Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary is locatedin the state of Himachal Pradesh, North India. The sanctuary holds a vital role in safeguarding diverse wildlife. The Himalayan Black Bear stands as a flagship endangered species within its conservation efforts.

The sanctuary's fauna is equally remarkable, boasting an array of mammals such as the Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Black Bear, leopard, musk deer, wolf, blue sheep, and Indian giant squirrel. Birds like the Western Tragopan, cheer pheasant, monal, and hornbill grace its skies. 

Table of Contents Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Location Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary History Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Area Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Flora Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna Mammals Birds Reptile Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, North India. It is situated at a distance of approximately 19 kilometers from the heart of Kullu Town. 

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary in the Kullu Valley is the Kullu-Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport. It is located in Bhuntar, which is approximately 10-15 kilometers away from Kullu Town. This airport serves as the primary air gateway to the Kullu Valley region.

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest major railway station to the Kullu Valley is Joginder Nagar Railway Station. However, please note that the railway connectivity to Kullu is limited, and the nearest major railway station with better connectivity is Chandigarh Railway Station, which is located in the city of Chandigarh. From there, you would need to travel by road to reach Kullu.

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the picturesque Kullu Valley of North India, boasts a rich history rooted in conservation and the protection of diverse wildlife. 

Establishment: In the year 1954, the Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary was officially made a special place under a law called the Wildlife Protection Act Punjab. Its significance lies in the safeguarding of numerous species, with the Himalayan Black Bear taking center stage as a flagship endangered species.

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 14.2 square kilometers.

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich and diverse flora, which includes a variety of tree species, shrubs, and herbs. Some of the prominent flora found in the sanctuary are:

(1) Oak Trees:

Various species of oak trees, such as the Quercus robur (common oak) and Quercus ilex (holm oak), may be found in the sanctuary. Oak trees are known for their sturdy trunks and distinctively shaped leaves.

(2) Fir Trees:

Fir trees, including species like Abies pindrow (West Himalayan fir) and Abies spectabilis (East Himalayan fir), are often found in higher elevations of the sanctuary. They are characterized by their tall, conical shape and needle-like leaves.

(3) Deodar Cedar:

Cedrus deodara, commonly known as deodar cedar, is a majestic tree with soft, pendulous needles. It is often found in the Western Himalayas and is valued for its timber and ornamental use.

(4) Chir Pine:

Pinus roxburghii, also known as chir pine or longleaf pine, is a pine species found in the Himalayan region. It has long needles and distinctive pine cones.

(5) Herbs and Understory Plants:

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary have a variety of understory plants and herbs, including species like rhododendrons, wildflowers, ferns, and mosses. These plants play an important role in the ecosystem by providing food and habitat for various animals and insects.

(6) Other Tree Species:

In addition to the aforementioned species, the sanctuary may be home to other tree species such as maple, walnut, horse chestnut, and more. These trees contribute to the overall biodiversity of the area.

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary support a diverse range of fauna due to its varied ecosystems and habitat types. Some of the fauna that present in the Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary include:

Mammals:

• Himalayan Tahr
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Barking Deer
• Leopard
• Musk Deer
• Wolf
• Blue Sheep
• Indian Giant Squirrel
• Himalayan Yellow Throated Marten
• Porcupine
• Goral
• Flying Squirrel
• Langur

Birds:

• Western Tragopan
• Cheer Pheasant
• Monal
• Chakor
• Kaleej
• Spotted Duck
• Stripped Parrot
• Hornbill

Reptiles:

• Himalayan Pit Viper
• Various Lizard Species
• Turtle Species

Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary located?

A. The Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Northern India, around 19 kilometers away from the central area of Kullu Town.