14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
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The “Did You Know” series by Jehlum – The Info Avenue is created to share verified, educational, and awareness-based content about history, culture, and society. Every fact presented here is carefully researched from credible and publicly available sources. However, minor variations in historical interpretation may exist.Our goal is to inform, educate, and spark curiosity — not to promote opinions or claims. Readers are encouraged to explore the cited references for deeper understanding.
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Discover all major Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir (UT) — from the lush forests of Bani to the alpine meadows of Gulmarg. Explore their rich biodiversity, landscapes, and conservation significance across the Himalayas.
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Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir wildlife, Himalayan biodiversity, wildlife conservation, Kashmir eco tourism, wildlife in India, rare species of Kashmir, national parks and sanctuaries, Himalayan ecosystem, nature conservation India.
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14 Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu & Kashmir is home to a rich network of Wildlife Sanctuaries that protect diverse habitats, rare species, and unique Himalayan landscapes. Below are the 14 Wildlife Sanctuaries of J&K.
1. Bani Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the district of Kathua, Bani Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across 3,237 hectares. The sanctuary was notified through SRO 241 dated 20.08.1981.
Its terrain ranges from 900 to 2,150 meters in altitude.
Important Wildlife
The sanctuary supports a mix of species including:
- Goral
- Jackal
- Leopard
- Black Bear
- Monkeys
Avifauna
Bird species include:
- Peafowl
- Jungle Fowl
- Pigeons
- Doves
- Parakeets
- Woodpeckers
- Bulbuls
- Cuckoos
Flora
The vegetation is diverse with:
- Chir Pine
- Scrub Forests
- Broadleaved Forests
2. Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary
Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled within the beautiful forested belt of the Pir Panjal Range. It was notified under SRO 264 dated 23.06.1987.
Wildlife
Important species include:
- Musk Deer
- Leopard
- Brown Bear
- Red Fox
- Langur
Birdlife
Known birds include:
- Koklass
- Monal
- Himalayan Snowcock
- Pheasants
Flora
The vegetation includes:
- Coniferous Forests
- Fir
- Kail
- Spruce
3. Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary
Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Shopian district.
It covers 341 sq. km and was notified through SRO 148 dated 09.03.1987.
Important Wildlife
- Markhor (key species)
- Musk Deer
- Leopard
- Black Bear
- Brown Bear
Birds
- Golden Eagle
- Monal
- Koklass
Flora
- Conifer forests
- Alpine scrub
4. Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in Kathua district, Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary covers 10.04 sq. km.
It was declared protected under SRO 210 dated 29.06.1987.
Major Wildlife
- Cheetal
- Barking Deer
- Wild Boar
- Jackal
Birds
- Peafowl
- Red Junglefowl
- Partridges
- Doves
Flora
- Shisham
- Acacia
- Mixed deciduous forests
5. Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Baramulla district, Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary spans across 44 sq. km.
Notified through SRO 148 dated 09.03.1987.
Wildlife
- Markhor
- Musk Deer
- Brown Bear
- Leopard
Birds
- Monal
- Koklass
- Pheasants
Flora
- Deodar
- Fir
- Kail
6. Limber Wildlife Sanctuary
Found in Baramulla district, Limber Wildlife Sanctuary covers 26 sq. km, protected under SRO 148 dated 09.03.1987.
Wildlife
- Markhor
- Musk Deer
- Leopard
- Black Bear
Avifauna
- Pheasants
- Monal
- Doves
Flora
- Conifer forests
- Alpine grasses
7. Nandni Wildlife Sanctuary
Nandni Wildlife Sanctuary lies in Jammu district and covers 33.34 sq. km.
It was notified through SRO 210 dated 29.06.1987.
Wildlife
- Cheetal
- Goral
- Barking Deer
- Wild Boar
Birdlife
- Parakeets
- Bulbuls
- Pheasants
Flora
- Scrub forests
- Dry deciduous forests
8. Overa–Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Anantnag, this sanctuary spreads across 511 sq. km.
Notified via SRO 458 dated 25.06.1987.
Wildlife
- Hangul
- Musk Deer
- Snow Leopard
- Himalayan Black Bear
Birds
- Monal
- Koklass
- Tragopan
Flora
- Birch
- Fir
- Kail
9. Rajparian (Daksum) Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Anantnag district, Rajparian spans 20.34 sq. km.
It was declared via SRO 229 dated 05.05.1988.
Wildlife
- Hangul
- Musk Deer
- Leopard
Birdlife
- Monal
- Koklass
Flora
- Coniferous forests
- Alpine scrub
10. Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in Jammu district, Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary covers 31 sq. km.
It was declared under SRO 210 dated 29.06.1987.
Wildlife
- Cheetal
- Barking Deer
- Wild Boar
- Goral
Birds
- Peafowl
- Red Junglefowl
Flora
- Dry deciduous forests
- Mixed scrub
11. Surinsar–Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Jammu region, this sanctuary surrounds the twin lakes Surinsar and Mansar.
It was legally established through SRO 210 dated 29.06.1987.
Wildlife
- Cheetal
- Wild Boar
- Jackal
Avifauna
- Waterfowl
- Parakeets
- Pheasants
Flora
- Dry mixed forests
- Scrub vegetation
12. Tata Kutti Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Kulgam, Tata Kutti Sanctuary covers a mountainous landscape and was notified through SRO 148 dated 09.03.1987.
Wildlife
- Markhor
- Musk Deer
- Leopard
Birdlife
- Pheasants
- Snowcock
Flora
- Alpine scrub
- Conifer forests
13. Thajwas (Baltal) Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated in Ganderbal district, this sanctuary covers 19.7 sq. km.
It was declared under SRO 296 dated 10.07.1987.
Wildlife
- Musk Deer
- Hangul
- Brown Bear
Birds
- Snowcock
- Monal
Flora
- Alpine meadows
- Conifer patches
14. Tral Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Pulwama district, Tral Wildlife Sanctuary spans 9.34 sq. km.
It was notified through SRO 229 dated 05.05.1988.
Wildlife
- Markhor
- Musk Deer
- Leopard
Birdlife
- Pheasants
- Doves
Flora
- Coniferous forests
- Alpine shrubs
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
14 Hidden Havens of the Wild -Wildlife Sanctuaries of Jammu and Kashmir
![Here is a fully rewritten article of over 600 words, optimized for SEO and ready for posting on your site. *(Focus keywords: Mohra Power Project Kashmir, Mohra Hydroelectric Project, Baramulla heritage power, J&K hydroelectric heritage, Kashmir electrification history)* --- **Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmir’s 117-Year-Old Mohra Project** Nestled in the Boniyar area, about 35 km downstream of Baramulla in north Kashmir, lies the historic Mohra Hydroelectric Power Project — a remarkable engineering feat dating back to 1905. Built under the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh and designed by Canadian-born engineer Major Dlain de Latbinière, this run-of-the-river scheme has the distinction of making Srinagar the **second city in the Indian subcontinent to be electrified**, after Mysore. ([The Statesman][1]) At its inception, the Mohra Power Project had an installed capacity of approximately 4 MW, later enhanced to around 9 MW. ([The Statesman][1]) What makes it stand out is the incredible 11-kilometre wooden flume — an artificial channel largely crafted from deodar timber and masonry tunnels, iron bridges and wooden construction — built across challenging terrain to divert the waters of the Jhelum River for turbine operation. ([Brighter Kashmir][2]) **Engineering Marvel and Social Impact in Early 1900s Kashmir** When the Mohra Project became operational, it didn’t just bring electricity — it revolutionised daily life in the region. Homes, silk-reeling machines in local factories, water-heating basins and industrial workshops all benefited from its power. The workforce was equally remarkable, drawn from Ladakh, Baltistan, Afghanistan and Punjab. ([Brighter Kashmir][2]) The project helped shift Kashmir from a purely agrarian/traditional economy to one where early industrial-infrastructure innovation counted. **A Legacy in Decline** Despite its early brilliance, the Mohra Power Project suffered repeated setbacks. It was damaged during the 1947 tribal raids and severely by the floods of 1959. Eventually, from 1992 onward, it lay defunct. ([Greater Kashmir][3]) For decades, the flume has largely disappeared; remnants remain visible along the road between Baramulla and Uri. ([The Statesman][1]) Local observers say the neglect of this heritage hydro station is a lost opportunity—not just for power but for tourism, heritage, and local employment. **Heritage Revival and Modern Significance** In recent years, the government of Jammu & Kashmir, under the leadership of Manoj Sinha, has taken proactive steps to revive this century-old marvel. In September 2022 it was reported that ₹133.50 crore had been sanctioned for restoration and revival of the project by the board of the J&K State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC). ([IBTimes India][4]) The plan envisions both heritage conservation and renewed power-generation capacity, turning the site into an architectural-industrial landmark of modern Kashmir. **Why This Must Matter to You** For job-seekers, students, and local readers in Kashmir, the Mohra Power Project story offers multiple layers of relevance: * **Heritage & tourism employment**: Revival efforts open up jobs in heritage conservation, tourism guiding, craftsmanship, and local infrastructure. * **Engineering & technical careers**: Hydroelectric projects still need skilled technicians, maintenance engineers, and civil/structural specialists. * **Regional identity and education**: Understanding local infrastructure history strengthens regional pride and can inspire community education and projects at schools and colleges. * **Keywords for you**: When you search for “Mohra Power Project Kashmir”, “heritage hydroelectric Kashmir”, or “Baramulla hydro power history” you’ll encounter this project again and again. **Challenges That Remain** Despite official announcements, recent reports indicate the revival is still awaiting full funding and policy support. A feasibility study by Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee recommended the project for central assistance under the Small Hydro Development Programme, but as of 2025 the required grants have not been sanctioned. ([Rising Kashmir][5]) This delay underscores the complexity of heritage-power revival: balancing outdated infrastructure, modern standards, environmental/forest clearances, funding and site preservation. **Final Word: A Hidden Gem of Kashmir’s Past and Future** The Mohra Hydroelectric Power Project stands as both a symbol of Kashmir’s early technological ambition and a tangible opportunity for its future. With its heritage value, unique engineering features, and potential as a revived power and tourism asset, this project deserves wider attention. Whether you are searching for keywords like **“Kashmir hydroelectric heritage”**, **“Mohra power revival 2025”** or **“Baramulla heritage energy project”**, the Mohra story should rank high in your mind. By exploring this story, engaging with its revival, or simply knowing it, you connect with a piece of Kashmir’s lesser-known history—and open up pathways to education, career awareness and community pride. --- I hope this aligns with your series and website format. If you like, I can provide a version formatted in WordPress HTML (including your disclaimer box) and a set of suggested meta-description + tags for optimal SEO. [1]: https://www.thestatesman.com/india/117-years-old-mohra-power-project-set-heritage-jk-1503108891.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com "117 years old Mohra power project set to be a heritage in J&K - The Statesman" [2]: https://brighterkashmir.com/117-year-old-mohra-power-project-in-baramulla-to-be-declared-heritage-site-soon?utm_source=chatgpt.com "117 year-old Mohra power project in Baramulla to be declared heritage site soon" [3]: https://m.greaterkashmir.com/article/33-years-on-govt-fails-to-restore-kashmirs-first-hydroelectric-mohra-power-project/372603/amp?utm_source=chatgpt.com "33 years on, govt fails to restore Kashmir’s first hydroelectric Mohra power project - greaterkashmir" [4]: https://www.ibtimes.co.in/jk-govt-revive-117-year-old-asias-second-oldest-heritage-power-project-rs-133cr-approved-851261?utm_source=chatgpt.com "J&K's first power project to be revived; govt sets Rs 133cr budget for Asia' second oldest heritage power project - IBTimes India" [5]: https://risingkashmir.com/restoration-of-123-year-old-mohra-power-project-stalled-over-viability-issues-govt/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Restoration of 123-year-old Mohra power project stalled over viability issues: Govt – Rising Kashmir"](https://jehlum.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/hydro-electric-project.jpg "Did You Know The Amazing Story of Kashmirs 117-Year-Old Mohra Project 5")