- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Sun, 05 Oct 2025 01:18 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
India’s First Cold Desert Biosphere: India is proud to announce that, as part of its Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program, UNESCO has designated a significant area in Himachal Pradesh as the nation's first cold desert biosphere reserve. India's efforts to protect one of the world's most distinctive and delicate ecosystems are highlighted by this international recognition.
This Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve spans the Trans-Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh and is approximately 7,770 square kilometres in size. This area, which ranges in height from 3,300 to 6,600 meters, is renowned for its rare wildlife, dry plateaus, glaciers and snow-capped mountains. The Sarchu Plains, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland, and Pin Valley National Park are among the significant protected areas that are part of the reserve.
This recognition not only adds to India's list of biosphere reserves but also highlights the urgent need to strike a balance between local livelihoods, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation in the high-altitude Himalayan regions.
Location and Geographical Zones Of India's 1st Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve
Spiti Valley, India's first cold desert biosphere (Image: Canva)
The Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is India's first cold desert biosphere reserve. It spans the Spiti and portions of the Lahaul districts and is situated in the Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh.
It is divided into three main zones for better management:
*Core Zone: Strictly protected for wildlife and vegetation.
*Buffer Zone: Used for research, tourism and limited human activity.
*Transition Zone: Includes local villages and areas where communities practice sustainable living.
The region is home to one of India's most unique ecosystems due to its extreme cold, extremely little rainfall, and unusual high-altitude desert conditions.
Biodiversity and Wildlife
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh ( Image: Canva
The Spiti Cold Desert Reserve is home to some of the world’s most fascinating species of plants and animals.
Flora: This region is home to more than 700 plant species, many of which are medicinal and suited to the cold, dry climate.
Fauna: Rare and endangered animals such as Snow Leopard, Himalayan Wolf, Blue Sheep (Bharal), Ibex, Tibetan Antelope and various high-altitude birds thrive in this harsh environment.
These species can find secure locations in protected areas like Kibber Sanctuary and Pin Valley National Park. In addition to supporting continued wildlife conservation and climate research, the reserve is essential to preserving the ecological balance.
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Importance and Significance Of Spiti Valley
*First of Its Kind: This is India’s first high-altitude cold desert biosphere reserve, adding a new ecosystem type to the nation’s conservation network.
*Climate and Ecology: It strengthens efforts to study climate change, water resources, and biodiversity in high-altitude deserts.
*Community Involvement: Local people, including monks and farmers, will play a key role in protecting the ecosystem while continuing their traditional ways of life.
* Tourism and Awareness: The reserve will attract researchers, eco-tourists, and nature lovers, boosting sustainable tourism in the region.
*Global Recognition: This announcement highlights India’s global commitment to conserving fragile mountain ecosystems.