Hemis National Parkleh
Home of the Snow Leopards
Overview
A high-altitude park housing a diverse variety of birds and animals including the elusive snow leopard, Tibetan Wolf, and Red fox.
What To Expect?
Expect a high-altitude wilderness experience in the largest national park in South Asia. You may catch a glimpse of the elusive 'Ghost of the Mountains'—the snow leopard. The park features rugged terrains, alpine meadows, and species like the Blue Sheep (Bharal), Tibetan Wolf, and Golden Eagle. It is a premier destination for wildlife photography and high-altitude trekking.
Tips
- Obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the Leh DC office or online before heading to the park.
- Dress in layers as weather conditions in the park can change rapidly from warm sun to freezing winds.
- Wear sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support to navigate the rocky terrain.
- Hire a professional wildlife guide if your primary goal is to spot snow leopards, especially during the winter months.
- Carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks as there are no shops once you enter the park's interior.
Exploring Hemis National Park
More About Hemis National Park
Surrounded by the Indus River and Zanskar Ranges, this high-altitude park is the only national park in India north of the Himalayas. It covers an area of approximately 4,400 sq. km and is a sanctuary for some of the world's most endangered high-altitude wildlife, including the Snow Leopard.
The park is also home to several Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, with the famous Hemis Monastery located at its edge. The geography is characterized by sub-arctic to arctic climate conditions, with sparse vegetation giving way to spectacular rock formations and high mountain passes.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tours are the easiest way to learn about local delicacies and get great tips that aren’t just for tourists, but lessons for a lifetime too.
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise. Whilst using public transportation, just ensure that you are following the local norms and do remember to watch the locals!
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally.
How to reach Hemis National Park
Located about 40 km from Leh town. It is best reached by private taxi or rental car. Many trekkers also enter the park on foot via various high-altitude trekking routes like the Markha Valley trek.
Tips for Visiting Hemis National Park, leh
- Obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the Leh DC office or online before heading to the park.
- Dress in layers as weather conditions in the park can change rapidly from warm sun to freezing winds.
- Wear sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support to navigate the rocky terrain.
- Hire a professional wildlife guide if your primary goal is to spot snow leopards, especially during the winter months.
- Carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks as there are no shops once you enter the park's interior.
