Ladakh launched India’s first high-altitude snow leopard wildlife safari on 7 October 2026, during Wildlife Week celebrations in Leh. Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena flagged off six specially designed open-back vehicles. The initiative is a collaboration between the Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature Conservation (SHAN) Society and the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, UT Ladakh. Ladakh hosts 477 of India’s estimated 718 snow leopards.
Snow Leopard Habitat and Distribution
The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is a large cat adapted to cold, rugged mountain habitats. Its range extends across the high mountains of Central and South Asia. In India, snow leopards occur in the trans-Himalayan regions of Ladakh and in parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Rocky slopes and steep terrain provide habitat and cover for the species.
The initial safari routes are planned for Rumbak, Shang and Uley, areas known for frequent snow leopard sightings. Planned future routes include Hemis National Park, Changthang and Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass.
Protected Areas and Conservation
Hemis National Park is a high-altitude protected area in Ladakh and forms part of the snow leopard’s habitat. Changthang and Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary are also among the protected areas associated with the region’s high-altitude ecosystems. Wildlife conservation in these landscapes includes protecting habitats and managing human–wildlife interactions.
The safari decision was announced by the Ladakh administration on 5 August 2026 and implemented within two months. The initiative’s stated aims include responsible wildlife tourism, community-based conservation and sustainable livelihoods for local youth and communities.
Community-Based Wildlife Tourism
Wildlife tourism in snow leopard habitat can involve local communities in visitor services and conservation activities. The Ladakh initiative uses specially designed open-back vehicles and plans to operate in areas with snow leopard sightings. Wildlife Week is observed in India from 2 to 8 October.
Important Facts for Exams
- The scientific name of the snow leopard is Panthera uncia.
- Hemis National Park is located in Ladakh.
- Wildlife Week in India is observed from 2 to 8 October.
- The six safari vehicles were flagged off in Leh on 7 October 2026.
Ladakh’s estimated snow leopard population is 477, compared with an estimated 718 across India. Initial safari areas include Rumbak, Shang and Uley.
