• Nestled in the serene Tirthan Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is one of India’s most pristine and biodiverse protected areas. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, GHNP is an untouched paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas away from the chaos of touristy destinations.
• Spread over 1,171 square kilometres, this national park lies in the Kullu district, bordering Pin Valley National Park, Rupi Bhaba Sanctuary, and Kanawar Wildlife Sanctuary. With altitudes ranging from 1,500 to over 6,000 meters, the park encompasses lush forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and snow-capped peaks, making it one of the richest biodiversity zones in the western Himalayas.

Why Visit Great Himalayan National Park

• The Great Himalayan National Park is not just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s a place where you can walk through dense cedar forests, cross sparkling rivers, and hear nothing but the call of Himalayan birds and the whisper of mountain winds. Unlike most tourist hotspots, GHNP offers solitude, purity, and a genuine connection with nature.
• For those seeking offbeat Himachal treks, GHNP is a perfect choice. It is home to over 375 species of fauna, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and more than 180 species of birds, such as the Western Tragopan, one of the rarest pheasants in the world.
• The park is also culturally rich, surrounded by traditional villages like Sharchi, Gushaini, and Ropa, where life moves at a peaceful, timeless pace.

Best Time to Visit Great Himalayan National Park

The best time to visit the Great Himalayan National Park is from April to June and October to November.

Spring–Summer (April to June): The park comes alive with wildflowers, melting snow, and pleasant weather, perfect for trekking and wildlife sightings.

Autumn (October–November): Clear skies and crisp mountain air make it ideal for long treks and photography.

Winter (December–March): Heavy snowfall covers the higher regions, making trekking difficult, but it offers a surreal, snow-covered landscape in the lower valleys.

Monsoon months (July–September) are best avoided due to landslides and slippery trails.

Things to Do in Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park is a paradise for adventure and nature lovers. Here are the top things to do in GHNP:

1. Trekking in GHNP

GHNP offers several trekking routes of varying difficulty. Some popular ones include:

• Tirthan Valley Trek (Easy–Moderate) – Starting from Gushaini, this trek offers mesmerising views of rivers, forests, and local villages.

• Rolla Trek (2–3 days) – Ideal for beginners, leading deep into the park through thick forests and along the Tirthan River.

• Shilt Hut Trek (3–4 days) – Perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to spot the Western Tragopan.
  

• Rakti Sar Trek (7–8 days) – For seasoned trekkers, leading to the source of the Tirthan River amidst alpine meadows and glaciers.
  

Each trek requires a park permit, which can be obtained at the GHNP office in Sai Ropa or Gushaini.

2. Bird Watching and Wildlife Photography

• Home to over 180 bird species, GHNP is one of India’s best destinations for birdwatching. The Western Tragopan, Monal Pheasant, Himalayan Griffon, and Koklass Pheasant are some of the highlights. Wildlife enthusiasts can also photograph species such as musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and langurs in their natural habitats.

3. Village Exploration and Homestay Experience

• Around the GHNP, villages such as Pekhri, Gushaini, Ropa, and Sharchi offer authentic Himachali homestays. Staying with locals allows you to experience mountain life, savour traditional cuisine, and learn about sustainable living practices.

4. River Walks and Nature Trails

• Short walks along the Tirthan River or Sainj Valley are refreshing experiences. You can enjoy fishing (with permission), picnic by the riverside, or simply relax by the gurgling streams surrounded by thick pine forests.

5. Camping and Stargazing

• Camping in GHNP under a clear night sky is magical. You can pitch your tent near Rolla or Shilt, enjoy bonfire evenings, and gaze at millions of stars shining over the Dhauladhar Range.

Flora and Fauna of GHNP

• The park’s unique altitude range creates a rich variety of vegetation, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glaciers. You’ll find deodar, oak, rhododendron, horse chestnut, and blue pine forests in the lower zones, while the upper reaches bloom with alpine herbs and wildflowers.
• Wildlife in the Himalayan region includes the Himalayan tahr, snow leopard, serow, goral, musk deer, and brown bear, making GHNP a treasure trove for biologists and photographers.

How to Reach Great Himalayan National Park

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (50 km from Gushaini).
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (120 km).
• By Road: GHNP is accessible via the Aut Tunnel (on the Mandi–Kullu highway). From there, drive 26 km to Gushaini, the main entry point to the park.

Local taxis are available from Aut or Banjar.

Where to Stay near GHNP

You can stay in eco-camps, forest guesthouses, or homestays in nearby villages. Popular stay options include:

• GHNP Forest Rest House (Sai Ropa)
• Tirthan Valley Riverside Camps
• Sharchi Homestays
• Jibhi and Gushaini Eco Lodges

These accommodations offer sustainable tourism experiences, featuring local cuisine and breathtaking views of the valley.

Responsible Travel and Permits

• GHNP follows strict conservation rules. Visitors must obtain entry permits from the GHNP Office at Sai Ropa or Gushaini. Plastic and loud music are strictly prohibited. Travellers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, carry back their waste, respect wildlife, and avoid off-trail damage.

Final Thoughts

• The Great Himalayan National Park is not just another trekking destination; it’s a journey into one of the most untouched corners of the Himalayas. Here, every trail tells a story, every breeze whispers through pine forests, and every sunrise paints the mountains in hues of gold.
• Whether you’re a trekker seeking new heights, a photographer chasing rare wildlife, or a traveller longing for peace, GHNP welcomes you with open arms and wild beauty.
• So, pack your gear, lace up your boots, and embark on a GHNP trek, where adventure meets tranquillity in the heart of the Himalayas.