Ladakhi Kiangs from Changthang Cold Desert

They are related to the Zebras of East Africa and to the wild asses of Rann of Kutch. But, they face the harshest of terrain and environmental conditions. They are the kiangs of Ladakh, a breed that roams the high altitudes of the Western Himalayas.


Generally, they are seen very regularly during the summer months due to an increase in green cover, but I was one of those lucky ones who got to see them in the cold month of January when they are rarely seen.


I saw them on my way from Chumathang to Hanle in the Changthang Cold Desert, a high altitude cold desert bordering China. Unfortunately, I was limited to a focal length of 40 mm and hence could not grab a tight shot.