The ideal period for spotting the snow leopard is from December to March — from the end of autumn to the beginning of spring in Ladakh. The snow leopard is the most elusive among all the large wild cats that exist. These majestic cats are spotted throughout Hemis National Park (Rumbak, Shang), and in the Sham area west of Leh. The most famous spots are Ulley and Hemis Shukpachan.
Besides the snow leopard, there is always a good chance of spotting many other iconic and rare wild animals such as the Nyan or Tibetan Argali (Ovis ammon); blue sheep, called “Bharal” or “Napo” (local name) (Pseudois nayaur); Ladakh Urial, locally known as “Shapo” (Ovis orientalis); and the Asiatic ibex (Capra sibirica). Among the predators are the red fox, Tibetan wolf, lynx, and many others. The Pallas’s cat, Tibetan sand fox, and Tibetan argali are typically found in the eastern part of Ladakh.
For bird watchers, Ladakh is a dream destination. Apart from the golden eagle, lammergeier (bearded vulture), and Himalayan griffon vulture, the park is home to species such as the brown accentor, robin accentor, Tickell’s leaf warbler, streaked rosefinch, Tibetan snowfinch, chukar, fork-tailed swift, red-billed chough, Himalayan snowcock, and the fire-fronted serin. The pollution-free environment and tranquil surroundings make birding a truly joyful experience.
