The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary located near Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Spread over an area of 31 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is situated at an altitude ranging from 3,292 feet to 4,724 feet above sea level, making it a perfect habitat for a variety of species. The sanctuary is located about 31 kilometers east of Gangtok and can be reached by a scenic drive through the lush green forests of Sikkim.
The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days of the week.
There is a nominal entry fee of INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 100 for foreign nationals to visit the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary.
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Red Panda, Himalayan Tahr, and various species of birds and butterflies. The lush green forests are filled with rhododendrons, orchids, and other Himalayan flora.
Visitors to the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary can indulge in activities such as nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. The sanctuary is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of nature.
For those looking to explore the sanctuary in a more adventurous way, jeep safaris are available at an additional cost. The charges for a jeep safari vary depending on the duration and route chosen.
There is no specific age criterion for entry into the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. The entry fee for adults is INR 50, while children below the age of 10 can enter for free.
The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for senior citizens to explore the area. There are also rest areas and benches scattered throughout the sanctuary for visitors to take a break and enjoy the serene surroundings.
The best time to visit the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is during the spring and summer months, from April to June. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the flora and fauna are at their most vibrant.
While visiting the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, tourists can also explore nearby attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass, which are all within a short driving distance from the sanctuary.
Visitors to the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary can avail of the vehicle parking facilities available at the entrance of the sanctuary. There are designated parking spaces for cars, buses, and two-wheelers.
Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while exploring the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, such as maintaining the cleanliness of the area, refraining from feeding the wildlife, and not disturbing the natural habitat of the animals.
The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary can be reached by road from Gangtok, with regular bus and taxi services available. The nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport, which is about 125 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri, which is approximately 148 kilometers away.
Overall, the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Sikkim's Himalayan region.