Which of the following is the largest National Park (in area)?

The correct answer is Gangotri National Park.

Key Points

• Gangotri National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is the largest national park in the state with an area of approximately 2,390 square kilometers.
• It is situated at an altitude ranging from 1,800 meters to 7,083 meters above sea level, encompassing diverse ecosystems.
• The park serves as a critical habitat for rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and black bear.
• The region is home to the source of the River Ganga, the Gangotri Glacier, which holds immense spiritual and ecological significance.
• The park is part of the Western Himalayas, known for its unique biodiversity and stunning alpine landscapes.

Additional Information

• National Parks in India:
  • National parks are protected areas designated for the conservation of wildlife, flora, and fauna.
  • There are over 100 national parks in India, each playing a crucial role in preserving biodiversity.
  • National parks are governed by the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to ensure legal protection for their ecosystems.
• Significance of Gangotri Glacier:
  • The Gangotri Glacier, located within the park, is the primary source of the Ganga River, which is culturally and spiritually significant in India.
  • The glacier is rapidly retreating due to climate change, making its conservation critical.
• Snow Leopard Conservation:
  • The snow leopard, one of the flagship species of Gangotri National Park, is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
  • India has launched the Project Snow Leopard to protect this elusive predator and its habitat.
• Other National Parks in Uttarakhand:
  • Uttarakhand is home to notable national parks like Nanda Devi National Park and Rajaji National Park.
  • The Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.