Nestled in the valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, Dachigam National Park is the last reserve park of the endangered Kashmir stag or Hangul. The park is located in the Jammu and Kashmir state, approximately 22 km away from Srinagar.

History
The park was first set-up in 1910 by the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir state as his private game reserve. Dachigam in the local language means "ten villages". The name, Dachigam National Park, was conferred to the park in memory of ten villages that were displaced out of the forest under the orders of the then Maharaja for creating the forest and a catchment area. The park was actually created to ensure proper supply of clean drinking water to the people of Srinagar. It was finally declared a national park in 1981.

Avian fauna
The bird species of the forest include Himalayan Monal, Kashmir Flycatcher, Golden Oriole, Streaked Laughing Thrush, Himalayan Rubythroat, etc.

Fauna
The rare Kashmir stag is the prime attraction here. The other mammal species of the forest are Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Yellow-Throated Marten, Himalayan Grey Langur, etc.

Flora
Most parts of the park are covered with coniferous forest. The important floras of the forest are willow, oak, poplar, plum, cherry and plum.

How to reach
The closest aerodrome is at Srinagar. Jammu railway station is the nearest railhead. The park is also well connected by roads with different parts of the state.

General information
Two forest rest houses located in the lower Dachigam offer proper lodging facilities to the tourists. Numerous hotels, guest houses and resorts can be found in Srinagar. The climate in this region is extremely cold, so the visitors are advised to carry heavy woolen clothes for their trip. Entry permit from the chief wildlife warden is required for entering the park.

Tourist information
Dachigam National Park, Dachigam Rd, Mulanar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Ideal time to visit: May to August and September to December.
Timings: 5:30 am to 6:30 pm; Closed on Sundays
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