Ladakh is set to introduce India's first high-altitude wildlife safari, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena approving a community-led eco-tourism initiative aimed at promoting wildlife conservation while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local residents.
The decision was taken at the inaugural governing body meeting of the newly constituted Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature (SHAN) Conservation Society, officials said on Thursday.
Under the initiative, the Forest Department will introduce guided jeep safaris on snow leopard and birdwatching trails using specially designed open-back vehicles driven by trained local drivers and naturalists. The model draws inspiration from wildlife safaris in national parks such as Kaziranga and Ranthambore but is tailored to Ladakh's fragile mountain ecosystem.
Authorities said regulated safaris would help curb illegal off-roading, minimise disturbance to wildlife and provide visitors with a safe and immersive experience.
Potential safari circuits will be identified across Hemis National Park, Changthang and Karakoram wildlife sanctuaries, as well as biodiversity-rich regions including Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass, all known for snow leopard sightings and diverse birdlife.
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To strengthen community participation, 20 local youths will be trained in birdwatching, bird identification and guiding skills and equipped with binoculars. The administration will also establish 10 birdwatching hides at key hotspots to encourage responsible nature tourism.
Officials noted that Ladakh is home to 477 of India's estimated 718 snow leopards, making it the country's largest habitat for the elusive big cat. The Union Territory also supports more than 38 mammal species, around 340 bird species and nearly 1,800 vascular plant species.
The SHAN Society will oversee a broader conservation roadmap focusing on community-led wildlife protection, plastic-free tourism, waste management and sustainable livelihoods. Other approved initiatives include setting up SHAN Wildlife Clubs in 50 government schools, installing 300 colour-coded waste bins across 40 villages, launching wildlife photography fellowships for local youth, training women artisans to produce wildlife-themed souvenirs, and establishing souvenir shops across Ladakh.
LG Saxena directed all departments to complete preparations before the upcoming snow leopard sighting season this winter, saying the initiative aims to position Ladakh as a global model for responsible high-altitude eco-tourism and community-based conservation.
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