In a landmark announcement at the 37th UNESCO MAB-ICC meeting in Hangzhou, China (Sept 2025), Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh was officially declared India’s first-ever Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
Located at breathtaking altitudes between 3,300 and 6,600 meters, Spiti Valley covers nearly 7,770 square kilometers and is known for its stark beauty, ancient monasteries, and rare biodiversity. The valley’s fragile alpine ecosystem — featuring glaciers, river valleys, and snow-covered peaks — supports endangered species like the Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, and Himalayan Ibex.
Beyond its ecological significance, Spiti is a living museum of Himalayan culture. The region’s centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, including Key, Tabo, and Dhankar, stand as beacons of peace and spirituality. The communities here have sustained themselves through traditional mountain farming, deep respect for nature, and a shared sense of responsibility toward the environment.
This UNESCO recognition will strengthen efforts to:
- 🌿 Conserve Spiti’s unique alpine habitats and biodiversity
- 💧 Promote sustainable, low-impact livelihoods for local communities
- 🦋 Encourage responsible tourism that protects the valley’s fragile balance
Experts believe the designation will also bring global attention to Spiti’s climate resilience and cultural richness, setting an example for other high-altitude conservation zones across the world.
With this achievement, India now has 13 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, reaffirming the nation’s growing leadership in sustainability, ecology, and heritage preservation.
For travelers, Spiti Valley is now officially recognized as a global conservation treasure — a destination to be admired, respected, and preserved for generations to come.
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