Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary

Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary in Jammu and Kashmir covers an area of about 98 square kilometers and spans across the districts of Jammu, Udhampur, and Samba.

It is named after its two main lakes, Surinsar and Mansar, which are located about 9 kilometers apart and are ecologically connected. These lakes are unique because they lie on hilltops with no natural water inflow, sustained by underground springs. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including mammals such as nilgai, Indian barking deer, leopards, jackals, and wild boars.

It also supports a wide variety of birds, including many migratory species, and aquatic life such as several fish species and endangered turtles. Due to this ecological significance, the lakes were designated as Ramsar sites in 2005, highlighting their international importance as wetlands. The sanctuary features diverse forest types and is culturally significant with temples nearby.

It plays a crucial role in conserving both flora and fauna, serving as a vital habitat corridor while balancing human presence from surrounding villages. The area is managed to maintain its delicate ecological balance and to protect its unique natural heritage.