Embark on an extraordinary 14-day adventure through the remote valleys and rugged terrain of Ladakh, where you’ll trek through snow-covered landscapes and search for the elusive snow leopard. This once-in-a-lifetime journey combines breathtaking scenery, cultural exploration, and the thrill of spotting one of the world’s most majestic big cats.
Your adventure begins with a spectacular flight over the Himalayas, landing in Leh (3,500m). The first few days are dedicated to acclimatization, allowing you to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage while adapting to the high altitude. You’ll visit Stok Palace, the royal residence turned museum, and Matho Monastery, known for its vibrant murals and spiritual ambiance. The following day takes you to the historic monasteries of Shey, Thiksey, and Hemis, where you can admire ancient architecture and experience Ladakh’s deep-rooted Buddhist culture.
The trekking adventure kicks off on day four as you drive to Liker and begin your journey on foot. The trail winds through small mountain passes like Pobe La (3,700m) and Charatse La (3,650m), offering spectacular views of Ladakh’s rugged terrain. You’ll pass through charming villages like Yangthang and Hemis Shukpachan, where you’ll stay in cozy homestays, enjoying warm Ladakhi hospitality. The trek continues through Temisgam and Lamayuru, taking you through scenic valleys, rocky trails, and ancient monasteries.
The highlight of the expedition begins on day nine, as you venture into the Zingchen-Rumbak region, known as prime snow leopard territory. You’ll spend the next several days exploring the valleys with expert local guides, tracking snow leopard movements by observing paw prints, scratch marks, and territorial markings. While spotting these elusive cats is never guaranteed, the thrill of the search makes every moment exciting. As you trek through Namlung and Shanlung valleys, you’ll also have the chance to spot other wildlife, including blue sheep, ibex, and red foxes.
After days of exploring the snow leopard’s habitat, you’ll cross the Stok Pass (4,900m), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges. The descent takes you through a narrow valley, eventually bringing you back to Leh.
The final day is spent leisurely exploring Leh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, such as local handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and traditional Ladakhi jewelry, before flying back to Delhi with unforgettable memories of this incredible wildlife adventure.
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