India’s first high-altitude wildlife safari to start in Ladakh this winter

Excelsior Correspondent

LEH, Aug 6: Ladakh is set to launch India's first high-altitude wildlife safari, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena approving guided jeep safaris on popular snow leopard and bird-watching trails to promote eco-tourism while protecting the region's fragile ecosystem.

An official communication said the initiative aims to curb illegal off-roading, minimise disturbance to wildlife and provide visitors with a safe and organised wildlife viewing experience.

It said the safaris will be conducted in specially designed open-back vehicles operated by trained local drivers and guides.

As per the communication, the decision was taken during the first Governing Body meeting of the newly formed Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature (SHAN) Conservation Society.

During the meeting, the Forest Department has been directed to identify safari routes in Hemis National Park, Changthang and Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuaries, besides wildlife-rich areas of Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass.

Authorities have also been asked to complete all preparations before the snow leopard sighting season begins this winter.

As part of the initiative, 20 local youths will be trained in birdwatching, bird identification and guiding skills and provided with binoculars and other equipment. Ten bird-watching hides will also be developed at major birding hotspots.

Ladakh is home to India's largest snow leopard population, with 477 of the country's estimated 718 snow leopards. The Union Territory also supports more than 38 mammal species, around 340 bird species and nearly 1,800 vascular plant species.

The SHAN Society has been created to promote community-led wildlife conservation, responsible tourism, waste management and sustainable livelihoods.

The Lieutenant Governor said local communities would be equal partners in protecting Ladakh's wildlife and would also benefit economically through eco-tourism.

Several other initiatives were approved, including installation of 300 colour-coded waste bins in 40 villages, procurement of portable waste carts, a plastic-free tourism campaign, and setting up SHAN Wildlife Clubs in 50 Government schools with Rs 30,000 each for wildlife education activities.

The programme also includes annual wildlife photography fellowships for 10 local youths, awareness campaigns through documentaries and publications, installation of signages in protected areas, training of 50 women artisans to produce wildlife-themed souvenirs, and establishment of souvenir shops across Ladakh to generate local employment while promoting conservation.