Pin Valley National Park in Lahaul & Spiti
· Summer: Mid-May to mid-October (15°C - 25°C)
· Winter: November-April (-35°C - 10°C)
· Monsoon: N/A
Best time to visit:
May-October
Opening Time: 07:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 05:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: Nil
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
N/A
Amidst sub-zero temperatures, Pin Valley National Park located in the valley formed by River Pin is no less than a paradise which remains covered with snow throughout the year. With respective core and buffer areas of 675 sq. km. and 1.150 sq.km., the park is home to the endangered species of snow leopard and Siberian ibex. Visitors to the park may also come across other animals of Himalayan origin, including Tibetan wolf, Tibetan gazelle, Himalayan brown fox, red fox, Himalayan marmot, Himalayan blue sheep, mouse hare, snow hare, weasels and others.
Some very exotic Himalayan birds like Himalayan snowcock, snow partridge, choughs, Tibetan snow finch, kestrel, blue rock pigeon and golden eagle can also be spotted here. Vegetation is scant and the likes of alpines, cedars, and a variety of medicinal herbs can be best explored from July to August. The park is dotted with snow-clad peaks (with heights ranging from 11,500 ft. to 20,000 ft.) and many popular Buddhist monasteries like Dhankar Gompa and Kungri Monastery.
Indian tourists need to obtain inner line permit, while foreigners are not allowed at the park due to its close proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border. Trekking is the best way to explore the park, but should be done in expert company.
Connectivites
Road:
From Manali, one can reach Kaza by bus from where a bus or a jeep takes to Mikkim. Winter Route: From Shimla to Kaza by bus and then to Mikkim in a bus or jeep. From Mikkim, one must trek for about 10 km. to access the park. Trekking routes from Kullu and Kinnaur can also be chosen, but only by the fit and experienced trekkers.
Railway:
The closest railway stations are at Joginder Nagar (about 400 km. away, on the route from Manali) and Shimla (about 487 km. away). The subsequent road routes must be followed as described above.
Airway:
On Manali route, Bhuntar Airport (about 288 km. away) is the closest. Shimla Airport is about 506 km. away. Again, the road routes from each of these airports can be followed as above.