Snow Leopard Expedition

Upon arrival at Leh Airport, you will be received by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Today is reserved entirely for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. Leh sits at 3,500 meters, and proper acclimatization is essential before heading into higher elevations. You may take a short gentle walk in the evening if you feel comfortable, but avoid exertion. Overnight stay in Leh.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed day exploring the Indus Valley for birdwatching. The riverbanks and surrounding agricultural fields attract several high-altitude and migratory bird species. Possible sightings include: Ibisbill, Brown-headed Gull, Ruddy Shelduck, Himalayan Magpie, Golden Eagle, Various finches and accentors. This gentle activity further assists acclimatization while offering excellent photography opportunities. Return to Leh by evening. Overnight stay in Leh.

After an early breakfast, drive to Zingchen (approx. 30–40 minutes). From here, begin your trek into Hemis National Park towards Rumbak Valley. The trail gradually ascends along dramatic gorges and open valleys. Keep your binoculars ready — Blue Sheep (Bharal), Lammergeier, and Himalayan Griffon are often spotted en route. Upon arrival in Rumbak, check into your fixed camp/homestay. Evening briefing about snow leopard tracking strategy. Overnight in Rumbak.

These days are dedicated entirely to wildlife tracking and observation. Each day follows a flexible schedule depending on wildlife movement:
Early morning tea followed by hike to strategic viewpoints, Scanning ridgelines and cliffs with spotting scopes, Tracking fresh pugmarks and movement patterns, Packed lunch in the field, Evening return to camp.

Wildlife You May Encounter: Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep (Bharal), Himalayan Wolf, Red Fox, Eurasian Lynx (rare), Golden Eagle, Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Chukar Partridge.
The Rumbak Valley is one of the most reliable habitats for Snow Leopard sightings in Ladakh. Patience, silence, and teamwork with experienced local spotters significantly increase sighting chances. Evenings are spent reviewing the day’s sightings, sharing stories, and preparing strategy for the next day. Overnight stays in Rumbak camp/homestay

After breakfast, trek back to Zingchen following the same scenic trail. Upon reaching the road head, drive back to Leh. Check into hotel and enjoy a hot shower and well-deserved rest after the wilderness experience. Evening at leisure for souvenir shopping or café visits in Leh market. Overnight stay in Leh.

Early morning transfer to Leh Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of Ladakh’s dramatic landscapes and the thrill of tracking the elusive Snow Leopard in its natural habitat.