Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

With dense Deodar and fir forests spreading over 19.63 sq. km, the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary is a 30.69 sq. km animal sanctuary located at Kalatop and Khajjiar in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at a distance of 6 Km from Dalhousie It lies in the itinerary of the Ravi River and is encircled by coniferous and oak forests.

Flora and Fauna The flora in the sanctuary includes cedar and blue pine, oaks like moru and ban, deodar trees, rhododendron, firs, and many more. It's also popular for medicinal plants and herbs. The wilderness is conferred with a huge variety of Indian Wildlife, including some of the endangered species of flora and fauna.

In the middle of this sanctuary, you'll find a lake offering splendid views to sightseers. The Sanctuary boasts of a huge variety of wildlife like Bear, Himalayan Black Marten, Leopard, Deer, Barking Goral, Squirrel, Serow, Jackal, Langur, Himalayan Tahr, Goral, Ibex, Himalayan Squirrel, Muntjak, etc. This sanctuary is known for preserving the native Himalayan serow. Birds like Black Headed Jay, Chestnut Billed Rock Thrush, Blackheaded Jay, Grey Headed Cannery Flycatcher, etc., are also found here.

Activities The sanctuary has a perfect route for trekking from Dalhousie to Kalatop and this is extremely admired by tourists. Jungle Safari and hiking are other interesting ways to explore the wildlife. Summer season is the best time to visit this sanctuary.

Topography and Climate

• Located at an altitude of 1185 to 2768 m above sea level
• Temperature ranging between 10°C to 35°C
• Annual rainfall is around 672.3 mm