Are you a bird lover seeking an adventure in nature? Look no further than the Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh, India. This sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds and other wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. In this complete guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary.
Introduction to Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
Located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 307 sq km. It is home to over 220 species of birds, making it one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. Apart from birds, the sanctuary is also home to several species of animals such as leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, and many more.
Location and How to Reach
Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is located in the northern part of Himachal Pradesh, around 133 km from Dharamshala. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala, and the nearest railway station is in Pathankot, around 60 km away from the sanctuary. From Pathankot, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary.
More Read
History of Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary was established in 1983 after the construction of the Pong Dam on the Beas River. The dam created a large reservoir, attracting a wide variety of birds to the area. The sanctuary was later declared a Ramsar Site in 2002, recognizing its importance as a wetland habitat for migratory birds.
Flora and Fauna at Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
The Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary’s vegetation includes tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Some of the commonly found trees in the sanctuary are banyan, neem, peepal, and shisham. Apart from birds, the sanctuary is also home to animals such as leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boars, and many more.
Birdwatching at Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
The Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 220 species of birds found here. Some of the commonly spotted birds in the sanctuary include bar-headed goose, brahminy duck, northern pintail, common pochard, red-crested pochard, great crested grebe, black-necked stork, and many more. The best time for birdwatching is from November to March when the migratory birds arrive in large numbers.
Best Time to Visit Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
The best time to visit Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is from November to March when the weather is pleasant, and the migratory birds arrive in large numbers. The sanctuary remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September. During the summer months of May and June, the temperature can reach up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable for visitors to explore the sanctuary. Similarly, during the winter months of December and January, the temperature can drop to as low as 0°C, making it too cold for many visitors. Hence, it’s best to plan your visit to Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary between November and March.
Entry Fees and Timings
The entry fee for Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is INR 100 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign nationals. The sanctuary remains open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, except for Mondays.
Accommodation Options
There are several accommodation options available near Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. Some of the popular options include Pong View Hotel, The Mirage Resort, The Lodge at Wah, and The Taara Homestay. One can also opt for government-run guest houses and lodges, such as the Pong Dam Guest House and the Forest Rest House.
Food and Dining Options
There are several dining options available near Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary, ranging from local eateries to fine-dining restaurants. Some of the popular options include Pong View Restaurant, The Mirage Restaurant, and The Lodge at Wah Restaurant. Visitors can also try local delicacies such as Sidu, Dham, and Madra at the local eateries.
Activities to do at Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
Apart from birdwatching, visitors can also indulge in several other activities at Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary. One can take a boat ride on the Pong Reservoir, go fishing, trekking, or even camping. There are several picnic spots in the sanctuary where visitors can enjoy a day out with their family and friends.
Tips for Visiting Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary
- Carry sufficient drinking water and snacks as there are limited food options available inside the sanctuary.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for trekking and birdwatching.
- Carry binoculars and cameras to capture the beautiful birds and wildlife in the sanctuary.
- Do not disturb the birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Follow the rules and regulations of the sanctuary to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Nearby Attractions
There are several nearby attractions that visitors can explore while visiting Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary. Some of the popular options include Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake, Jawalamukhi Temple, and Kangra Fort.
Conclusion
Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its diverse range of flora and fauna and over 220 species of birds, the sanctuary offers a unique experience for visitors. Plan your visit between November and March to make the most of your trip to Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary.
FAQs
- What is the entry fee for Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary?
- The entry fee for Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is INR 100 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign nationals.
- What are the timings of Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary?
- The sanctuary remains open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, except for Mondays.
- What are the nearby accommodation options for Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary?
- Some of the popular nearby accommodation options include Pong View Hotel, The Mirage Resort, and The Taara Homestay.
- What is the best time to visit Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary?
- The best time to visit Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary is from November to March.
- What are some popular nearby attractions to Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary?
- Some of the popular nearby attractions include Maharana Prat