Dachigam National Park
About Dachigam National Park
Dachigam National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located just 22 kilometers from Srinagar, spread over 141 square kilometers of pristine Himalayan landscape. Established in 1981, the park is renowned as the last remaining habitat of the critically endangered Kashmir Stag or Hangul (Cervus elaphus hanglu), which is found nowhere else in the world. The park ranges in altitude from 5,500 feet to 14,000 feet, encompassing diverse ecosystems from grasslands and scrublands to coniferous and broadleaf forests.
The name "Dachigam" means "ten villages," referring to the ten villages that were relocated when the area was declared a protected game preserve by the Maharaja of Kashmir in 1910 to ensure clean drinking water supply for Srinagar. The park features the Dagwan River flowing through a deep rocky gorge, alpine meadows, and snow-covered peaks. Besides Hangul, it harbors rich biodiversity including leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, brown bears, and over 150 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers.
At a Glance
| Location | 22 km from Srinagar, Zabarwan Mountain Range |
| Area | 141 sq km (Lower Dachigam: 50 sq km, Upper Dachigam: 91 sq km) |
| Altitude Range | 1,700 to 4,300 meters (5,500 to 14,000 feet) |
| Best Time to Visit | April to October (Lower Dachigam), June to September (Upper Dachigam) |
| Key Species | Hangul Deer (200+), Himalayan Black Bear, Leopard, Musk Deer |
Main Attractions
Kashmir Hangul
Critically endangered Kashmir Stag, found only here. Population ~200 individuals. Best viewing: autumn rutting season and early morning.
Himalayan Black Bear
Frequently spotted in lower Dachigam, especially near fruit trees. Observe from safe distance with forest guides.
Bird Watching
Over 150 bird species including golden oriole, paradise flycatcher, koklass pheasant, and rare bearded vultures.
Dagwan River
Pristine mountain stream flowing through deep gorges. Source of drinking water for Srinagar. Trout-rich waters.
Alpine Meadows
Vast high-altitude grasslands in Upper Dachigam, carpeted with wildflowers in summer. Prime Hangul habitat.
Diverse Ecosystems
From scrubland to coniferous forests with pine, fir, and deodar. Walnut, apple, and apricot trees in valleys.
Activities & Experiences
Wildlife Safari
Guided jeep safaris through Lower Dachigam for spotting Hangul, black bears, leopards, and diverse birdlife.
Nature Trails
Trekking routes through forest trails, meadows, and along Dagwan River. Upper Dachigam requires permit and guide.
Wildlife Photography
Excellent opportunities for photographing Hangul in natural habitat, birds, landscapes, and mountain scenery.
Nature Study
Educational tours focusing on biodiversity, conservation efforts, and unique ecosystem of Himalayan wildlife sanctuary.
Bird Watching Tours
Specialized birding expeditions for spotting rare Himalayan species. Spring and autumn migrations offer best diversity.
Panoramic Viewpoints
Scenic spots offering views of Dal Lake, Srinagar city, Zabarwan Range, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Visitor Information
Permits Required
Entry permit from Wildlife Department mandatory. Indians: ₹100, Foreigners: ₹500. Vehicle charges: ₹200-500. Guide mandatory.
Timing
Lower Dachigam: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily. Upper Dachigam: Special permission required, limited access. Best wildlife viewing: dawn and dusk.
Duration
Lower Dachigam: 3-4 hours (half-day trip). Upper Dachigam: Full day or overnight camping with prior approval.
Safety Guidelines
Stay with guide, maintain distance from wildlife, no loud noises, no littering. Bear encounters possible - follow guide instructions.
Facilities
Basic visitor center, washrooms at entrance. No restaurants inside park. Carry water and snacks. Food waste must be removed.
Restrictions
No plastic, no smoking, no feeding animals, no off-trail walking. Photography allowed but flash prohibited. Drone usage banned.
How to Reach
By Road
22 km from Srinagar (45 minutes via Harwan route). Private taxis available from Dal Lake area. No public transport to park entrance. Road well-maintained but narrow in places.
Nearest Airport
Srinagar International Airport (35 km, 1 hour). Hire taxi from airport or arrange hotel pickup for convenient access to Dachigam.
Starting Point
Park entrance at Harwan village. From Srinagar: Dal Gate → Boulevard Road → Harwan → Dachigam Gate. GPS coordinates available at Wildlife Department.
Things to Know
- Permits must be obtained in advance from Wildlife Warden Office, Srinagar
- Hiring certified forest guide mandatory - available at park entrance
- Wear neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors that spook animals)
- Carry binoculars for wildlife viewing from safe distance
- Best Hangul viewing: October-November (rutting season) and early mornings
- Winters (Dec-Feb) extremely cold with heavy snow; park partially closed
- Carry water, energy snacks, first aid kit, and sun protection
- Telephoto lens recommended for wildlife photography (minimum 300mm)
- Maintain absolute silence during wildlife spotting
- Upper Dachigam requires special permit and advance booking
- No accommodation inside park; stay in Srinagar (day trip feasible)
- Bear encounters possible - never approach, feed, or surprise wildlife
- Support conservation by following all park rules strictly
Nearby Attractions
Harwan Gardens
3 km - Mughal garden at Dachigam entrance, picnic spot with mountain views.
Dal Lake
18 km - Kashmir's iconic lake, houseboats, shikaras, and Mughal gardens.
Nishat Bagh
12 km - "Garden of Joy," one of largest Mughal gardens with Dal Lake views.
Shalimar Bagh
15 km - Mughal garden built by Emperor Jahangir with terraced lawns and fountains.
Shankaracharya Temple
20 km - Ancient hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake.
Hazratbal Shrine
15 km - Revered Muslim shrine on banks of Dal Lake with white marble architecture.