FAST FACTS:

Total Area:   55,848 sq. km

Hilly Region:92.57%

Capital:     Dehradun

Population: 7.045 Million

Forest Cover:  63%

Temperature (Deg C):  Summer - Max: 45; Min: 21.9 Winter - Max: 31.7; Min: 4.2

Best Time to Visit:   April to July

Must Visit:        Uttaranchal Hill Stations and Char Dham

INTRODUCTION:

One of the most popular states of North India, Uttaranchal is located in the hilly terrain of Himalayan Mountains. The countries like Tibet, Nepal, Himachal Pradesh, and the Utter Pradesh borders the state of Uttranchal plains. The glaciers on the high lands are the main source of river Ganga and Yamuna. The region is also blessed with some of the most divine shrines of Hindus, the majestic Himalayas are said to be the abode of the gods - Badrinath (Vishnu), Kedarnath (Shiva), Panch Prayag, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Hemkund (Sikh), Sirkanda Devi, Temple (Durga-Shakti), Haridwar, Rishikesh.

Uttaranchal became the 27th state of the Republic of India in November 2000. Carved out of the state of Uttar Pradesh, Uttaranchal mainly comprises the hilly regions of Uttar Pradesh. The state borders Himachal Pradesh in the north-west and Uttar Pradesh in the South, and has international borders with Nepal and China. A picturesque state, Uttarancahal has magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, panoramic views of the Himalayas, dense forests and the valley of flowers, as well as some of Hinduism's most sacred pilgrim sites. The State's 13 Districts can be grouped into three distinct geographical regions, the High mountain region, the Mid-mountain region and the Terai region. This is the land where the Vedas and Shastras were composed and great Indian epic, the Mahabharatha, was written.

The state is very rich in natural resources especially water and forests as it has many glaciers, rivers, forests, mountain peaks. The famous peaks of Uttaranchal are Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Trishul, Bandarpunch and Mt Kamet. The major glaciers include Gangotri, Pindari, Milam and Khatling. The Ganga, The Yamuna, Ramganga and Sharda are principal rivers of this region.

Apart from tourism, the rural population is engaged in agriculture, and the state has immense potential for the development of horticulture crops. The region also holds promise for developing the herbal pharmaceutical industry owing to an abundant supply of medicinal plants. The industrial sector is insignificant. Due to its water resources the state has the capacity to generate many mega watts of power. There are 17 hydro-electric projects already producing electricity and many ambitious power projects including Tehri Dam are under construction.

PLACES TO VISIT

Dehradun

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun, the state capital, is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. The town lies in the fertile Doon Valley, with the river Ganga in the east and river Yamuna in the west. It is home to some of the country's best public schools, including Doon School and Welhams. The Indian Military Academy, The Forest Research Institute, ONGC and many more offices of the Central and State Governments are also situated here. Close to Dehradun is the hill resort of Mussoorie. Visit:

• Tapkeshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva

• Sahastra Dhara, the sulphur springs

• Robbers Cave, a picnic spot

• Dakpathar Barrage

• Tapovan, a place where Guru Drona did penance

• Kalanga Monument for Gorkha Gen Balbhadra Thapa

• Ashoka Edict at Kalsi

Char Dhams

Char Dham is a term coined for the four most sacred and revered Hindu temples: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. According to the Puranas and various Hindu scriptures, the Char Dham Yatra is of very high religious significance. Pilgrims brave severe weather conditions to visit these shrines.

Badrinath

Badrinath Temple is the abode of Lord Vishnu. The idol is made of black granite. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3130 m on the banks of the Alaknanda. Behind is the Neelkanth mountain peak situated between the twin peaks of Nar and Narayan.Near the temple is a hot water sulphur spring known as Tapt Kund.

Kedarnath

The temple of Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at an altitude of 3580 m, the temple is built of large, heavy and evenly cut grey stone slabs, and is considered to be more than 1000 years old. It has a garbha griha where the conical rock formation is situated, and a mandapam for seating visitors. A large statue of the Nandi Bull is situated outside the temple door.

Gangotri

The shrine is situated at an elevation of 3200 m, amidst deodar and pine forests. It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Lord Shiva on a slab of rock "Bhagirath Shila" situated near the temple. Submerged in the river is a natural rock shivling, where, according to mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks.

Yamunotri

Yamuna, the river goddess, is worshipped at the Yamunotri Temple, situated at a height of 3235 m. The idol is made of black marble. A hot sulphur spring is situated close to the temple.

Haridwar

The name Haridwar means "gateway to God", and it is from here that the pilgrimage to two famous temples, Kedarnath (Lord Shiva) and Badrinath (Lord Vishnu) starts. It is situated on the banks of river Ganga, at the foothills of the Shivalik mountains. It is one of the four places where the Kumbh mela is held every 12 years. During this fair, millions of devotees take a holy dip in the river Ganges to wash away their sins. It is said that the pitcher of Amrit was kept in hiding here by Devtas when it was unearthed from Sagar Manthan. The same pitcher was taken to the other places, i.e. Allahbad, Ujjain and Nasik. In the struggle with Asuras the pitcher broke spilling some sacred water (amrit), since then these places became very holy and the Kumbh mela is held every 3 years in these cities in succession. Every evening, after sunset, aarti of the Ganga is performed in Har-ki-Pauri. Visit:

• Har-ki-Pauri

• Ram Krishna Mission Seva Ashram

• Gurukul Kangri University

• Sapta Rishi Ashram

• Bharat Heavy Electricals Factory

• Mansa Devi Temple

Nainital

This lake town, situated in the hilly region of Kumaon, is built around the lake Naini. The city is surrounded by seven mountains, Sapta Shring. Nainital was the summer capital of Uttar Pradesh for many years during British rule and also after independence. According to mythology, when Lord Shiva was carrying the body of Sati, her eyes fell at this place and it came to be known as Naini Tal. Nearby places of interests are BhimTal and SatTal.

Rishikesh

Surrounded by hills, bisected by the wide and sluggish Ganga, Rishikesh, the land of yogis and ashrams, nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal region, is the getaway to the upper Garhwal region and the starting point for pilgrim routes to the four dhams of Uttarakhand - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Situated 24 km upstream from Haridwar, at the confluence of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga rivers, Rishikesh has long been a spiritual centre. In the 1960's, Rishikesh gained instant fame as the site where The Beatles came to stay with their guru, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Today it is known for white water rafting or the spa at Ananda in the Himalayas.

Auli

Reaching this ski resort (run by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) is itself quite an adventure. From Joshimath, the base town, you have to take the cable car, since the roads are buried under snow during the winter. The crisp, cold air, the pine trees covered with snow and the towering peaks create a memorable experience.

Pauri

This small town, situated at a height of 1814 m, on the northern slopes of the Kandolia hills, provides a delightful view of the snow clad Himalayan peaks of Bandar-Punch. The misty deodhar forests and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place for a holiday. There are many picnic spots, including Kandolia Gap and Nag tibba.

 Tehri

Tehri, situated at an altitude of 770 m, at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangana rivers, is located in a wide open valley which is quite warm in the summer. The town is at the junction of five important roads which branch off to Rishikesh, Deoprayag, Uttarkashi, Srinagar and Tilwara. Prior to independence, Tehri was the capital of the princely state of Tehri-Garhwal. The palaces and temples built by the old rulers can still be seen at Tehri and the adjoining places. The Tehri Hydel Development Corporation has undertaken the construction of Tehri Dam on the river Bhagirathi and it is estimated that the project will generate 2400 MW of electricity and irrigate vast areas in the region.

Uttarkashi

This historic town, situated near the river Bhagirathi, has plenty of ancient monuments and temples, the most famous of which is the Lord Viswanath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nearby there is Shakti temple, which has an old brass trident which is 26 feet high and has a base circumference of 9 feet. There is also a temple of Parshuram. In many ways, Uttarkashi is similar to Kashi, hence the name. The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is located here. Uttarkashi is a tourist halt place.

Rudraprayag

This town is situated near the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini. From here there are two roads, one going to Kedarnath and the other to Badrinath. It is a night halt place for pilgrims. There is a small Jagdamba Devi temple dedicated to the Goddess Durga. There is also an old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, called Rudranath temple. Narad Muni meditated here for several years, Lord Shiva blessed him with perfection in music.

Almora

This hill district is in the central Kumaon region of Uttaranchal. It is a beautiful scenic place situated at an altitude of 5900 ft. There is a cave where Swami Vivekananda meditated and was enlightened. Almora was captured by British from Gorkhas, who have left their mark on this town. Nanda Devi festival is celebrated here, during which devotees from all over India visit this place.

THE FLORA AND FAUNA

Corbett National Park

Along river Ram Ganga, in the foothills of the Himalayas is situated the country's oldest national park. Constituted in 1935 as Ram Ganga National Park, it was later named after Jim Corbett, one of the greatest hunters of the last century, who later became a leading voice for the conservation and protection of wildlife. The park is home to elephant, tiger, leopard, panther, bear, sambhar, cheetal, crocodile, and many other smaller animals. It is a paradise for birdwatchers - more than 150 different varieties of birds have been sighted here.

Valley of Flowers

The world famous Valley of Flowers is situated in the upper expansions of Bhyundar Ganga in the far interiors of the Garhwal Himalayas. Almost 300 species of wild flowers bloom here. Some of the species are: Anemone, Geranium, Marsh Marigold, Primula, Potentilla, Geum, Asters, Lilium, Ranunculus, Corydalis, Inula, Braham Kamal, Campanula, Pedicularis, Arisaema, Morina, Impatiens, Bistorta, Ligularia, Anaphalis, Saxifragus, Sibbaldia, Thermopsis, Trollius, Codonopsis, Dactylorhiza, Cypripedium, Strawberry, Epilobium, and Rhododendron. Most of the flowers have medicinal value too. The valley remains in bloom for three months while its' floral composition keeps changing every few days. By September, the hue starts changing and the entire vegetation remains dormant for the next five months when the valley is snow bound. Apart from the flowers, some species of butterfly, musk deer, blue sheep (bharal), himalayan bear, himalayan mouse hare and snow leopards are also found in this area. It was declared a National Park in 1982.

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park, spread in an area of about 820 sq. kms., is one of the latest additions to the list of national parks in the country. The park was constituted by combining three existing wildlife sanctuaries: Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla. Nestled in the Shiwalik Hills, and lying between the Lower Himalayas and the Upper Gangetic Plains, it is the northwestern-most habitat of the Asian Elephant. The park is also home to the tiger, leopard, porcupine, barking deer, and sambhar. The largest variety of Indian python is also found in Rajaji.

Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

The Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttar Pradesh, was established in 1955. Spread over an area of 957,969 sq. kms., the altitude varies from 1300 mts. to 6323 mts. The entire area of the sanctuary is subjected to light-heavy snowfall. The snow leopard inhabits the inner Himalayas above the altitude of 3500 mts. To improve the protection of this rare animal, the upper reaches of the sanctuary were notified as a National Park which covers an area of 472.08 sq. kms.

Kedarnath Sanctuary

Kedarnath sanctuary is situated in Chamoli district. The approach road starts from Haridwar-Rudraprayag and then leads to Sonprayag and Ukhimath which is 226 km. away. The fauna includes panther, musk deer, black and brown Himalayan bear, sambhar, serow, thar, ghoral and monal pheasant. The best time to visit is during April to June and again from September to November.

Nanda Devi National Park

Nanda Devi Sanctuary is situated in Chamoli district. The present sanctuary came into existence in 1939. There are no roads available and the area is inaccessible. No regular path exists. You can trek from Joshimath i.e. 15 km. by road upto Lata and then 51 km. trek upto the sanctuary. The fauna includes snow leopards, Himalayan bear, musk deer, bharal, him, thar and many species of pheasant. The park is a World Heritage site.

Mussoorie Wild Life Sanctuary

Mussoorie or Binog Mountain Quail Wild Life Sanctuary is accessible from two directions, northwest and south by road from Mussoorie. Bus services and overnight trains are available from Dehradun. It is well connected by road from Dehradun to Mussoorie. The entry point in Binog Block is from Dhobi Ghat, which is on the Mussoorie Kempty road. There is also a motorable kuchha road from Hathipaon up to Clouds End Estate, which is about 6 Km from Gandhi Dwar, Library, Mussoorie. From Clouds End Estate to Binog Top is about 2 Km, along a bridle path. The Himalayan Quail last sighted in 1876 and believed to be extinct now, might be spotted again in the picturesque Mussoorie hills. Primates, reptiles and avifauna are commonly found here. The sanctuary is unique in having plant communities in various forms. Apart from this the area is rich in medicinal plants. It forms the catchment area of the Aglar river which is a tributary of the Yamuna.

The Assan Barrage Wetland

Situated near the confluence of Yamuna Canal and the Assan, in Dehradun district, the lake attracts a large number of water-fowl, both waders and divers. Apart from these there are a large number of woodland and scrubland bird species in the adjoining Sal forest. Many birds listed as globally threatened species in the IUCN Red Data Book have been observed at Assan. The services of an experienced bird-watching guide can also be arranged on request.

For more information please visit:

www.uttaranchaltourism.gov.in

ADVENTURES IN UTTRANCHAL
Aero-sports Center
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) facilitates the aero sports in the valley of Dheradun. The Doon Valley lying amidst the Himalayas and Shiwalik ranges, with the river tributaries of Ganga and Yamuna meandering their ways towards the plains exhibits an idle location for Aero-sports. The equipment's and the infrastructure for both Para-sailing and Para-gliding are easily available for the aero -sports lover as well as for the beginners who want to learn the sport. Certified instructors using the best and safest equipment are always available at the locations.

Skiing
Alui has lot in its stores to offer its ski lovers, whether a beginner or an experienced skier, it has a 3-km long sloping stretch for skiing. A magnificent vista of snow capped peaks like Nandadevi, Kamet, Mana Parvat and Dunagiri is just breathtaking. The region is also well thronged with elevated Deodar forests adding to its charms. Another attraction is its 3.9m long rope way connecting Joshimath with the upper slopes of Auli covering a track trial of 4.5 km.

Mountaineering in Uttranchal
This adventurous sport is mainly concentrated around the Gangotri Glacier and the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. The challenging peaks of varying heights - between 6500-7000m offers quite a thrilling adventure. The highest peak is Nanda Devi - 7601m whereas Kamet and Abhigaman elevated at a height over 7000m requires some of the most challenging mountaineering skills. Many available peaks can be attempted within a period of 4-5 weeks from Delhi. The mounting at the Nanda Devi sanctuary can be undertaken in a week and is an expedition in itself.

Trekking
To enjoy the charming splendor of Garhwal Himalaya just take up any of the trekking routes through the green vegetation, passing the beautiful snow clad mountains. Each trek has its prescribed route, encountering the lively villages, mountains throng with swampy lands, dense forests majestic mountain. Other famous trek is -Valley of Flowers - On the more higher altitude of Garhwal rises the valley of flowers giving a panoramic view to its visitors.

Wild Life- Adventure
Famous Chila wildlife sanctuary is situated at the foothills of Shivalik Hills on the banks of river Ganga. Located at a distance of 8 km from Haridwar and 21 km from Rishikesh, Chila is a part of the famous Rajaji National Park. The main attractions of the reserve are elephants, spotted deer, stag deer, blue bull, fox, porcupine, and peacocks. Besides these species the forest is also the home of migratory birds.

River Rafting
The intricate labyrinth of mountain rivers winding through a myriad of rocky terrain, jungles, hilly vegetation and remote villages on elevated mountains and the Garhwal and Kumaon hills offer a perfect water adventure.

The Sport of white water river rafting is taken up mainly in the upper reaches where the water is untamed and pristine white as it froths / foams, rumbling towards the narrow ravine and sweeps down at deep inclinations.

Uttaranchal offers the widest scope for white water rafting in the country with the longest season. One of the greatest attractions being the backcountry camping combined with rafting. The main rafting rivers are -- Ganga, Yamuna, Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Tons, Kali and Sharda. Rafting Seasons: Oct-May

 HILL STATIONS OF UTTARANCHAL

Uttaranchal blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode of Gods includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage.

CHAMOLI:

Chamoli, the abode of Gods, reputed for its shrines and temples, birth place of 'Chipko Movement ' with its strategic significance is one of the hill district of Uttaranchal, India. Chamoli proved itself “the most spectacular in its natural assets. be it maintain scenery, valley aspects, water-edges, floristic varieties, dramatic landform or the climatic cardinalities.

In the arms of the heavenly Himalayas lies the enchanting land of Chamoli, which seems to be a benediction of earth. A blessed spot the place seems to have been particularly dear to Lord Shiva. There are hundreds of shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva , the most important of all being the shrine of Badrinath.
 

The other shrines of religious importance are Hemkund Saheb, three out of five Panch Kedar and Panch Badri, which are spread over the hills of Chamoli. During the monsoons, thousand brilliant blooms bursts forth in the fascinating “Valley of flowers”. The place reverberates with spirituality and is associated with a number of legends. It is said that Hanuman found the Sanjeevani herb here to revive the unconscious Laxman. It is believed that Ved Vyas composed his immortal epic, the Mahabharata here.

Guru Gobind Singh is also believed to have meditated here. Surrounded by Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, Rudrapryag. Pithoragarh, Almora and Pauri Garhwal districts and with Tibet lying to its north, Chamoli attracts tourists and invites trekking enthusiasts from all over the world to discover the fullest potential of their body & mind. Chamoli, a hill district of U.P., has immense geographical, historical, religious and cultural importance.

Chamoli lies in the arms of the heavenly Himalayas and is full of natural beauty. This land has inspired the imaginations of great poets like Kalidas. These mountain ranges, rivers and valleys are associated wit several Gods & Goddesses.

he celebrated shrine of Badrinath, a famous pilgirmage of Hindus, the well known " Valley of Flower" and Auli Bugyal are situated here. Today, this snow clad peaks which are a delight for adventure loving tourists. Gopeshwar is the district headquarter of Chamoli and is situated at a height of 1308 mts.

Other Facilities

MajorMountainRanges
Nanda Devi, (7817 mts), Kamet (7756 mts.), Nanda Devi east, (7434 mts.), Trishul (7120 mts.), Dunagiri, (7066 mts.), Dunagiri East (6489 mts.), Hanuman Parvat, (600mts.), Devisthan II, (6490 mts.), Hathi Parvat (6727mts.), Gori Parvat (6590 mts.), Neelkanth (6596mts.), Satopanth (7075 mts.), Nar (5831 MTS) & Narayan (5965 mts.)

DEHRADUN

Dehradun in one of the odlest cities of India. Also known as the Abode of Drona, Dehradun has always been an important centre of the Garhwal rulers which was captured by the British . the headuarters of many National institute like ONGC , Survey of India , I.I.P. etc. are located in the city . Dehradun has a string of premier educational institutes like the forest Research institute, Rashtriya Indian Military College and the Indian Military Academy.

It is a favoured tourist destination as it attracts tourists, pilgrims and enthusiasts From various walks of life to its serene environs. Add to this the abundance of special Basmati rice, tea and leechi gardens which contribute in turning the city into a paradise.

MUSOORIE

Mussoorie offers a wonderful view of the Himalayan snow ranges to the north-east and the Doon Valley., Roorkee, Saharanpur and Haridwar to the South, creating an almost serene atmosphere for the tourists. Mussoorie was discovered by Captain Young, an adventurous military officer in 1827. He was lured by the extraordinarily beautiful ridge and laid the foundation of it. Mussoorie is also a Gateway to the “Gangotri” and the “Yamunotri” shrines

Mussoorie, the queen of hill stations, is famous for its scenic beauty, gay social life and entertainment. The excellent climate makes it an attractive holiday resort. Thronged by holidayers, it vibrates with gaiety and merry making during the summer season. There are no steep inclines and the more adventurous can undertake enjoyable excursions to various beauty spots in the vicinity. Mussoorie affords glorious views of the mighty Himalayan peaks. Kempty falls which are about 11 kms. from the town attract hundreds of people every day. The Bhatta falls are also famous for scenic beauty.

Though the tourist here is smaller than that of Kempty yet it is a picnic spot near to the town. Yet another place of interest in the town is Depot Hill, popularly known as 'Lal Tibba'. It is the highest point in Mussoorie and beautiful Himalayan panorama is visible on all clear days from this spot. The Badrinath, Kedarnath, Bandar-poonch, Sri Kantha and Nanda Devi peaks can be seen from here. Camel's back hill can be reached by electric trolley. The top commands a very beautiful view both of the hills as well as the valley. On clear days, one can see even the Ganga and the Yamuna from here. Mussoorie is well connected by roads with Dehra Dun, Delhi, Roorkee and Saharanpur. There are some good hotels, recreation clubs and restaurants to cater to the needs of the tourist.
Mussoorie, with its green hills and varied flora & fauna, is a fascinating hill resort. Commanding a wonderful view of extensive Himalayan snow ranges to the north-east, and glittering views of the Doon Valley, Roorkee, Saharanpur and Haridwar to the south, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to the tourists.

Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the present site and laid the foundation of this holiday resort which now has few rivals.

Musoorie is famous for its scenic beauty and hectic social life. It provides all kinds of amusement and every facility for domestic and foreign tourists. Mussoorie is conveniently connected by road to Delhi and other major cities and is the "Gateway" to Yamunotri and Gangotri shrines of Northern India.

NAINITAL:

Nainital is a glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, blessed with scenic natural splendor and varied natural resources . Dotted with lakes, Nainital has earned the epithet of 'Lake District' of India. The most prominent of the lakes is Naini lake ringed by hills. Nainital has a varied topography. Some of the important places in the district are Nainital, Haldwani, Kaladhungi, Ramnagar, Bhowali, Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal. Nainital’s unending expense of scenic beauty is nothing short of a romance with awe-inspiring and pristine Mother nature.

 

Historical Background
Nainital is referred to in the ‘Manas Khand’ of the ‘Skanda Purana’ as the Tri-Rishi-Sarovar, the lake of the three sages ,Atri,Pulastya and Pulaha who were reputed to have arrived here on a penitential piligrimage, and, finding no water to quench their thirst dug a hole and siphoned water into it from Mansarovar the sacred lake in Tibet.

The Second important mythological reference to Nainital is as one of 64 ‘Shakti Peeths’.These centres were created wherever parts of charred body of Sati fell ,when Lord Shiva was carrying around her corpse in grief .It is said that the left eye (Nain) of Sati fell here and this gave rise to patron deity of town Nainital . It is said that the lake is formed in the emerald eye shape. Naina Devi temple is located at the northern end of the lake. Thus name of Nainital derivated from Naina and the tal (Lake).

Uttaranchal Eco Tourism

Uttaranchal blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode of Gods includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage. Char-dhams, the four most sacred and revered Hindu temples: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are nestled in the Mighty Mountains.

A picturesque state, with a breathtaking panoramic view of Himalayas, Uttaranchal promises its tourists a visit full of fun and unforgettable moments

Uttaranchal blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode of Gods includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage.

Corbett National Park
India's first National Park is cradled in the foothills of the Himalayas and spreads over an area of 520 sq. kms., along the banks of the Ramganga river. The dense Sal forests of the Himalayan foothils and the tall grassy meadows make it one of the richest areas of northern India for the habitation of the big mammals.