Park History
GHNP history: Journey so far…
The GHNP history is a story of conservation, resilience, and decades-long collaboration between scientists, local communities, and government bodies. The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) was created to protect, sustain, and propagate wildlife under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
From the idea’s inception to its official declaration as a national park, GHNP history spans over two decades and represents a landmark achievement in India’s protected area network.
Timeline of GHNP History
1980–1983: Foundations of GHNP History
An international team of scientists under the Himachal Wildlife Project surveyed the Kullu district. Based on their findings, the Banjar area was identified as ideal for creating GHNP.
1984: Official Intent
The Himachal Pradesh Government formally expressed its intention to create the Great Himalayan National Park.
1988: Community Rights and Settlements Begin
The process to settle the traditional rights of local communities within the proposed GHNP area started.
1994–1999: Global Conservation Support
The World Bank funded the “Conservation of Biodiversity” project. This era in GHNP history saw the establishment of 16 village eco-development committees and major research by the Wildlife Institute of India.
1996: Joint Management
The Biodiversity Conservation Society (BiodCS) was registered to share responsibility in GHNP’s management.
1999: Official National Park Declaration
GHNP was officially declared a national park. Compensation was awarded to local communities for relinquishing their forest rights.
2000: Community Empowerment
SAHARA (Society for Advancement of Hill and Rural Areas) was formed by local women’s groups to support GHNP management.
2008: Conservation Research
Field research on the endangered western tragopan in GHNP was conducted in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India.
2010: Expansion Proposals
A proposal was submitted to declare the Parvati Watershed (710 sq km) as Khirganga National Park. Two surrounding sanctuaries—Sainj and Tirthan—were proposed for merging into GHNP.
2011–2013: Path to Global Recognition
An application to list GHNP as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was submitted in 2011. After evaluation by IUCN in 2012, a local management council was constituted.
2014: UNESCO World Heritage Status
In a major milestone in GHNP history, the park was awarded World Heritage Natural Site status at the 38th UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting in Doha, Qatar.
2015: Identity and Awareness
The GHNP logo was officially registered, the park’s website was launched, and a rare serow sighting was recorded.
Why GHNP History Matters
Understanding GHNP history helps visitors appreciate the decades of conservation efforts and community collaboration that make the park a UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot today. Each milestone has shaped the way the park is managed, protected, and shared with the world.