Sightings

Hemis National Park is best known for sightings of the elusive snow leopard, which is one of the rarest and most endangered big cats in the world. The park is home to an estimated 200 snow leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to see this magnificent animal in its natural habitat. However, spotting a snow leopard is not easy as they are highly elusive and are perfectly adapted to their mountainous environment, which makes them difficult to spot.

Apart from snow leopards, Hemis National Park is also home to several other species of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see the Asiatic ibex, which is a type of wild goat found in the mountains of Ladakh. The park is also home to the Tibetan antelope, which is known for its shaggy coat and distinctive curved horns. Visitors may also spot the blue sheep, which is a species of wild sheep that is well adapted to life in the mountains.

Safari

Jeep safaris are one of the best ways to explore the Hemis National Park and spot wildlife. Jeep safaris are offered by the park authorities, and visitors can book them at the park entrance or through local tour operators. These safaris are conducted by trained guides who are knowledgeable about the park's wildlife and terrain.

Jeep safaris generally last for around three to four hours, during which visitors can cover a large area of the park and increase their chances of spotting wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard. The best time for jeep safaris is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when wildlife is most active.

In addition to jeep safaris, visitors can also opt for trekking and camping to explore the park's vast wilderness. Several trekking routes are available, ranging from easy to difficult, and treks can last for a few days to a week or more. Trekking and camping require permits, which can be obtained from the park authorities or local tour operators.

Things To Do Around

There are several interesting things to do around Hemis National Park that visitors can enjoy. Some of the popular activities and attractions are:

• Visit Hemis Monastery: Hemis Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located near Hemis National Park. It is one of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh and is famous for its annual Hemis festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
• Explore Leh: Leh is the capital city of Ladakh and is located about 40 km from Hemis National Park. It is a beautiful town surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is known for its Buddhist monasteries, colorful markets, and traditional architecture.
• Trek to Stok Kangri: Stok Kangri is a popular trekking peak located near Hemis National Park. It is the highest mountain in the Stok Range and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Visit Tso Moriri Lake: Tso Moriri Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located about 200 km from Hemis National Park. It is a popular destination for birdwatching and is home to several species of migratory birds.
• Explore Nubra Valley: Nubra Valley is a beautiful valley located about 150 km from Hemis National Park. It is known for its stunning landscapes, sand dunes, and hot springs. Visitors can also explore the Diskit Monastery, which is located in the valley.
• Attend local festivals: Ladakh is known for its colorful festivals and celebrations. Visitors can attend festivals such as Hemis Festival, Ladakh Festival, and Dosmoche Festival, which are celebrated in different parts of Ladakh throughout the year.

There are several other activities and attractions that visitors can explore around Hemis National Park, and local tour operators can help plan a customized itinerary based on their interests and preferences.

How to Reach?

Hemis National Park is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in northern India. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is about 75 km from the park. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar, and visitors can take a taxi or a shared taxi to reach the park.

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is about 770 km from the park. From the railway station, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach the park.

The park is well-connected by road, and visitors can reach the park by taking a taxi or a bus from Leh, which is about 30 km away. Several local tour operators also offer transport services to and from the park.

It is important to note that the road to Hemis National Park is often closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, so visitors are advised to check the road conditions before planning a trip during the winter season.

Weather

The weather in Hemis National Park is extreme and can vary greatly depending on the season. The park is located at a high altitude, ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 meters above sea level, and experiences a cold desert climate. The summer season, which lasts from June to September, is the best time to visit the park, as the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, the temperature can range from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day, and can drop to around 5 degrees Celsius at night.

The winter season, which lasts from October to May, is extremely harsh, with temperatures dropping well below freezing point. The park receives heavy snowfall during the winter months, which makes it difficult to access certain areas of the park. However, the winter season is also the best time to spot the elusive snow leopard, as they are more active during this time.

Visitors are advised to carry warm clothing and appropriate gear, such as jackets, gloves, and hats, when visiting Hemis National Park, even during the summer months. It is also recommended to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to the park and to be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

Best Season

The best season to visit Hemis National Park is during the summer months, which last from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day, making it easier to explore the park and spot wildlife.

Moreover, the winter season, which lasts from October to May, is extremely harsh, with temperatures dropping well below freezing point. The park receives heavy snowfall during the winter months, which makes it difficult to access certain areas of the park. However, the winter season is also the best time to spot the elusive snow leopard, as they are more active during this time.

Therefore, if you're specifically interested in seeing snow leopards, then the winter months are the best time to visit the park. However, keep in mind that access to the park may be limited during the winter season due to the weather conditions. For general wildlife spotting and exploring the park, the summer months are the best time to visit Hemis National Park.

Who Can Travel?

Hemis National Park is open to all travelers, both Indian and foreign nationals. However, due to the sensitive ecosystem and the need to preserve the park's wildlife, there are certain rules and regulations that visitors need to follow.

Visitors are required to obtain an entry permit from the park authorities before entering the park. Indian nationals can obtain the permit by showing a valid government ID proof, such as a voter ID, passport, or driving license. Foreign nationals need to obtain the permit through a registered travel agency in India, as individual permits are not issued to foreign nationals.

It is important to note that Hemis National Park is located at a high altitude and visitors may experience altitude sickness, so it is advised to acclimatize properly before entering the park. Visitors with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to consult their doctor before planning a trip to the park.

When to Do the Bookings?

It is recommended to book your visit to Hemis National Park well in advance, especially during the peak season (June-September), as the park has limited entry permits per day to ensure the conservation of the park and the wildlife. The booking process can be done online or through the local travel agency.

Visitors can book their entry permits online through the official website of the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department or through registered travel agencies. It is advisable to book the permits at least a month in advance to secure your spot in the park.

For those who wish to book a guided safari or stay at the park's accommodation, it is recommended to book well in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid last-minute inconvenience.

In short, visitors are advised to book their entry permits and accommodation well in advance to avoid any last-minute inconvenience and to ensure a hassle-free trip to Hemis National Park.

Stay Facility

Hemis National Park offers limited accommodation options for visitors within the park premises, which includes government-run guesthouses and homestays.

The government-run guesthouses include Hemis Forest Rest House, Chilling Forest Rest House, and Zingchen Forest Rest House, which offer basic facilities such as clean rooms, bedding, and hot water. Visitors need to book their stay in advance through the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department website or through registered travel agencies.

Additionally, there are several homestays located in nearby villages, such as Rumbak, Stok, and Ulley, which offer a more authentic local experience. These homestays are managed by local families and offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities. Visitors can book these homestays through local tour operators or online booking platforms.

It is important to note that the accommodation options in and around Hemis National Park are limited, and visitors are advised to book their stay well in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.

How to Do the Bookings?

Visitors can book their safari in Hemis National Park through the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department website or through registered travel agencies.

The safari booking process involves obtaining an entry permit to the park, which can be done online or through the local travel agency. Visitors can choose between a full-day safari or a half-day safari, and can opt for a guided safari or a self-drive safari.

For a guided safari, visitors can hire a local guide or a forest department official, who will accompany them on the safari and provide insights into the park's wildlife and ecosystem. The guide's fees are separate from the safari booking fees and can be paid directly to the guide.

Visitors can also opt for a self-drive safari, but it is important to note that the park's terrain can be challenging, and visitors need to be experienced and equipped with a sturdy vehicle. Additionally, visitors need to obtain the necessary permits and adhere to the park's rules and regulations during the safari.

It is advisable to book the safari well in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute inconvenience and to ensure a hassle-free experience in Hemis National Park.