Scientists have identified a previously unknown ancient population from remains found in the Old Lady Spider Cave, a site located about 4,000 meters above sea level in Ladakh, northern India. The findings provide new information about population history in a region where ancient genetic evidence remains limited. Ancient DNA Reveals a Mixed Ancestry Population in the HimalayasThe research team examined human remains excavated from Old Lady Spider Cave in 2021. According to the study authors, the Old Ladakh population contributed genetic ancestry to present-day Himalayan groups, including the Minero and Balti people of Ladakh. The researchers behind the Old Lady Spider Cave study emphasized that the ancient Ladakh population did not simply disappear.