Uttarakhand, often called the “Dev Bhoomi” (Land of the Gods), is not only famous for its spiritual heritage but also for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the state is home to some of the most iconic national parks in India, offering sanctuary to a wide variety of flora and fauna. These parks serve as prime destinations for eco-tourism, wildlife safaris, nature photography, and biodiversity conservation.
1. Jim Corbett National Park
- Location:Nainital district
- Established: 1936 (as Hailey National Park)
- Famous For: Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and birdlife
- Highlights: Oldest national park in India and part of Project Tiger. Offers jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and eco-tourism facilities.
2. Nanda Devi National Park
- Location: Chamoli district
- Established: 1982 | UNESCO World Heritage Site (with Valley of Flowers)
- Famous For: Himalayan biodiversity and rare species like snow leopard and Himalayan musk deer
- Highlights: Home to Nanda Devi Peak, one of the highest mountains in India. The park is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
3. Valley of Flowers National Park
- Location: Chamoli district
- Established: 1982 | UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Famous For: A vast variety of alpine flowers and medicinal plants
- Highlights: Best visited during monsoon (July to September). Popular among trekkers and botanists.
4. Rajaji National Park
- Location: Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal districts
- Established: 1983
- Famous For: Elephants, leopards, bears, and birdlife
- Highlights: Close to Rishikesh and Haridwar, it offers jungle safaris and is ideal for birdwatching and photography.
5. Gangotri National Park
- Location: Uttarkashi district
- Established: 1989
- Famous For: Glacial landscapes and rare Himalayan wildlife
- Highlights: Home to species like snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and brown bear. Also houses the Gangotri Glacier, the source of the Ganges River.
6. Govind National Park
- Location: Uttarkashi district
- Established: 1955
- Famous For: Snow leopards, golden eagles, Himalayan monals
- Highlights: Popular trekking routes like Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha lie within the park. Rich in alpine flora and scenic beauty.
7. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
- Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
- Area: 2,236 sq. km (Core: 712 sq. km, Buffer: 1,524 sq. km)
- Altitude Range: 1,800 m to over 7,800 m
- Established: 1988 (as a Biosphere Reserve)
- UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (Since 2005)
8. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (Almora District)
- Famous for: Birdwatching, panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, rich flora
- Activities: Nature walks, birdwatching, forest treks
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
9. Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve
- Highlights: A paradise for bird watchers, this reserve is located near Kilbury and Pangot.
- Flora & Fauna: Home to over 200 species of birds including woodpeckers, eagles, and pheasants.
- Best For: Birdwatching, nature photography, and peaceful walks in the forest.
10. Eco Cave Gardens
- Location: Sukhatal, Mallital
- Highlights: A network of interconnected rocky caves and hanging gardens.
- Features: Musical fountain (seasonal), six animal-shaped caves (Tiger, Panther, Bat, etc.).
- Best For: Kids and families; it’s both educational and adventurous.
11. Naini Lake Promenade (Lakeside Park)
- Location: Around Naini Lake
- Highlights: While not a formal park, the lakeside promenade features benches, gardens, and open spaces.
- Best For: Leisure walks, photography, and enjoying sunset views over the lake.
12. Bhimtal Aquarium and Park
- Location: Bhimtal (22 km from Nainital)
- Highlights: A small but unique aquarium situated on an island in the lake.
- Best For: A day excursion from Nainital; good for children and families.
13. Lachhiwala Nature Park (Now Known as Nature Park, Doiwala)
- Location: Haridwar Road
- Highlights:
- Natural water pools and picnic spots
- Surrounded by Sal forests
- Perfect for relaxation and family outings
14. Gandhi Park
- Location: Near Clock Tower, City Centre
- Highlights:
- Central city park with walking tracks
- Peaceful and green ambiance
- Great for morning/evening walks
15. Khalanga War Memorial Park
- Location: Sahastradhara Road
- Highlights:
- Historical memorial honoring Gorkha soldiers
- Scenic views and forest surroundings
- Walking trails and peaceful vibes
16. Malsi Deer Park (Deer Park)
- Location: Mussoorie Road, Dehradun
- Highlights:
- Ideal for families and kids
- Spot deer, peacocks, rabbits, and birds
- Small zoo, play area, and cafeteria
- Best Time to Visit: All year round
17. Swami Vivekanand Park
- Highlights: Large statue of Lord Shiva, well-manicured gardens, walking paths.
- Activities: Evening strolls, family picnics, photography.
- Location: Near Har Ki Pauri.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening for views and pleasant weather.
18. Bhimgoda Tank and Park
- Type: Pilgrimage-Associated Garden
- Highlights: Legend links it to Bhima from Mahabharata; small fountains and lush greenery.
- Activities: Relaxation, spiritual walks.
- Location: Close to Har Ki Pauri.
- Special Note: Often visited by pilgrims.
19. Joshimath Auli Eco Park
- Located near Auli, a popular ski destination and hill station.
- Offers scenic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, like Nanda Devi and Mana Parbat.
- A well-maintained park perfect for family outings, nature walks, and picnics.
- Also near the artificial lake in Auli, adding to the area’s charm.
20. Biosphere Reserve (Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve)
- Encompasses both Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks.
- Spreads across Chamoli and other adjoining districts.
- Recognized under the Man and Biosphere Programme (UNESCO).
- Aimed at balancing conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
21. Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM) Campus Park
- Location: Uttarkashi Town
- Highlights: While primarily an adventure training center, the campus is surrounded by well-maintained green areas and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Activities: Visitors can explore the outdoor training zones and walk around the campus grounds.
22. Maneri Dam and Park
- Location: Maneri, about 15 km from Uttarkashi
- Highlights: A small, scenic area around the dam on the Bhagirathi River, perfect for picnics and relaxing amidst nature.
- Activities: Photography, riverside walks, and enjoying views of the dam and river.
23. Tiloth Park
- Location: Near Tiloth Bridge, Uttarkashi
- Highlights: A local park popular with residents, ideal for short walks and spending quiet time by the river.
- Best For: Families, evening strolls, and views of the Bhagirathi River.
