Land of the snow leopard's wilderness adventure: India
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February 2027 – 10 days
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Join a rare expedition into the heart of the Himalayas, where snow-draped ridges and ancient monasteries set the stage for one of nature’s most elusive encounters—the snow leopard. From a warm and well-appointed ecolodge in Ladakh, track this elusive big cat through rugged alpine terrain, guided by expert naturalists and local spotters.
The Himalayas have long stirred the imaginations of explorers, but for the science-curious traveler, these mountains offer more than just grandeur—they offer a living laboratory of evolutionary adaptation and ecological mystery. At the heart of this high-altitude wilderness roams one of the world’s most elusive predators: the snow leopard.
From our strategically positioned base - a sustainable luxury ecolodge equipped with radiant floor heating, insulated windows, and hot running water—venture into the alpine ridgelines and remote valleys of Ladakh. Set against the backdrop of a former Silk Road kingdom, this high desert region in northern India is steeped in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Whitewashed monasteries cling to cliff faces, and prayer flags flutter in the wind at high mountain passes, infusing the land with spiritual resonance.
Guided by local trackers and naturalists, and supported by expert wildlife spotters, you'll have the opportunity to observe and learn about the behavior, biology, and conservation of this rare predator and its ecosystem. Alongside snow leopards, you may encounter ibex, bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan foxes, and golden eagles—all woven into this delicate, high-altitude food web.
In partnership with Natural Habitat Adventures.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN DELHI, INDIA AND ENJOY A WELCOME DINNER IN GURGAON
Arrive in the bustling capital of India and transfer to a peaceful haven in Gurgaon, a high-tech satellite city just outside Delhi. Your contemporary hotel is surrounded by seven acres of gardens, reflecting pools, and quiet courtyards, providing a tranquil start to your adventure.
This evening, gather with your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and introduction to the journey ahead—into the snow-draped heights of Ladakh and the domain of the elusive snow leopard.
DAY 2: DELHI TO LEH, LADAKH – TOUCHING THE ROOF OF THE WORLD
This morning, take a spectacular flight over the Indian Himalayas to Ladakh, landing in the capital of Leh at 11,500 feet. Ladakh—once a Himalayan kingdom on the Silk Road—is home to dramatic high-altitude deserts, golden-spired monasteries, and the snow leopard’s rugged territory. Upon arrival, begin acclimatising to the elevation.
Spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking in views of the mountains and the 17th-century palace that overlooks the town.
DAY 3: INDUS VALLEY EXPLORATION – VILLAGE LIFE AND MOUNTAIN VISTAS
Venture into the rural heart of Ladakh, following the Indus River through “Little Tibet,” where prayer flags dance across mountain passes and ancient traditions endure. Visit Gya, the oldest village in the region, where locals welcome us with traditional hospitality. Explore the town’s sustainable practices—from barley roasting to wool weaving—and try your hand at Ladakhi-style archery.
After a homemade lunch, walk with your guide through surrounding high-altitude terrain where blue sheep and raptors are often spotted. Return to Leh in the late afternoon.
DAYS 4 – 8: RUMBAK VALLEY – TRACKING THE ELUSIVE SNOW LEOPARD
Journey westward along the Indus River into Hemis National Park, home to the world’s highest concentration of snow leopards. Settle into the House of Rumbak, a secluded luxury ecolodge perched on a plateau with sweeping views of the high Himalayas. Built with local materials for warmth and sustainability, the lodge offers radiant floor heating, hot water, and close proximity to wildlife.
Over the next five days, you will explore this stark and stunning landscape with expert naturalists and a skilled team of Ladakhi trackers. Each day begins with reports from spotters already scanning the slopes, helping us optimise your chances of observing snow leopards in the wild. Outings are tailored to the group’s comfort level, with short walks or longer hikes available. Sightings often occur on nearby ridges or hillsides, where the “ghost of the mountains” can suddenly appear from a rocky outcrop.
Alongside snow leopards, you may also encounter ibex, bharal (blue sheep), urial, and possibly Tibetan wolves. Between treks, warm up at the lodge with hot chai and hearty Ladakhi fare. When conditions allow, you will also visit nearby monasteries and cultural sites that reflect the region’s deep Buddhist heritage.
DAY 9: RUMBAK TO LEH – FAREWELL TO THE HIGH HIMALAYAS
After one last morning scanning the mountains for wildlife, return to Leh, pausing to reflect on the rare privilege of visiting this fragile ecosystem. Your time at the ecolodge directly supports local communities and conservation efforts that protect snow leopards and their prey.
Back in town, enjoy a hands-on culinary experience in a traditional Ladakhi kitchen before gathering with the group for a farewell dinner.
DAY 10: LEH TO DELHI – DEPARTURE
Fly back to Delhi this morning and transfer to your hotel, where day-use rooms and lunch provide comfort before international departures. Evening transfers to the airport are provided.
