Kargil, September 16 : The Department of Botany, Government Degree College, Kargil successfully organised a three-day botanical field visit to Suru Valley and Zanskar from 11th to 13th September 2025. The tour was aimed to provide students with practical exposure to important medicinal plants of the region and to acquaint them with the rich cultural heritage of Zanskar.
The field visit was led by Dr. Tsetan Dolker (Assistant Professor, Botany) who guided the students and shared their expertise on medicinal plants, climate change, and local history. Students from the 3rd and 5th semesters participated in the programme.
During the tour, the students observed significant medicinal plant species in Suru Valley, including Podophyllum hexandrum, Verbascum thapsus, Marchantia sp., Pteris sp., and Oxytropis microphylla. Different species of mushroom like Bovista plumbea, Coprinopsis attramentaria were also observed at Suru valley.
At Penzila, two species of Ephedra (E. gerardiana and E. relictiana) were recorded in blooming condition. In Zanskar, species such as Acantholimon lycopodioides, Aconogonum tortuosum., Rumex patientia, and others were documented.
Beyond botanical exploration, the students also witnessed the alarming signs of glacial retreat at Drang Drung and the Nun Kun glaciers, linking their observations to the broader impacts of climate change. The field trip further enriched their knowledge about the cultural heritage of the region, with visits to Rangdum Monastery, Zangla Khar, Karsha Monastery and Shela Waterfall, offering insights into the traditions and lifestyle of the local communities.
At GDC Zanskar, the team was warmly welcomed by Principal Dr. Amjad Ali, who hosted an interactive session where students from both colleges exchanged ideas. The hospitality of the faculty and students of GDC Zanskar was deeply appreciated.
The visit concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Tsetan Dolker, who expressed gratitude to Principal Dr. Amjad Ali, faculty members, and students of GDC Zanskar for their warm welcome and support in making the field visit a success.
This immersive experience not only strengthened the students’ understanding of plant diversity and ecology but also instilled awareness of the pressing environmental challenges faced by the Himalayas.
