1.Description
Located at a high altitude, Gangotri National park is one of the most stunning homes for wildlife in India. The park is famously known to contain the source of river Ganga. The Gangotri National Park has a huge glacier, whose melting supply water to other rivers in India. River Bhagirathi flows through the park, revitalizing and sustaining life in the place. The park is remotely located, allowing it to enjoy the comfort of experiencing fewer disturbances from human activities. The climatic conditions in the park are well balanced to support the life of rare wild species. For example, Snow Leopards and Himalayan Monal are found there.
2. History and Geography
The Gomukh, source of the Holy Ganges
The park was named after a holy shrine in Hindu. It is located at the source of river Bhagirathi in Uttarkashi District. The northeastern side of the park shares the boundary with China. The park is also big, covering an area of about 2400 km2. The Gomukh glacier, which is the origin of the river Ganges, is found in the park. The park area is strategically positioned between the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Govind National Park. Deep gorges, high ridges, narrow valleys, and glaciers feature in the area. The place is naturally located at very high altitudes, which in turn supports different life forms.
A Small Hindu Shrine in the Region
3. Habitat and Biodiversity
Gangotri is uniquely known to support the less common fauna species. Most of the animals in this place have adapted to effectively survive in a climate that keeps alternating between cold and extreme cold. Examples of animals at Gangotri Park include Black Bear, Musk Deer, Leopard, Brown Bear, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Monal, Barbet, Ibex, Pheasants, Himalayan Snowcock, Pigeons, Doves, Serow and Partridges. We also have different Flora in the region. At the highest parts of the park, we have the Himalayan Alpine Shrubs while the Su Conifer forests are found at the lower parts. The various vegetations in the park include Chirpine Deodar, Spruce, Fir, Rhododendrons, and Oak.
Tourism in this park is at its peak in the months between April and October. Dehradun is the head of railways and airport. From the park, the nearest airport is 220 km, while the nearest railway station is 210 km. We have Harsii as the nearest town from the park (30km) where tourists can go shop for essential items and accommodations. Visiting Gangotri won’t be complete, if tourists have not explored everything, including the Gangotri shrine. For visitors to easily get to the shrine without getting lost, they have to take the road headed to Bhaironghati, 23 kilometers from the park’s valley. Gangotri shrine is just some 8 kilometers behind Bhaironghati.
5. Threats and Conservation
Climate Change and Rising Temperatures Threaten To Trigger Glacier Retreat in Gangotri
Rare species found in the park are the pride of the place. However, we have several unscrupulous hunters who want to jeopardize the entire harmony of the animals. They are posing a great threat and danger to the animals. Another threat concerns the origin of river Ganga. Some people disregard its beauty and carelessly pollute the water source. However, India’s government is taking stringent measures against those weird individuals. Rules are enacted to protect the integrity of the place in order to keep it safe at all times. The locals in the region are also encouraged to plant trees and other vegetation to enhance the flora.
Written by: A. Benojir, Bangladesh
Read about other wildlife destinations here:
Gulf Of Mannar Marine National Park
Valmiki National Park
Indravati National Park
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