Search For Snow Leopards in Leh

Day 1: Arrival in New Delhi

Your journey commences in the vibrant city of New Delhi. You have the day to explore or relax after your flight. While rooms may not be available until noon, early arrivals can rest. A welcome briefing will take place in the hotel lobby this evening, providing you with essential information about the upcoming journey.

Day 2: Fly to Leh

Expect an early start for your spectacular flight to Leh, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Upon landing, be prepared for a significant temperature drop. The day is reserved for acclimatization at the high altitude of 11,485 ft (3,500 m). You can relax and catch up on sleep, followed by a gentle orientation walk through Leh’s bazaars in the afternoon.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration or Festival Attendance

The day’s activities depend on your departure date. You can either participate in a vibrant local festival or visit significant monasteries in the Indus Valley. If attending a festival, you’ll spend the entire day enjoying the elaborate rituals and performances. If not, your itinerary includes visits to Shey Palace, Tikse Monastery, and Stakna Monastery, where you can explore rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.

Day 4: Journey to Rumbak

Departing from Leh, you’ll drive across the Indus River towards Jinchen, then trek through the stunning Rumbak Gorge. The day concludes with a camping experience at Rumbak Sumdo (12,470 ft / 3,800 m), where you’ll set up your base camp, ready to start your search for snow leopards.

Days 5-9: Search for Snow Leopards

Over the next five days, your group will dedicate itself to tracking snow leopards. Led by expert wildlife guides, you’ll traverse various valleys, including Rumbak, Yurutse, and Ganda La, as well as Husing and Tarbuns valleys, renowned for snow leopard sightings. Your guides will utilize their local knowledge and connections to maximize your chances of encountering these majestic animals. Accompanied by a trekking crew, you’ll have traditional meals, with one night spent in a Ladakhi homestay, providing a unique cultural experience.

Day 10: Return to Leh

Today, you’ll trek back to Jinchen, where transport awaits to take you back to the comforts of your hotel in Leh. You can unwind and share stories from your snow leopard search.

Day 11: Free Day in Leh

Depending on your flight schedule, today may be a free day for additional sightseeing or relaxation in Leh. You may revisit the monasteries or enjoy local markets. If the group itinerary allows, you might attend a festival or enjoy more wildlife spotting.

Day 12: Fly Back to New Delhi

An early flight will take you back to New Delhi. The rest of the day is free for personal activities, including shopping or visiting famous sites like the Red Fort, Jami Masjid, or Humayun’s Tomb.

Day 13: Free Day in New Delhi

This day is reserved in case of any delays in the flight from Leh. If everything goes according to schedule, enjoy your free day exploring the city’s attractions, vibrant markets, and rich history. Optional day trips to Agra for the Taj Mahal can also be arranged.

Day 14: Departure from New Delhi

The tour concludes after breakfast today. You may begin your return journey home, or for those seeking more adventure, consider the five-day Golden Triangle extension, which covers Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, immersing you in India’s cultural richness.

This itinerary ensures a comprehensive experience of both wildlife and culture while maintaining flexibility for seasonal variations and individual preferences. Enjoy your adventure in the breathtaking Himalayas!