Benog Wildlife Sanctuary

Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a 239-hectare protected area situated about 11 km from Mussoorie's Library Point on the Benog Hill ridge. Part of the larger Rajaji National Park system, it is one of the most accessible wildlife sanctuaries in the Garhwal Himalayas.

The sanctuary is particularly prized by birdwatchers - it is one of the best sites in Uttarakhand for rare and endangered Himalayan bird species including the Cheer Pheasant and Western Tragopan, as well as Khalij pheasant, Hill Myna, and numerous other high-altitude species. Larger mammals including leopards, red foxes, barking deer, and langurs are also present.

The forest consists of old oak, cedar, and medicinal plants, and the trails offer quiet walks through some of the finest woodland in the region. The Jwala Devi Temple sits at the edge of the sanctuary. Best visited October to April for birdwatching; carry binoculars.