Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Uttarakhand
Govind Pashu Vihar in the upper Garhwal region of Uttarakhand is yet another place that shelters the snow leopards which is considered an endangered species in India. The park is spread over an area of about 472.08 sq km and is said to be established with purpose to provide protection to slowly eloping species of snow leopard that resided in the upper reaches of the park at altitudes above 3,500 metres. The park is also one of the remaining strongholds in the Himalayas of the bearded vulture, which is a vital ecological catalyst. Apart from this, Govind Pashu Vihar is also home to rare bird species like Monal Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Bearded Vulture, Himalayan Snow fowl, Golden Eagle, Western Tragopan, Steppe Eagle and Black Eagle.
Best season for sighting: Winter (September to December)
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How to Reach?
The nearest airport and railhead to the national park, both are in Dehradun, which is around 200 kilometres. By road, it can be accessed through Dharkadhi, 17 kilometres from the park. Dharkadhi is connected with Dehradun, Barkot, Uttarkashi and Naitwar by bus services.