Uttarakhand is often associated with famous sites like Kedarnath and Badrinath, but it has so much more to offer in terms of nature and tourism. And now, to winter tourism and attract wildlife lovers, the Uttarakhand government is introducing the Snow Leopard Tour. This initiative is perfect for those who love observing animals in their natural habitats.
The Snow Leopard Tour will be piloted in Gangotri National Park, located in the Uttarkashi district. To transform Uttarakhand into a sought-after winter getaway, this program will also allow tourists to experience other high-altitude areas like Gangotri during the colder months, albeit in a regulated manner. The exact launch date for this exciting tour is still pending.
State Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Garbyal announced that a new initiative will soon start on a trial basis in Gangotri National Park, located in the Uttarkashi district. This announcement came after a meeting led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, where officials discussed plans to boost winter tourism in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand’s Snow Leopard Tour will follow strict guidelines to protect these endangered animals and maintain ecological balance. Additionally, the Snow Leopard Tour aims to improve the economy of border regions by encouraging homestays, utilizing local guides, and supporting adventure tourism and associated services. This initiative is expected to create job opportunities while ensuring environmental sustainability.
What To Know About Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park, established in 1989, spans an area of 1,553 square kilometers, reaching heights of up to 7,083 meters. This stunning location boasts a diverse range of plant and animal life, including several endangered species such as the bharal (blue sheep), black bear, brown bear, Himalayan Monal, Himalayan snowcock, Himalayan thar, musk deer, and the elusive snow leopard.
To reach Gangotri, you can fly into Jolly Grant Airport, which is just 26 kilometers from Rishikesh. For train travelers, the nearest railway station is also in Rishikesh, located around 249 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from various major cities in Uttarakhand, making it a convenient destination for nature lovers.
