govind ballabh pant national park
Nature parks and wildlife sanctuaries are like a whole another world away from the cacophony of the noises in the city. These Parks are also havens and homes for many flora and fauna who can live here peacefully.
In India, one such wonderful National Park is the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in Uttarakhand this National Park is an absolute gem. From the elusive snow leopard to the famous Bearded Vulture, you can find everything here.
So just get your hiking shoes out, don your explorer’s cap and trek through the majestic Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary.
About The Govind Ballabh Pant National Park
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park is located in Uttarkashi which is a district in the lovely state of Uttarakhand. The beauty of the park lies in its locations. Situated at the higher levels of Garhwal Himalayas, the atmosphere and view from the Park are just stunning.
The total area of the park is 472.08 sq. km. The Park opened its gates in 1955.
You will also find the elusive snow leopard right here in this Park. The upper regions of the Park houses these ghost creatures, and if you are lucky you might just spot this majestic beast. The bearded vulture has also found its abode in this Park.
A Little Dash Of History
In the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park or Govind Ballabh Pant National Park, you will not only find flora and fauna but also memories and stories. The stories and legends of this region are also extremely unique and different from mainland India. For example, the inhabitants of this region believe that Kauravas (of the Mahabharata) are the real heroes. They even worship the Kauravas instead of the Pandavas as the rest of India does.
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park was under the British before independence. They used it from timber and building roads. After the British left new rules and regulations were established. The extraction of timber also reduced.
This was also the place where Lord Hanuman came to search for the miracle medicine ’Mrithasanjeevani’.
The Beauty Of The Park
The moment you enter the park you will be floored by the beauty that surrounds the park. It is nestled in the midst of some of the most enchanting mountains, and all around you, these mountains peek behind the green trees.
The air is always fresh and the ground is soft and moist. You will feel as if you have entered the realm of nature and have left civilisation miles away. The birds, trees, and the wind are in perfect harmony as they play the perfect tune in synch. The atmosphere is genuinely magical and mystical.
Walk Through the Park
Inside the Park, you will find loft peaks like Black Pearl, Swarg Rohini, and Bunder Punch, all of which make the Park even more alluring.
Keep your eyes peeled and spot the many endangered and rare birds that will fly above you. You need to have a good eye to locate some of these birds. The birds usually hide behind trees or get lost in the branches. Some of the birds that are found in abundance here are Monal Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Bearded Vulture, Himalayan Snow fowl, Golden Eagle, Western Tragopan, Steppe Eagle and Black Eagle. These birds are exotic and many bird watchers come here especially to spot them.
When it comes to fauna, the Park will surely not disappoint you. You might just spot some of the rare animals minding their own business. Some of the animals that are found here are- Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Western Tragopan, Indian Porcupine, Golden Eagle among others.
There is something almost cathartic to be just walking around spotting these animals in their habitat.
Not Just A National Park
Govind Pashu Vihar National Park also serves the magnificent purpose of protecting the beautiful snow leopard found here. This Park keeps these leopards away from prying hunters and illegal poaching, while also providing shelter to the leopards.
The Park is a testimony to the fact that one should live and let live, and both humans and animals can live together in perfect harmony without disturbing each other.
The Wonders Of Trees
Throughout this enchanting Park, you will encounter several stunning plants and trees. Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary is especially famous for plants like Plant species like Rhododendron, Oak and tropical Euphorbia scrub. You can also find many herbal and medicinal plants here. As you walk through the Park all these plants emanate a wonderful aroma giving you that perfect earthy forest feel.
Other notable trees in this sanctuary are deodar cedar, chir pine, silver fir, blue pine, and several deciduous species.
The other fascinating and splendid part of this Park is the mountains. The mountains make this Park look unique and different from every other National Park in India. The other name for this Park is Dev Bhoomi and undoubtedly the place does look fit for Gods to stay in.
The Trekk
Unlike most National Parks, you cannot embark on a jeep safari in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, since it is located at an elevation. Thus, you must walk and trek to explore the entire Park.
This has its perks. You will be able to explore the park at your own pace and time, and there is certainly something more relaxing about just walking amid nature rather than a safari. There are about four trekking routes which are inside the park. You can embark on anyone. The shortest route is 38 km long and is fairly easy, while the longest one is 60 km and it is challenging. All of these routes run straight through the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary and will take you through all the magnificent places of the Park.
Best Time To Visit
If you want to visit Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, then try coming here between April to June and from September to November. All these months are suitable and comfortable for trekking and will allow you to explore the Park most.
