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Introduction
Dachigam National Park in Jammu and Kashmir is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Srinagar district, Dachigam National Park near Srinagar is world-famous as the last refuge of the endangered Hangul (Kashmir Stag).
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Districts | Srinagar |
| Year of Notification | 1981 |
| Total Area | 141 sq km |
| Landscape | Coniferous pine-fir forest, alpine pastures, oak groves, and rocky mountain slopes. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Dagwan River (supplying drinking water to Dal Lake and Srinagar city) |
| Nearest Airport | Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport Srinagar (SXR) – 22 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Srinagar Railway Station (SINA) – 25 km |
| Best Time to Visit | April to October (Lower Dachigam) / August to November (Hangul rutting season) |
Location
The national park lies in the Srinagar region of Jammu and Kashmir. 22 km from Srinagar city center via Harwan.
History
Originally created in 1910 by the Maharaja of Jammu & Kashmir to protect Srinagar’s drinking water catchment; declared a National Park in February 1981.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 141 sq km, the park’s terrain features Coniferous pine-fir forest, alpine pastures, oak groves, and rocky mountain slopes.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Coniferous pine-fir forest, alpine pastures, oak groves, and rocky mountain slopes.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Hangul (Kashmir Stag – last surviving population on Earth!), Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Brown Bear, Leopard, Jackal, Hill Fox, Long-tailed Marmot, and Musk Deer.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Kashmir Flycatcher, Cinnamon Sparrow, Black Bulbul, Golden Eagle, and Bearded Vulture.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Dachigam National Park is sustained by: Dagwan River (supplying drinking water to Dal Lake and Srinagar city).
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Harwan Garden (3 km), Dal Lake Srinagar (15 km), Mughal Gardens (12 km), Pari Mahal (16 km).
Weather & Climate
Himalayan mountain climate (-2°C to 28°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport Srinagar (SXR) – 22 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (SINA) – 25 km
- Road Connectivity: 22 km from Srinagar city center via Harwan.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Dachigam National Park is from April to October (Lower Dachigam) / August to November (Hangul rutting season).
Accommodation
JKTDC Huts in Srinagar, Forest Rest House Dachigam.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Home to Project Hangul, safeguarding the last wild population of Kashmir Stag.
Visitor Tips
Obtain entry permits from the Wildlife Department office at Harwan before visiting.
Did You Know?
- ‘Dachigam’ literally translates to ‘Ten Villages’ relocated to create the sanctuary in 1910.
- The LAST sanctuary on Earth for the critically endangered Hangul (Kashmir Stag).
- Supplies the pristine drinking water that feeds Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake.
Last Updated: August 2026