Moderate
09 days
4,100 meters (13,450 feet)
12+
The Snow Leopard Trek in Hemis National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat. This high-altitude national park, nestled in the rugged terrain of Ladakh, is not just home to the snow leopard but also offers sightings of other rare wildlife species such as the Tibetan wolf, blue sheep, and Eurasian brown bear, among others.
This trek is unique because it combines the thrill of tracking one of the world’s most elusive predators with the serene experience of Ladakh’s winter landscape. You’ll explore snow-covered mountains, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and quaint Ladakhi villages. The stark beauty of the Himalayas, coupled with the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Ladakhi people, makes this trek an unforgettable adventure.
Upon landing in Leh, you'll be transferred to a local hotel or homestay. The first two days are dedicated to acclimatizing to the high altitude. Leh, sitting at over 11,000 feet, requires careful adjustment, so these days will be spent at a relaxed pace. You can explore Leh’s local markets or visit nearby monasteries like Thiksey, Shey, and Spituk to immerse yourself in the rich Buddhist culture of Ladakh.
After breakfast, we embark on a drive from Leh to Phey, a scenic village along the Indus River. From Phey, the trek to Hemis National Park begins. The trail is relatively easy, providing a perfect introduction to the rugged terrain of Ladakh. By evening, we reach our campsite or homestay within the park, where we settle in and prepare for the days ahead.
The next four days are the heart of the Snow Leopard Trek. Hemis National Park, especially the Rumbak Valley, is known for its rich biodiversity and, notably, its population of snow leopards. Our experienced guides and spotters, who are well-versed in the habits and trails of the snow leopard, will lead the way. Each day, we venture out early to increase our chances of spotting these elusive cats as they descend to the valleys in search of prey.
Besides snow leopards, you may also encounter Tibetan wolves, blue sheep (bharal), and a variety of bird species including golden eagles and lammergeiers. Evenings will be spent back at the campsite or homestay, where you can warm up and enjoy local Ladakhi cuisine.
On the final day of trekking, we make our way from the park to Zingchen, where vehicles will be waiting to take us back to Leh. This marks the end of our wildlife adventure, but before the trek concludes, you’ll have one last chance to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh. Upon arrival in Leh, you’ll check into your accommodation and have the rest of the day to explore Leh’s markets or relax.
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Leh airport for your onward journey, carrying with you the memories of an incredible wildlife experience in the Himalayas.
There are no reviews yet.
Be the first to review “Snow Leopard Trek”