Published: 28 September 2025UNESCOEnvironment
Himachal Pradesh's Cold Desert Becomes India's 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO designated the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh as India's 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve at the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in Hangzhou, China, on September 27, 2025. It was one of 26 new sites added to UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).
Spanning 7,770 sq km at altitudes of 3,300 to 6,600 metres, the Cold Desert encompasses the Pin Valley National Park, Chandratal, Sarchu, and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. It harbors 732 species of vascular plants including 30 endemics and 157 near-endemics of the Indian Himalayas, and iconic fauna including the Snow Leopard. This is India's first high-altitude cold desert biosphere reserve and one of the coldest and driest ecosystems in UNESCO's WNBR. India's total now stands at 13 out of a global 785 biosphere reserves.
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Frequently asked questions
When did Himachal Pradesh's Cold Desert become India's 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?
UNESCO designated **Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh** as India's **13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on September 27, 2025** at the **5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in Hangzhou, China**.
Where is the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve and what area does it cover?
The **Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve** is in **Himachal Pradesh's Spiti Valley**, spanning **7,770 sq km** at altitudes of **3,300–6,600 m**, encompassing **Pin Valley National Park**. Designated India's 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in September 2025.
What was the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves?
The **5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves** was held in **Hangzhou, China**, where UNESCO designated **26 new sites** including India's **Cold Desert** as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves on **September 27, 2025**.
Which national park is in Himachal Pradesh's Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve?
**Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve** encompasses the **Pin Valley National Park**, spanning 7,770 sq km. It was designated India's **13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve** on September 27, 2025.
How many UNESCO Biosphere Reserves does India have after the Cold Desert designation?
India has **13 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves** after the **Cold Desert in Himachal Pradesh** was designated on September 27, 2025, as one of 26 new sites added at the Hangzhou congress.
