Floting Market
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The Floating Market is a traditional early-morning vegetable and goods market held on wooden boats on Dal Lake in Srinagar.
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Dachigam National Park at a glance
Dachigam National Park is a protected Himalayan landscape on the outskirts of Srinagar, extending across forested mountains, steep valleys, alpine meadows and streams. It is particularly significant for the conservation of the Kashmir stag, or hangul, and supports a range of other Himalayan wildlife within a varied natural environment.
The park provides an opportunity to experience Kashmir’s wildlife and mountain scenery away from the urban centre. Sightseeing is focused on forest landscapes, valleys, streams and wildlife observation, with the possibility of spotting native species depending on conditions. Its proximity to Srinagar makes it a valuable nature-focused addition to a city itinerary.
Good to know: Dachigam is a protected area, so access, visitor routes and activities are subject to park regulations and seasonal conditions. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and visitors should follow instructions from park authorities and avoid disturbing animals or their habitat.
History of Dachigam National Park
Dachigam National Park, near Srinagar, has a long history of conservation and wildlife protection in the Kashmir Valley. The area was originally managed to protect water resources for Srinagar before gradually becoming a protected habitat for Kashmir’s distinctive Himalayan wildlife.
Early 20th Century — Water Conservation
The Dachigam area was protected under the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, partly to safeguard the catchment of the Dachigam stream and the Harwan water supply system serving Srinagar.
1951 — Wildlife Sanctuary
After India’s independence, Dachigam received formal protection as a wildlife sanctuary, strengthening efforts to conserve its forests and native Himalayan animals, particularly the endangered Hangul.
1981 — National Park Status
Dachigam was declared a national park in 1981, giving the area stronger legal protection and establishing it as one of the most important conservation landscapes around Srinagar.
Best time to visit
April to October
April to October is generally a favourable period for visiting Dachigam National Park, with milder conditions and better opportunities to explore its forested mountain landscape. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, while weather and park access can vary, so visitors should confirm current entry arrangements before travelling.
Early Morning
Early morning is particularly useful for wildlife viewing, when animals may be more active and temperatures are relatively comfortable. Allow enough time for the park experience and follow the current entry, safari and visitor regulations, as access arrangements can change according to official park management.
How to reach Dachigam National Park, Srinagar
- Airport: Srinagar International Airport is the practical airport for reaching Dachigam National Park, with the park located on the eastern side of Srinagar.
- Road: From Srinagar, travel toward Harwan and continue along the road leading to the Dachigam National Park entrance.
- Local Approach: Reach the park entrance near Harwan and proceed through the designated access route. Entry and vehicle movement within the park are subject to park regulations.
What to expect on your visit
Wild Mountain Habitat
Expect a protected Himalayan landscape of forests, grasslands and scrublands across the Zabarwan ranges. Dachigam covers a wide altitude range, creating varied habitats and supporting diverse plant and animal species within a relatively natural environment.
Hangul Habitat
The park is particularly significant for the Hangul, or Kashmir stag, which has its last viable population here. Wildlife viewing is therefore closely connected with the park’s conservation purpose and its protected natural habitats.
Wildlife Observation
Visitors may encounter a range of Himalayan fauna and birdlife, including Asiatic black bear, Himalayan serow, leopard, Himalayan brown bear and several pheasant species. Wildlife sightings are naturally unpredictable and depend on conditions within the park.
Upper And Lower Areas
Dachigam is administered through Lower and Upper Dachigam areas, reflecting the park’s varied terrain and altitude. The landscape changes noticeably across elevations, offering different combinations of forest, grassland, mountain slopes and wildlife habitat.
Photography & viewpoint guide
Dachigam National Park is best photographed for its forested mountain slopes, alpine vegetation, streams, rugged valleys and wildlife habitats. Early morning light can provide clearer mountain scenery and better conditions for observing wildlife, while quiet surroundings help with natural landscape compositions. Photography during wildlife viewing should be handled carefully to avoid disturbing animals, and visitors should remain within permitted routes and areas. Photography access and equipment restrictions may vary by zone or activity, so visitors should follow current on-site photography instructions.
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Frequently asked questions
Planning your Dachigam National Park visit
Dachigam National Park is in the Srinagar area of Jammu and Kashmir, about 22 km by road from Lal Chowk according to the District Srinagar administration. It lies in the foothills and mountain terrain east of the city.
Dachigam is best known as a habitat of the Hangul, or Kashmir stag. The park also protects a wider Himalayan ecosystem and is one of the most important natural areas near Srinagar.
The District Srinagar administration states that Dachigam National Park covers about 141 square kilometres. Its terrain includes forests, mountain slopes and higher-altitude areas within the protected landscape.
The name Dachigam is commonly explained as meaning 'ten villages'. The District Srinagar tourism page connects the name with the relocation of ten villages associated with the creation and protection of the area.
The area had been protected since 1910 and was formally declared a national park in 1981. Before becoming a national park, it also had an important role in protecting the water supply for Srinagar.
The park is particularly associated with the Hangul or Kashmir stag, while its forests and mountain habitats support other Himalayan wildlife. Actual sightings are never guaranteed, so visitors should treat wildlife viewing as a natural observation experience.
The District Srinagar administration identifies April to August as a particularly good period for visiting, while noting that the park is open throughout the year. Actual access and visitor arrangements should be checked before travelling.
The current District Srinagar tourism page lists the road distance as about 22 km from Lal Chowk. Actual journey time can vary depending on traffic, route and access arrangements.
Dachigam can be approached by road from Srinagar toward the eastern side of the city. The district tourism page lists Srinagar Airport as the nearest airport and gives approximately 40 km from the airport by road.
Wildlife viewing in a protected national park is subject to the park authority's current visitor and vehicle arrangements. Travellers should confirm whether guided drives, permits or other access requirements apply on their intended date rather than assuming a standard safari format.
Yes. The park's forests, mountain habitats and wildlife make it attractive for nature photography and birdwatching. Visitors should maintain appropriate distance from wildlife and follow all protected-area rules and guide instructions.
Confirm current entry arrangements, permitted areas, guide or vehicle requirements and any seasonal restrictions with the park authorities. Protected-area conditions can change, and wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions rather than guaranteed schedules.