Wildlife of Himachal Pradesh

With over 68% of its area covered with forests, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most green states of India. With such a large area under natural conditions Himachal Pradesh is home to a large plethora of Flora and Fauna in terms of sheer number of species and varieties. Oak, Deodar, Blue Pine, Fir, Adlers, Birch and Spruce are the main variety of trees spread in the mountains. The beautiful Rhododendrons can be viewed along the hill sides around Shimla from March to May. Himachal Pradesh is often called the fruit bowl of the country, Apples, Pomegrenade, Peaches, Cheery and Lichi are few of the major fruit produces of the state. Lately the Flower orchards have come up all over the state to take the spring blooms of the state to the world over, state government is on a ambitious plan to make Himachal the Flower basket of the whole world.

The forests of Himachal are home to a number of wild animals too last estimated there are over 1500 bird and 350 animal species in the state. This includes the leopards, the rare snow Leopards, Ghoral, Musk Deer and Monal. The state boasts of largest number of wildlife sanctuaries in Northern India it has 11 major national parks and sanctuaries.