Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary — Attraction in Himachal Pradesh

The picturesque Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary is one of the most popular and easily accessible sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh. Kalatop Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Khajjiar in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Parks altitude varies from 1,185 m to 2,768 m, and its bounded by coniferous and oak forests. The undulating sanctuary lies in the catchment of the Ravi River, and a stream of the magnificent river dances through the sanctuary. Beautiful landscape is covered with deodar, blue pine, fir forests. The wilderness is bestowed with a variety of Indian Wildlife, including some of the rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The sanctuary hosts the elusive Serow, a vulnerable goat-antelope. To be at this sanctuary is to experience nature and its gifts at its surreal best.

Area: 20 sq. km

Route: Khajjiar is well connected by road and is 26 km from Dalhousie and 24 km from Chamba. One can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach the park from Dalhousie and Chamba.

The closest railhead is in Pathankot, which is 120 km away from the sanctuary. The nearest airport is at Gaggal in Kangra, which is at a distance of 18 km. There are taxis available from Pathankot and Kangra to reach the sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit: May - June & September - October

Major Attractions: Khajjiar Lake: This scenic tranquil lake is located around 1,900 m above sea level and is the main water source in the sanctuary area. Situated at the center of the large Khajjar glade, the perennial glistening lake is 1.5 km long and 1 km wide, and is surrounded by deodar forest. Migratory birds flock to this place, which is often called the Mini Switzerland. Things to keep in mind: To drive into the sanctuary, prior permission required from the Forestry Department in Chamba.

** A simple '👍' is not gonna hurt...

This sanctuary area with its well laid out trekking jungle trails both at Kalatop and Khajjiar is a tourist paradise. Dense Deodar and Fir forests are places of solitude very close to Dalhousie town. Visitors should look for pheasants and Serow in these forests but should be beware of black bear which can be encountered often in the area. Hiking is the best way to appreciate the beauty of the flora and fauna. However, most tourists use taxis and buses to traverse this 43 km motor-able route to Chamba through Khajjiar. Khajjiar is officially proclaimed the mini-Switzerland of India. It is 24 km from the GPO. Daily return bus trips are available from the bus stand by Himachal Tourism. The best period for visiting the sanctuary are March-May, and from September to November, when the weather is favorable. The vegetation consists of mature mixed Blue Pine and Deodar forest, with some Green Oak and Rhododendron trees. Undergrowth in the forest is well developed, dense in places and with a good cover of grass in November. A very thick and dark forest crowns the hilltop and perhaps that is why the place has derived its name as Kalatop which literally means a black cap. The spot really commands a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. One can see the hills, snow-capped mountains, the valleys, the hamlets, the greenery and the ruggedness standing from the place. The forest mainly comprises of the deodar, kail, spruce, ban trees and various bushes providing a safe habitat for...

Kalatop in Dalhousie is a hidden gem that truly takes your breath away. Nestled amidst the picturesque Himalayan mountains, this place is a nature lover's paradise. I had the privilege of visiting Kalatop, and it left an indelible mark on my heart.

The lush green meadows, dense deodar forests, and the tranquil wildlife sanctuary make Kalatop a haven for those seeking solace in the lap of nature. The trek to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary was a memorable experience, with the refreshing aroma of pine trees and the occasional sighting of exotic birds and animals. The panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the hilltop are simply mesmerizing.

Kalatop also offers a serene lake, where you can enjoy boating and unwind in the company of nature. The clean and unpolluted air is a refreshing change from city life.

The best part of my visit was the hospitality of the locals. They were warm, friendly, and ever willing to share their stories and insights about the place.

In conclusion, Kalatop in Dalhousie is a destination that redefines serenity. If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and reconnect with nature, I highly recommend Kalatop. It's a true natural wonder that will leave you with memories to cherish...