The Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is one of the most elusive and secretive wild cats that is native to south and central Asia. It is categorized as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and listed in CITES Appendix I. In Nepal, it is categorized as Endangered in the Nation Red List and protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 197 of the Government of Nepal; thereby making it a priority species for conservation. Snow leopards are found along the northern part of Nepal, bordering with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and with India in the east and west corner with the largest population found in Dolpa, Humla, Manang, Mugu, Mustang and Taplejung districts.
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.