Askot Sanctuary, also known as Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Pithoragarh district, near the town of Askot, Uttarakhand, India. The Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is a protected area established in 1986 to conserve the endangered musk deer and its habitat. The Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 600 square kilometers and is situated at an elevation of 1,600 meters. The sanctuary has a diverse geography, with altitude ranges from meters to 6,905 meters above sea level. The sanctuary covers an area of approximately 599.93 square kilometers.
Best time to Visit: The best time to visit the sanctuary is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is mild and wildlife is more active.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is at Pantnagar, and the nearest railway station is at Tanakpur. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Askot.
Flora and Fauna
- The Sanctuary is how to a variety of flora, including coniferous forests of pine, spruce, and fir, as well as broad-leaved forests of oak, rhododendron and birch.
- The Sanctuary is also home to a range of fauna, including:
- Musk deer (main attraction)
- Snow leopard
- Himalayan black bear
- Brown bear
- Leopard
- Jungle cat
- Himalayan Monal
- Snowcook
- Golden eagle
Conservation Efforts: The sanctuary was established in 1986 to conserve the musk deer and its habitat. The Uttarakhand Forest Department and the Wildlife Institute of India are involved in conservation efforts, including:
- Habitat protection and restoration
- Research and monitoring of wildlife populations
- Community-based conservation programs
Tourism: The sanctuary is open to tourists, but with certain restrictions to ensure minimal disturbance to the wildlife. Visitors can:
- Trek through the forests and meadows
- Spot wildlife, including musk deer
- Enjoy scenic views of the Himalayas
- Stay in eco-lodges or campsites
Things to Do:
- Binsar Sanctuary Walking Holiday: A walking holiday in Binsar Sanctuary, which is located near Askot Sanctuary.
- Adventure Tours: Adventure tours are available from Askot Sanctuary, which include activities like trekking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
- Heritage and Cultural Walking Tour: A walking tour of the heritage and cultural sites in Nainital, which is located near Askot Scantuary.
- Nainital Night Walking Tour: A night walking tour of Nainital, which is located near Askot Sanctuary.
- Camping: Camping is available in Askot Sanctuary, which includes activities like trekking, wildlife, and camping.
Accommodation:
Hotels and resorts: There are many hotels and resorts in Askot that provide facilities for tourists.
Homestay: Homestay options are also available here, where you can stay with a local family.
Camping: Camping facilities are also available in Askot, where you can stay amidst natural scenery.
Some places to visit:
- Munsyari: A scenic hill station with stunning Himalayan views (45km, 1.5 hours)
- Didihat: A charming hill town with ancient temples (25km, 1 hour)
- Jauljibi: A scenic town with ancient temples and cultural significance (35km, 1.5 hours)
- Thal: A picturesque village with stunning Himalayan views (40km, 2 hours)
- Narayan Ashram: A spiritual ashram with stunning views (50km, 2.5 hours)
- Kafni Glacier: A scenic glacier with trekking opportunities (60km, 3.5 hours)
These places offer a mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Distances and travel times are approximate and may vary depending on road conditions.
