Himachal’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve makes it to UNESCO global network

India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in HP has been included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The announcement was made at the 37th session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council — Man and the Biosphere.

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, perched high in the trans-Himalayan region of northern India, spans about 7,770 sq km across the dramatic landscapes of HP’s Lahaul and Spiti district.

Encompassing windswept plateaus, glacial valleys, alpine lakes and rugged high-altitude deserts, it is one of the coldest and driest ecosystems in UNESCO’s network.

“As India’s first high-altitude cold desert biosphere reserve, it highlights the urgent need to safeguard mountain ecosystems facing tourism pressures and climate change. Current initiatives include snow leopard conservation, glacial lake monitoring, community-based climate resilience and environmental education programmes that bridge indigenous knowledge with scientific research — ensuring the survival of this stark yet vibrant Himalayan sanctuary,” UNESCO said.

“With this addition, India now proudly has 13 biosphere reserves listed in UNESCO’s World Network, reflecting the country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community-led sustainable development,” Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said.

The announcement comes a day after India added two new Ramsar sites from Bihar — Gokul Jalashay (448 hectares) in Buxar district and Udaipur Jheel (319 hectares) in West Champaran district — to its network, taking the tally to 93.

Biosphere reserves are globally recognised for their unique ecosystems and innovative approaches to sustainable living. India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is among the latest additions.

“As the world faces growing climate and biodiversity crises, UNESCO biosphere reserves offer a powerful, yet underreported solution. These areas are more than just protected land — they are living laboratories where communities, scientists and governments collaborate to find sustainable ways of living in harmony with nature,” UNESCO said.