Rare Snow Leopard sighting in Kargil’s Suru valley ignites eco-tourism hopes

Kargil, May 2025: A rare sighting of a snow leopard with its prey, an Ibex, in the Sangrah area of Suru Valley has sparked excitement among conservationists and officials, raising hopes for an eco-tourism resurgence in the region.
The elusive predator was captured on camera by acclaimed wildlife explorer Maqbool Hussain Moqudasi, whose relentless efforts to document trans-Himalayan wildlife have highlighted Kargil’s ecological richness.
The encounter, described as a “historic breakthrough” by Moqudasi, underscores Suru Valley’s untapped potential as a hub for biodiversity tourism. Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Chairman of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil, hailed the discovery, citing recent data confirming 477 snow leopards in Ladakh, with 127 residing in Kargil alone. “This sighting celebrates our conservation success and positions eco-tourism as a sustainable livelihood for our youth,” he stated.
Dr. Akhoon emphasized Suru Valley’s recent accolade as one of National Geographic’s ‘Top 25 Global Destinations,’ noting that such wildlife encounters could elevate the region’s profile among responsible travelers. He urged local stakeholders, including tour operators and environmental groups, to collaborate on sustainable tourism initiatives.
Moqudasi, whose photograph has drawn global attention, stressed the need for mindful development. “While this discovery invites exploration, we must prioritize eco-sensitive practices to protect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystems,” he remarked.
Though Ladakh is renowned for its stark landscapes and adventure tourism, areas like Suru Valley remain ecological gems awaiting discovery. Conservationists believe the snow leopard’s presence could attract researchers, photographers, and eco-tourists, fostering both economic growth and environmental stewardship.