Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh is fascinating in a lot of ways. Spread over an enormous area of approximately 1,600sq.km, its home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. As such, a visit to this sanctuary promises you not just incredible opportunities for viewing the wildlife but also exploring the amazing landscape of this place. Visiting the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary can be a rewarding experience.

Some facts about Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Ladakhi Changthang plateau in the Leh district of Jammu and Kashmir. It covers an area of almost 1,600 sq. km and is home to the highest altitude water lakes, namely, Tso Moriri (which also happens to be the highest lake on earth), Pangong Tso and Tso Kar.

Another interesting place to check out on your visit to Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is the Korzok village, which is also considered to be the world’s highest village. One of the attractions of Korzok village is the Korzok Monastery.                

Fauna and Flora of Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Fauna

Apart from its location and the spectacular landscape that Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for, it’s also home to an incredible variety of wildlife. The major attraction however, is the snow leopard. It’s interesting to know that Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the few places in India which is the home of the Kiang or Tibetan wild ass along with the Dark-necked crane.

Apart from the snow leopard, the other rare animals found here are Tibetan wolf, wild yak, bharal, brown bear and the mormot, which seems to be present everywhere. Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary also boats a wide variety of avifauna. Around 44 types of water birds and seasonal species of migratory birds are also found here.

Flora

Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to almost 200 species of wild plants that grow in the higher pastures and are food for the animals inside the sanctuary. You will rarely come across vegetation in this sanctuary, however, certain rare and endangered plant species with medicinal properties are found here.

Best time to visit Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

The best time to visit Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is between the months of May and December. This is because the weather is best during these months.

Nearby attractions to Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary

Apart from Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, there are other attractions which you should check out to make your trip to Ladakh a memorable one. Here are some nearby attractions to Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.

Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is one of the most captivating sites you will ever come across in Ladakh. Extending to almost 150km, one side of it lies in India and the other side in China. Camping near the Pangong Lake is one of the most interesting activities to do in Ladakh.

Khardung La Pass

Khardung La Pass is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, and crossing the pass is an adventure in itself. Situated at an altitude of almost 18,380ft, Khardung La Pass provides some of the most magnificent sights you will ever come across.

Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is a symbol of the predominant Buddhist influence in the region and is a major landmark in the city. Shanti Stupa, which is a white-domed chorten, stands as a strong contrast against the azure skies. The relics of Lord Buddha are preserved at its base.