Spiti - Pin Valley National Park

Pin Valley National Park

State : Himachal Pradesh Area : 675 sq. km Altitude: 3,500 - 6,000 m Vegetation : Thin high-alpine desert

Pin is a beautiful valley in Lahaul & Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh; formed by Pin River that runs throughout its length, before merging with Spiti River. With its sub-zero temperatures and semi-frozen rivers, Pin Valley is the only cold desert National Park located in Himachal Pradesh. The park lies in the valley of the Pin river, from where it derives its name. This valley is also the location of a wildlife reserve called “Pin Valley National Park”. Though within Spiti, the ecosystem of Pin Valley is completely different than that of Spiti and its pristine beauty is quite fascinating. Even though it's high altitude and cold climate do not support dense vegetation, the park features around 400 plant species. Pin Valley National Park is populated with numerous medicinal herbs and spices that make it a valuable land for pharmacists.

It was set up to protect and preserve the rare and unique Himalayan flora and fauna. Vast and sparsely populated, Pin Valley is home to 'the grey ghost of the Himalayas', the snow leopard, and its prey, the ibex. 

Main Attraction : Pin Valley national park. is considered as home to the “grey ghost of Himalayas”, the Snow Leopards with as many as 12 of them believed to be here. It is also the natural habitat of several other endangered animals like Siberaian Ibex, Bharal, Weasel, Red fox, Himalayan marmot  and Marten. Several rare birds like Pika, Himalayan Snowcock, Bearded Vulture, Chukor Partridge, Snow Partridge, Golden eagle, Griffon, Himalayan Chough, Snowfinch and Raven can also be found