Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Location : 48-km Southwest Of Srinagar, Kashmir Region, J&K.
Area Coverage : 180 sq km.
Major Attractions : Himalayan Musk Deer, Red Fox, Black & Brown Bear
Best Season to visit : For bird viewing March-May; For animal viewing September-March

Sanctuary Overview
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve is just 48 km from Srinagar, to its southwest. The reserve has an area of 180 sq km, and an altitudinal range of 2,400 - 4,300 meters above sea level. Fauna includes Himalayan musk deer, red fox, brown and black bear. among avifauna are upland birds, both resident and migratory. The best time for animal viewing is September to March and for bird viewing March to May. It is famous for retaining several rare and endangered species such as the musk deer, and a rich and varied avifauna.

Arriving At Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
By Flight : The Srinagar airport is 57 km away.
By Trackways : Nearest railhead is Jammu (342-km).
By Roadways : Regular buses ply from Srinagar, which is 48-km away from the reserve area

The Park Ecosystem
The Animal Being
Nature has gifted this Biosphere Reserve with multiple species of rare, endangered and protected species. The main species found over here are Hangul, Musk Deer, Serow, Brown Bear, Leopard, Black Bear and Red Fox, etc.

The Vegetation
The area holds a rich cover of vegetation, the dominant forest consisting of conifers, which account for over 90% of forest. The principal species are Cedrus Deodara, Pinus Griffithii, Abies Pindrow, Aesculus Indica, etc. The major shrubs are Indigofera Heterantha, Sorbaria Tomentosa, etc. The ground cover over here is also very rich and Dicotyledonus herbs dominate the area, comprising of Rumex Patientia, etc.

The Winged Beings
The area houses a good population of pheasants and upland birds apart from other species, both resident and migratory. The common birds are Griffon Vulture, Monal, Snow Cock, Koklas, Blue Rock Pigeon, Kashmir Roller, European Hoopoe, Jungle Crow, etc.