Background

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: A Himalayan Haven

Explore the Himalayan wilderness at Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for diverse flora, fauna, and spiritual significance in Uttarakhand.

4.6

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, is a sprawling protected area in the western Himalayas, Uttarakhand. Established in 1972, it's a biodiverse region known for its stunning landscapes and varied flora and fauna, including the endangered Himalayan musk deer.

A brief summary to Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Gopeshwar, Uttarakhand, 246401, IN
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Obtain necessary permits from the forest department before entering the sanctuary.
  • The best time to visit is during April-June and September-November.
  • Hire a local guide for a better chance of spotting wildlife and to learn about the local ecosystem.
  • Carry warm clothes, even in summer, as temperatures can drop suddenly.
  • Respect the local culture and religious sites within the sanctuary.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Road

    To reach Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, start by heading to a major town in Uttarakhand like Rishikesh or Gopeshwar. From Rishikesh, take National Highway 58 towards Chopta, which serves as a gateway to the sanctuary. From Gopeshwar, Chopta is approximately 40 km away. Taxis and buses are available from both Rishikesh and Gopeshwar. From Chopta, you can begin trekking into the sanctuary. Taxi fares from Gopeshwar to Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (Chopta) range from ₹1199 to ₹1635. Bus fares will be significantly lower, but may require more travel time. Entry fees to the sanctuary are INR 150 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners.

  • Trekking

    Many treks begin near or pass through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. One popular route is the trek to Kedarnath Temple, which starts from Gaurikund. Another trek is the Rudranath temple trek, which starts from Sagar village, 3 km from Gopeshwar. Treks typically require a permit, which can be obtained from the forest department. Local guides and porters are available for hire. The cost for a local guide ranges from INR 800-1000 per day. Ensure you are physically fit and acclimatized to the altitude before undertaking any treks.

Unlock the Best of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, cradled in the Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts of Uttarakhand, is a vital sanctuary in the Garhwal Himalayas. Established in 1972 under the Wildlife Protection Act, its primary mission is to protect the endangered Himalayan Musk Deer. The sanctuary, named after the revered Kedarnath Temple, encompasses an area of 975 square kilometers, making it the largest protected area in the western Himalayas. The sanctuary's altitude ranges dramatically from 1,160 meters to 7,068 meters, resulting in diverse climate zones from temperate to sub-arctic. This variation fosters a rich tapestry of flora, including chir pine, oak, birch, rhododendrons, and alpine meadows. The sanctuary is a treasure trove of medicinal and aromatic plants, with 22 species considered rare or endangered. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for a variety of animals, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, leopard, jackal, and the red giant flying squirrel. Over 200 animal species reside within the sanctuary, including 75 bird species. The sanctuary's location between the western and eastern Himalayan ecosystems allows for a unique mixing of species from both regions. The sanctuary also holds significant religious importance, with the Kedarnath Temple and other sacred sites like Tungnath and Madhyamaheshwar drawing pilgrims. The local culture is influenced by the Bhotiyas, who have a pastoral lifestyle and are integral to the region. While the sanctuary is open from April to November, the best time to visit is between May and June and September and November. Visitors need to obtain permits from the forest department and should be prepared for high-altitude trekking.

Popular Experiences near Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Popular Hotels near Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Select Currency