Ladakh to launch India's first high-altitude wildlife safari; spot snow leopards like never before

According to an official statement, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved the introduction of guided wildlife safaris on popular snow leopard and birdwatching trails across Ladakh's high-altitude regions.

The Lieutenant Governor has directed the Forest Department to introduce guided Jeep safaris, modelled on those operating in renowned national parks such as Kaziranga and Ranthambore. The safaris will use specially designed open-back vehicles and will be operated by trained local drivers and guides.

Promoting responsible tourism

The initiative aims to curb illegal off-roading and minimise disturbances to wildlife while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. It is also expected to enhance visitors' experience by providing structured, guided access to Ladakh's fragile natural habitats.

The decision was taken during the first governing body meeting of the newly constituted Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature (SHAN) Conservation Society, chaired by LG Saxena.

Proposed safari routes

The Forest Department has been directed to explore safari routes across Hemis National Park, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as wildlife-rich regions including Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil, and Drass—all known for their snow leopard population and rich birdlife.

As part of the initiative, 20 local youths will be selected and trained in birdwatching, bird identification and bird-spotting techniques. They will also be provided with equipment such as binoculars. Additionally, 10 birdwatching hides will be established at key birding hotspots across the region.

Home to India's largest snow leopard population

Ladakh is home to 477 of India's estimated 718 snow leopards, making it the country's most important habitat for the endangered big cat.

The region also supports more than 38 mammal species, 340 bird species, and around 1,800 vascular plant species, making it one of India's richest biodiversity hotspots and a major draw for nature enthusiasts.

Community-led conservation model

The SHAN Conservation Society, constituted by the Lieutenant Governor on June 16, aims to develop a comprehensive roadmap for community-led wildlife conservation, responsible tourism, waste management, plastic-free tourism, and sustainable livelihood generation across Ladakh.

The initiative envisions a conservation model in which local communities play an active role alongside the government in protecting Ladakh's fragile ecosystem while benefiting economically from eco-tourism.

"This will instil a sense of custodianship among the people while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for them," the statement said.

Highlighting the importance of community participation, LG Saxena described Ladakh's unique wildlife and fragile high-altitude ecosystem as the region's greatest natural asset.

"Through SHAN, we are creating a model that integrates wildlife conservation, responsible eco-tourism, environmental education, empowering local communities and creating sustainable livelihoods for them. These efforts aim at conserving Ladakh's natural heritage so that future generations inherit an ecosystem that is richer, healthier and more resilient. Our vision is to establish Ladakh as a global example of community-led conservation and responsible high-altitude mountain tourism," Saxena said.