Kishtwar National Park UPSC

Kishtwar National Park, also known as Kishtwar High Altitude National Park, is a protected area located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is one of the most significant national parks in the region and is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Kishtwar National Park was basically founded to protect the Snow Leopards.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Hills
River
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Kishtwar National Park Location

Kishtwar National Park is located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir union territory of India. The Park is named after the district in which it is located.

It is situated in the western Himalayas, specifically in the eastern part of the state.

Kishtwar National Park is bounded to the north by Rinnay river, south by Kibar Nala catchment, east by main divide of Great Himalaya and west by Marwah river.

Nearest Airport:

Jammu Airport (250 kms.)

Nearest Railway Station:

Jammu Railway Station (248 kms.)

Kishtwar National Park History

Kishtwar National Park has a relatively brief history. The main objective behind its creation was to preserve the unique biodiversity and ecological significance of the region. The park was basically made to protect the endangered species of snow leopards.

The Kishtwar National Park was established in 1981 to preserve the snow leopard population.

Kishtwar National Park Area

Kishtwar National Park covers an area of approximately 2190.50 Sq Kms (845.75 square miles). Spanning across its extensive area, Kishtwar National Park exhibits diverse landscapes, ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks.

The park encompasses various altitudes, with elevations ranging from 1,700 meters (5,600 feet) to 4,800 meters (15,700 feet) above sea level.

Kishtwar National Park Hills

Kishtwar National Park is nestled in the western Himalayas, which are characterized by their majestic hills and rugged landscapes.

The hills within Kishtwar National Park vary in elevation, creating a diverse topography. The park encompasses a wide range of altitudes, starting from the lower forested hills and ascending to the higher alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks. The highest peak in the park reaches an altitude of around 4,800 meters (15,700 feet) above sea level.

Kishtwar National Park River

Kishtwar National Park is home to several rivers and streams that flow through its diverse landscapes. Kiar, Nath and Kibar Nalas and Marwah River flow through Kishtwar National Park.

The Kishtwar National Park encompasses the catchments of Kiar, Nath and Kibar Nalas, all of which drain south-west into Marwah River (also known as Marusudar River) which joins the Chenab River just below the Kishtwar Town at Bhandarkoot village.

Kishtwar National Park Flora

Kishtwar National Park is known for its rich and diverse flora, which thrives in the varied ecosystems found within the park. The park encompasses different altitudes, ranging from the lower forested areas to the high alpine meadows, supporting a wide variety of plant species.

Here are some notable flora found in Kishtwar National Park:

(1) Coniferous Forests:

The lower elevations of the park are characterized by coniferous forests, which include species such as blue pine (Pinus wallichiana), chir pine (Pinus roxburghii), and deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara). These evergreen trees dominate the landscape and provide habitat for various wildlife species.

(2) Mixed Forests:

As the altitude increases, the forests transition to mixed forests, comprising a combination of broadleaf trees and conifers. Common tree species in these forests include oak (Quercus spp.), walnut (Juglans regia), rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.), and maple (Acer spp.).

(3) Alpine Vegetation:

At higher altitudes, the park features alpine meadows and vegetation. Alpine flowers, such as primroses, gentians, and anemones, adorn the meadows during the summer months. Grasses, sedges, and mosses are also common in these areas.

(4) Medicinal Plants:

Kishtwar National Park is home to several medicinal plants that have traditional uses in local communities. These include species like Aconitum heterophyllum (Atis), Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutki), Saussurea costus (Kuth), and Rheum emodi (Rhubarb), among others.

(5) Aquatic Plants:

The rivers and streams within and around the park support various aquatic plant species. These may include water lilies, lotus, and submerged plants like Vallisneria and Hydrilla.

Kishtwar National Park Fauna (Kishtwar National Park Animals)

Kishtwar National Park is home to a diverse range of fauna, including several rare and endangered species. The park's varied habitats, ranging from forests to alpine meadows, support a rich array of wildlife.

Here are some notable fauna found in Kishtwar National Park:

Mammals:

Snow Leopard
Himalayan Brown Bear
Himalayan Black bear
Musk Deer
Ibex
Serow
Wild boar
Bharal
Rhesus Macaque

Birds:

Himalayan Monal
Himalayan Snowcock
Koklass
Bearded Vulture
Western Tragopan
Himalayan Jungle crow
Griffon Vulture
Paradise Flycatcher
Golden Oriole
White Cheeked Bulbul
Indian Mynah

Reptiles:

Indian Rock Python
Rat Snake
Himalayan Pit Viper
Himalayan Gecko
Skinks
Agamid Lizards