It is native to montane forest habitats in the southern Himalayas in Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, and Nepal, ranging in altitude from 700 metres (2,300 ft) to 4,500 metres (14,800 ft).

The body size is relatively, large, the largest in Soriculus, at approximately 17.6 grams (0.62 oz).

The fur colour varies from brown to black.

The tail is relatively short, about half the length of the combined head and body.

The forelimbs and their claws are relatively enlarged, suggesting fossorial (digging) habits for the species.