Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park covers approximately 4,400 sq km of the eastern Ladakh region, making it the largest national park in India and one of the largest in South Asia. The park is a stronghold for the snow leopard, with one of the highest densities of this endangered big cat anywhere in the world. Other wildlife includes Tibetan wolf, red fox, Eurasian brown bear, Ladakhi urial, bharal, kiang, and Himalayan marmot. The best time for snow leopard sightings is winter between January and March when the cats descend to lower altitudes following their prey. The Hemis Monastery falls within the park boundaries. Guided wildlife treks and winter snow leopard tours are available from operators in Leh.