Trip Overview

The Snow Leopard Expedition is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth.

Set in the high-altitude Hemis National Park, this journey is about patience, perspective, and a deep connection with nature.

Guided by experienced spotters and local trackers, you’ll traverse rugged ridges, frozen rivers, and remote villages to witness the elusive Snow Leopard in its natural habitat.

This is not just a wildlife trip — it’s a soulful Himalayan encounter where silence and survival coexist.

Highlights

• Track snow leopards with expert trackers

• Stay in remote expedition camps in Hemis National Park

• Learn wildlife tracking, photography & conservation ethics

• Chance to spot ibex, fox, blue sheep & Himalayan birds

• Best Time: January – March (Winter Expedition)

• Difficulty: Moderate (trekking + high altitude)

• Support: Expedition leader, spotters, cooks, porters, oxygen

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Leh (3,500m)

Arrival, transfer to hotel. Evening orientation on snow leopard habitat & behavior.

Stay: Hotel in Leh

Day 2 – Acclimatization & Local Exploration

Visit Shey & Thiksey monasteries; evening acclimatization walk.

Stay: Leh

Day 3 – Leh to Zingchen Valley (Drive + 2 hr trek)

Drive to Zingchen; begin trek into Hemis National Park.

Camp setup at Rumbak village (base for leopard spotting).

Stay: Expedition camp in Rumbak

Day 4 – Rumbak Valley – Spotting Trails Begin

Trek through ridges and vantage points with local trackers.

Learn about signs, pugmarks, and blue sheep movements.

Stay: Rumbak

Day 5 – Full-Day Wildlife Observation

Continue exploring different valleys for leopard activity.

Possible sightings of red fox, ibex, and Himalayan snowcock.

Stay: Rumbak

Day 6 – Rumbak to Tarbung Valley Excursion

Hike to Tarbung or Kharlung areas, often known for leopard sightings.

Evening storytelling around campfire with local guides.

Stay: Rumbak

Day 7 – Rumbak to Leh (via Zingchen)

Trek back to roadhead, drive to Leh.

Evening leisure at Leh Market.

Stay: Leh

Day 8 – Leh Monastery Tour

Visit Hemis Monastery, the largest in Ladakh.

Evening reflection session & expedition wrap-up.

Stay: Leh

Day 9 – Departure from Leh

Transfer to Leh airport. Expedition concludes.