must-do activity in the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on a jeep safari and spot wildlife such as Himalayan black bears, barking deer, langurs, jackals, leopards, and various bird species.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place for trekking enthusiasts. Several trekking trails in the sanctuary offer different levels of difficulty, ranging from easy to challenging. The popular trekking routes in the refuge are the Kalatop-Khajjiar trek, the Dainkund peak trek, and the Khajji Nag temple trek.
Bird Watching:
The sanctuary is home to various bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can spot bird species such as the Eurasian jay, black-headed jay, Himalayan monal, and koklass pheasant.
Camping is a popular activity in Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can set up tents and camp in the forest amidst the region's natural beauty.
Nature Walk:
Visitors can stroll through the forest and enjoy the serene natural beauty of the region. The sanctuary is filled with oak, deodar, rhododendron, and pine forests, making it a great place for nature walks.
Visit Ancient Temples and Shrines:
The sanctuary is home to several ancient temples and shrines, including the Khajji Nag temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can explore these temples and learn about the cultural and historical significance of the region.
Photography:
The sanctuary offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and natural beauty, making it a paradise for photographers. Visitors can capture stunning photographs of the sanctuary's wildlife, flora, and fauna.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty, experience the wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and bird-watching.