Winter (October to February)

Hemis National Park is cold in the winter, but it's also magical. The temperature can drop below -10°C, and most of the park is covered in snow. Wildlife lovers will be excited to see the famous snow leopard more easily at this time of the year. The weather can be bad, though, so it's best to go only if you're ready for harsh weather.

How to Reach Hemis National Park

The trip to Hemis National Park is easy and fun because you get to see beautiful mountains and quiet villages along the way. The park is close to Leh in Ladakh, so it is easy to get to by air and road.

By Air

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the closest airport to the Hemis National Park location. It is about 40 kilometres away. You can easily reach here from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Srinagar. When you get to Leh, you can either take a taxi or join a local tour group that can take you to the park within an hours time. 

By Road

You can drive to Hemis National Park from either Manali or Srinagar if you like long road trips. The road from Manali to Leh goes through high mountain passes like Rohtang and Baralacha La. The Srinagar-Leh Highway, on the other hand, has smooth roads and views of rivers.

In the winter, snow blocks the roads, so they are mostly open from May to October. 

By Train

There is no direct train line to Hemis National Park, but the closest big train stations are Chandigarh and Pathankot. You can then take a bus or taxi to Leh, which takes about two days. The road from these cities to Hemis National Park is longer, but it has a lot of beautiful views and quiet stops along the way.

Essential Information About Hemis National Park

Before you plan your visit to Hemis National Park, Leh, it is good to know some basic details about it. This will help you prepare better for what is coming next and make your trip safe, secure and comfortable.

Permits and Entry Information

To visit here, you need an Inner Line Permit, as it lies close to the India-China border. You can get the permit easily in Leh from the District Magistrate’s Office or apply online before your trip. Also, carry a valid photo ID proof, such as an Aadhaar card or passport, when you are applying for the permit.

Entry Fees

• Indians: ₹20 per person

• Foreigners: ₹100 per person

• Still Camera: ₹20 

• Video Camera: ₹150

Hemis National Park Timings

Hemis National Park is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The park remains open throughout the year, but accessibility depends on the Hemis National Park weather conditions. 

Facilities Inside the Hemis National Park

• Accommodation: Small guesthouses and homestays are available in nearby villages such as Rumbak, Sku, and Markha.

• Guides and Treks: Local guides are available for wildlife spotting and the famous Hemis National Park trek, which passes through stunning landscapes.

• Food: Carry basic snacks and water, as there are no restaurants inside the park.

• Medical Help: A small health centre is available in Leh; therefore, it is best to carry personal medicines with you.

 Things to do in Hemis National Park

There is a lot more to do at the park than just searching for Hemis National Park animals.  You can plan your visit to the park by looking at all the different types of adventure activities that are available.  Here are some things you can do to make your visit more memorable:

1. Watching the Wildlife 

The rare snow leopard, also known as the "Ghost of the Mountains," lives in Hemis National Park. Apart from it, there are many other animals in Hemis National Park. There are also blue sheep, red foxes, Tibetan wolves, and Himalayan marmots to be found. If you're lucky, you might see a snow leopard in the winter when they come closer to towns for food.

 2. Trekking Adventures

One of the most popular things to do here is the Hemis National Park trek.  The trail goes through beautiful valleys, high passes, and small mountain towns.  The trek is not only an adventure; it also lets you meet locals and learn about their simple lives in the cold desert.

3. Watching birds

Different species of birds, like the Golden eagles, lammergeiers, and Himalayan griffons, are some of the beautiful birds that live in the park. The best time to see them fly over the valleys is in the morning.  So, if you like taking pictures of birds, don't forget to bring a camera or binoculars.

4. Go to the Hemis Monastery

The old Hemis Monastery, which is one of the richest and oldest monasteries in Ladakh, is inside the park. When you go there, you'll see monks praying, colourful flags flying in the wind, and a view that makes you feel calm. The monastery gives Hemis National Park a cultural touch.

 5. Camping under the stars

Camping close to the park is another great thing to do. There are a lot of stars in the night sky here, and the air feels clean and cool. You can camp near Rumbak or Markha Valley and have a peaceful night in nature.

6. Taking pictures and going for nature walks

Every part of Hemis National Park looks like a work of art. You can walk on the trails, take pictures of wildflowers, or just sit by the river and be quiet. So, this is the best place for people who like peace and quiet and nature.

Travel Tips for Hemis National Park

Everyone should plan a trip to Hemis National Park at least once in their life. But because the park is in a cold desert area at a high altitude, you need to plan carefully to stay safe.  Here are a few tips to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Bring warm coats, gloves, and woollen hats for nighttime and heavy winter clothes for winter, when temperatures can drop below freezing point.

• The park is at a high altitude, so the air is thin. To avoid getting tired or sick from the high altitude, drink a lot of water and walk slowly.

• The weather in Hemis National Park changes quickly. In addition to checking the weather, plan your trip between May and September, when the roads are open.

• There aren't many places to stay near the park, like homestays in Rumbak or Markha.  So, it's best to book your stay ahead of time.

• Bring enough money, medicine, and basic snacks with you.

• Local guides know the best places to hike and can also guide you to the right spot to see wildlife, so hire them for a better experience.

• Don't litter, make noise, or get too close to animals in Hemis National Park.

• You must always have your entry permit and ID with you in the park. The authorities will ask you to show these at different times during your trip.

Conclusion 

You will feel like you have entered a different world when you go to Hemis National Park. The tall brown mountains, the cold winds, and the quiet sounds of nature make you realise how peaceful life can be when things slow down. You feel special every time you walk along a trail, sit by a river, or watch the sun set behind snow-covered peaks.

Hemis National Park is more than just a place for animals or hikers; it is a place that will touch your heart. You can be thankful for nature when you see how the people live simply, how peaceful the monasteries are, and how beautiful the wild is. So, it's one of those rare places that shows you how silence can be strong and full of meaning.