The diversity of the Indian sub-continent is reflected in its intriguing mix of wildlife, which traverses from tropical evergreen forests and coastal swamps to the arid mountains of the extreme North. One such fascinating species is the magnificent and often evasive Snow Leopard, which can be spotted in the rugged hills of the upper Himalayas in Ladakh. For thousands of years, the Snow Leopard was known as the king of the mountains, adapting to some of the harshest conditions on the planet. Its powerful and agile body make it a great leaper and climber, and its majestic fur protects the animal from extreme cold. Their population is now on the decline, which makes the Snow Leopard trek one of the most sought-after experiences in the region today, pulling in animal lovers and enthusiasts from across the globe.
How to spot the Snow Leopard?
Ladakh’s winters are extreme, but they also offer the best time to spot this elusive creature. November to March are the ideal months to traverse the snowy valleys of the region for a spotting of the Snow Leopard. The good news is that we have trained experts who know the area and how to take care of our guests while here. We move at a slow pace, starting early in the morning for expeditions deep into the wilderness of Ladakh. Patience is key to wait out and catch the Snow Leopard in its natural setting.
More About the Region:
Acclimatization: Most of the region of Ladakh is situated above 10,000 feet, which can cause dizziness, headaches or even acute mountain sickness. To prevent these, acclimatization is a must. Snow Leopard expeditions usually go to an elevation of 3500m to about 4900m. Hence, it is imperative that all guests spend at least 2 days in Leh to acclimatize. During this period, you should spend time resting or go out only on short excursions to the city or surrounding villages.
Connectivity: As a border state, Ladakh is an army base where security is always high. Satellite phones thus are not permitted and there is no mobile connectivity in the region of the trek. However, a satellite phone is available in the village of Rumbak, from where emergency calls for rescues can be made in case of any mishap.
Spot the Snow Leopard with Creative
Explore the exceptional wildlife of Ladakh, including the breathtaking Snow Leopard, on a Creative excursion through the Upper Himalayas. This journey offers the chance to immerse into the wilderness of Ladakh while exploring its unique bio diversity, culture and history. Below is a sample itinerary. Or reach out to us for a trip, tailored to your needs and interests.
Some of the best experiences are usually the toughest. The region of Ladakh is no exception. While the extreme weather and altitude can be hard for some to acclimatise to, we take every necessary precaution to ensure you have a smooth trip. Our tour coordinators carry portable oxygen cylinders and medication to tackle onset of AMS. And are always at hand to help further.