The Cold Desert has been named India’s 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which has brought global recognition to one of the country’s most unique ecosystems. Twenty-six additional sites were designated worldwide at the fifth World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in Hangzhou, China, on September 27, 2025, when the announcement was made. Being India’s first high-altitude cold desert biosphere reserve—one of the coldest and driest habitats now designated as part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves—this recognition is particularly noteworthy.

The site, spanning 7,770 square kilometers and featuring elevations ranging from 3,300 to 6,600 meters, includes Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal, Sarchu, and Pin Valley National Park. Its distinctive topography, which features alpine lakes, glacier valleys, and windswept plateaus, underscores its ecological significance.

Unique Biodiversity in the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve

Despite the extreme conditions, the region supports extraordinary biodiversity. Cold Desert, named India’s 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to 732 species of vascular plants, including 30 endemics and 157 near-endemics of the Indian Himalayas. Many of these plants exhibit exceptional ecological resilience, having evolved to withstand extreme temperatures and scarce water supplies.

The fauna that lives in this trans-Himalayan environment is equally remarkable. Some of the most recognizable and endangered species can be found in the reserve, including:

• Snow leopard: A top predator and a representation of high-altitude conservation is the snow leopard.
• Himalayan ibex and blue sheep: Blue sheep and Himalayan ibex are essential prey species that support the food chain.
• Himalayan wolf: A rare carnivore of international conservation concern.
• Golden eagle and Himalayan snowcock: The Himalayan snowcock and golden eagle are two birds that are characteristic of alpine environments.

In addition to enhancing the area’s ecological value, these species raise global awareness about the importance of preserving high-altitude cold deserts, which are particularly vulnerable to human pressures and climate change.

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Sustainable Livelihoods and Human Settlements

In addition to being a sanctuary for biodiversity, the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is home to approximately 12,000 people who reside in dispersed communities within its boundaries. Because these communities rely so heavily on delicate alpine resources, conservation efforts must prioritize sustainable livelihoods. Their customs, which are based on traditional knowledge and tailored to the severe environment, offer valuable insights for striking a balance between ecological preservation and human needs.

Essential facets of communal life consist of:

• Pastoralism: The mainstay of the local economy is pastoralism, which involves herding goats and yaks.
• Small-scale farming: Growing resilient crops that can withstand brief growing seasons is known as small-scale farming.
• Traditional Tibetan medicine: In traditional Tibetan medicine, indigenous herbs are used for therapeutic purposes.
• Buddhist monastic traditions: spiritual stewardship over natural landscapes.
• Local councils: Local councils are essential for managing resources and resolving disputes.

UNESCO’s categorization acknowledges the region’s entwined human-nature link. “The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is a powerful example of how fragile ecosystems can be protected while supporting the communities that depend on them,” said Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO’s Regional Office for South Asia.

The announcement that Cold Desert has been named India’s 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve also coincides with the 50th anniversary of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme, underscoring India’s ongoing commitment to harmonizing conservation with sustainable development on the global stage.

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