The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary or Kedarnath Vanya Jeev Prabha, is a haven for nature lovers. Nestled in the Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts of Uttarakhand, it offers a stunning blend of spirituality and biodiversity.
Named after the renowned Kedarnath temple, which graces the sanctuary’s northern border, this haven spans across picturesque landscapes. Towering peaks, lush meadows, and dense forests create a haven for diverse flora and fauna.
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in Chamoli and Rudraprayag
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary! What a stunning place in the lap of the Himalayas. It’s located in the Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts of Uttarakhand, India. The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, with lush greenery and majestic landscapes.
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, musk deer, snow leopards, and numerous bird species. The sanctuary also houses the sacred Kedarnath Temple, adding a spiritual touch to the natural beauty.
Flora-Fauna in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand, India, is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary spans across the districts of Chamoli and Rudraprayag and is known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Flora
Alpine Meadows: The sanctuary is adorned with beautiful alpine meadows showcasing a variety of wildflowers like orchids, poppies, and primulas.
Coniferous Forests: Dense forests of deodar, pine, and fir trees dominate the landscape, creating a serene and picturesque environment.
Rhododendron Groves: Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary boasts extensive rhododendron groves, adding vibrant hues to the surroundings.
Fauna
Himalayan Musk Deer: This elusive species can be found in the sanctuary’s dense forests, particularly in the higher altitudes.
Snow Leopard: Though rare and elusive, the sanctuary is home to the majestic snow leopard, thriving in the high-altitude regions.
Himalayan Tahr: These mountain goats with distinctive curved horns are adapted to the rocky terrains and can be spotted in the sanctuary.
Himalayan Monal: The state bird of Uttarakhand, this colorful pheasant, is a delight for birdwatchers and can be found in the sanctuary’s alpine meadows.
History Of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, India, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Established in 1972, it spans an area of approximately 975 square kilometers and is named after the revered Kedarnath Temple.
The sanctuary is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, showcasing the unique biodiversity of the region. It encompasses a variety of ecosystems, ranging from alpine meadows to dense forests. The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species, making it an essential conservation area.
One of the notable inhabitants is the Himalayan tahr, a sturdy mountain ungulate adapted to the harsh terrain. Other mammals found in the sanctuary include snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and various species of pheasants.
The sanctuary also plays a crucial role in preserving the headwaters of major rivers like the Mandakini and Alaknanda, contributing to the overall ecological balance of the region.
Near Place to Visit
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How To Reach Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
By Road
You can also reach the sanctuary directly by road. The route to follow is usually Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Augustmuni – Ukhimath – Guptkashi – Phata – Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, you have to trek or hire a local vehicle to reach Gaurikund, the base for the Kedarnath trek.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. Once you reach Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The road journey from Rishikesh is approximately 225 kilometers.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the sanctuary. The distance is around 238 kilometers, and the journey offers picturesque views.
