Ladakh to Launch India’s First High-Altitude Wildlife Safari

Ladakh approved India’s first guided high-altitude wildlife safari on 6 August 2026. The plan covers snow-leopard and bird-watching trails in Hemis National Park, Changthang, Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary, Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass.

High-Altitude Wildlife Safari in Ladakh

The safari will use specially designed open-back jeep vehicles. The vehicles are modelled on safari operations in Kaziranga National Park and Ranthambore National Park. Only trained local drivers and guides will operate the tours.

Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature Conservation Society

The decision was taken during the first governing body meeting of the Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature Conservation Society, also called SHAN Conservation Society. The meeting was chaired by the Ladakh Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena.

Ecological and Tourism Features of Ladakh

Ladakh has 1,800 vascular plant species, 340 bird species, and more than 38 mammal species. The region also hosts 477 of India’s estimated 718 snow leopards.

Important Facts for Exams

• Hemis National Park is one of the key habitats of the snow leopard in India.
• Changthang and Karakoram are important high-altitude wildlife zones in Ladakh.
• Open-back jeep safaris are used in several Indian protected areas for regulated wildlife viewing.
• Snow leopard is listed as a threatened big cat species in high-altitude ecosystems of the Himalayas.

Training and Conservation Measures

The administration will train 20 local youth in birdwatching and wildlife interpretation. It will also construct 10 bird-watching hides at key ecological hotspots.

Launch Timeline

The safari is scheduled to begin in winter, which coincides with the winter big-cat sighting season. Officials have been directed to complete logistical preparations before the launch.