Dachigam National Park, Geographical Features, Location, Flora, Fauna

Dachigam National Park is one of the most significant protected areas in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, located about 22 km from Srinagar which is spread across 141 sq. km, it is best known for being the last habitat of the critically endangered Hangul (Kashmiri Stag). Established as a game reserve in 1910, it was declared a national park in 1981.

The park derives its name from the word “Dachigam,” meaning “ten villages,” which were relocated for the creation of this conservation area.

Dachigam National Park 

Dachigam National Park is located in the Zabarwan Range of the western Himalayas and exhibits two distinct zones, Upper Dachigam and Lower Dachigam. It lies in close proximity to Dal Lake and serves as a critical watershed area for Harwan Reservoir, supplying drinking water to Srinagar. The Dachigam National Park unique combination of alpine meadows, coniferous forests, and riverine belts provides a haven for both temperate and alpine flora and fauna. Its core mission is to protect the Hangul, and it is considered a biodiversity hotspot within the temperate Himalayan region.

Also Read: Panna National Park

Geographical Features of Dachigam National Park

Geographical Features of Dachigam National Park varies significantly with altitude, ranging from 1,650 meters to 4,200 meters above sea level. It transitions from temperate valley forests in the lower regions to alpine meadows and rocky cliffs in the higher zones.

• Location: Srinagar district, Jammu & Kashmir
• Area: 141 sq. km
• Altitude: 1,650–4,200 meters above sea level
• Range: Zabarwan Range, Western Himalayas
• Climate: Alpine temperate; snowfall in winter and mild summers
• Water Source: Harwan Reservoir, fed by streams within the park

Dachigam National Park Flora

The park’s flora varies with altitude, featuring temperate broadleaf forests, coniferous trees, alpine shrubs, and grasslands. The presence of diverse plant species makes Dachigam a rich botanical zone in the western Himalayas.

Also Read: Sariska Tiger Reserve

Dachigam National Park Fauna

Dachigam National Park Fauna is globally known for the Hangul (Cervus hanglu hanglu), a subspecies of red deer endemic to Kashmir. Once numbering over 3,000, the population has dramatically declined, but conservation efforts continue. The diversity of fauna, especially the Hangul, places Dachigam at the heart of India’s high-altitude wildlife conservation efforts.