Hemis National Park
Overview
Hemis National Park is the largest park of India, covering an area of 4,400 square kilometers. The park is also the second largest continuous protected area of India, only after the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve on the first spot.
Let Cliffhangers India help you in planning a perfect wilderness trip to the Hemis National Park in Ladakh and have an exciting experience.
It was established in the year 1981, with the aim of conserving the Himalayan ecosystem and to provide a sanctuary for the wildlife. The National Park is home to a large number of snow leopards and various endangered species like Tibetan wolf and Blue Sheep.
A huge biodiversity is seen at the park, attracting nature lovers and photographers alike. The Park gets its name from the 400-year old Hemis Monastery, located nearby.
More attractions include Indus River and Zanskar River, tucking it in. About five local villages including Shingo, Shey, Rumbak, Yurutse, Chillinga, Kaya are sprawled near the park.
A total distance of about 50 kilometers separates the protected area of National Park from the main city of Leh.
The park provides a holistic wildlife tour via keep safaris and various other activities like trekking and camping.
Flora and Fauna of Hemis National Park
Flora: Since the Hemis National Park is located in the rain shadow area, mostly pine forests and dry forests are found inside.
Alpine and steppes like Veronica, Carex, Gentiana are found on the upper side and the lower area is dominated by fir, birch and juniper.
Medicinal plants like Bergenia stracheyi, Artemisia maritima and Hyoscyamus Niger are also found here.
Fauna: The Hemis National Park preserves the highest number of snow leopards, about 200 in quantity. They are concentrated in the Rumbak region of the park.
Various rare and endangered animals like Great Tibetan Sheep, Blue Sheep, Ladakhi Urial found a safe home at the park.
It is the only park of our country where Ladakhi Urial are found. More fauna to spot at the park are Tibetan wolf, red fox, mountain weasel, Himalayan mouse hare, Himalayan marmot, Eurasian brown bear, many more.
It is an ideal place for birdwatchers as 73 different species of birds are spotted.
With the help of a guide, you can catch a glimpse of Golden eagle, Himalayan griffon Vulture, Robin accentor, Himalayan snowpack, etc.
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Best Time to Visit Hemis National Park
The best time to visit Hemis National Park in Ladakh is in summer, from May to October. During this time, temperature levels range from 21°C to 25°C and weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and touring around the park.
Not only is it accessible most of the time, it is in its glory full also. The entire National Park is filled with greenery and lushness.
Abundant wildlife spotted here during the balmy season makes the experience thrilling and memorable. If you are looking for trekking inside the park, the routes are clear and can easily be navigated.
Crystal clear views are present for photography and to click stunning natural and wildlife portraits.
Plan a trip to the Hemis National Park during the Hemis Festival, celebrated in June/July.
While tourists do visit the park in winter too for serene experience, extreme weather conditions prevail in the region. Plan accordingly.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
Hemis Monastery
Hemis Monastery is one of the most popular attractions to explore as you visit Hemis National Park.
The Gompa is located in the park itself. Belonging to the Drukpa Lineage, the origin of the ancient momastery dates back to the 11th century.
However, it was re-established in 1672 by King Sengge Nemgyal. It is divided into various complexes consisting of prayer halls, meditation lobbies and courtyards.
There’s also a museum where there are timeless Buddhist artefacts, scriptures, relics, etc. are preserved.
The Hemis Festival, dedicated to Padmasambhava, is celebrated in June/ July and a large number of tourists attend it.
Thiksey Monastery
Another Gompa that is in proximity to the park is Thiksey. The distance between Thiksey Monastery and Hemis National Park is about 62 kilometres kilometres.
Cover the distance via the Zanskar Valley road and NH1, going through Suru village. The gompa was established in the 16th century by Chosje Jamyang Zangpo and belongs to the Gelugpa sect.
It has gained immense prominence in spreading Buddhism in Ladakh. Stupas, monastery quarters and temples are part of the monastery.
The 150-feet high statue of Buddha is the prime attraction at the monastery.
If you are visiting the park in October/November, do attend the Gustor Festival celebrated at Thiksey Monastery, featuring the popular mask dance.
Stok Palace & Museum
Stok Palace and Museum is about 54 kilometres from the Hemis National Park in Ladakh.
The palace is the official residence of the royal family of Ladakh. The current King of the region still resides there with his family.
As you visit there, you can see the crown, weapons and ancient coins there. Inside the Stok Palace, there’s a museum too that preserves traditional Ladakhi attires, paintings, thungkas, ancient Buddhist manuscripts.
Visit here in summer for comfortable sightseeing around the palace and museum.
Shey Palace
A total distance of about 59 kilometres separate Shey Palace and Hemis National Park.
The Shey Monastery, or Gompa or Palace was built under the patronage of King Deldan Namgyal in the 17th century. It is located in the Shey village on a hilltop.
The 39 feet high statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, one of the highest one in Ladakh, is present at the palace.
It is the perfect place to get a deeper insight into the rich history and culture of the region as well as for light stroll and nature walks.
It is accessible to the visitors from 9 AM to 5 PM, with a nominal entry fee.
Essential Tips to Keep in Mind
As you visit Hemis National Park in Ladakh, there are certain things to keep in mind:
- Plan the trip to the Hemis National Park in a suitable season, preferably in summer( May to September).
- The Park is located in a huge area, since it is the largest one in the country. Before visiting the high-altitude region of the park, acclimate properly to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Wear suitable clothes according to the weather and activity you have planned inside the park. Full sleeved t-shirts and trousers are suggested along with sturdy and comfortable walking shoes. For trekking, go for trekking pants and trekking shoes.
- While you don’t need any kind of specific permit for entry in Hemis National Park, you do need local permits for trekking in the protected areas. Obtain it from the Ladakh Tourism Department before the expedition.
- As you are exploring the park, respect the wildlife and stay at a safe distance from the animals. Don’t make loud noises around them. Plan the wildlife tour with the help of a guide.
- Don’t litter around in the park area. Bring back any garbage or plastic and dump it in the nearest dustbin.
- An entire day goes in the exploration of the park, hence stay hydrated and drink water at regular intervals. Carry enough snacks to fuel yourself and remain energised.
- Respect the local culture and traditions of the region. If you wish to click portraits of locals in the nearby villages, ask for permission first.
FAQ's
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