Hemis National Park

Located in Ladakh, Hemis National Park is India's largest national park and a high-altitude cold desert ecosystem. Spread over 4,400 sq. km, the park is famous for being the best place in India to spot snow leopards in the wild. The rugged terrain, deep gorges, and barren mountains make it a unique habitat for rare wildlife. The park is also home to the historic Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh.

Wildlife Species Found

• Mammals: Snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, Eurasian brown bear, red fox, Himalayan marmot, blue sheep (bharal), Ladakh urial, and Asiatic ibex.
• Birds: Golden eagle, lammergeier (bearded vulture), Himalayan griffon vulture, robin accentor, and Himalayan snowcock.
• Flora: Juniper, wild rose, poplar, and various alpine and medicinal plants.

Famous For

• Snow Leopard Capital of India – One of the best places in the world to see snow leopards.
• High-Altitude Biodiversity – Unique cold desert habitat with rare Himalayan wildlife.
• Hemis Monastery – A centuries-old Buddhist monastery within the park.
• Trekking & Adventure – Popular for treks like the Markha Valley Trek and Rumbak Trek for snow leopard spotting.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (November to February) – Best for spotting snow leopards as they descend to lower altitudes.
• Summer (May to September) – Ideal for trekking and birdwatching.