For over two decades, WWF India has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation in the

Khangchendzonga Landscape (KCL) in Sikkim, an area rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, KCL is home to some of the most iconic and endangered species, including the elusive Snow Leopard, the majestic Red Panda, and a myriad of other flora and fauna that thrive in its dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude ecosystems. As we celebrate Wildlife Week, we reflect on the milestones, challenges, and triumphs of WWF India’s journey in conserving this pristine landscape, securing its future for generations to come.

A Landscape of Global Importance

Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forms the heart of the

Khangchendzonga Landscape. The region is renowned for its towering peaks, including Mount Khangchendzonga—the third highest mountain in the world—crystal-clear rivers, and rich biodiversity. This ecologically sensitive area harbours endangered species like the Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Himalayan Monal, Musk Deer, and various medicinal plants and orchids.

For WWF India, conservation efforts in KCL Sikkim is not only about protecting species but also about preserving an intricate web of life that sustains people who live in harmony with this fragile ecosystem. Recognizing the unique cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance of the landscape, WWF-India has worked closely with local communities, government agencies, and other partners to achieve sustainable conservation goals.

Protecting the Snow Leopard and High-Altitude Ecosystems

WWF India’s Snow Leopard conservation efforts have been a cornerstone of its work in the KCL Sikkim. The Snow Leopard, a flagship species for high-altitude regions, symbolizes the health of the ecosystem it inhabits. Over the years, WWF-India has worked to increase our understanding of this elusive predator through scientific studies, camera trapping, and community-based monitoring initiatives. One of the most significant achievements has been the collaborative effort to conduct Snow Leopard population surveys across Sikkim. Using techniques like camera traps, WWF-India has been able to gather crucial data that informs conservation strategies. These efforts have provided vital insights into the distribution, population density, and habitat use of Snow Leopards in KCL. Furthermore, WWF India has initiated several community-based programs to reduce human-wildlife conflict. High-altitude livestock herders, who often suffer losses due to Snow Leopard and other wildlife predation, have been supported through initiatives like predator-proof livestock enclosures and solar lights. These programs have helped protect livelihoods while fostering coexistence with wildlife.  By working closely with the Dzumsa and Lachen Tourism Development Committee, the waste management system in Lachen village—gateway to Snow Leopard habitat—has become a national model. As the first village in India to ban the use and sale of packaged drinking water, and with strict monitoring and enforcement, Lachen has successfully eliminated plastic bottle waste from village drains and high-altitude streams frequented by tourists. Deeper understanding of the biodiversity present in the landscape has become a matter of pride with opportunities of wildlife tourism as one of the main livelihood for local youths in the village.  

Safeguarding the Red Panda: Sikkim’s State Animal

The Red Panda, another flagship species of the KCL, is an emblem of Sikkim’s rich biodiversity. WWF India has been at the forefront of efforts to conserve this species by protecting its habitat, which is threatened by, habitat fragmentation, and various other factors. For the last 20 years, WWF-India has worked closely with the Forest Department and local communities to ensure the conservation of  Red Panda and its fragile habitat. Community involvement has been integral to these efforts, with local communities trained in sustainable forest management and diversified livelihoods, reducing pressure on natural resources.  WWF-India’s public awareness campaigns, such as the Red Panda Day celebration, actively engage school children and local residents, instilling a sense of pride and responsibility for the conservation of this endearing species.

Community-Led Conservation: The Heart of WWF’s Approach

One of the hallmarks of WWF-India’s work in Sikkim is its deep partnership with local communities. From the outset, WWF-India has recognized that long-term conservation success depends on the support and involvement of the people who live in and around wildlife habitats  

WWF-India has worked to build capacity within local communities, training them in sustainable practices such as climate smart agriculture, eco-tourism, apiary, improved cooking stoves and handicraft production. These programs not only reduce dependence on forest resources but also provide alternative livelihoods that contribute to the local economy. The eco-tourism initiatives, in particular, have gained momentum, with village homestays and birding tourism becoming popular among tourists who seek authentic, eco-friendly experiences in the Himalayas. Additionally, WWFIndia has facilitated several youth engagement programs, inspiring a new generation of conservationists. School outreach programs, and nature camps have helped raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and ecosystems. By fostering environmental stewardship in young minds, it has been ensured that the young minds have the sense of responsibility and love toward the environment around them. With many citizen scientists in place, the exit has been easy for there are many youths taking forward the baton of conservation in the villages. It has not only helped in conservation, the transformation of life for many youths from hunters to conservationists is something WWF-India will always be proud of.

Preserving the Sacred and Cultural Landscapes

The Khangchendzonga Landscape is not just an ecological treasure trove but also a cultural and spiritual landscape for the local communities, especially the indigenous Lepcha and Bhutia people. WWF India’s conservation strategies have always been mindful of this cultural dimension. The organization has worked to promote the integration of traditional knowledge and practices into modern conservation approaches. By partnering with local communities, WWF-India, has helped preserve sacred sites and practices that contribute to the protection of wildlife and natural resources. These efforts have strengthened the bond between conservation and cultural preservation, ensuring that the spiritual significance of KCL continues to inspire future generations.

Tackling New Threats: Climate Change and Human Impact

As climate change intensifies, the Khangchendzonga Landscape faces new challenges, including glacial melting, shifting habitats, and the increased vulnerability of species. WWF India is at the forefront of addressing these threats by working on climate-resilient conservation strategies. This includes promoting climate-smart agriculture, enhancing water security, and restoring ecosystems to build resilience against climate impacts. Additionally, WWF India has focused on mitigating impacts like over-harvesting of natural resources. By strengthening community-based monitoring systems, WWF-India is actively ensuring that species and their natural habitats are protected.

Looking Forward: The Next 20 Years

As WWF-India celebrates 20+ years of conservation success in Sikkim’s Khangchendzonga

Landscape, the road ahead remains both challenging and full of opportunities. The focus will continue to be on expanding habitat restoration efforts, enhancing community-led conservation, and protecting vulnerable species from emerging threats. WWF India’s long-term vision is to create a harmonious balance between nature and people in KCL, where biodiversity flourishes, and communities thrive. With continued collaboration between local residents, government authorities, and conservation organizations, the future of Sikkim’s wildlife remains hopeful. Our conservation journey in this region, from protecting the majestic Snow Leopard and the charismatic Red Panda to restoring ecosystems and empowering local communities, would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of the Forest Department. The faith and belief of the Forest Department on WWF-India in the path of conservation in this unique landscape has been instrumental in ensuring the success of our initiatives. The dedication of the Forest Department’s field staff, officers, and leadership has been inspiring, and we are deeply appreciative of the trust and collaboration we have built.  

Likewise, the local communities have been our greatest source of strength and inspiration. Their unwavering support, along with their traditional knowledge and wisdom, has ensured that conservation efforts leave a meaningful and lasting impact in this region. After all, for the vast stretches of forests, particularly those outside protected areas, the local communities are the true guardians of conservation.

Looking at the future, we are excited to continue working together towards our shared vision of a sustainable, thriving Khangchendzonga Landscape, where both wildlife and communities coexist harmoniously. This Wildlife Week, as we reflect on the accomplishments of the past two decades, WWF-India reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the natural heritage of KCL for many generations to come. Together, we can ensure that wildlife in the landscape continues to roam freely, enriching both the environment and the people who share this incredible landscape. 

(Lak Tsheden Theengh is Landscape Coordinator, Khangchendzonga Landscape,  WWF-India, Sikkim Office)