As per the data of the World wildlife Federation (WWF), there are only 400-500 snow leopards in the country which can be found in the elevated areas of Himalayas. Places like Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh is known to inhabit major population of this endangered species.
Although the possibility of spotting this rare wildlife creature is less yet the wildlife enthusiasts do not lose hope and love to wander in the wilderness of Indian Himalayas. For those wilderness aficionados, who dream to get the glimpse of these fascinating feline species, we bring some of the best places to witness snow leopards in India.
Hemis National Park, Ladakh
Situated on the high altitude, Hemis wildlife Reserve is a great destination to spot snow leopards. Stretched over 600 sq km, this park got its name from the famous monastery of Hemis Gompa.
The place has a Rumbak Valley, which is quite popular for the sighting of snow leopards in the entire Ladakh region. There are other species of animals also inhabiting the other zones of the park.
To give the true wildlife experience, Special treks are organized during the winter season to get the glance of this rare species.
Kumaon Hills, Uttarakhand
There are varieties of wildlife animals living in the region of Kumaon hills and when it comes to spotting the endangered species of snow leopards, the place is perfect. It is said that an amount of 10% of the entire population of this endangered species lives in the state of Uttarakhand.
Along with the Kumaon hills, there are regions of scenic Munsyari which are inhabited by a few of these snow leopards. One can enjoy trekking down the region for a snow leopard trek in winter to be able to spot these stunning big cats.
Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh
Recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO, The Great Himalayan National Park is an amazing place. The place houses various species of flora and fauna along with the rare wildlife species of snow leopards that are believed to inhabit the park.
This endangered species of leopards like steep and rugged terrains with canyon and staying away into some isolation. The Great Himalayan National Park has everything that favors the good conditions of living for Snow Leopards in the region.
Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh
As one of the safest conditions to live, Pin Valley National Park is a fascinating destination to look for snow leopard in the region. The park is located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh and houses more than 20 varieties of wild animals and birds including the rarest species of Snow leopard.
To get the look of this endangered animal, it is advised to visit during the winter season when they come down in the lower areas for finding food and water.
Nanda Devi National Park, Uttarakhand
Located in Uttarakhand, The Nanda Devi national park is a home to the various endangered species of brown bear, Asiatic black bear, blue sheep and snow leopard.
The park is surrounded by a magnificent Nanda Devi Peak and the valley of flowers which makes a great place for various kinds of outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife sighting.
Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim
Extended in the area of about 850 sq km Khangchendzonga National Park is an amazing place to spot the endangered species of snow leopards in India.
From the Lhonak Valley to the edges of Lachen and to the Yuksom in North Sikkim, the park is extended and gives you a number of opportunities to witness the beautiful creature.
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