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Pin Valley National Park
The Pin Valley National Park spreads over an area of 675 Km2 in the
trans-Himalayan cold desert region of Spiti valley and falls in the
catchment of the Pin river and its major tributary, Parahio. Altitude
of the National Park ranges from about 3,500 metres near Ka dogri
to more than 6,000 metres at its highest point.
With its s now
laden higher reaches and scree slopes covered with scanty tufted
vegetation, Pin Valley National Park forms the natural habitat of
a number of endangered animals including Himalayan Ibex, Snow Leopard,
Bharal, Wooly Hare, Tibetan Wolf, and Snow Cock. Whereas sighting
of Snow Leopard or Snow Cock could be a once in lifetime experience,
it is the silhouettes of Himalayan Ibex standing on a spur in herds
against rising or setting sun that leave a lasting impression on
one’s mind.
The apparently scanty vegetation in the Park contains many plant
species of high conservation value. Prominent amongst these species
are Ratanjot (Arnebia euchroma & A. benthamii), Salampanja (Dactylorhhiza
hatageria), Somlata (Ephedra gerardiana), Seabuckthorn (Hippophae
rhamnoides) and Ateesh (Aconitum heterophyllum). Wild rose (Rosa
webbiana), with its gorgeous pink flowers and bright red fruit,
provides a striking contrast to the otherwise dry surrounds.
The National Park, which remains open from May to October every
year, can be approached only on foot from the nearest road terminus
at Mikkim in Pin Valley. Visitors need to carry sleeping bags and
food and can stay in bunkers constructed by the Department in the
Park.
For more information please contact Director, Pin Valley National
Park at Kaza,
Telephone: 01906 – 22281.
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General Information Pin Valley National Park of Himachal Pradesh
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