India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, located in Himachal Pradesh’s high-altitude Western Himalayas, has been officially recognised by UNESCO as part of its prestigious World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Covering over 7,700 sq km across regions like Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Lake, and Sarchu, the reserve is India’s first high-altitude cold desert to receive this designation.

The Cold Desert is home to rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, blue sheep, and red fox, alongside unique medicinal plants like Aconitum rotundifolium and Ephedra gerardiana. With its rugged terrain, breathtaking landscapes, and fragile ecosystems, the UNESCO status brings global attention to conservation and sustainable development in this ecologically sensitive region.

This recognition not only boosts Himachal Pradesh’s eco-tourism potential but also strengthens India’s global commitment to preserving biodiversity. With this inclusion, India now has 13 UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserves, underlining its rich natural heritage.