Few Things You Should Know About The Hemis National Park

Fondly known as the ‘Land of High Passes’, Ladakh is a real paradise for any kind of traveller, whether you are a thrill-seeker or a nature lover. With mighty mountains, swift rivers and serene lakes, this place gives you a chance to witness nature’s beauty in its purest form.On the other hand, it also offers a number of adventurous activities that you can indulge in. Especially, with a number of adventurous routes, trekking in Ladakh is an experience you can never forget. From Markha Valley trek to Nubra Valley trek, Stok Kangri Climb to Chadar Trek, Ladakh is just the perfect place to get that adrenaline rush.

Other than this, Ladakh is also famous for being home to the Hemis National Park which has the distinction of being the largest national park in South Asia. It is also the second largest contiguous protected region afterthe Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.Covering an area of more than 4400 square kilometres, Hemis National Park in Ladakh is home to some of the most exotic and rare flora and fauna species. The main attraction of this national park is its high population of snow leopards.

About Hemis National Park

With Indus and Zaskar Rivers flowing at its boundaries, Hemis National Park is a very popular holiday destination in Ladakh. Situated at an altitude ranging from 3,300 to 6,000 meters, this national park in Ladakh was established in 1981. It has been named after the Hemis Monastery which was founded in 1630 by Lama Tagstang. Offering a number of different landscapes like mountains, flatlands, cold deserts etc. this national park is the perfect place to spend some time admiring the natural beauty at its best.

Other than snow leopard, this national park is also home toLadakh Urial, Tibetan Argali, Bharal, Tibetan Wild Ass, Dholes and birds like Great Grey Shrike, Red Mantled Rose Finch, Black Throated Thrush, the Robin Acceptor, Spotted Flycatcher, Himalayan Whistling Thrush etc. The flora range majorly consists of alpine vegetation like Anemone, Veronica, Delphinium, Gentiana, Lloydia and Kobresia.

Nearby Places You Can Visit

# Hemis Monastery

Situated about 45 kilometres from the capital city, Leh, this is the biggest monastery in North India. With a large collection of artefacts, stupas made in gold and silver, thankas and Buddha statues, this is also one of the wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh. Other than this, the Hemis Monastery is known for hosting the 2-days long Hemis Festival which is organized every year in the middle of the summer season.

# Ganda La

Also known as Kanda La, this is a high mountain pass which is located within the premises of Hemis National Park. This pass connects the villages of Markha Valley to Leh and is used by local people.

# Gotsang Gompa

This is a retreat centre above Hemis Gompa and is another famous tourist spot in Ladakh. It is a short trek from the Hemis Monastery and is known for its meditative appeal. You can take a small break here and gear up for further trekking.

# Stanka Gompa

This monastery got its name from its base hill which resembles a tiger’s nose. Offering some beautiful panoramic views of the Indus River, Stanka Gompa is the right place to spend some time in peace and serenity.