Hemis National Park Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Hemis National Park in this comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is a beautiful and captivating national park located in the northernmost part of India, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the largest national park in South Asia, covering an area of 4,400 square kilometers. The national park is situated in the eastern part of the Ladakh region, and it is a part of the eastern Ladakh landscape. The park was established in 1981 to protect the endangered species like snow leopards, Eurasian brown bears, and Tibetan wolves. The national park is also home to several other species of birds and animals, including the red fox, Himalayan marmot, and argali.

List of Places to Visit in Hemis National Park

Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Hemis National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hemis Monastery: Hemis Monastery is one of the most important and popular Buddhist monasteries in India. It was built in the 17th century and is located in Hemis village, within the national park. The monastery is known for its stunning architecture and intricate artwork, including thangkas (Buddhist paintings on silk). Every year, the monastery hosts the Hemis Festival, which is a popular cultural event in Ladakh.

  • Stakna Monastery: Stakna Monastery is a small but stunning monastery that was built in the 16th century. It is located on a hilltop overlooking the Indus River and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The monastery is famous for its statue of the Buddha, which is believed to have been brought here from Tibet.

Natural Attractions of Hemis National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ganda La Pass: Ganda La Pass is a high-altitude pass located in Hemis National Park. It is a popular trekking destination and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek to the pass is challenging but rewarding, and it takes around six days to complete.

  • Markha Valley: Markha Valley is a beautiful valley located in the heart of Hemis National Park. It is famous for its scenic beauty and rich wildlife. The valley is a popular trekking destination and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and rivers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is the perfect destination for those who love outdoor adventures like hiking and biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Hemis National Park:

  • Hemis to Tsokar Trek: This trek takes you from Hemis to Tsokar Lake, which is located at an altitude of 4,500 meters. The trek is challenging but offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

  • Zingchen to Chilling Trek: This trek takes you from Zingchen to Chilling and offers an opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the Markha Valley. The trek is easy to moderate and takes around five days to complete.

Best Things to Do in Hemis National Park: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Hemis National Park offers several other activities and tours that you can enjoy during your visit. Here are some of the best things to do in Hemis National Park:

  • Snow leopard spotting: Hemis National Park is one of the best places in the world to spot the elusive snow leopard. You can embark on a snow leopard spotting tour with a local guide and get a chance to see this majestic animal in its natural habitat.

  • Camping: Hemis National Park is the perfect destination for camping. You can camp at several locations within the park and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hemis National Park

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Hemis National Park:

Day 1: Arrive in Leh and acclimatize to the high altitude.

Day 2: Visit Hemis Monastery and explore the nearby villages.

Day 3-5: Embark on the Hemis to Tsokar trek and spot the snow leopard.

Day 6: Explore the scenic Markha Valley.

Day 7: Depart from Leh.

Food and Drink Scene of Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park offers a unique culinary experience that you should not miss. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Hemis National Park:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Skyu: Skyu is a traditional Ladakhi dish made with wheat flour, vegetables, and meat. It is usually served with butter tea and is a staple food in Hemis National Park.

  • Thenthuk: Thenthuk is a popular noodle soup that is made with potatoes, carrots, meat, and handmade noodles. It is a hearty and nutritious meal that is perfect for the cold weather.

Local Beverages

  • Chang: Chang is a traditional Ladakhi beer that is made with barley, wheat, or rice. It is an alcoholic beverage that is usually served with Skyu.

  • Butter tea: Butter tea is a traditional Ladakhi tea made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. It is a popular beverage in Hemis National Park and is known for its medicinal properties.

Where to Stay in Hemis National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Hemis National Park:

  • Shangri-la Resorts: Shangri-la Resorts is a luxury resort located within Hemis National Park. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and provides all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

  • Padma Guest House: Padma Guest House is a budget-friendly guesthouse located in Hemis village. It offers clean and comfortable rooms and is an ideal place to stay if you’re on a tight budget.

What to Buy in Hemis National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products you can buy in Hemis National Park:

  • Handmade woolen shawls and blankets

  • Prayer flags and thangkas

  • Local handicrafts and jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Hemis National Park

The local culture and customs of Hemis National Park are heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. The people of Hemis are known for their welcoming and hospitable nature. Visitors are advised to respect the local traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Hemis National Park

The best time to visit Hemis National Park is from June to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, the park is open to visitors, and you can indulge in several outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and camping.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hemis National Park

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of Hemis National Park:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Carry warm clothes and sturdy shoes.

  • Carry a first-aid kit.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the national park.

  • Disturb the local wildlife.

  • Wear revealing clothes

Safety and Health

Safety in Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park is a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take precautions against altitude sickness and carry adequate medication.

Health in Hemis National Park

Visitors are advised to drink only bottled water and avoid street food. They should also carry adequate medication for common ailments like cold and cough.

Getting to Hemis National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some of the transportation options and logistics to reach Hemis National Park:

Airports Near Hemis National Park

  • Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU)

  • Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL)

Bus Stations Near Hemis National Park

  • Leh Bus Terminal

  • Manali Bus Stand

Other Options

  • Private taxis

  • Shared taxis

How to Get Around in Hemis National Park

The best way to explore Hemis National Park is on foot. However, you can also hire a private taxi or join a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Hemis National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Hemis National Park:

  • Pangong Tso Lake: Pangong Tso Lake is a stunning lake located near Hemis National Park. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Nubra Valley: Nubra Valley is a beautiful valley located in the northernmost part of India. It is famous for its sand dunes and unique double-humped camels.

Conclusion

Hemis National Park is a beautiful and captivating national park that offers an unforgettable experience to visitors. From its stunning natural beauty to its unique cultural heritage, Hemis National Park has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture buff, Hemis National Park is the perfect destination for your next vacation. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the mesmerizing beauty of this unique national park.