About Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary
Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is a high-altitude wildlife sanctuary near Kyongnosla on Jawaharlal Nehru Road, about 31 km east of Gangtok in Gangtok District, Sikkim. Established in 1977 and covering about 31 sq km between 3,200 and 4,200 meters, it protects alpine meadows, rhododendron forests and rare Himalayan fauna including red panda, Himalayan black bear and blood pheasant, adjoining Tsomgo Lake and the Nathu La border area.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a high-altitude alpine landscape along the Gangtok-Nathu La road with rolling meadows, rhododendron and juniper scrub, and views of snow-covered peaks. The sanctuary is accessed via the main road with forest check posts; there are no extensive internal roads. Visitors can view alpine flora, look for Himalayan wildlife and birds such as blood pheasant, and enjoy scenic viewpoints near Tsomgo Lake. The area is cold, exposed and requires permits due to proximity to the international border.
Key highlights
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High-altitude alpine meadows and rhododendron forests between 3,200-4,200 meters
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Habitat for rare Himalayan fauna including red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer and blood pheasant
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Seasonal bloom of rhododendrons, primulas and other alpine flowers
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Scenic location adjoining Tsomgo (Changu) Lake along Jawaharlal Nehru Road
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Part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape with views of eastern Himalayan ranges
History of Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary
Notified as a wildlife sanctuary in 1977 and extended in 1984 to cover about 31 sq km. Established to protect the high-altitude alpine ecosystem along the historic Jawaharlal Nehru Road, the old trade route connecting Gangtok to Nathu La on the Indo-China border.
Culture & Context
Part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape revered in Sikkimese Buddhist tradition. The surrounding alpine flora, especially rhododendrons, and nearby Tsomgo Lake hold cultural and natural significance for local communities.
Route
| By air |
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