The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) in Uttarakhand represents a critical sanctuary for biodiversity, hosting a plethora of rare and endemic flora and fauna. The extensive field survey was conducted to underscore the reserve’s role as a stronghold for elusive species like the snow leopard. Utilising camera traps over a grid system and trail surveys, we could gather vital data on the population and distribution of key species, adapting their methods seasonally to account for changes in animal behaviour and habitat use. The application of the maximum entropy model to predict habitat suitability is particularly noteworthy, offering a scientific basis for conservation efforts by identifying areas with the highest potential for snow leopard presence. This meticulous approach has revealed that approximately 10% of NDBR’s terrain is favourable for snow leopards, with a notable concentration in the Malari and Niti regions, thus providing a foundation for targeted conservation strategies. The study’s findings are instrumental in informing future preservation initiatives, ensuring that these regions remain a refuge for one of nature’s most magnificent predators.