The Himalayan Nature Park
There is nothing interesting and engaging like watching the wildlife in their natural habitat. Shimla is blessed with many types of Himalayan flora and fauna and most of these forest areas were part of the private hunting areas of the local kings and Ranas. Most of these forest areas have been declared as reserve areas like nature parks, sanctuaries of reserve forests by the India Government after independence and they have become popular tourist sites of the country. One of the most popular places of Shimla sightseeing is the Himalayan Nature Park Kufri.Not only the tourists who come to Shimla love to visit this wonderful place but during summers and early winters, it is popular holiday retreat for the people residing in Shimla , Kufri and around. The un-disturbed beauty, calm environment and richness of bio-diversity of the Himalayan Nature Park Kufri ensure visitors get the best to enjoy at this nature park. Camping, hiking, trailing and picnics can be organized in this nature park.
About the Himalayan Nature Park
The Himalayan Nature Park located at Kufri is about 18 km from Shimla City. The park is rich in Himalayan flora and fauna and is also visited by many because of unparallel scenic beauty of this place. During winters snow-clad mountain and clear blue sky made the entire surrounding captivating for all the visitors who come here.This nature park was a Musk Deer Farm in its initial days. The Central Zoo Authority (India) recognized the park as the Himalayan Nature Park in 1996. Now under the supervision of the government, the animals get better living environment and care and at the same time enjoy their natural habitat.
This nature park at Kufri is situated at a height of about 2600 m and it is stretched over an area of 90 hectares. This nature park is like a paradise for the nature lovers. The forest of this nature park has abundant Deodar, Oak, Fir, Holly, Blue Pine and Spruce trees. Many herbs are also found here. The park is the house of varieties of orchids, geranium, primula, balsam etc.
Animals and birds move around comfortably in huge enclosures within this nature park. Mammals of different types like Musk Deer, Sambar, Barking Deer, Hangal, Bharal, Goral etc. can be seen in this park. Cheer Pheasants, Monal Pheasants (state bird of Himachal Pradesh), and White crested Khaleej are also present in abundant numbers in this park.
Location of the Himalayan Nature Park
The location of this nature park is MDR 8. From the Kufri Bus Stand, one has to go towards MDR 8 Road and the driving distance is about 1.5 km.How to Reach the Himalayan Nature Park
From Shimla, ample numbers of buses are available to reach this nature park. Visitors can book seats in private buses or HPRTC run buses. Taxi/cabs are also can also be hired at Shimla to reach here. During weekends and vacation time, many local residents prefer to come here to spend a day amidst of nature free from daily chaos of the city life.The nearest railway station is the Shimla Railway Station and the nearest airport is the Shimla airport. From Railway Station and the airport, frequent conveyances are available.
Timing and Entry Fee in Himalayan Nature Park
The park opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm. It remains closed on Monday.Entry fees
- Rs 10/adult Indian; Rs. 200/Adult Foreigner
- Rs 5/Indian Student; Rs. 100/Foreign Student
- Rs. 50/still camera for Indians; Rs. 150/still camera for foreigners
- Rs. 2500/video camera for Indian; Rs. 5000/video camera for foreigners
Adventure Activities in the Himalayan Nature Park
In the Himalayan Nature Park, visitors can enjoy numerous adventure activities other than nature watching. There are trekking programs available. Interested visitors must get in touch with Sai Ropa Tourist Center to know the details. The nearby office of Sai Ropa Tourist Center is located at Gushaini, a village situated about 5 km away from this park. Camping arrangements can also be done but prior permission has to be taken from the Divisional Forest Officer.The Best Time to Visit the Himalayan Nature Park
From October to April is the best time to visit this nature park. Snow Fall adds more beauty to the panoramic landscapes of this nature park. Summer months from April to June are also preferable for its pleasant and cool climate. Monsoons are never the right choice to visit this nature park.Contact Details
The Himalayan Nature Park
Address:
Divisional Forest Officer
HNP Eco Tourism Society
Shimla
Phone no.: 0177 223 993