Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary

Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Aru Valley near Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, covering an area of about 511 square kilometers. Established as a game reserve in 1945 under Dogra rule and upgraded to a sanctuary in 1981, it is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscape including lakes, glaciers, mountains, and forests with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 5,425 meters.

The sanctuary's forests vary by altitude, with deciduous species like walnut and chestnut at lower levels, coniferous blue pine and silver fir at mid-levels, birch at higher levels, and alpine shrubs near the peaks. It is a critical habitat for endangered species such as the Hangul or Kashmir stag, musk deer, Asiatic ibex, Himalayan serow, and predators like the common leopard and Asiatic black bear.

It also supports over 117 bird species, including the endangered Egyptian vulture and vulnerable Kashmir flycatcher, making it a notable destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

The sanctuary also plays a vital role in protecting the Lidder River catchment area, which is key for irrigation and drinking water supply in the region. Its combination of natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and endangered wildlife makes Overa-Aru an important conservation area in Jammu and Kashmir.