Located in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, just 10 km from Srinagar, lies the Hokersar Wildlife Sanctuary — a shimmering wetland that becomes a haven for migratory birds every winter.
Known as the “Queen Wetland of Kashmir,” Hokersar is a Ramsar site of international importance, attracting nearly 500,000 migratory birds every year. From Bar-headed Geese flying in from Central Asia to graceful Northern Pintails, this sanctuary transforms into a birdwatcher’s paradise between October and March.
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| Hokersar Wildlife Sanctuary |
For travelers seeking peace, photography, and a brush with nature in Kashmir, Hokersar is an unmissable destination.
Location & How to Reach
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Location: Zainakote area, ~10 km west of Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.
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By Road: Easily accessible via Srinagar-Baramulla highway (20–30 min drive).
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By Air: Srinagar International Airport (12 km) is the nearest airport.
By Rail: Nearest station is Srinagar Railway Station (12 km).
Biodiversity at Hokersar
Birds
Hokersar is primarily a wetland bird sanctuary. Famous migratory birds include:
Bar-headed Geese , Greylag Geese ,Northern Pintail,Gadwall
Mallard,Common Teal,Coots,Shovelers,Red-crested Pochards
Other Wildlife
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Frogs, freshwater fish, and marshland amphibians thrive in the ecosystem.
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Wetland plants such as reeds, sedges, and grasses support bird nesting.
Timings & Entry Fee
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Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Around ₹20–30 per person (camera charges extra).
Best Time to Visit
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October – March: Peak migratory bird season.
April – September: Fewer migratory birds, though the wetland remains scenic.
Things to Do
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Birdwatching with binoculars (best in early morning).
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Photography — especially during sunrise and sunset.
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Short nature walks around the wetland embankments.
Learn about conservation and wetland ecology.
Nearby Attractions
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Srinagar City (10 km): Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple.
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Gulmarg (50 km): Skiing and snow adventure.
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Manasbal Lake (30 km): Scenic boating destination.
Wular Lake (55 km): One of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes.
Travel Tips
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Carry binoculars and telephoto lenses for bird photography.
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Dress warmly in winter months.
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Avoid littering — wetlands are fragile ecosystems.
Check accessibility during snowfall or heavy rains.
Conclusion
The Hokersar Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a birding hotspot but also a living wetland ecosystem that sustains thousands of migratory birds. For travelers to Kashmir, it’s a peaceful retreat away from the crowds — where the calls of geese and ducks replace the noise of city life.
Travel Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Zainakote, ~10 km from Srinagar, J&K |
| Nearest City | Srinagar |
| Nearest Airport | Srinagar International Airport (12 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Srinagar Railway Station (12 km) |
| Timings | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | ₹20–30 per person |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March |
| Famous For | Migratory birds (bar-headed geese, pintails, mallards) |
| Nearby Attractions | Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Gulmarg, Wular Lake |
FAQ of Hokersar Wildlife Sanctuary
Q1: What is Hokersar Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A1: It is famous for its migratory birds, especially geese, ducks, and pintails that arrive from Central Asia in winter.
Q2: Where is Hokersar located?
A2: About 10 km from Srinagar city, Jammu & Kashmir.
Q3: What is the best time to visit Hokersar?
A3: October to March, during the migratory bird season.
Q4: How can I reach Hokersar from Srinagar?
A4: By road via Srinagar-Baramulla highway (~20–30 minutes drive).
Q5: What are the timings and entry fees?
A5: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, ₹20–30 per person.
Q6: Is Hokersar a Ramsar site?
A6: Yes, it is a designated Ramsar wetland of international importance.
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