The Hemis High Altitude National Park, Kashmir

          The Hemis High Altitude National Park: includes the catchments of two valleys which drain into the River Indus. It is named after the famous monastery -- Hemis, and sprawls over 600 sq km. Approachable by road from Leh, this national park contains several camping sites. The area is barren and rocky, covered only sparsely with vegetation. Most of the ten species of mammal here are extremely rare -- shapu, bharal, great Tibetan sheep, ibex and snow leopard. The fauna too comprises species which are not seen at lower altitudes: Himalayan snow cock being an example. The best season for mammal viewing is September to May and for bird viewing March to May and September to December. For passes contact the Wildlife Warden, Leh.

Note: When in a sanctuary or national park it is important to dress in camouflage colors (khaki, green etc). Do not make undue noise and avoid littering the forest floors with paper, tins and food leftovers. While photographing take due caution not to disturb the birds and animals.

J&K Tourist Offices at:

The Director of Tourism
J&K Government, Srinagar