Hemis National Park - A Safari Guide

Situated in the dry, rugged mountains of Ladakh, far removed from busy roads and noisy cities, is a place where nature takes over in quiet stillness. Hemis National Park is the largest and highest national park in India and is a wonderful place for wildlife lovers, trekkers and anyone who wants to experience the raw, untouched beauty of the Himalayas.

More than 4,400 square kilometers in size, Hemis National Park is not just the last home of the rare snow leopard in India, but also a sanctuary for rare wildlife, ancient monasteries and astonishing landscapes. 

Why Visit Hemis National Park?

Hemis National Park is an experience like no other—completely different from the usual wildlife safaris through thick jungles. It is raw, it is quiet, it is emotional. Picture yourself walking across bare, rugged ridges beneath a wide-open sky, with golden eagles soaring overhead and a snow leopard  silently watching from a distance, perfectly blended among the rocks. With over 200 snow leopards, Hemis has the highest concentration of these elusive cats anywhere in the world. The elevation ranges from 3,000 meters to 6,000 meters, creating a remarkable landscape  that is home to unique Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep, Tibetan wolves, red foxes, and the Lammergeier diverse wildlife in a breathtaking landscape. But Hemis is not just about wildlife—it has a deep cultural and enlightening presence, with ancient monasteries and remote mountain communities living in harmony with their land. It is a fusion of adventure and peace, a place where nature connects with both your body and your soul.

How to Reach Hemis National Park

Hemis is surprisingly accessible, despite being located in such a remote area, especially if you're planning a visit to Ladakh.

Suggested Read: How to Reach Leh Ladakh

By Air:

Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) is the nearest airport (approximately 45 km away).

From Leh, you can take a taxi or arrange a transfer through a local travel company to one of the park’s entry points, such as Zingchen, Martselang, or Rumbak.

By Road:

Hemis is also well-connected by scenic highways, like the Leh-Manali Highway and Leh-Srinagar Highway (both open only during the summer months).

A Leh Ladakh Road Trip is one of the most exciting ways to reach Hemis and provides a combination of adventure and stunning views.

Things to Do in Hemis National Park

There’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences in and around Hemis. Whether you're a nature lover, a trekker, or someone drawn to local culture, you’ll find something here that truly touches your soul.

1. Snow Leopard Tracking

Hemis National Park is one of the most recommended places on earth to view the elusive snow leopard. These rare and graceful creatures live high in the mountains, and winter is the best time to spot them. Local wildlife trackers, and experts guide you through the snow-covered landscape, where these big cats silently roam and hunt in their natural mountain environment.

2. Wildlife Watching

Beyond snow leopards, the park is home to blue sheep, Tibetan wolves, red foxes, and Himalayan marmots. You can also see golden eagles and Lammergeiers soaring overhead, adding thrill to the quiet surroundings. Early morning hikes are perfect for sightings. It’s a true paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

3. Visit Hemis Monastery

Hemis Monastery, located near the park, is the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. A visit here lets you admire beautiful murals, tranquil courtyards, and historic artifacts. If you’re lucky enough to come during the Hemis Festival, you’ll witness vibrant mask dances and culturally rich Buddhist celebrations.

4. Trekking in the Wilderness

Trekking in Hemis is simply incredible. You walk through valleys, wade through clear mountain streams, and pass ancient villages nestled among dramatic landscapes. Towering peaks and open skies surround you, and the only sounds to break the silence are the sounds of nature There are some of the best trekking routes anywhere such as the Markha Valley Trek which elegantly combines nature and a glimpse into local life. 

5. Cultural Immersion in Local Villages

If you really want to get to know this place, a village homestay is a must. The families are warm and welcoming, plus you will enjoy their local, homemade food and learning about how they live in the mountains, which is a truly authentic experience. You walk away feeling simple, warm, and real—you come as a guest, but you leave as family.

Accommodation Near Hemis National Park

Lodging around Hemis National Park is basic, cozy, and true to the local culture. Village homestays in places like Rumbak and Yurutse offer cozy rooms, with home-cooked Ladakhi food, and a chance to experience mountain life up close. Trekkers can also camp under the stars along scenic routes.  In Leh, you’ll find everything from budget guesthouses to charming boutique hotels—perfect for resting before or after your park visit. Accommodations in the park are not about luxury, but about a connection and an authentic experience in nature.

Best Time to Visit Hemis National Park

The best time to visit Hemis National Park really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If spotting a snow leopard is on your bucket list, then winter—from December to March—is ideal. Though it’s cold, the snow makes it easier to track these elusive cats as they descend to lower altitudes in search of food.

For trekking, birdwatching, and enjoying the beautiful landscapes without the extreme cold, the summer months from May to September are perfect. The skies are clear, the days are sunny, and the trails are open. This is also when the Hemis Monastery hosts its famous Hemis Festival, usually in June or July, adding a rich cultural experience to your visit.

So whether you’re chasing snow leopards or mountain views, there’s a perfect season for every kind of traveler at Hemis.

Travel Tips for Hemis National Park

Acclimatize in Leh for at least 48 hours to avoid altitude sickness.

Always pack warm clothing, even in the summer, the temperature drops rapidly at night.

Hire a local guide—not just for safety, but also to support the local economy and improve your chances of spotting wildlife.            

Pack binoculars, as well as a good camera, and sunscreen even though it is cold, the sun at high altitudes is strong.

Combine Hemis with a Complete Ladakh Experience

A trip to Hemis is often part of a broader Leh Ladakh Tour Package, which may include visits to:

• Pangong Lake
• Nubra Valley
• Khardung La Pass (one of the world’s highest motorable roads)
• Tso Moriri Lake

This way, you can enjoy both the wild side of Ladakh and its more popular scenic attractions in one incredible journey.

Final Words

Hemis National Park is not just a destination—it is an adventure into the wild heart of Ladakh, where silence and nature take over. Whether you are discovering snow leopards or immersing yourself in ancient culture, it is an experience which you will carry. As trusted tour operators in India, we offer thoughtfully crafted Ladakh itineraries which include Hemis, helping you explore this Himalayan treasure, comfortably, carefully, and authentically.