Hemis National Park is located in the eastern Ladakh of Jammu and Kashmir and is known as the largest national park in the South Asia. This park houses 16 species of mammals and 73 birds. Spread over 4400 sq km, this park is a safe abode for extinct and endangered animals like Tibetan wolf, Asiatic ibex, Leopards and Red fox. Kaya, Sku, Rumbak, Urutse, Shingo and Chilling - the six villages around the national park have a population of 1600 people. Famous as a huge monastic institution in Ladakh, the 400 year old Hemis Monastery is located within the park and a trip to this historic place is an experience in its own. Indus and Zanskar meet at the parks boundary which is a scenic view. Also, the Stok Kangri Peak is placed inside the park.

History

Known for its beautiful and tranquil surroundings, this place was also known as the ‘Snow Leopard Capital of India’. It is a host to an extraordinary variety of wildlife. This park was founded in 1981 as one of the national parks of India. The historical Indus River flows through this beautiful locality making it a prime tourist spot. A mountain of different shape and size also attracts the visitors leaving them amazed.  

Topography of Hemis National Park

This park is situated at a range of 3,300 to 6,000 m having the very rugged and mountainous topography. It is a high altitude dessert range which is beautiful to witness. Due to the wide landscape, people can often get confused as what seems to be very close, turns out to be miles ahead. The area is covered with high altitude vegetation and the huge cliffs are a sight of bliss.

Flora in Hemis National Park

The forests are mostly Alpine forests and spare high altitude vegetation. Forests of Junipers, Subalpine dry birch, poplar - Salix Forests can be seen at lower ranges but the scenic beauty of this locality pulls many visitors.

Fauna

This national park is the only habitat and abode of Ladakhi Urial and Shapu in the limits of India. This destination is not to miss by the bird watchers due to its rich fauna. This park is home to rare specifies like Robin Accentor, Brown Accentor, Tiebtan Showfinch, and Streaked Rosefinch, Tickell’s Leaf Warbler, Redbilled Chough, Himalayan Snowcook, Fire-fronted Serin and Fork-tailored swift. Also Lammergeier vulture, Golden Eagles and Griffon Vultures can be spotted in this national park. Small mammals like Mountain weasel, Himalayan Mouse and Himalayan Marmot and is known for its 200 Leopard’s abode. This quiet and beautiful national park is flocked by many nature lovers due to its rich fauna. Additionally, the pollution free environment makes the experience totally worth it.

Prime Attraction

This place is loved by the nature lovers and bird watchers owing to its rich flora and fauna. The forests, desserts are one of the most visited places. Trekking is the best way to explore this place. The wildlife attraction is very strong at the Hemis National Park as many endangered species can be found with never to be seen mammals and birds being a common sight for the visitors. The diverse type of birds found in the national park works as the real joy for the bird watchers.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport is in Leh and flights from Delhi are available.

By Rail

The nearest rail track is in Jammu and is well connected to other cities with many trains daily.

By Road

If one wishes to enjoy the ride, the state highway to Hemis via Choglamsar, Thiksey, Karu and Martsleng is to be taken. Though buses are available, it is better to hire taxis and cars for a four wheel drive.

Where to Stay

You will find no hotels close to and even inside the Hemis National Park. All the six villages around - Kaya, Sku, Rumbak, Urutse, Shingo and Chilling offer excellent facilities for accommodations. The Hemis Monastery also gives out rooms to visitors for a stay.

Best Time to Visit

The winters drop down below the freezing point as well. Though the climatic regions differ from sub-arctic to arctic, the rainfall recorded is very low but the snow in bulk. The summers in this location are very short and not too harsh. The best season to visit is from May to October.

Visitor Information

• A special permit is required to visit the park by the chief warden of the wildlife.
• The coverage area is 600 sq km.
• The park is open throughout the year.
• It came into existence in 1981.