Encounters with Brown Bears in Mushkoh Valley: Sightseeing Amongst Ursids
**A Himalayan Bear Sighting at Border View Homestay in Mushkoh Valley**
In the heart of Ladakh's breathtaking landscape, the Border View Homestay in Mushkoh village has become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Located in the Drass sector of Kargil district, this remote homestay offers a rare opportunity to witness the elusive Himalayan brown bear in its natural habitat.
Ghulam Hasan, the local host and bear-watching guide, has been instrumental in attracting visitors to the area. With his extensive knowledge of the region's wildlife and a donation of binoculars and a spotting scope from the Himalayan Brown Bear Trust, Ghulam Hasan has made bear sightings a regular occurrence for his guests.
The best time to visit Mushkoh for bear sightings is from late April to early October, with the team from Kalpavriksh, a non-profit organisation, experiencing a successful sighting in late April 2025. The team stayed near the Mushkoh river, peering up the hillsides, and after spotting a black speck moving some 500 metres above them, Ghulam Hasan set up his spotting scope for a closer look, revealing the majestic Himalayan brown bear.
The Border View Homestay, run by Ghulam Hasan and his family, offers two double rooms and a warm mountain experience. The cost of staying at the homestay is ₹2,000 per person per night, including food. For those interested in nature guiding services, Ghulam Hasan offers additional trips at an additional cost of ₹1,500 per trip.
Mushkoh is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to check current advisories before visiting remote areas in Ladakh. The village is located around 10 km from Drass town and 70 km from Kargil, with good road connectivity along the Kargil-Srinagar highway, though unseasonal snowfall can cause blockages.
For wildflower enthusiasts, the ideal time to visit is between June and July. The area is also known for its diverse wildlife, including Himalayan brown bears, ibex, and alpine birds like magpies and crows.
Border View Homestay is more than just a place to stay; it's a symbol of peaceful tourism development that highlights the area's natural beauty and historical narrative. The homestay reflects the hospitality of the local community, providing visitors with a warm mountain experience that respects and showcases the region's heritage and landscape.
By fostering awareness about the brown bears and their habitat, Border View Homestay contributes indirectly to wildlife conservation efforts. The homestay encourages respectful observation rather than disturbance, aligning with conservation principles aimed at protecting the natural environment and its inhabitants. This approach helps integrate local livelihoods with conservation goals, ensuring both ecological preservation and community benefits.
As of mid-2025, the homestay is operational and gaining recognition for its unique positioning between nature, history, and hospitality. It is featured in travel and nature attraction listings for Ladakh, contributing to the region’s reputation as a destination for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
[1] Source: [www.borderviewhomestay.com](http://www.borderviewhomestay.com) [2] Source: [www.ladakh-tourism.com](http://www.ladakh-tourism.com)
The Border View Homestay in Mushkoh Valley, beyond being an accommodation, serves as a hub for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to observe the Himalayan brown bear in its natural habitat, becoming a sought-after destination for tourists interested in home-and-garden experiences that blend seamlessly with travel and sports.
With its offering of sports that range from nature guiding services to wildflower stalking opportunities, the region around Mushkoh Valley presents an engaging lifestyle option for adventure-seekers, especially during the season of June and July, when visitors can immerse themselves in the rich diversity of local flora and fauna.
