Ladakh's Wildlife

Ladakh is also famous for its wildlife. The first National Park came into existence in the year 1981. You can find a diversity of bird which migrates from the warmer parts of India to spend summer in Ladakh. These birds migrate to reside and breed at high-altitude. You can find over 200 species of birds in this area.

The Changthang wildlife sanctuary is a home to many floras and faunas well preserved in this sanctuary. This sanctuary is located at high altitude of Changthang Plateau. This sanctuary is located between two large famous lakes that are Tsomoriri and Pangong Tso. This sanctuary has well preserved many rare faunas such as Wild Ass, Snow Leopard, Lynx, Wolf and Wild Dog. 

Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary located in the eastern most reaches of the Karakoram Range. It is important as its one of the places which holds the migratory population of Tibetan Antelope or “Chiru”. This sanctuary is also a breeding centre for many wild animals and plants. This sanctuary houses some amazing scenic locations and rare wildlife such as Tibetan Antelope, Tibetan Gazelle, Himalayan Ibex, Bharal, Wild Yak, Snow Leopard, Lynx, Red Fox, Himalayan Marmot, Common Otter, Wooly Hare and more.

Snow Leopard found in the Great Himalaya and Tibet. They are very shy and extremely hard to spot. Their body is stocky, fur is thick and their ears are small and rounded, all this helps is less heat loss. They have wide paws which help them to walk better on snow. Their tails are very long and flexible. This helps them maintain their balance while the climb rocky terrain and the area they inhabit. Their tails are also very thick due to storage of fat and allow them to be used as a blanket to cover their face when asleep. Its every traveler dream to spot a Snow Leopard once in a life time as you visit Ladakh. You can easily spot pug marks in snow and if lucky you could spot one hunting or sitting on a rocky mountain relaxing.