Nestled in the high-altitude desert of Ladakh, Hemis National Park spans a staggering 4,400 sq km, making it the largest national park in India and South Asia. Known as the Snow Leopard Capital of the World, it’s a haven for wildlife lovers, trekkers, and photographers alike. Entry Fees Indian Nationals - ₹20 Foreign Tourists - ₹100 Timings & Best Time to Visit - Open Year-Round, but access depends on weather and altitude conditions. - May to September: Ideal for trekking, bird-watching, and scenic photography. - December to March: Best for spotting snow leopards, as they descend to lower altitudes. Wildlife Highlights - Mammals: Snow leopard, bharal (blue sheep), Ladakhi urial, Himalayan marmot, red fox, Tibetan wolf - Birds: Golden eagle, lammergeier vulture, robin accentor, red-billed chough (among 73 species) - Flora: Alpine trees, dry birch, juniper, and rare medicinal plants How to Reach - From Leh: ~40 km, ~1 hour by road - Entry Points: Stok, Zingchen, Martselang, Chilling - Stay Options: No lodges inside the park; most visitors stay in Leh or camp along trekking routes Travel Tips - Acclimatize in Leh for 1–2 days before trekking - Permits Required: Wildlife entry permit via Leh’s Wildlife Office; foreign nationals may need an Inner Line Permit - No motor vehicles allowed in many parts — trekking is the way to go - Pack warm layers, sunscreen, good footwear, and be ready for sudden weather changes Hemis isn’t just a park—it’s a raw Himalayan experience. From the historic Hemis Monastery to elusive snow leopards and surreal landscapes, it’s one of India’s most rewarding natural escapes.
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