In Search of the Snow Leopard in Ladakh

Journey into the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the mystical region of Ladakh, visiting Buddhist monasteries and spending six days tracking the elusive snow leopard.

Unlike other members of the big cat family, the snow leopard cannot be seen on a traditional safari. Its high-altitude habitat is cold, harsh, mountainous and often inaccessible to all but the most determined traveller. But on this departure you’ll be able to step foot in the land of the leopard, and hopefully become one of the few people on earth to have seen this predator in the wild with your own eyes. Along the way you’ll get to experience seldom-visited Ladakh, a place where tradition runs deep. Regardless of what wildlife you may encounter here, your time spent venturing through Ladakh’s austere landscape and discovering its ancient Buddhist monasteries will leave you with an unforgettable experience.

Arrival in Delhi

Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Upon checking in, you’re free to spend the rest of the day exploring the nation’s capital, or relax at the hotel and recover from your flight.

Acclimatization in Leh

Transfer to Delhi Airport for your flight to Leh, a town high in the Himalayas that will be your home for the next three nights. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will have a free day to relax and acclimatize to Leh’s low oxygen levels (the town sits at an altitude of 11,500 ft above sea level). In the evening, you will have a basic orientation to socio-political, economical, and religious perspective of Ladakh followed by introduction with a local guide.

Exploration of Leh and Its Monasteries

Visit Leh’s traditional markets before making your way to the monasteries of Shey, Thikse, and Hemis, as well as Stok Palace, where you will experience Tibetan Buddhism in practice. You’ll also be able to meet members of Snow Leopard Conservancy, a foundation supported by Natural World Safaris who work tirelessly to protect this endangered species.

Journey to Gia, Meru, and Latho

The villages of Gia, Meru, and Latho are your destinations for the fourth day of your journey, a trio of Himalayan settlements that reveal a different side to Ladakh, miles from the town of Leh with its modern amenities and population of 30,000. Learn about the Himalayan way of life from local villagers and pay a visit to the gompa and stupas – structures used as places of learning and mediation by Buddhist monks – that lie above Gia.

Heading West to Ulley

Head west towards Ulley, a journey of approximately 2-3 hours by road, following the Indus River to Kargil and Srinagar. At this point, the landscape opens up and becomes even more expansive as you enter snow leopard country for the first time. Continue your journey following the Ulley Chhu stream through the valley, keeping your eyes peeled for any silhouettes along the hillsides and skyline. If you’re lucky you may spot your first leopard or ibex.

Exploring the Ulley Valley

Over the next few days, you will explore the Ulley Valley by foot and by vehicle, with your guide accompanying you as you track the elusive snow leopard. The guides interact closely with the local people and utilize a network of local intelligence to narrow down likely locations for sightings. In the process, there will also be plenty of opportunity for you to get insights into local folklore, as well as learn about local customs and traditions.

Return to Delhi

On your last full day, you will be taken to the airport for your flight back to Delhi. During the flight, you will have spectacular views of the Zanskar Range to the west, including the two peaks of Nun and Kun, and you may even be able to spot K2 (the second-highest peak in the world) to the north.

Snow Leopard Lodge

The five bedroom Snow Leopard Lodge is located in the small village of Ulley, Ladakh, and offers superb views across the Ulley Chhu Valley. The lodge is basic yet cozy, with added features such as extra gas heaters, bathroom with warm showers, comfortable mattresses and an assortment of teas and coffees helping to alleviate the cold, making this a more comfortable alternative to camping. You will also be living with a Ladakhi family, learning about their lifestyle and enjoying some traditional home cooking.