"Sacred pilgrimage site nestled in the Himalayas."
The Kedarnath Sanctuary, located in Garhwal, is a popular wildlife sanctuary in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Spread over an area of 975 square kilometers, the sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It was established in 1972 and is named after the famous Kedarnath Temple located nearby.
The Kedarnath Sanctuary is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, at an elevation ranging from 1,160 meters to 7,553 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan ranges, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys.
The sanctuary is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. It is advisable to visit during daylight hours to enjoy the wildlife and natural beauty of the sanctuary.
There is a nominal entry fee for visitors to enter the Kedarnath Sanctuary. The fee varies for Indian nationals and foreign tourists. Indian visitors can expect to pay around INR 50, while foreign tourists may need to pay INR 500.
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, musk deer, and a diverse range of bird species. The lush forests of the sanctuary are rich in pine, oak, rhododendron, and deodar trees, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors to the Kedarnath Sanctuary can indulge in activities such as bird watching, trekking, and nature walks. The sanctuary offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Himalayas.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, jeep safaris are available at the sanctuary. The charges for a jeep safari vary depending on the duration and route chosen, with prices starting from INR 1,000 per person.
Children below the age of 5 are usually allowed to enter the sanctuary free of charge. For children between the ages of 5 to 12, a discounted entry fee of around INR 20 is applicable. The entry fee for adults is as mentioned earlier.
Senior citizens above the age of 60 can avail of special discounts on the entry fee to the Kedarnath Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides facilities such as rest areas and benches for elderly visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The best time to visit the Kedarnath Sanctuary is during the summer months, from April to June, and the autumn months, from September to November. The weather is pleasant during these times, making it ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities.
There are several popular tourist destinations near the Kedarnath Sanctuary that visitors can explore. These include the Kedarnath Temple, Chopta, Tungnath Temple, and Auli. Each of these places offers a unique cultural and natural experience for travelers.
For visitors traveling by their vehicles, the Kedarnath Sanctuary provides ample parking facilities near the entrance. Visitors can park their cars or bikes securely and embark on their journey into the sanctuary.
Visitors to the Kedarnath Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the flora and fauna. These include not littering, maintaining silence to not disturb the wildlife, and refraining from feeding the animals.
The Kedarnath Sanctuary can be reached by road from major cities like Dehradun and Rishikesh. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, while the closest airport is in Dehradun. Visitors can also opt for trekking routes to reach the sanctuary for a more adventurous journey.
Overall, the Kedarnath Sanctuary in Garhwal is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and peaceful environment, it offers a unique experience for visitors seeking to connect with nature in the lap of the Himalayas.
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
Garhwal
