Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary

Once a gaming reserve of the Chamba royals, the Kalatop-Khajjiar forest was declared a wildlife sanctuary in the 1970s. Its steep terrain consists of dense coniferous and oak trees, and the upper reaches are rich in deodars. Known for some amazing trekking trails in Himachal Pradesh, this land of leopards and bears, is a favourite of nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

The Kalatop-Khajjiar forest (69sq km) offers a unique wildlife experience to its visitors. There is a well-laid out trekking trail from Dalhousie to Kalatop, which offers breathtaking views of the jungle. This 14-km-long trail, which cuts through deodar and pine forests, three small streams and a beautiful meadow to reach Kalatop peak, is best undertaken with a single guide. The forest rest house caretaker can be approached for the purpose. The area beyond the peak is restricted for tourists. It is best to avoid visiting in winter since the forest floor is covered in snow and the ground gets slippery.

Kalatop-Khajjiar Forest in the distance

Tribhuvan Tiwari

The sanctuary is a popular picnic spot as well. It is common to see families or a group of friends sitting by a rivulet. Kalatop is best approached from Lakkarmandi, which is located 8km east of Dalhousie. There is a barrier at Lakkarmandi that checks the movement of vehicles headed for the 3-km-dirt track that takes you into the forest. A level road here takes you to the Kalatop FRH in 10 minutes.

If you are not staying at the Forest Rest House, you will have to pay ₹200 at Lakkarmandi. (This fee is levied per vehicle. Two-wheelers are not allowed. A taxi drop from Dalhousie to the Kalatop FRH costs between ₹1,500–2,000.

Wildlife

Look out for ghoral, black bear, barking deer, ibex, langur, jackal, flying squirrel, serow and red fox. The rich variety of birds includes Khaleej pheasant, monal and yellow-throated marten.

WHERE TO STAY

The only stay options in Kalatop are the Forest Rest House with two rooms and the Inspection Hut with five rooms. The latter has a canteen. Bookings for both the options can be done via the Divisional Forest Officer, Chamba (Tel: 01899-222639, 227503; Tariff: ₹1,200). Dalhousie, which is 13km away, offers plenty of accommodation choices. n

THE INFORMATION

When to go Anytime except winter

Wildlife/ Forest Dept office

DFO Chamba Forest Division

Tel: 0194-2501069

STD code 01899

State Himachal Pradesh

Location In western Chamba District, stretching from Khajjiar to Dalhousie; in the catchment area of Ravi river

Distance 19km E of Dalhousie

Route from Dalhousie Via Chamba-Dalhousie Road

GETTING THERE

Air Kangra Airport, Gaggal (130km/ 4.5hrs). Taxi costs ₹3,500–4,000