Srinagar: The Historical Capital
Srinagar, originally the ‘City of Shri,’ is a city in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the only city in Kashmir and has a population of around 1.2 million according to the 2011 census, estimated to be around 1.4 to 1.7 million according to various websites. Amazingly, Srinagar is the second-largest metropolitan area in the Himalayas. It has also remained the capital for many rulers of the past. Being home to many lakes and bordered by hills on various sides, it hosts a wide variety of colorful flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for Srinagar Wildlife Snow Safaris.
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This blog is a production of Kashmir Online, a travel partner and trip organiser for lively tours to Kashmir Valley. This blog is about the Srinagar winter safaris, places for winter animal sightings in Kashmir and other related details. Being a Kashmiri, this blog contains love for my hometown and a personal touch from me. I hope you like it and don’t forget to share your suggestions on my email [email protected] or my Facebook.
Dachigam National Park
This is one of the most important wildlife-protected areas in Kashmir. Once a wildlife sanctuary, it was converted into a national park in 1981. It is located near the Dal Lake, in the Zabarwan hills. Various streams flow through the national park which makes it a serene beauty among the rich flora and fauna. It is noted for the Kashmir Stag or the Hangul in the local language. Responsible for the protection of Hangul and other species, it is a heaven for Srinagar winter safaris and snow wildlife tours.
Shankaracharya Hill
The abode of the Vedic saint, Adi Shankaracharya is located on this hill which stands in front of the Dal Lake. It presents panoramic views of the Srinagar city and has various trails to embark on. The hill has a dense population of popular, deodar, fir and other flora, attracting many animal and bird species. The Himalayan Black Bear, often sighted in the area has at times entered the living areas, creating chaos. It is one of the best places for snow wildlife tours and winter animal sightings in Kashmir.
Dal Lake
The most famous lake in Kashmir and one of the most sought-after in Asia. The Dal Lake stands at number one on the list of tourist attractions in Kashmir. Besides houseboats, Shikaras, and floating markets, it also witnesses the arrival of many migratory birds who reside in the lake for the winter season. It is a great birding spot and among the best for Srinagar winter safaris and snow wildlife tours in Kashmir.
Hokersar Wetland
The top place for the migratory bird areas in Kashmir is Hokersar. This wetland is a valuable ecosystem that attracts many thousands of foreign bird species that reside here for the winter. It becomes a haven for birdwatchers who flung to this area to witness the beauty of birds. It is a treat for snow wildlife tours and winter animal sightings in Kashmir.
Shallabugh Wetland
Locating itself on the outskirts of Srinagar city, this is the largest wildlife-protected wetland in Kashmir. Half portion of the wetland lies in Srinagar city and the other half in the Ganderbal district. It witnesses many migratory birds in the winter season which attracts a lot of birdwatchers who want to catch a glimpse of many magnificent breeds. It is among the best birding spots and Srinagar winter safaris.
Zabarwan Range
This is a sub-range of the majestic Pir Panjal Range of the western Himalayas. This range lies in Srinagar city while touching other districts on its ends. A large portion of the range touches the banks of Dal Lake. The hills of this range are densely vegetated and in turn, make it among the best places for snow wildlife tours and winter animal sightings in Kashmir. There are various trails and trekking routes in the Zabarwan Range which showcase the flora and fauna of Kashmir.
Final Thought
Kashmir has a rich flora and fauna within its mountainous terrain and dense forests. These were some places in Srinagar city that offer great opportunities for birdwatching and winter animal sightings in Kashmir. Hope you enjoyed it. You can explore more of our blogs here.
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FAQs
Are there travel guides who take on birdwatching tours?
Yes, we provide the best guides in every category.
Name some common animal species found in Srinagar.
The species include Himalayan Black Bear, Jungle cat, Levantine Viper, Grey Mongoose, Himalayan Grey Langoor, Hangul and more.
Name some bird species found in Srinagar.
Some bird species found in Srinagar are starling, streaked laughing thrush, cinereous tit, common shrike, swamphen and ashy drongo.
Author is a student who loves to explore new corners of learning. He likes writing and travelling while taking challenges that question his abilities and skills. His hobbies are helping people and spending time in nature.