CHENNAI: For wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, here is an opportunity to learn about the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) in Kulu, Himachal Pradesh.

The World Wide Fund for Nature (India), WWF - I, will conduct five-day nature camps at the place in April this year, according to Preston Ahimaz, WWF-I, State Office, Tamil Nadu.

Flora and fauna

Covering an area of 754 sq km, the GHNP is located 30 km from the tourist valley of Kulu, and 500 km from New Delhi. The park's flora includes silver oak, horse chestnut, fir, spruce, birches and rhododendron, alpine flower meadows, along with rock and snow. Such a place naturally harbours an impressive array of animal life, including goral, serow, Himalayan tahr, bharal (blue sheep), musk deer, red fox, Himalayan civet, yellow-throated marten, leopard, black bear, snow leopard and brown bear. Birds such as the brilliant western tragopan and monal pheasants, chir and kaleej pheasants, griffon vulture, lammergier, golden eagle, forktails, sunbirds, chats, dippes, yellow-billed blue magpie and others can be spotted. WWF-I will organise the camp in the grand Himalayan wilderness, which will provide nature lovers the kind of experience only the Himalayas can, says Mr. Preston. Clean and comfortable accommodation, wholesome food, nature trails through the forests, enjoyable slideshows on nature and wildlife, and adventure activities, all under the guidance and care of the largest conservation organisation in the country are the highlights, he says.

The organisation will conduct two batches for adults. The camp for the first batch will start on April 10 and conclude on April 15 and the second batch will camp from April 15 to 20.

There are two separate camps for students too. The first will begin on April 20 and conclude on April 25 and the second camp will be held between April 25 and 30.

The participants have to go to Delhi and from there the organisation will take them to the camp and drop them back in New Delhi.

For information, contact WWF-India (Chennai ) at 044 - 24994827 or e-mail wwftnso_tn@airtelbroadband. in or call Preston Ahimaz on 9444751404 or e-mail him at prestonahimaz@gmail.com.

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