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High above the old caravan trails of Ladakh, Hemis National Park stretches across a stark, snow-washed landscape where air is thin and survival is an art. In winter, this remote Himalayan wilderness becomes one of the best places in the world to see the snow leopard, a creature so elusive, locals speak of it with reverence. If summer in Ladakh is about monasteries and blue skies, winter in Hemis is about endurance in the wild heart of the mountains, especially if you're chasing the snow leopards. In fact, Hemis National Park in Ladakh recorded the highest density of snow leopards globally at 477 just this year, making this winter a great time for a wild expedition. Where Is Hemis National Park?Hemis lies 40–45 km from Leh in Ladakh. Spread over 4,400 sq km, it is India’s largest national park and home to some of the rarest wildlife on Earth. Travel here requires acclimatisation, patience, and respect for altitude and cold. In winter, bharal (blue sheep) descend to lower valleys to graze, and snow leopards follow. This brings the predators closer to human-accessible trails and ridgelines—making winter the prime season to spot them. Snow leopard sighting probability is higher in Jan–March than any other time of year. While the snow leopards are the stars of the show, keep your eyes peeled for Himalayan wolf, red fox, bharal and urial, woolly hare, pika as well as birds like the Eurasian eagle owl, golden eagle and lammergeier. Safaris At Hemis National Park Permits are mandatory for a safari at Hemis. A full-day permit costs Rs1,500, which you should ideally book sooner, or get it in Leh from the forest department office. Unlike other national parks, Hemis doesn't offer jeep safaris. You have to walk and hike to spot wildlife here. The best valleys for leopard sightings include Rumbak and Hussing Valleys, although Hemis has no designated zones for safaris. Travellers also come here for the Markha Valley trek. Where To Stay Inside Hemis National ParkWhile you can certainly keep Leh as your base, the best way to explore Hemis is staying inside this national park. The best option is to book a homestay in Rumbak which cost anywhere between 2-3K per night. How To Reach Hemis National ParkFly to Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpoche Airport) Winter flights operate daily from Delhi. Acclimatise in Leh for 48–72 hours Drive to Zingchen (park entry point) Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
