Ladakh has launched India's first high-altitude wildlife safari focused on spotting elusive snow leopards, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena flagging off six safari vehicles to promote regulated wildlife tourism, with local communities playing a key role in conservation and tourism activities. The initiative will help reduce the environmental impact of unorganised tourist activities in the region.
The safari was launched during Wildlife Week 2026 celebrations at Choglamsar Protected Forest in Leh. The project was announced on August 5 and was implemented within two months by the Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Nature Conservation (SHAN) Society in collaboration with Ladakh's Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment. For wildlife lovers this is an opportunity to indulge in the unique wildlife of the region.
Where Will The Safaris Operate?
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The vehicles will initially operate in Rumbak, Shang and Uley, which are known for snow leopard sightings. The administration plans to identify approved safari routes across Hemis National Park, Changthang and Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary, along with other areas in Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass.
The safaris will be conducted on modified open-back vehicles operated by trained local drivers and guides. According to officials, there will be designated routes and restrictions on visitor numbers in place to prevent illegal off-roading, minimise disturbance to wildlife and protect the region's sensitive terrain.
Conservation And Local Employment At play
According to PTI, Lieutenant Governor of the union territory highlighted that the objective of the safaris was not to attract more tourists but develop a model that would balance economic activity with environmental protection.
"Wildlife should not be protected at the cost of people, nor should development come at the cost of wildlife. We must create a model in which both can thrive together," he was quoted as saying.
The programme aims to involve residents directly in conservation efforts by linking their livelihood to the protection of natural habitats.
Ladakh Is Home To Most Of India's Snow Leopards
Ladakh is home to 477 snow leopards, with an estimated total of 718 in the country. Apart from the launch of the safaris, Ladakh announced measures to create additional conservation-linked employment opportunities for locals, especially women, which will include a separate Wild Animal Felting Programme involving 50 women from various areas of the region. Under the programme, locally available wool and traditional handicraft skills will be used to develop products linked to wildlife conservation.
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