Ladakh Launches India's First High-Altitude Wildlife Safari

Ladakh is enhancing its tourism offerings with India's first high-altitude wildlife safari, scheduled to commence before the winter 2026 snow leopard season. This new initiative will feature guided Jeep safaris designed for organized wildlife viewing in sensitive natural areas.

The administration plans to utilize trained local drivers and guides to operate open-back vehicles, aiming to curb illegal off-roading and minimize disturbance to wildlife. Potential safari routes are being explored in protected areas such as Hemis National Park and Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, with other regions like Nubra and Kargil also considered.

Wildlife enthusiasts can anticipate spotting Ladakh's estimated 477 snow leopards, alongside a rich biodiversity of mammals and birds. Birdwatching is also a focus, with plans for training locals and establishing observation hides, particularly in the Changthang region. The best viewing periods differ: winter for snow leopards (October-March) and summer for birdwatching (May-September).