Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary

Sprawling across 141 square kilometers in the Zabarwan range just 22 km east of central Srinagar, Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary (Dachigam National Park) is the premier wildlife conservation haven in Jammu And Kashmir. Renowned globally as the last remaining natural stronghold of the critically endangered Kashmir Stag (Hangul, Cervus hanglu hanglu), this protected temperate ecosystem safeguards vital catchments that supply drinking water to Srinagar and feed into Dal Lake.

Truth is, the name Dachigam translates to Ten Villages in Kashmiri, commemorating the ten ancestral hamlets that were peacefully relocated in 1910 by the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir to establish an exclusive royal game reserve and protected watershed. Elevated to a National Park in 1981, the sanctuary encompasses rich coniferous forests, alpine pastures, and rocky ridges ranging from 5,500 feet to 14,000 feet.

The park is ecologically divided into two distinct zones: Lower Dachigam (accessible by electric vehicles and guided walking safaris) and Upper Dachigam (a rugged high altitude wilderness accessible only via multi day mountain treks toward Marsar Lake). Exploring Dachigam pairs perfectly with visits to Pari Mahal and Nishat Bagh.

The Elusive Hangul and Himalayan Wildlife

The star attraction of Dachigam is the royal Hangul stag, characterized by its impressive multi pointed antlers and rich brown coat. With a wild population hovering around 250 to 300 individuals, intensive captive breeding programs and anti poaching patrols inside Lower Dachigam have played a key role in protecting this species from extinction.

Beyond the Hangul, the national park is home to Himalayan Black Bears, Himalayan Brown Bears, Musk Deer, Leopards, Snow Leopards, Yellow throated Martens, and Leopard Cats. Over 150 bird species thrive in the forest canopy, including the Monal Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Himalayan Rubythroat, and Golden Eagle before traveling to Hazratbal Mosque.

Trout Hatcheries and Native Flora

Flowing through the center of Lower Dachigam is the crystal clear Dagwan River, fed by melting glaciers from the high altitude Marsar Lake. The sanctuary houses historic trout breeding ponds established during the British era, producing rainbow and brown trout fingerlings that stock rivers across Kashmir.

The forest is dominated by towering Himalayan cedar (deodar), blue pine (kail), silver fir, wild apricot trees, walnut groves, and vibrant alpine birch. During autumn, the forest undergrowth turns blazing shades of rust red, amber, and gold, offering favorite spot for nature photographers before heading toward Tulip Garden.

Entry Permits, Safari Timings, and Wildlife Guidelines

Dachigam National Park is open to visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. To protect wildlife habitats, the Department of Wildlife Protection regulates entry with mandatory daily permits, available online or through the wildlife booking counter at the park entrance gate at Harwan.

Visitors can explore Lower Dachigam on guided walking nature trails accompanied by certified wildlife naturalists or hire eco friendly battery operated safari carts. Maintain silence, dress in earthy camouflage tones, and avoid littering. Pair your morning wildlife safari with an afternoon Shikara ride on Dal Lake.