Upper Karnali Landscape Initiatives, also known as UKALI, was founded by internationally acclaimed conservation scientist Rinzin Phunjok Lama. This vision is inspired by local wisdom, aspirations, and traditions, driven by the urgent need for conservation. Rinzin and team’s decade-long journey across the Nepal Himalayas, working with wildlife and communities, provided him with firsthand insights into ground realities and pressing needs. As a native of these mountain communities, his commitment to coexistence, harmony, and well-being is deeply rooted in his personal experiences, seamlessly integrating science with grassroots action.
At its core, UKALI is a community-driven model, focusing on the Upper Karnali Landscape as a learning ground and field campus. Guided by the philosophy of “Leading by Locals,” the initiative ensures that conservation efforts are community-led and grounded in the cultural heritage and values of the landscapes it serves. With the broader vision of developing a replicable approach for other mountain regions in Nepal and beyond, UKALI strengthens local institutions, nurtures conservation leaders, and enhances the capacity of communities to actively participate in and benefit from conservation initiatives.
UKALI integrates scientific knowledge, traditional practices, and community-driven action to redefine conservation as a shared responsibility and an intrinsic social value. Its programs range from protecting landscapes, ecosystems, and iconic species like the snow leopard to empowering communities through livelihood diversification opportunities. By fostering local networks, promoting natural resource management, and advancing conservation governance, UKALI creates lasting impacts on biodiversity and community well-being. With a vision of building resilient mountain communities, UKALI inspires action, leads change, and leaves a hope and harmony for generations to come.
Mission
To empower local communities to lead biodiversity conservation and build resilient and self-reliant mountain communities.
Vision
Resilient mountain communities where biodiversity and human well-being thrive in harmony.
UKALI is a community-driven model, focusing on the Upper Karnali Landscape as a learning ground and field campus. Guided by the philosophy of “Leading by Locals,” the initiative ensures that conservation efforts are community-led and grounded in the cultural heritage and values of the landscapes it serves. With the broader vision of developing a replicable approach for other mountain regions in Nepal and beyond, UKALI strengthens local institutions, nurtures conservation leaders, and enhances the capacity of communities to actively participate in and benefit from conservation initiatives.
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