India
QUEST FOR SNOW LEOPARDS
24 FEB - 07 MAR 2028 • 13 DAYS • 16 GUESTS
Few wildlife experiences are as captivating—or as rewarding—as searching for the elusive snow leopard. Hidden among the towering peaks of the Himalayas, this magnificent predator has earned its legendary status as the "Ghost of the Mountains."
Join Wild Earth Expeditions on an unforgettable journey into the remote wilderness of Ladakh, where dramatic alpine landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and one of the world's most sought-after wildlife encounters combine in an extraordinary adventure.
Our expedition begins in Leh, the historic capital of Ladakh, often referred to as "Little Tibet." During two days of gentle acclimatization, discover colorful markets, centuries-old monasteries, and the rich cultural traditions of this remarkable Himalayan region while surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks.
From Leh, we travel overland into the heart of Hemis National Park and the remote Ulley Valley, widely regarded as one of the finest places on Earth to observe snow leopards in the wild. Over 5 full days, explore sweeping valleys, rocky ridgelines, and vast mountain slopes with one of India's most respected wildlife guides and an expert team of local trackers whose intimate knowledge of the landscape offers the very best opportunity to encounter this extraordinary cat.
While the snow leopard is undoubtedly the star of the expedition, the park supports an exceptional diversity of Himalayan wildlife. Keep watch for herds of blue sheep and Himalayan ibex clinging effortlessly to steep cliffs while golden eagles soar above, elusive Tibetan wolves, Himalayan red foxes, and, with a little luck, the rare Himalayan brown bear.
Spend 6 nights in a welcoming traditional mountain lodge overlooking the spectacular Ulley Valley. Hosted by a local Ladakhi family, this comfortable retreat provides an authentic glimpse into life in the high Himalayas. After rewarding days in the field, return to the warmth of the lodge to share stories over delicious home-cooked meals with your Ladakhi hosts, enjoying genuine hospitality and a fascinating insight into life in these remote Himalayan communities.
From breathtaking mountain scenery and centuries-old monasteries to unforgettable wildlife encounters, this remarkable expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the wild landscapes of Ladakh in search of the legendary Ghost of the Mountains.
HIGHLIGHTS
Search for the legendary snow leopard in the Himalayas
Spend 6 days exploring the spectacular alpine valleys and mountains of Hemis National Park
Led by one of India's leading wildlife guides and expert local snow leopard trackers
Observe iconic high-altitude species, including blue sheep, Himalayan ibex, golden eagles, and keep watch for the elusive Tibetan wolf and Himalayan red fox
Visit ancient monasteries, vibrant markets, and experience the rich Buddhist culture of Leh
Stay at the upgraded Snow Leopard Lodge, surrounded by the wild landscapes of Ulley Valley
Experience the breathtaking winter landscapes of Ladakh, often called "Little Tibet"
COMBINE FOR THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE
For those wishing to expand their travels in India, this journey can be combined with India’s Iconic Wildlife and Cultural Splendors expedition. Venture into India’s wild heart in search of Bengal tigers, Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants, leopards, wild dogs, and an incredible diversity of birdlife. Explore the forests and grasslands of Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Kaziranga National Parks on morning and afternoon safari drives, then discover another side of India through its ancient traditions, colorful culture, and remarkable history. Together, the two expeditions offer an exceptional opportunity to experience the extraordinary diversity of India - from the elusive snow leopard in the mountains of Ladakh to tigers roaming the forests and rhinos grazing the floodplains of Assam.
“The big cat wildlife experiences - snow leopard, bengal tiger, leopards - were amazing.. five snow leopard sightings was an absolute treat and being able to watch them arouse and then stalk the majestic Himalayas is something I will never forget. Most of my friends think only of Africa as the place for big cats..but India provides equally fabulous experiences and Thomas and his gracious and knowledgeable Indian colleagues made our Indian encounters simply awesome! I sincerely hope more people recognize India’s conservation efforts and take on an Indian experience.”
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ITINERARY OVERVIEW
INDIA – Quest for Snow Leopards
24 FEB - 07 MAR 2028 • 13 DAYS • 16 GUESTS
Day 01 | Feb 24 Depart home and travel to Delhi, India
Day 02 | Feb 25 Arrive in Delhi / Welcome cocktails and dinner
Day 03 | Feb 26 Scenic flight across the Himalayas to Leh, acclimatize to altitude
Day 04 | Feb 27 Buddhist monasteries / Leh palace / Local Market
Day 05 | Feb 28 Drive along the Indus River across mountain passes to remote Ulley Valley
Day 06-10 | Feb 29-Mar 04 Spend 5 days in Hemis National Park searching for snow leopards
Day 11 | Mar 05 Return drive from Ulley to Leh
Day 12 | Mar 06 Fly home via Delhi or add-on a bespoke Post-Extenstion
Day 13 | Mar 07 Arrive home
COMBINE FOR THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE
INDIA – Iconic Wildlife & Cultural Splendors
11-26 FEB 2028 • 16 DAYS • 16 GUESTS
Day 01 | Feb 11 Depart home and travel to Delhi, India
Day 02 | Feb 12 Arrive in Delhi / Delhi City Tour / Welcome Cocktails & Dinner
Day 03 | Feb 13 Fly to Raipur / Travel through rural Madhya Pradesh to Kanha National Park
Day 04-05 | Feb 14-15 Two days of safari drives in search of Tigers and India’s iconic wildlife
Day 06 | Feb 16 Morning game drive / Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park
Day 07-08 | Feb 17-18 Two days of safari drives & nature walks in search of India’s iconic wildlife
Day 09 | Feb 19 Journey from Bandhavgarh to Varanasi
Day 10 | Feb 20 Sunrise Ganges River Cruise / Varanasi temples & ancient traditions / Evening Aarti Ceremony
Day 11 | Feb 21 Fly Varanasi-Kolkata
Day 12 | Feb 22 Discover the sites of Kolkata
Day 13 | Feb 23 Fly Kolkata to Guwahati / Journey to Kaziranga National Park
Day 14 | Feb 24 Explore Kaziranga National Park on morning and evening game drives
Day 15 | Feb 25 Transfer to Guwahati / Fly to Delhi
Day 16 | Feb 26 Join the Snow Leopards Expedition
ADD-ON - RAJASTHAN IN STYLE - Leopards & Palaces
FEB/MAR 2028 • 6 DAYS • Optional Add-On Pre or Post Trip
Day 01 | Fly Delhi–Jodhpur / Arrive in the Blue City / Overnight at RAAS Jodhpur
Day 02 | Explore Mehrangarh Fort & Jaswant Thada / Explore Jodhpur
Day 03 | Journey from Jodhpur to Jawai / Afternoon Leopard Safari
Day 04 | Morning & Afternoon Leopard Safaris among Jawai’s Granite Hills
Day 05 | Morning Leopard Safari / Journey to Udaipur / Explore the City Palace, Jagdish Temple & Historic Old City
Day 06 | Fly Udaipur–Delhi / Continue Home or Onward
Elevate the India experience with an exclusive 6-day journey through the royal heart of Rajasthan. Explore Jodhpur’s majestic Mehrangarh Fort and blue-washed lanes, venture into the dramatic granite wilderness of Jawai on thrilling leopard safaris, and discover the palaces, temples and colorful bazaars of romantic Udaipur. Privately guided experiences, exceptional regional cuisine and extraordinary accommodations - including the stylish RAAS Jodhpur, a Tented Rock Suite at SUJÁN JAWAI and a palace-view room with a semi-private pool at The Oberoi Udaivilas - combine to create an unforgettable celebration of India at its most luxurious.
PLEASE NOTE: This optional extension is privately guided by professional local Rajasthan guides and experienced drives; it is not accompanied by a Wild Earth Expedition Leader. This extension can be arranged before or after either of our two India expeditions.
ADD ON – ICONIC TAJ MAHAL
FEB/MAR 2028 • 2 DAYS • Optional Add-On Pre or Post Trip
Day 01 | Travel to Agra / Red Fort & Taj Mahal at sunset
Day 02 | Taj Mahal sunrise / Return to Delhi / Continue Home or Onward
Our Iconic Taj Mahal Add-on provides Wild Earth Explorers the opportunity to discover some of India’s most iconic architectural treasures. Learn about the history and construction behind spectacular fortresses, tombs, and palaces while exploring the rich legacy of the Mughal Empire. Marvel at the impressive architecture of Agra Fort before enjoying beautiful sunset views of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River. Rise early the following morning to experience the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the changing light transforms its white marble façade—an unforgettable finale to this short journey through Agra.
*PLEASE NOTE This optional extension is privately guided by an expert local guide and driver, it is not accompanied by a Wild Earth Expedition Leader. This extension can be arranged before or after either of our two India expeditions.
SNOW LEOPARD LODGE
Set amid the remote, high-altitude wilderness of western Ladakh, Snow Leopard Lodge offers a warm and welcoming sanctuary in the heart of prime snow leopard country. Surrounded by sweeping valleys, rugged cliffs and pastel-hued mountains, the lodge is ideally positioned for exploring several wildlife-rich valleys known for snow leopards, Asiatic ibex, Ladakh urial, Tibetan wolves, red foxes, golden eagles and Himalayan vultures.
Ten comfortable, twin-bedded rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, central heating, 24-hour hot water and abundant natural light, while panoramic windows reveal dramatic views across the surrounding mountains. After exhilarating days in the field, gather in the inviting lounge and dining area to share sightings, enjoy a warming drink and savor delicious Ladakhi, Indian and international cuisine.
More than simply a place to stay, Snow Leopard Lodge lies at the heart of the wildlife experience. Expert naturalists and dedicated local trackers draw upon an intimate knowledge of the landscape, carefully scanning distant ridgelines and following fresh signs through the valleys in search of the elusive “Ghost of the Mountains.” Remote, intimate and filled with genuine Ladakhi hospitality, the lodge provides an unforgettable base for one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife quests.
WILD EARTH LEADERS
PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas Baechtold, Encounters Asia, Indrajit Latey, Adobe Stock