Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve


The Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is a reserve area located at 48 km to the southwest of Srinagar. It is a well-maintained reserve that boasts of a rich flora and fauna collection. The vegetation cover is thick and dominated by conifers, pines, Abies Pindrow, Aesculus Indiaca, etc. The reserve is gifted with a rich fauna as well- Musk Deer, Serow, Brown Bear, Black Bear, Red Fox, and Hangul. The Gulmarg Reserve also houses a variety of resident and migratory birds like Monal, Griffin Vulture, Snow Cock, and Koklas. Spread over an area of 180 square km, this is one of those areas where biodiversity is in its most untouched and richest form. Safari through the reserve and if you are lucky, you may spot some of the most endangered mountain species. This also acts as an educational excursion for children; they learn about the wilderness. Teach them why we must conserve our ever depleting forest cover and take care of rich fauna our Earth is blessed with. This place is a paradise for all nature and photography enthusiasts. A camping site present near the area and accommodation facilities are decent. You can get to the reserve via airways, road or rails.