Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve
The Government of Himachal Pradesh has notified the Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve under Section 36A (1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, vide Notification No. FEE-B-F004/1/2025-FOREST-B dated 07 May 2025. Spread over 1,585 sq. km, it is now India’s largest conservation reserve and the fifth in Himachal Pradesh after Darlaghat, Naina Devi, Potter Hill, and Shilli. Situated in the biodiverse Spiti Valley, the reserve has been created to protect unique high-altitude biodiversity and strengthen snow leopard habitats through community-based conservation.
Geographical Spread
North: Union Territory of Ladakh
East: Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, extending up to Malang Nala and Lungar Lumpa
South: Kabjima Nala
West: Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuary and Baralacha Pass, following the Yunam River to its confluence with the Charap Nala near Sarchu
The reserve also covers the catchment of Charap Nala and includes the confluence of the Unam River and Charap Nala. Its strategic location makes it an ecological corridor between Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuary.
Ecological Importance
India’s largest conservation reserve – The Tsarap Chu landscape is recognized as one of the high-density snow leopard habitats in Himachal Pradesh. Its presence as the apex predator reflects the health of the entire Trans-Himalayan ecosystem. Besides snow leopard, the reserve provides critical habitat and migration corridors for several species, ensuring genetic flow between populations across Spiti and Ladakh.
Flora & Fauna
Mammals
Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) – “Ghost of the Mountains,” symbol of healthy high-altitude ecosystems
Tibetan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco)
Bharal (Blue Sheep) (Pseudois nayaur)
Himalayan Ibex (Capra sibirica)
Kiang (Wild Ass) (Equus kiang)
Tibetan Argali (Ovis ammon hodgsoni)
Avifauna
The reserve is home to several rare and high-altitude bird species including:
Rose Finch
Tibetan Raven
Yellow-billed Chough
Community Participation & Management
The Conservation Reserve Management Committee (CRMC) will oversee Tsarap Chu’s protection. The committee shall include representatives from local Panchayats, ensuring that conservation priorities are balanced with community needs.
According to Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Chief Wildlife Warden, Shri Amitabh Gautam, this initiative will give fresh impetus to community-based conservation efforts, making local people active partners in protecting their natural heritage.
Significance
The notification of Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve is the outcome of detailed consultations with Gram Panchayats, extensive field surveys, and analysis of past ecological data. It will:
Strengthen wildlife conservation in the Trans-Himalayan region
Promote scientific research and biodiversity monitoring
Encourage eco-tourism, trekking, and wildlife photography, creating new livelihood opportunities for local communities
Act as a critical corridor connecting Kibber and Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuaries
Preserve unique Himalayan and Trans-Himalayan flora & fauna for future generations
Conclusion
The establishment of Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve marks a milestone in high-altitude biodiversity conservation. By protecting fragile ecosystems and flagship species like the snow leopard, while empowering local communities.
