evidence: Situated in the Uttarkashi district, the mesmerizing Nelong valley lies within the Gangotri National Park. Just 23km from Bhaironghati, this nature’s delight is just a stone’s throw away from the revered Gangotri shrine. As opposed to the lush green background of the Uttarakhand Himalayas, Nelong valley is a cold desert with scarce vegetation and wildlife, imitating the Tibetan plateau. Still, home to the rare and elusive Snow Leopard, the valley offers some of the spectacular Himalayan landscapes to leave you awestruck. [...] Nelong valley is open to the Indian public from May to November. However, entry to the foreigners is not allowed, yet. [...] I think, the reason Nelong Valley was not open for tourism is that to protect the natural habitat of the wild animals like snow leopards, as it is inevitable how human invasion in such territories can affect its beauty, that we talk about so fondly.