Community-focused snow leopard tourism can have social and conservation benefits

Abstract

Tourism is a major global industry, increasingly focused on nature-based destinations. While ecotourism can harm ecosystems and Indigenous communities, it can also offer conservation and livelihood benefits. This study investigates the impacts of snow leopard (Panthera uncia) tourism on Indigenous people in the Trans-Himalaya, Northern India. Using participant observation and semi-structured interviews in Kibber Village, Spiti Valley, we examined changing community attitudes and broader socio-ecological effects. Results show both positive and negative outcomes. Perceptions of snow leopards shifted from hostility to respect and even ‘love’. Tourism brought income and cultural recognition but also challenges, including waste from day visitors and homestays, and occasional cultural insensitivity among tourists. We recommend structured visitor briefings and stronger waste management measures. Overall, snow leopard tourism—when led by Indigenous communities—can promote coexistence, cultural preservation, and sustainable conservation.