Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve located about 11 km away from Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, India. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is one of the largest watersheds of Asia, covering an area of about 951 hectares and having an altitude range of 2,000 to 2,500 meters. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, especially the pheasants, that are native to the Himalayan region. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the charm and beauty of the Queen of Hills. Visit during One Day trip Shimla Local Sightseeing Package – Visit Famous Place
Location of Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is located on the Chaura Maidan Road, which is about 11 km away from the Mall Road, which is the main street of Shimla city, which is about 350 km away from Delhi, the capital of India. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is easily accessible by road, rail and air from various parts of India. The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, which is about 120 km away from Shimla. The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station, which is about 2 km away from Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary. There are also regular bus services to Shimla from Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali and other cities.
Timing/Entry Fees Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is open for visitors from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day, except on Mondays. There is an entry fee of Rs. 25 per person and Rs. 150 per vehicle for visiting Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, and an additional charge of Rs. 100 for bike/scooter, Rs. 20 for own cycle, Rs. 50 for still camera, Rs. 1,000 for video camera/handy cam for commercial purpose per day and Rs. 5,000 for cine camera. There is also a concession of Rs. 10 per person for students showing I-cards.
How to Reach Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary,
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary can be reached by road from various parts of Shimla and nearby towns. There are auto rickshaws and taxis available for hire from the railway station, bus stand and other places. Alternatively, one can walk or cycle to Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary from nearby areas.
Things to Do/Must See Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
There are many things to do and see at Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, such as:
- Sightseeing: The main attraction of Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is sightseeing for the rare and exotic flora and fauna, especially the pheasants, that are native to the Himalayan region. Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary has a variety of plants such as cedar, oak and pine trees and animals such as leopard, kakkar, barking deer, monkeys and many more. One can enjoy the colourful plumage and melodious calls of these birds in their natural habitat.
- Photography: Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, as it offers a chance to capture the beauty and diversity of the wildlife in their natural habitat. One can take stunning pictures of the plants and animals in different poses and angles, as well as the scenic backdrop of the snow-capped mountains and valleys.
- Learning: The Reserve Forest Sanctuary is also a place for learning about the wildlife of the Himalayan region, as it has informative boards and guides that provide interesting facts and details about the plants and animals. One can learn about the names, features, habits, habitats and conservation status of these plants and animals.
- Relaxing: The Reserve Forest Sanctuary is also a place for relaxing and rejuvenating in the midst of nature, as it has a serene and soothing atmosphere. One can enjoy the fresh air and greenery of the sanctuary, as well as listen to the chirping and singing of the birds.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
There are many other tourist attractions near Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary that are worth visiting, such as:
- Viceregal Lodge: This is a majestic building that served as the residence of the British Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1947. Viceregal Lodge also houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) that conducts research in humanities and social sciences.
- Jakhoo Hill: This is the highest peak in Shimla that offers a bird’s eye view of the city. Jakhoo Hill also has a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to have rested here while searching for Sanjeevani herb.
- Kali Bari Temple: This is a Hindu temple situated on Bantony Hill, Shimla. The temple is dedicated to fearsome reincarnation of Goddess Kali, known as Shyamala, after which the Shimla city is named.
- The Ridge: This is a large open space that runs along the Mall Road in Shimla. The Ridge is the main square of the city and offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains. The Ridge is also a historical and cultural landmark that showcases the colonial legacy and the local heritage of Shimla.
Significance of Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is not only a tourist attraction, but also a source of awareness and appreciation for the wildlife of the Himalayan region. It is a place that celebrates the spirit and culture of the hill town. It is also a place that reflects the diversity and harmony of Shimla, as it has people of different religions, such as Hinduism, Christianity and Islam, who visit and worship here. It is also a place that preserves the ecological and biological heritage of Shimla, as it has plants and animals that are endemic to the Himalayan region.
FAQ
Q: How big is Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary?
A: The Reserve Forest Sanctuary covers an area of about 951 hectares.
Q: How old is Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary?
A: The Reserve Forest Sanctuary was established in 1974 by the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department.
Q: What is the best time to visit Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary?
A: The Reserve Forest Sanctuary can be visited throughout the year, as the climate is pleasant and cool. However, the best time to visit The Reserve Forest Sanctuary is from April to June and from September to November, when the weather is clear and sunny, and the plants and animals are more active and visible.
Conclusion
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the charm and beauty of the Queen of Hills. It is a place where one can sightsee, photograph, learn and relax in a natural and peaceful atmosphere. It is a place where one can enjoy the views of nature while listening to the music of the wildlife. It is a place where one can experience the glory and spirit of Shimla.
