The Manali Sanctuary is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Spread over an area of 31.8 square kilometers, this sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1,800 to 2,000 meters above sea level, making it a perfect habitat for various species of flora and fauna.
The Manali Sanctuary is located near the town of Manali, which is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It is nestled in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas and is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains. The sanctuary is easily accessible by road from Manali and is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
The Manali Sanctuary is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the week. It is advisable to visit the sanctuary during the daytime to witness the wildlife in their natural habitat.
There is a nominal entry fee for visitors to enter the Manali Sanctuary. The fee is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign tourists. Children below the age of 5 years can enter for free.
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The lush green forests of the sanctuary are filled with cedar, deodar, oak, and pine trees. The sanctuary is also home to animals like Himalayan black bear, leopard, musk deer, snow leopard, and various species of birds and butterflies.
Visitors to the Manali Sanctuary can indulge in a number of activities such as nature walks, bird watching, and photography. The sanctuary also offers jeep safaris for visitors to explore the wildlife and natural beauty of the region.
The charges for a jeep safari in the Manali Sanctuary are INR 1000 per person. The safari takes visitors through the dense forests of the sanctuary, giving them a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
For male and female visitors above the age of 12 years, the entry fee is INR 50. Children between the ages of 5 to 12 years can enter the sanctuary for INR 25. Children below the age of 5 years can enter for free. Senior citizens above the age of 60 years can also enter for free.
The Manali Sanctuary is equipped with facilities for senior citizens such as benches for resting, clean washrooms, and easy walking paths. The sanctuary staff is also available to assist senior citizens during their visit.
The best time to visit the Manali Sanctuary is during the summer months from March to June when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is easily spotted. The monsoon season from July to September is not recommended due to heavy rainfall in the region.
There are several other attractions near the Manali Sanctuary that visitors can explore. Some of the popular places to visit include the Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and the Vashisht Hot Water Springs.
There is a designated parking area near the entrance of the Manali Sanctuary where visitors can park their vehicles. The parking facility is safe and well-maintained, and visitors can easily access the sanctuary from the parking area.
Visitors to the Manali Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the environment. Some of the rules include not littering, not feeding the animals, and not making loud noises that can disturb the wildlife.
The Manali Sanctuary is located approximately 2 kilometers from the town of Manali and is easily accessible by road. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the sanctuary. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, which is located around 50 kilometers away from Manali.
Overall, the Manali Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and a range of activities to enjoy, the sanctuary offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.