The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), located in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Established in 1984, the park spans over 1,171 square kilometers and ranges in altitude from about 1,500 meters to over 6,000 meters, encompassing a variety of ecosystems from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glaciers.

### Flora
The park's vegetation varies significantly with altitude. Lower elevations feature dense forests of deodar, oak, and blue pine. As one ascends, the forests transition to stands of fir, spruce, and rhododendron, and further up, to alpine meadows adorned with a diverse array of wildflowers like primulas, anemones, and potentillas. This diverse plant life supports a range of medicinal herbs, including the famous Himalayan blue poppy and various species of orchids.

Fauna
GHNP is home to a rich array of wildlife, including several endangered species. Notable mammals include the snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, and musk deer, which find refuge in the park's remote and rugged terrain. Other common species include the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep (bharal), and the Himalayan serow. Birdlife is equally impressive, with over 180 recorded species, including the western tragopan, Himalayan monal, and various raptors like the lammergeier and golden eagle.

Conservation and Tourism
The park is a haven for conservation efforts, focusing on preserving its unique biodiversity and ecosystems. It offers a pristine environment largely untouched by human activity, making it an ideal location for ecological studies and nature conservation.

Tourism in GHNP is geared towards eco-tourism, promoting sustainable practices to protect the environment. Trekkers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to the park's challenging trails and breathtaking vistas. Popular trekking routes include the Sainj Valley, Tirthan Valley, and the trek to Raktisar, the source of the Tirthan River. These treks provide opportunities to experience the park's diverse flora and fauna, as well as its scenic beauty.

In summary, the Great Himalayan National Park is a jewel of the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and opportunities for eco-friendly adventure and conservation.

The Himalayan region, with its diverse climatic conditions, is home to many uncommon, endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna.

The number of plant species in the Himalaya is estimated at 25,000 – 10% of the world’s known species and 50% of India’s endemic flora. This includes 7,020 species of fungi, 1,159 species of lichen and 2,000 species of bryophytes (including mosses and worts), with the remainder ferns, angiosperms (flowering plants) and other species.Amongst the fauna are 218 species of fish, 74 species of amphibian, 149 species of reptile, 528 species of bird and 241 species of mammal. The animal life of the Himalaya is distinctly different from that of the plains.

The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) itself boasts 832 plant species, representing 128 families and 427 genera, and comprising 26% of the total flora of Himachal Pradesh. These include 794 angiosperm species, 11 gymnosperm species (pines, conifers and cypresses) and 27 fern species.

Biodiversity surveys of GHNP in the past decade have identified 31 mammal species, 209 bird species, 12 reptile species, nine amphibian species and 125 insect species.

1. By Air:

   • The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, located around 60 kilometers from the park. Bhuntar has limited flights, primarily from Delhi. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

2. By Train:

   • The closest major railway station is in Chandigarh, about 250 kilometers away. Another nearby station is Joginder Nagar, around 100 kilometers from the park. From these stations, you can take a taxi or bus to the park.

3. By Road:

   • From Kullu: The park is approximately 50 kilometers from Kullu. Regular buses and taxis are available from Kullu to key entry points like Gushaini, Ropa, and Barshaini.
   • From Manali: The distance from Manali to the park is about 90 kilometers. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Manali to reach the park.
   • From Delhi: The park is about 500 kilometers from Delhi. You can drive or take an overnight bus to Kullu, then proceed to the park.

4. Local Transport:

   • Buses and Taxis: State-run and private buses connect various parts of Himachal Pradesh to the park. Taxis are also readily available for hire from major towns like Kullu, Manali, and Bhuntar.
   • Trekking: For those interested in trekking, several trails lead into the park from nearby villages like Gushaini, Ropa, and Barshaini. Guided trekking tours are also available.

Entry Points:

• Gushaini: Main entry point for trekking routes into the park.
• Ropa: Another entry point, often used by trekkers.
• Sainj Valley: Offers access to the park's quieter and less frequented areas.

Note: It's advisable to check weather conditions and road accessibility, especially during winter months, as heavy snowfall can affect travel routes.