By Nivritti Khatri | August 4 2025
The Hangul, or Kashmir stag, is a critically endangered subspecies of red deer found only in Jammu & Kashmir. Is a symbol of Kashmiri wildlife and survives in just a few protected forests.
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Dachigam is the last stronghold of the Hangul. The upper and lower regions of this park are best for sightings, especially in spring and autumn.
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2. Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, Jammu & Kashmir
Located near Pahalgam, this sanctuary has potential Hangul habitats and serves as a seasonal corridor for movement.
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3. Shikargah Conservation Reserve, Tral, J&K
This quiet reserve supports occasional Hangul sightings and is being considered for future conservation expansion.
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4. Wangat Valley, Sindh Forest Division, J&K
Researchers have tracked small Hangul groups here. Its remote valleys are a potential conservation frontier.
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5. Baltal–Zojila Region, Jammu & Kashmir
During migration, Hanguls are sometimes seen in this high-altitude zone. Spotting them here is extremely rare.
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6. Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary, Shopian, J&K
Once part of their extended range, Hirpora sees occasional movement and offers hope for future rewilding efforts.
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7. Kishtwar High Altitude National Park, J&K
Although rare here, Kishtwar’s meadows and slopes are believed to have once supported Hangul herds.
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8. Sind Valley Corridor, Jammu & Kashmir
This important ecological corridor connects Dachigam to other ranges and sees seasonal movement of Hangul.
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9. Kajinag National Park (Proposed), J&K
Still in planning stages, this area lies near traditional Hangul routes and may support them with proper protection.
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10. Dachigam-Zabarwan Buffer Zone, J&K
Areas surrounding Dachigam serve as crucial buffer zones for the Hangul during migration and dispersal.
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