| Torsa Strict Nature Reserve | |
| Alt Name: | Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve |
| Location: | Haa, Bhutan |
| Area Km2: | 609.51 |
| Website: | Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation |
The Torsa Strict Nature Reserve[1] (officially Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve)in Bhutan covers 609.51 square kilometres in Haa District, occupying most of its area. Founded along with other national parks in 1993 by decision of the royal government,[2] It borders Sikkim and Tibet to the west and is connected to Jigme Dorji National Park via a "biological corridor." Torsa SNR contains the westernmost temperate forests of Bhutan, from broadleaf forests to alpine meadows and the small lakes of Sinchulungpa, at altitudes ranging from 1400m (4,600feet) to 4800m (15,700feet). Like Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Torsa SNR has no resident human population.[3]
This diverse ecosystem, home to various endangered species such as the Tibetan Snow Cock, Red Panda, Snow Leopard and Rufous Necked Hornbills, also grows in the reserve the only endemic poppy, the White Poppy.[4]
The Amo Chu river that flows in from Tibet's Chumbi Valley is called Torsa Chu after it enters the Torsa SNR.