Hemis High Altitude National Park in Ladakh
· Summer: June-September (5°C - 40°C)
· Winter: October-May (-14°C - 24°C)
· Monsoon: N/A
Best time to visit:
Throughout the year
Opening Time:
Closing Time:
Weekly Holiday:
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: INR 20
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
INR 100
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
N/A
With an area of about 4,400 sq. km. to its credit, Hemis High Altitude National Park is the largest national park not only in India, but in the whole of South Asia. Established in 1981, the park enjoys an average elevation of about 5,000 m. The park plays a significant role in protecting the endangered species that are indigenous to the Himalayas. Snow leopard is the flagship specie of the park and can be spotted during winters. The majestic creature is shy in nature and offers an outstanding visual treat to the eyes.
Other attractions of the park include Asiatic Ibex, Eurasian brown bear, red fox, Tibetan wolf, mountain weasel, Himalayan marmot, urial, argali and bharal among others. Birds, including prey birds like Himalayan griffon vulture and golden eagle, as well as other species like brown accentor, red-billed chough, streaked rose finch, fork-tailed swift and many others can also be spotted here. The marvellous flamboyance of Himalayan peaks and river bodies enhance the park’s glory manifold.
Trekking expeditions attract huge flocks of adventurers to the park. Camping is another popular activity. Hemis Monastery, a well-known Buddhist monastery, serves as another highlight of the region.
Connectivites
Road:
The national park is accessible by road only for about six months from May to October, after which the roads get blocked due to heavy snowfall. During these months, you can rely on jeep safari or trekking to explore the park. For the rest of the year, trekking is the only option to access and explore the park.
Railway:
Srinagar has the closest railhead, located about 470 km. away. It is recommended to travel by road or air and avoid travelling by train to reach the park.
Airway:
About 15 km. from the park is the airport of Leh which is connected to Delhi, Jammu, Srinagar and Chandigarh airports. From the airport, you can hire jeeps to reach the final destination.