Introduction
Asan Conservation Reserve, situated in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Asan Conservation Reserve (Asan Barrage) is Uttarakhand’s first Ramsar Site, located at the confluence of Asan and Yamuna rivers near Paonta Sahib.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | Asan Conservation Reserve |
| State & District | Uttarakhand (Dehradun) |
| Year of Notification | 2005 (Ramsar Site 2020) |
| Total Protected Area | 4.44 sq km |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Confluence of Asan River and Yamuna River behind Asan Barrage |
| Nearest Airport | Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED) – 65 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Dehradun Railway Station (DDN) – 40 km / Paonta Sahib (10 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
Asan Conservation Reserve is geographically located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. 40 km west of Dehradun on Dehradun-Paonta highway.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 2005 (Ramsar Site 2020) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Created by Asan barrage in 1967; declared a Conservation Reserve in 2005 and Ramsar Site in 2020.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Riverine reservoir, gravel bars, mudflats, and Shivalik hill woodland.
Flora and Bird Species
Uttarakhand’s 1st Ramsar Site. Key birds include Rudy Shelduck (Surkhab), Mallard, Red-crested Pochard, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Northern Pintail, Bar-headed Goose, Cormorant, and Osprey.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Elephant (seasonal corridor crossing), Nilgai, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Smooth-coated Otter, and Monitor Lizard.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Confluence of Asan River and Yamuna River behind Asan Barrage.
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Asan Conservation Reserve include: Paonta Sahib Gurudwara (10 km), Kalsi Ashokan Rock Edict (15 km), Chakrata Hill Station (65 km), Mussoorie (70 km).
Weather and Climate
Sub-Himalayan climate (5°C to 38°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED) – 65 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station (DDN) – 40 km / Paonta Sahib (10 km)
- Road Connectivity: 40 km west of Dehradun on Dehradun-Paonta highway.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore Asan Conservation Reserve is between October to March.
Accommodation
GMVN Tourist Rest House Asan Barrage.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026