Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is one of India's most treasured protected areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Spread across 754 square kilometres of pristine Himalayan wilderness in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, it is one of the most biodiverse regions in the entire Himalayan arc.

The park is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife. Among its most celebrated residents are the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Western Tragopan (the state bird of Himachal Pradesh), blue sheep, and over 375 species of fauna. More than 800 plant species have been recorded within its boundaries.

The Tirthan Valley, which descends from Jalori Pass, is the primary gateway to the GHNP. The park headquarters and main entry check-post are at Sai Ropa near Gushaini. Visitors must obtain a permit before entering, and trekking into the core zone requires a registered guide.

For those staying in the Jalori Pass area, the GHNP offers experiences ranging from a short nature walk to the entry gate (accessible from Gushaini in minutes) to multi-day expeditions deeper into the park. Popular routes include the Rolla Trek (2 days, moderate), the Shilt Thatch trek, and the challenging Tirath Trek.

The Tirthan River flowing through the park is one of the cleanest rivers in India. Trout fishing with a permit is one of the most beloved activities here. Birdwatching is exceptional throughout the valley — it is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) with numerous rare and endemic Himalayan species.