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The Orchid Manali - 13th September 2025

Manali Wildlife Sanctuary: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Ever dreamt of escaping the city bustle and immersing yourself in the heart of nature? Look no further than the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, a hidden gem nestled just 2 kilometers from the charming town of Manali. Spanning over 3,000 hectares, this sanctuary is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, offering an unforgettable retreat for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and wildlife lovers.

Why Visit the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary?

Numerous plant and animal species find refuge in the sanctuary, which spans more than 3,000 hectares. Vibrant woodlands with deodar, kail, horse chestnut, walnut, and maple trees will greet you as you explore. The lush vegetation provides a perfect habitat for some of the most fascinating species in the region, making it an ideal spot for wildlife observation and nature appreciation.

Fauna in Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

The Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is home to an array of fascinating wildlife, including Himalayan black bears, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and the elusive snow leopard, though sightings of the latter are extremely rare. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find the sanctuary a haven, with species such as Himalayan monals, western tragopans, snow pigeons, cuckoos, and tree creepers thriving in its dense forests. Whether you're a wildlife lover or a keen birder, the sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s wonders.

A pair of seagulls flying across clear blue skyimageimage

Activities Inside the Sanctuary

Apart from wildlife spotting and bird watching, there are plenty of activities to enjoy inside the sanctuary:

  • Trekking: The sanctuary is a starting point for many treks, including the famous Lamadugh Trek, which takes you through alpine meadows with stunning mountain views.
  • Camping: With prior permission, you can camp inside the sanctuary for an immersive jungle experience.
  • Photography: The diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes make this a paradise for photographers.
These activities offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making the sanctuary a must-visit destination.

a group of trekkers climbing on a Hampta Pass trek with rocky terrain in view
Lamadugh Trek
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Wildlife Spotting
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Nature Photography

How To Reach & Best Time To Visit

If you're arriving by bus, the Manali Bus Depot serves as the starting point, from where a quick 15-minute drive by local cab or auto-rickshaw will take you to the sanctuary. The best time to visit the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary depends on your preference—March to June is ideal for trekking and outdoor activities, offering lush greenery and moderate temperatures, while October to February provides a chilly atmosphere with chances of snowfall, though some trails may be inaccessible. For the best wildlife sightings, April to June is recommended, as animals are more active in search of food and water.

Stay at The Orchid Manali

After a day of trekking and wildlife spotting, you'll want a comfortable place to relax. Located just a short drive from the sanctuary, The Orchid Manali - a Boutique Hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The hotel boasts comfortable rooms with scenic views that let you soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If you're hungry, enjoy a delicious breakfast at the multi-cuisine cafe, Cafe Vindhyas, and then head out for a day of exploration. When you want to spend the day lazing around, you can unwind with a game of pool, table tennis, football, or air hockey at the indoor games arena.

FAQs

Spanning over 3,000 hectares, the sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including deodar, kail, and maple forests, and wildlife like Himalayan black bears and snow leopards, offering a perfect nature retreat.

The sanctuary hosts Himalayan black bears, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and rare snow leopards, along with birds like Himalayan monals, western tragopans, and snow pigeons.

Visitors can enjoy trekking (e.g., Lamadugh Trek), camping with prior permission, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and photography amidst stunning landscapes.

March to June is ideal for trekking and wildlife sightings due to lush greenery and moderate temperatures, while October to February offers a snowy experience, though some trails may be closed.

The Orchid Manali, a short drive from the sanctuary, offers comfortable rooms, scenic views, and dining at Cafe Vindhyas, making it an ideal base for your adventure.

Orchid Hotel Manali front facade and mountain backdrop

Contact Us

With a 75-year legacy of exceptional hospitality, Orchid Hotel invites you to connect with us. For inquiries regarding reservations, events, corporate partnerships, or media relations, please use the contact details below. Our team is committed to providing prompt and personalized assistance, ensuring your experience with our eco-conscious hotels is seamless and memorable.

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