Applauded for its highest abundance of Snow leopard conservation efforts, Hemis National Park is located in Eastern Ladakh and covers an area of about 4400 sq km. The popular national park is famous for its high density of Snow leopards and also houses a large variety of birds. Apart from the Snow leopard, the national park is home to several endangered and rare plants and animals. A significant portion of the park is devoted to wildlife conservation, making it an ideal nature exploring destination in India and a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Our trip to Hemis National Park was memorable, especially seeing the Snow leopard and plenty of Bharals and the Red fox. It was relaxing and exciting traveling through the dry forest early in the morning and later in the evening. We were also delighted with all the accommodation. The homestays were superb, comfortable, exotic, friendly, and considerate of all our needs. We particularly liked camping in the park although it was freezing at night. The journeys by car and air were also all enjoyable and comfortable.

Travelling with experts

Our tour organizer Sam Pandepa met and greeted us and took us around the sites, and did a sterling job as a guide. It was a fantastic experience. Sam K. Pandepa’s expertise and guidance ensured that we made the most of our time in Ladakh. It was really an excellent holiday, and we would certainly recommend Ladakh-tourism for Hemis National Park tour(https://www.ladakh-tourism.net/blog/hemis-national-park/) to others and use it in the future. Thanks a lot for making our trip a lasting memory for us.

History of Hemis National Park

The Hemis National Park was established in the year 1981 and covered an area of 600 sq km. It was built to protect Rumbak and Markha valley regions as they were home to a large number of Snow leopards. In 1988, the park was expanded to 3350 sq km, and it became the largest park in South Asia. Later, in 1990, the park grew in size again, covering an area of about 4400 sq km. and became what we see today.

Flora in Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park receives a small amount of rainfall throughout the year. As such, the park consists of dry forests with only fir, juniper, and dry birch trees being present in the lower altitudes.

The flora of Hemis National Park consists of mainly alpine vegetation and many rare medicinal plants, including Arnebia euchroma and Artemisia maritima.

Fauna in Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is rich in fauna and is inhabited by 73 bird species and 16 mammal species. The land of Hemis boasts the highest density of Snow leopards. Apart from them, other endangered animals in Hemis National Park include

• Red fox
• Eurasian brown bear
• Bharal, Argali
• Asiatic ibex
• Shapu
• Tibetan wolf
• Himalayan marmot
• Himalayan mouse hare
• Mountain weasel.

Popular Species of birds found in Hemis

• Himalayan griffon
• Golden eagle
• Lammergeier vulture
• Robin accentor
• Red-billed cough
• Brown accentor
• Fire-fronted serin
• Chukar
• Himalayan snowcock etc.

Best Time to Visit Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is best visited between the months of May to September as most regions of the park remain dry in summer except for the high mountain peaks where snowfall occurs even during summer.

Winter is the best time if you want to spot the Snow leopard. You can visit between the months of October to March because they descend to lower regions searching for food.