Daranghati Sanctuary, Shimla

Major Attractions: Musk deer, Goral, Thar, Monal, Tragopan, Koklas

Area: Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh, India

Established: 1962

Best Time to Visit: May to November & October to November

Coverage Area: 167 sq.kms.

The sanctuary lies on the Dhauladhar Mountain, an intervening range that forms part of the Middle Himalaya. It is divided into 2 parts- Manglab towards the north and Nogli Gab towards its south. This area was used as a hunting spot by the royal family of Rampur Bushahr. Now it is home to different species of pheasants. In the middle of the sanctuary, tourists can see a large number of wooden temples that Himachal Pradesh is famous for. The view of the beautiful landscapes from the sanctuary is simply breathtaking.

The sanctuary bounded by coniferous trees such as blue pine, silver fir and spruce. The wild sanctuary is home to an incredible variety of animals namely Brown Bear, Flying Fox, Barking Deer, Goral, Indian Hare, Himalayan Ibex Leopard, Serow, Blue Sheep, Common giant flying squirrel, Himalayan Palm Civet and Himalayan Weasel. The sanctuary attracts bird watchers from across the globe. Jujurana namely 'the king of birds' can be sighted here easily. A vulnerable pheasant called 'Western Tragopan' is the main attraction of Daranghati Sanctuary.

Needless to say that like other sanctuaries in the Himalaya, Daranghati Sanctuary also attracts avid trekkers. Adventure enthusiasts love to trek to Daranghati from Sarahan or along the old silk route, from Shimla to Daranghati through Nakranda, Baggi, Sungri, Taklech and Kareri.

For a peaceful vacation, Daranghati sanctuary is the place to be. The Himalayan landscape offers a perfect holiday retreat for the tourists. The sanctuary is located at an elevation of 3000 m above sea level. Pear, Plum, Almond, Cherry and Apricot are some of the fruit trees which can be found here.

Thanks to Daranghati Sanctuary's geographic condition, it's one of the best reserves in Himachal Pradesh to observe wildlife. The subtropical wilderness in the Himachal Pradesh makes Daranghati Sanctuary a thrilling wonderland.