Photographer Morup Namgail's Quest For The Ghost Of The Himalayas

They call it the "ghost of the Himalayas," a magnificent predator shrouded in secrecy. But in December 2023, the stars aligned for a young photographer and the world witnessed a stunning sight—a snow leopard, bathed in starlight, frozen in a breathtaking image. This wasn't just any photo; it was the first ever to capture the elusive snow leopard under a starry sky, a testament to the skill of Morup Namgail, a 28-year-old photographer from the remote village of Ulley, located approximately two hours away from Leh.

This wasn't the only positive development for the endangered species. Shortly after, a survey by the Wildlife Institute of India revealed a glimmer of hope—a promising increase in snow leopard populations across India, with Ladakh boasting the highest numbers. But the journey to true recovery remains demanding.

Intrigued by the image and the reassuring numbers, we sat down with Namgail to delve deeper. Join us as we explore the story behind the viral photo, Ladakh's unique challenges and treasures, and the ongoing fight to protect these elusive ghosts.

The idea crystallised when I pondered how to differentiate my work from the usual photographs of snow leopards that visitors captured. Inspired by technology, I explored camera trapping to create unique and creative photos.

However, this endeavour proved challenging, requiring expertise, luck, and the alignment of various factors. Capturing images only during dark, moonlit nights, which occur roughly 15 days a month, added an element of rarity. External factors, such as equipment functionality and weather conditions, further contributed to the difficulty.

Despite these challenges, my dedication paid off. After approximately six months, I successfully captured the photograph, blending the allure of stars with the snow leopards in their natural habitat.

In contemplating conservation efforts, I realised the importance of not just focusing on capturing or studying snow leopards but understanding their role in the broader ecosystem. They represent a keystone species, and the landscape they inhabit is integral to our shared home. Recognising the interconnectedness of all elements in the ecosystem, I appreciate that the landscape is not just a dry expanse but a rich tapestry of resources that sustains life.

This understanding highlights the need for solid relationships and interconnections within the ecosystem. While humans often perceive themselves as the dominant species, maintaining a healthy balance requires every element in its rightful place.

His wealth of knowledge became a cornerstone in my career, especially in photographing animals. His insights on blending into the mountainous surroundings and maintaining silence while spotting wildlife were invaluable. These seemingly small details collectively shaped my approach to wildlife photography.

My approach is rooted in the belief that local voices and perspectives hold immense power in fostering a sense of responsibility for conservation within the community. It's not just about showcasing images; it's about leveraging my local identity to make conservation a shared endeavour and encouraging others to take ownership of the natural heritage. Through all my photos and videos, I aim to convey the message that we share our home with these magnificent creatures.

Responsible travel and hosting emerge as the key principles to navigate this delicate balance. The concept transcends individual efforts, necessitating a cohesive approach from the entire community. As organisers of tours, travel agencies shoulder a significant responsibility, as do drivers who transport visitors to various destinations.

Yet, the responsibility doesn't end there. Tourists themselves play an equal role in ensuring the sustainability of the destination. It requires a conscious effort to avoid an overly self-centred approach and consider the impact of their actions on the destination's future.

The livestock insurance program emerged as a practical solution to the conflict between human activities and snow leopards. Providing reimbursement for losses incurred due to predator attacks lessened the economic impact on the community and fostered a sense of coexistence. This initiative became a valuable tool for harmonising the relationship between the local population and the snow leopards in the region.

Over the years, the demand grew, prompting us to expand and build a lodge in 2009. By 2011-2012, we recognised its potential to become a viable business. Currently, the lodge has six operational rooms.