Himachal’s Cold Desert Joins UNESCO Biosphere Reserve List
The Cold Desert in Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, has been designated as India’s 13th UNESCO biosphere reserve. Spread over 7,770 sq km, the region includes Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal, and Sarchu. Located at elevations between 3,300 to 6,600 meters, it features glaciers, high-altitude deserts, and rare alpine ecosystems. The UNESCO status recognizes the area’s unique biodiversity, including snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and rare medicinal plants. The listing supports conservation, research, and sustainable development in this ecologically fragile zone.
Himachal’s Cold Desert Joins UNESCO Biosphere Reserve List
