We come bearing some amazing news for wildlife lovers! Ladakh is all set to get India’s first high-altitude wildlife safari. It will offer guided jeep safaris to spot the majestic snow leopards, along with birdwatching trails to promote eco-tourism. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
India’s First High-Altitude Wildlife Safari In Ladakh
Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has now approved guided jeep safaris to spot the ‘Ghost of the Mountains’, aka snow leopards, along with birdwatching trails in Ladakh. According to Hindustan Times, the move will help boost eco-tourism while also promoting wildlife conservation and economic development in the region.
The jeep safaris will be modelled on those operated in national parks such as Kaziranga and Ranthambore. There will be specially designed open-back vehicles driven by trained local drivers and guides. The move to introduce India’s first high-altitude wildlife safari in Ladakh also aims to curb illegal off-roading while enhancing the visitor experience.
Also Read: Where To See Snow Leopards In India? 5 Stunning Places For Wildlife Lovers
Birdwatching Trails Will Also Be Introduced
According to Hindustan Times, the Forest Department has been asked to identify potential safari routes across Hemis National Park, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, and Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary. These areas are known for being home to snow leopards. Moreover, wildlife-rich areas such as Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass are also being considered.
Twenty young people will be selected and trained in birdwatching, bird identification and bird-spotting skills as part of the initiative. Plus, 10 birdwatching hides will also be established at major hotspots.
The plan to introduce a wildlife safari for snow leopard spotting in Ladakh is an amazing decision, as the region is home to India’s largest population of these big cats. Around 477 of the country’s estimated snow leopards call Ladakh their home. The Union Territory is also home to more than 38 mammal species and around 350 bird species.
Also Read: Ladakh Declares 23 Heritage Sites As Protected Monuments; Check Full List Here!
So, on a scale of 1 to 10, how excited are you for a high-altitude wildlife safari in Ladakh?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Pallab.banerjee and Héctor Berganza
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India’s first high-altitude wildlife safari to spot snow leopards and birds is being launched in Ladakh.