Kalesar National Park

Kalesar National Park In Haryana, India

Kalesar National Park, located in the Yamunanagar district of Haryana, is a picturesque and biodiversity-rich forest reserve in the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas.

Spread over 46.82 square kilometers, it was declared a national park in 2003 and is surrounded by Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary, forming a larger conservation area. The park is named after the ancient Kalesar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located nearby.

Known for its dense sal forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife, Kalesar is one of Haryana’s most important eco-tourism destinations. The park is home to a variety of mammals, including leopards, jungle cats, Indian jackals, sloth bears, sambar deer, chital (spotted deer), barking deer, wild boars, and Indian porcupines. It also has a small population of elephants, which migrate from the neighboring states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

The presence of Himalayan species makes Kalesar an ecologically significant corridor between the plains of Haryana and the forests of the Himalayas. Reptiles such as king cobras, Indian pythons, and monitor lizards can also be found here. Kalesar is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 250 species of birds, including crested serpent eagles, red junglefowl, Indian peafowls, hornbills, and woodpeckers.

The park’s location near the Yamuna River also supports migratory birds during winter. Tourists can explore Kalesar through jeep safaris, trekking trails, and birdwatching excursions, offering an immersive experience in nature. With its scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, Kalesar National Park is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers exploring northern India.