Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist destination, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the River Uhl. The primary aim of establishing the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is the protection and preservation of the local biodiversity, including various species of flora and fauna. 

This sanctuary serves as a vital habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Mammals such as the Himalayan Palm Civet, Leopard, and Himalayan Black Bear thrive within its boundaries, along with various species of monkeys, deer, and squirrels. A variety of reptiles, including snakes and lizards, contribute to its biodiversity.

The sanctuary's avian population includes colorful pheasants like the Himalayan Monal, alongside a rich variety of other bird species that inhabit the region. The River Uhl, which flows through the sanctuary, provides a lifeline for the ecosystem and contributes to its natural beauty.

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary also attracts eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts who can explore its scenic landscapes and trekking trails. The sanctuary's conservation efforts aim to protect these ecosystems and maintain the delicate balance between human presence and the flourishing wildlife.

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

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Mandi and Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the River Uhl in the Mandi district. The village of Barog, which is connected to Kullu via a trekking trail, serves as a major gateway to this sanctuary. 

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhuntar Airport, which is located in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The closest railway station to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is Jogindernagar Railway Station, situated approximately 40 kilometers away.

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Mandi and Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh, India, has a history of conservation efforts and ecological protection. Here are some key points about its history:

Establishment and Notification: The sanctuary was officially notified by the Government of Himachal Pradesh on 23 October 1999. It was established to conserve the diverse flora and fauna found in the region.

Initial Area and Boundary Changes: When first established, the sanctuary covered an area of 278.0 square kilometers. However, on 29 November 2013, the sanctuary's boundaries were rationalized, and its area was reduced to 132.3731 square kilometers. This adjustment might have been made to better align with ecological or administrative considerations.

Tourism and Ecotourism: Over the years, the sanctuary has also gained popularity as a tourist destination. Its diverse ecosystems, scenic landscapes, and rich wildlife attract nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and wildlife photographers. Ecotourism activities might have been developed to raise awareness about the importance of conservation.

 

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 132.3731 square kilometers (51.1095 square miles). This area was adjusted from the original size of 278.0 square kilometers (107.3 square miles) due to boundary rationalization on 29 November 2013.

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the banks of the River Uhl in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The sanctuary's location along the River Uhl adds to its natural beauty and provides a water source for the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area.

The River Uhl likely plays a crucial role in supporting the ecosystem within the sanctuary, providing water for the wildlife, vegetation, and other ecological processes. It may also contribute to the sanctuary's appeal as a tourist destination due to the scenic landscapes created by the river and its surroundings

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh, India, features a diverse range of flora due to its varied elevations and ecological zones. Here are the different types of vegetation or flora found within the sanctuary:

(1) Subalpine Forest:

Found in the higher reaches of the sanctuary, this forest type includes vegetation adapted to colder temperatures and higher altitudes.

(2) Kharsu Oak Forest:

Oak trees dominate this forest type, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the sanctuary.

(3) Moist Temperate Deciduous Forest:

This forest type is characterized by deciduous trees that shed their leaves during the winter season.

(4) Western Mixed Coniferous Forest:

This type of forest includes a mix of coniferous trees, such as pine and spruce species, creating a unique ecosystem.

(5) Moist Deodar Forest:

Deodar cedar trees, known for their tall and majestic appearance, are prominent in this forest type.

(6) Moru Oak Forest and Ban Oak Forest:

These forests likely consist of oak trees, contributing to the overall diversity of tree species.

(7) Subtropical Pine Forest:

This forest type might include various species of pine trees adapted to lower altitudes and milder climates.

The presence of these different types of vegetation zones indicates a variety of ecological niches and habitats within the sanctuary, supporting a wide range of wildlife species.

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

What animals are in the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary?

The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh, India, is home to a diverse range of wildlife species. Here are some of the notable fauna found within the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Asiatic Black Bear 
• Leopard 
• Himalayan Palm Civet 
• Barking Deer 
• Musk Deer 
• Goral
• Jackal
• Flying Squirrel

Birds:

• Himalayan Monal
• White Crested Kalij
• Chukor
• Western Tragopan 
• Cheer Pheasant

Reptiles:

• Various Species of Snakes
• Lizards and Skinks

Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. In which district is Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary?/Which places are Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in two districts of Himachal Pradesh, India: Mandi and Kullu. It spans across portions of both districts, making it a shared protected area between these two administrative divisions.