Location

Hokersar Wetland Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Srinagar & Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. 12 km west of Srinagar on Srinagar-Muzaffarabad highway.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1992 (Ramsar Site 2005) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified as a Game Reserve in 1978, a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1992, and a Ramsar Site in 2005.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Himalayan valley wetland, open water, willow groves, phragmites reed beds, and marsh pastures.

Flora and Bird Species

Hosts over 500,000 winter waterfowl from Siberia & Central Asia. Key species include Mallard, Common Teal, Pintail, Shoveler, Tufted Duck, Greylag Goose, Gadwall, Garganey, Wigeon, and Brambling.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Otter, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Indian Porcupine, Checkered Keelback, and Kashmir Musk Deer (in upper catchment hills).

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Jhelum River basin and Doodh Ganga flood spill channel.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Hokersar Wetland Bird Sanctuary include: Srinagar Dal Lake (12 km), Shalimar & Nishat Mughal Gardens (18 km), Gulmarg Hill Station (40 km).

Weather and Climate

Himalayan climate. Warm summers (15°C to 30°C) and freezing winters (-2°C to 12°C) with snowfall.

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

• Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport Srinagar (SXR) – 15 km
• Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (SINA) – 18 km
• Road Connectivity: 12 km west of Srinagar on Srinagar-Muzaffarabad highway.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Hokersar Wetland Bird Sanctuary is between October to March.

Accommodation

JKTDC Huts in Srinagar and Gulmarg.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.