Upcoming Winter Treks: Kedarkantha - Har ki Dun - Nag Tibba Trek - Bhramatal Trek - Phulara Ridge Trekking - Kuari Pass - Dayara Bugyal - Chopta
Established in 1986, the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary was created in order to protect the endangered Musk Deer and its habitat. Perched at an elevation of 1600 meters, Askot Sanctuary has a sprawling area of 600 sq km which is blessed with innumerable species of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is located at Askot, which is a small hamlet situated some 54 kms from the Pithoragarh town in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.
Apart from the endangered Musk Deer, there are numerous animals that make Askot sanctuary their home. One can spot Bengal Tiger, Indian leopard, Himalayan jungle cat, goral, Himalayan brown bear, lemurs, bison and civet to name a few. The sanctuary also boasts of rich flora including teak, eucalyptus and large variety of shrubs and herbs. The sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction among nature lovers and wildlife tourists. The panoramic view of the Panchachuli peaks from the sanctuary is a treat to the eyes.
The winters are severe in this region as the higher areas of the sanctuary are covered in snow. Best time for tourists and wildlife enthusiasts to visit Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is from April to September.
Tourists can easily find accommodation at Askot as there are few guesthouses near the sanctuary. One can easily find mid-range budget hotels with basic amenities at nearby places such as Tejam, Kaflani and Rugling.
The Askot Wildlife Sanctuary can be easily reached via motorable roads via Haldwani-Almora or from Tanakpur-Pithoragarh. Both road options have well maintained roads for comfortable travel. Nearest Railway Station is at Tanakpur, some 204 kms from the sanctuary. Naini Saini is the nearest airport which is located 60 kms from the Askot sanctuary.
Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary is popular place for following activities/ interests - Bird Watching, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
