The Himalayan Rat also known as Turkestan rat is a medium-sized rodent found in mountainous regions of South and Central Asia, including the Himalayas of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. It inhabits temperate forests, alpine meadows, and rocky slopes, typically at elevations between 1,500 and 4,000 meters.

This rat has soft brownish to grayish fur, with a paler underside and a relatively long, sparsely haired tail. It usually measures 18–24 cm in body length with a tail of similar or slightly shorter length. Adapted to cooler climates, it often shelters in crevices, burrows, or under rocks.

Rattus pyctoris is omnivorous, feeding on seeds, fruits, roots, and small invertebrates. It is primarily nocturnal and elusive in nature.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Not Defined

CITES: Not Defined