Himachal Pradesh (5 National Parks):
- Great Himalayan National Park
- Inderkilla National Park
- Khirganga National Park
- Pin Valley National Park
- Simbalbara National Park
Start Point: Chandigarh
- Chandigarh is a major city with excellent connectivity by air, rail, and road. Begin your journey here.
- Distance to Simbalbara National Park: ~60 km (~2 hours by road).
2. Simbalbara National Park
- Located in the Sirmour district, it’s known for its dense sal forests and diverse wildlife.
- Activities: Wildlife spotting, trekking, and nature walks.
- Suggested Duration: 1 day.
3. Head to the Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Distance: ~240 km (~7-8 hours by road).
- Located in the Kullu district, this park is famous for its pristine biodiversity, trekking trails, and stunning Himalayan landscapes.
- Activities: Trekking, camping, and wildlife observation.
- Suggested Duration: 2-3 days.
4. Inderkilla National Park
- Distance from Great Himalayan National Park: ~50 km (~2 hours by road).
- Situated near Manali, it offers serene landscapes, forested hills, and diverse flora and fauna.
- Activities: Day hikes, nature photography, and birdwatching.
- Suggested Duration: 1 day.
5. Khirganga National Park
- Distance from Inderkilla National Park: ~60 km (~3-4 hours by road, including trekking to the entry point).
- Famous for its hot water springs and breathtaking views of the Parvati Valley.
- Activities: Trekking, camping, and exploring the spiritual aura of the place.
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 days.
6. Pin Valley National Park
- Distance from Khirganga National Park: ~190 km (~8-10 hours by road).
- Located in the Spiti Valley, this park is known for its rugged terrain, snow leopards, and cold desert ecosystem.
- Activities: Wildlife photography, high-altitude trekking, and exploring Spiti’s unique culture.
- Suggested Duration: 2-3 days.
7. Return to Chandigarh
- Distance from Pin Valley National Park: ~520 km (~12-14 hours by road, or split the journey with a stop in Shimla or Manali).
Total Duration: ~10-14 days (can be adjusted based on the pace of travel and activities).
Additional Tips:
- Best Time to Visit:
- April to June and September to November for most parks.
- Pin Valley is best visited in summer (May to September) due to harsh winters.
- Travel Gear: Carry warm clothing, trekking gear, and adequate supplies for high-altitude areas.
- Permits: Check for any required permits for national parks, especially Pin Valley.
- Transport: Use a 4×4 vehicle for better access to remote areas like Pin Valley and Khirganga.