If you are a nature lover and looking for an offbeat destination to explore in Uttarakhand, Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a must-visit. Located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, this sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary, Uttarakhand.
Introduction to Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary
Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. Established in 1986, this sanctuary covers an area of about 600 sq. km and is located at an altitude of 5412 feet above sea level. The sanctuary is named after the endangered species of Musk Deer found here.
Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The forest cover here is mainly of the temperate type, and you can find oak, rhododendron, deodar, and pine trees here. Some of the animals that can be found in the sanctuary are musk deer, leopard, brown bear, bharal, ghoral, and Himalayan black bear. The sanctuary is also a bird watcher’s paradise, and you can find a variety of birds like Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, and cheer pheasant here.
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Things to Do
There are a lot of things to do in Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary, and it is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Some of the activities that you can indulge in are:
Wildlife Safari
One of the best ways to explore the sanctuary is by going on a wildlife safari. You can hire a jeep and explore the sanctuary with a trained guide.
Trekking
If you are an adventure seeker, you can go for trekking in the sanctuary. The sanctuary has a lot of trekking trails, and you can explore the natural beauty of the sanctuary while trekking.
Bird Watching
As mentioned earlier, Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a bird watcher’s paradise. You can spot a variety of birds here, and it is a great place for bird watching.
Camping
If you want to experience the true beauty of the sanctuary, you can camp here. There are a lot of camping sites in and around the sanctuary, and you can spend a night under the stars.
How to Reach
Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is well connected to the major cities of Uttarakhand. The nearest airport is Pantnagar airport, which is about 250 km from the sanctuary. The nearest railway station is Tanakpur railway station, which is about 160 km from the sanctuary. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport or railway station to reach the sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the natural beauty of the sanctuary.
Accommodation
There are a lot of accommodation options available in and around Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary. You can find hotels, resorts, and homestays here. Some of the popular accommodation options are:
- Askot Himalayan Lodge
- Askot Musk Deer Forest Guest House
- Askot Wildlife Tourist Lodge
- Askot Tourist Rest House
Conclusion
Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and there are a lot of things to do here. The sanctuary is well connected to the major cities of Uttarakhand, making it easy for tourists to reach. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from April to June and from September to November. With so much to offer, Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand for anyone looking for a unique and offbeat experience in the lap of nature.
FAQs
- What is the entry fee for Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary? The entry fee for Indian nationals is Rs. 50 per person, while for foreigners, it is Rs. 500 per person.
- Can we stay inside the sanctuary? Yes, there are a lot of accommodation options available inside and around the sanctuary. You can find hotels, resorts, and homestays here.
- Is it safe to visit Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary? Yes, the sanctuary is safe to visit. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions and follow the rules and regulations of the sanctuary.
- What is the distance between Tanakpur railway station and Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary? The distance between Tanakpur railway station and Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is around 160 km.
- What is the nearest airport to Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary? The nearest airport to Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is Pantnagar airport, which is around 250 km away.