Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

Manali Sanctuary, Manali Overview

A visit to Manali is no doubt incomplete without a holiday at the Manali Sanctuary, which is an astounding and impressive wildlife sanctuary located in Himachal Pradesh. The wildlife sanctuary is at a walking distance from the main town and city centre of Manali and is the ideal spot to explore the rich flora and fauna that the place harbours. Other than opportunities of sighting a variety of these reptiles, birds, animals and mammals; Manali Sanctuary also has ample options that will entice the adventurous and fun loving soul. These include the fabulous trekking routes and camping facilities. The Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is no doubt a paradise on Earth for all animal and nature lovers who flock here in large numbers to experience what this heaven feels like.

The Manali Sanctuary commences from just behind the town and extends all the way up in the mountains behind the hill station. It was officially declared as a sanctuary in the year 1954 on 26 February, under the Punjab Birds and Wild Animals Protection Act of 1933. Spread over an area of just 31.80 square kilometres, the sanctuary, nevertheless, has everything that you would expect from a typical shelter. It is home to all kinds of species of flora and fauna: rare, endangered as well as common; such as the Himalayan Black Bear, Kashmir flying Squirrel, Himalayan Palm Civet, Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, Barking Deer, Flying Fox, etc.

What the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary provides in addition to the usual biological diversity and adventure sports is its breathtaking scenic beauty. Visitors get to explore snow-capped mountains, alpine trees and the picturesque beauty of the surroundings, all at the same time. The place is the ideal tourist spot for honeymooners and couples who want to enjoy themselves in blissful solitude and capture their memories in the form of beautiful pictures forever.

Flora and Fauna at Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

There is ample vegetation in the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, which makes the area a suitable habitat for a number of species of animals to grow and prosper. Below the tree line, dense forests of oak and conifers can be found, along with fir, deodar, horse chestnut, walnut, maple, willow, poplar and Robinia trees. At higher altitudes, the area is dominated by junipers and rhododendrons.

The faunal species at the Manali Sanctuary includes birds, animals and reptiles. The Kolkass pheasant is easily spotted in the sanctuary due to its silver-grey coloured plumage and white coloured patches on the neck. Other prominent bird species include the treecreepers, western tragopan, snow pigeon, Himalayan Monal, chakor, bar throated minla, snow partridge, rufous-bellied niltava, kingfisher, green-backed tit and the Himalayan snowcock amongst others.
Mammals that can be found in the sanctuary include the brown bear, Asiatic black bear, barking deer, snow leopard, musk deer, and jungle cat. Other snakes and lizards are also found in the sanctuary.

Activities & Things To Do at Manali Sanctuary

The best way to spend your time and enjoy yourself while on vacation at the Manali Sanctuary is to indulge in the nature trails, bird watching, wildlife viewing and trekking activities that this marvellous place offers. And of course, a walk in the sanctuary with your loved ones is an unbeatable and unmatched experience.

Numerous trekking routes, ranging from easy climbs to difficult ones, pass through the sanctuary and primarily appeal to all those who want to experience an adrenaline rush. Camping at the Manali Sanctuary under the starlit sky is yet another unparalleled experience. The sanctuary allows camping only in the summer months. Visitors are also granted permission to stay in the camps at Gallant thatch or Lambadug during this time period.

Best Time to Visit Manali Sanctuary

The best time to visit the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to February when the mountains are snow-capped, and the surroundings are livelier. In case you wish to enjoy trekking, you should opt to visit this sanctuary during the summer months of May and June.

Tips for Visiting Manali Sanctuary

1. Teasing of animals is strictly not allowed inside the premises of the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary.
2. Plastic is banned inside the sanctuary, and littering is strictly prohibited.
3. The Great Himalayan National Park and the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary are the other important wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh, so do not give these places a miss while you visit the Manali Sanctuary.

How To Reach Manali Sanctuary

The Manali Wildlife sanctuary is located just two kilometres away from the famous hill station of Manali, which is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh in India.

You can reach Manali via air, road or railways. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar, which is also known as the Kullu Manali Airport and is 50 kilometres away from Manali. Ahuja Railway Station is the nearest railway station. Manali is also well connected to other major towns and cities via roads.

From the centre of Manali, the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is just a few minutes' walk.