Nestled by the Shacha and Satupurna mountain peaks, this sanctuary has a number of lakes, springs and religious sites in the vicinity. You can stay at Kasol, Manikaran or Kullu to visit the Kanwar wildlife sanctuary.

Placed in the Parvati Valley in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh lies Kanwar Sanctuary; a place that shares its border with Great Himalayan National Park and is quite close to Manikaran. This sanctuary is surrounded by several religious sites and houses numerous water bodies.

Summer season is the best time to visit this sanctuary because various animals come out to enjoy some pleasant weather. Visitors can enjoy exclusive views of nature, including beautiful springs and lakes.

       History :The Kanwar Sanctuary was established in February, 1954. This spectacular nature park offers an enthusiastic experience for wildlife lovers. The location and surroundings of this sanctuary make it a place worth visiting. Trekking on different trails in dense forests are some of the best activities that visitors can enjoy. During the visit to this sanctuary, tourists can also visit various religious sites and villages dotted in and across the area. It also houses several hot springs that are considered to be of religious importance. Its area is located at a high altitude and features rocky terrain. The sanctuary is easily accessible as there are good roads that lead to the park. There are also several other interesting destinations that can easily be accessed from this sanctuary.

       Geography :The Renuka Sanctuary spans over an area of 400 hectares. The sanctuary spreads around the Renuka Lake and consists of grass and woodland. Climate and Visiting Season: The sanctuary can be visited at any time all around the year. However the spring and fall seasons are the best to visit the sanctuary.

       Flora at Kanwar Sanctuary:Vegetation in the area includes mixed coniferous, temperate deciduous, alpine dry scrub and alpine dry forests. Some commonly found foliage includes moru oak, ban oak, pindrow, yew and cedar trees.

       Fauna At kanwar Sanctuary :The sanctuary serves as a home to endangered Himalayan Thar. They can easily be seen grazing on rocky cliffs and lush pastures. Some animals that can be seen in this area include Tibetan wolf, musk deer, blue sheep, brown bear and ibex in higher elevations. Other wildlife around the Kunwar Sanctuary include barking deer, serow, golden jackal goral, leopard, Himalayan palm civet, common giant flying squirrel, Himalayan weasel and yellow throated marten.

       Trekking :Hiking and trekking are common activities in the sanctuary. The route uphill, from Kasol along the Garahan Nala, is a must try. This route meanders through thick fir and deodar woodlands. All along this trek, tourists will come across different varieties of birds and flora and fauna.

The Kanwar Sanctuary is located about 42 Kms from Kullu and is easily accessible.

Air: The Bhuntar Airport is the closest airport to this sanctuary. It is about 10 Kms from Kullu.

Rail : The closest railway station is at Jogindernagar about 95 Kms from Kullu.

Road : The sanctuary is conveniently connected by roads to all important cities and towns of Himachal Pradesh. It is about 240 Kms from Shimla.

Accommodation can easily be found in the area. There are several private and government-run guest-houses available, in and around the sanctuary. Best places close to the park include Kasol, Manikaran and Kullu. Kullu (42 Kms) has excellent accommodation options.

Summer :

The summer time offers perfect weather for people to enjoy. The best time to visit is between May and June.

Monsoon :

The Monsoon season lasts from July to September. This sanctuary receives around 1000 mm of rainfall every year.

Winter :

The winter months witness heavy snowfall and temperatures can reach as low as -10 degrees. Winters are not recommended for visiting.