Snow Leopard Expedition, Spiti

Spotting the grey ghost of the Himalayas in the wild, rugged terrains of Spiti Valley is no less than an art!

Snow leopard – the name itself sends a dash of excitement and elation down one body. This is what we feel every time we spot this majestic creation.

We can’t thank God and our mother nature enough for bestowing us with such magical opportunity where we see the grey ghost of the Himalayas walking the snowy slopes of Spiti Valley in such a graceful manner as if it was a ramp.

Note: The Snow Leopard Expedition is not a leisure trip; it’s an expedition specifically designed for wildlife photographers and enthusiasts who love and appreciate the pristine beauty of the king of camouflage in its natural habitat, the mother nature, and vivid culture of Spiti Valley.

 

What is Snow Leopard Expedition, Spiti?

The Snow Leopard Expedition in Spiti refers to a wildlife adventure in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, where you can spot the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat.

The 11-day long expedition typically takes place during the winter months (January and February) when upper reaches of the valley receive heavy snowfall forcing snow leopards to descend to lower altitudes in search of water and food.

Guided by our team of experienced guides and local spotters, the Snow Leopard Expedition offers a rare opportunity to observe not only snow leopard in wild but also other high-altitude wildlife like ibex, blue sheep, red fox, and birds.

The journey involves walking and trekking through the stunning, rugged landscapes of Spiti, and it often includes visits to remote villages and beautiful monasteries, allowing participants to experience the rich culture and breathtaking scenery of the region.

Why Snow Leopard Expedition, Spiti?

The stunning landscapes of the Spiti Valley will give you more than you would have expected only if you come with a mindset of giving more than taking back from the mother nature and the uninterrupted ecosystem of the valley.

Spiti, located in the northeastern part of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is part of the larger Trans-Himalayan region.

Its altitude and climate make it a prime location for snow leopards, especially during the winter months when they descend to lower altitudes in search of prey.

The seclusion of the region, combined with the presence of experienced local spotters, makes Spiti one of the top destinations for snow leopard expeditions.

Route We Follow While On Snow Leopard Expedition

From Shimla, there are two entry routes to reach Spiti Valley. We take route 1:

Route 1: Shimla – Narkanda – Rampur Bushahr – Kalpa – Nako – Tabo – Kaza on NH 05.

Route 2: Shimla – Mashobra – Naldehra – Suni – Luhri – Rampur Bushahr –Kalpa – Nako – Tabo – Kaza route on State Highway 13 and NH5.

Spiti Valley Route Map

Snow Leopard Expedition/Trek Highlights

• The biggest one, of course: Spotting the grey ghost of the Himalayas in the wild
• Spend an entire week in the beautiful, remote villages (Kibber, Komic) of Spiti Valley
• Drive on one of the most treacherous roads in the world in the midst of vast landscapes and by the deep gorges of Kinnaur and Spiti.
• Authentic local food and beautiful homestays
• Visit centuries-old Buddhist monasteries. Tabo’s 1000-year-old monastery is often hailed as the Ajanta of the Himalayas
• Mummy of the monk (Sangha Tenzin) at Gue Monastery
• Visit the world’s highest village, Komik (4,587m)
• Send a postcard to your loved ones from Hikkim – the world’s highest post office located at an altitude of 4400 m.
• Watch the confluence of the Sutlej and Spiti River at Khab

 

Spiti Snow Leopard Expedition Itinerary: 11 Days of Hardships and Thrill

To make it one of the most memorable travel experiences, our Snow Leopard Expedition itinerary is designed to offer the best of wildlife sights, cultural experiences, and the Spiti region inside out.

From savoring Spitian food to experiencing the culture of the valley, you will get an opportunity to live the life of local people.

Be it spotting a snow leopard perfectly camouflaged in plain sight to standing at ‘the world’s highest village – Komic’ or driving through ‘the world’s most treacherous road,’ you will experience it all firsthand and take home millions of happy memories and adventure tales you have lived in real-time.

Duration: 12 Nights/13 Days

Package cost: Available on request

Brief Snow Leopard Expedition Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Delhi
Day 2: Delhi to Kotgarh via Shimla and Narkanda (400 km, 9 hrs drive)
Day 3: Kotgarh to Kalpa (144 km, 5 hrs drive)
Day 4: Kalpa to Kaza via Nako and Tabo (190 km, 6 hrs drive)
Day 5: Kaza local sightseeing (acclimatisation/rest day)
Day 6 to Day 10: Snow Leopard Spotting
Day 11: Kibber/Kaza to Kalpa
Day 12: Kalpa to Kotgarh
Day 13: Kotgarh to Delhi (Departure)

Detailed Snow Leopard Expedition Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Delhi

This is the beginning of the Snow Leopard Expedition. First reach at the New Delhi International Airport. Our team members will welcome you and guide you to the hotel.

He/she will brief you about the expedition and help you with all necessary travel-related documents. We will stay overnight at a hotel in New Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi to Kotgarh via Shimla and Narkanda (400 km, 9 hrs drive)

Starting from Delhi/Chandigarh in the morning, we will take you on a joyride on the Himalayan Express Highway of NH 05 into one of the most ecologically diverse and lavishly green valleys of Shivalik.

From Parwanoo, the road runs along the Kalka-Shimla Railway route – a UNESCO World Heritage site — built in the late 19^th and early 20^th century by the Britishers.

Chandigarh-Shimla highway snakes through Shivalik forests of pine, deodar, and oak trees.  By noon, we reach Shimla – the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Here we’ll have lunch and unwind for a moment.

We’ll resume the drive and reach Kotgarh by evening — our pit stop for the night. Dinner and overnight stay is at a beautiful homestay amidst apple and cherry orchards.

Day 3: Kotgarh to Kalpa (144 km, 5 hrs drive)

Soon after breakfast, we’ll take a connecting road that will take us back on the NH 05.  It descends through orchards of apples and cherries and meets national highway at Bithal.

From Bithal, we’ll be driving along the right bank of the Sutlej river.

The spotlight of the day is driving through the tunnel-shaped road stretch of Tranda Dhank on old Hindustan-Tibet road.

Driving under a rocky roof formed by cutting the mountains on one side and a deep gorge on the other side will set your heart racing.

At Karcham, we drive straight at the national highway to reach Kalpa via Reckong Peo village. By evening, we will reach Kalpa. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel in Kalpa.

Day 4: Kalpa to Kaza via Nako and Tabo (190 km, 6 hrs drive)

Today, we drive along the Sutlej River until we reach a place called Khab – the confluence of Sutlej and Spiti River.

Carrying the pristine beauty and divinity of the valley, Spiti River finally pours its clean and blue waters into Sutlej River at Khab.

From here the road ascends to Nako, a village perched on a slope of an elevation of about 12,000 feet.

Nako is a picturesque village offering some amazing views of perpetually snow-covered Manerang ranges. There is also a lake and a Buddhist monastery in the village.

Nako also serves as a basecamp for trekkers climbing the highest peak in Himachal – the Reo Purgyil.

After unwinding for a while, we’ll soon proceed towards Tabo.

The history of the Tabo monastery dates back to 996 AD. It is the oldest continuously operating monastery in India. While en route Kaza, we’ll visit the monastery and surrounding chortens.

After exploring the village and monastery, we head toward Kaza and reach there by evening. Dinner and overnight stay at a homestay.

Day 5: Kaza local sightseeing (acclimatisation day/rest day)

Kaza is at an altitude of 12,500 feet, making it a perfect place to acclimatize to the harsh weather of the Spiti Valley and relax after a long drive.

We will climb to higher altitudes of 14,010 feet at Kibber and spend next 5 days at this elevation. This is the snow leopard kingdom.

We will sit back and relax, and explore the local market at our leisure. This gives our body and mind enough time to acclimatize and get used to extreme weather conditions of the valley.

Day 6 to Day 10: Snow Leopard Spotting

This is the most exciting, adventurous and exhausting part of the expedition.

For next five days, our routine is going to be almost the same – wake up early in the morning, head into the outskirts of the Kibber village, sit back and keep a low profile at a vantage point suggested by our spotters and trek leader, and keep looking for the most elusive cat in the snow-covered slopes of the valley.

As we explore and enjoy the far reaches of the snow leopard kingdom, we do not miss out on any opportunity capturing these elusive creatures against the backdrop of snowy, rugged landscapes.

As we traverse the challenging terrain, our seasoned spotters will advise you to acclimatize properly, given the high altitude.

Here’s a glimpse into our daily schedule for next five days:

We start our day early with morning tea or coffee at 6:00 AM, followed by breakfast. By 7:00 AM, we set off in search of snow leopards. There’s also the opportunity to spot blue sheep, red foxes, and ibex on the way.

A small tent is set up near the area we received a confirmed update on. If we are lucky, we will get to see the snow leopard in the wild; patience is the key.

We return to the homestay in the late evening. Evening snacks, tea, and coffee will be served at both the homestay and the sighting location.

Cameras and daytime gear will be handled by porters while you remain on standby, ensuring that you’re ready for any sudden sightings. For photographers, we provide walking poles, chairs, and stools to enhance your comfort.

Additionally, tents and mats are available on the site to rest during the day.

Throughout the expedition, you’ll have access to bottled water. At homestay, you’ll find a wood-fired stove where we sit together, discuss the day and enjoy our food in the cosiness.

Since winters in Spiti Valley are very harsh, there’s no running water, but warm water is supplied daily for washing up and to freshen up. The dry toilets are well-equipped with wet wipes and toilet paper, and a separate facility for bathing with hot water is available for those wishing to freshen up.

Day 11: Drive from Kaza to Kalpa (190 km, 6 hrs drive)

After having breakfast, we will travel back to Kalpa from Kaza. This trail will take us to the modern civilization from ancient civilization.

In the noon we will have lunch and reach Kalpa in the evening. We will stay overnight at a hotel in Kalpa.

Day 12: Kalpa to Kotgarh (144 km, 5 hrs drive)

Today after breakfast, we will come back to Shimla after exploring the most peaceful and beautiful place and it’s culture. In the evening we will reach to Shimla.

After that you can go to the Mall Road in Shimla. Staying overnight at Shimla.

Day 13: Kotgarh to Delhi

This will be the last day of the journey, after having breakfast we will travel to Delhi. In the evening, we reach Delhi and this is the end of the Snow Leopard Expedition.

Spiti Valley Landscape and Its Unique Ecosystem

Rugged and harsh terrain of Spiti Valley is one of the primary reasons why snow leopards thrive in this region. The valley is a cold desert, situated at an altitude of around 4,250 meters (14,000 feet) above sea level, and is characterized by thin vegetation, jagged cliffs, and wide, open valleys.

This remote and isolated environment provides an ideal habitat for the elusive snow leopards. The snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and tranquil valleys offer the perfect backdrop for a true wilderness adventure.

The ecosystem of Spiti is uniquely adapted to its cold, arid conditions. Apart from snow leopards, the region is home to several other species of wildlife, including the ibex, Himalayan blue sheep (bharal), and the red fox.

The biodiversity of Spiti is both fragile and diverse, which is why conservation efforts play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of this ecosystem.

Best Time for Snow Leopard Expedition

Timing is critical when planning a Snow Leopard Expedition. The best time to visit Spiti for snow leopard expedition is during the winter months (January and February).

During this period, snow leopards descend from their higher, more inaccessible ranges to the lower valleys in search of food.

The increased movement of their prey, such as the Himalayan ibex and bharal, makes these months the most optimal for spotting the majestic cat.

In the winter, temperatures in Spiti can drop to as low as -25°C, so visitors need to be well-prepared for the cold.

Despite the harsh conditions, the likelihood of spotting snow leopards is significantly higher during this time, making the expedition worth every effort for wildlife photographers and enthusiasts.

Essential Gear and Clothing For Snow Leopard Expedition, Spiti

Given Spiti Valley’s extreme weather conditions, proper gear and clothing are important for a successful and comfortable expedition.

Layered clothing is highly recommended to trap heat and provide insulation. The key to staying warm is to have moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer to protect against snow and wind.

Additional essential gear includes:

• Waterproof trekking boots with good grip for icy conditions
• Thermal gloves, hats, and socks to keep extremities warm
• Good quality binoculars and spotting scopes for snow leopard tracking
• High-quality cameras with long lenses for photography
• Snow gaiters and trekking poles for walking in deep snow
• Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect from UV rays at high altitudes

Being properly equipped ensures safety and allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the expedition without worrying about the cold.

Fitness and Training Required

The Snow Leopard Expedition Spiti is physically demanding due to the high altitude, cold temperatures, and challenging terrain.

It is recommended that participants undergo some form of fitness training before embarking on the journey.

Cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, or cycling can help improve stamina and endurance, which are critical for walking long distances at high altitudes.

Acclimatization is another important factor. Since Spiti lies at altitudes over 4,000 meters, it’s important to spend a few days adjusting to the altitude before embarking on Snow Leopard trek.

Altitude sickness is a real concern, so staying hydrated, moving slowly, and listening to your body is essential.

Other Wildlife of Spiti Valley

While the Snow Leopard Expedition may be the highlight of the journey, Spiti is home to a variety of other wildlife. The region’s rich biodiversity offers opportunities to encounter animals like:

• Himalayan ibex: A wild goat species often spotted scaling rocky cliffs
• Red fox: Known for its bushy tail and striking fur, often spotted in the valleys
• Tibetan wolf: A predator in the valley, though harder to spot than the ibex or fox
• Birds: Birdwatchers can also enjoy Spiti’s avian life, such as the golden eagle and Himalayan snowcock.

Role of Spiti Valley in Conservation of Wildlife

Spiti plays a critical role in the conservation of snow leopards and other endangered species. Several initiatives, including community-based conservation programs, are actively involved in protecting the snow leopard’s habitat.

These programs work hand-in-hand with local villagers, raising awareness and ensuring that tourism has a positive impact on the region.

Organizations like the Snow Leopard Trust and Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) have collaborated with local communities to establish sustainable eco-tourism practices.

These initiatives not only help protect the snow leopard but also create employment opportunities for the local population, thus reducing human-wildlife conflict.

Exploring Local Villages and Century-Old Monasteries

In addition to wildlife, the expedition offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Spiti. The valley is dotted with ancient monasteries, including the Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, and Dhankar Monastery, each offering a glimpse into the region’s century-old Buddhist traditions.

The remote villages like Kibber, Langza, and Komic, are inhabited by hardworking, honest, warm-hearted people who live in harmony with nature.

Visitors are often invited into their homes to experience Spiti’s hospitality firsthand, with traditional meals, culture, and stories about life in this remote part of the world.

The monasteries serve as spiritual havens, where visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and marvel at ancient murals, statues, and scriptures.

These cultural excursions add a meaningful layer to the expedition, enriching the overall experience.

Understanding the Buddhism Influence in Spiti Valley

Spiti has strong cultural ties to Tibet, and the region’s people follow Tibetan Buddhism, which influences their daily lives and festivals.

The traditional architecture, religious rituals, and festivals in Spiti are deeply rooted in Tibetan customs.

Festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Chakhar (a festival of sacred dances) are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Tibetan influence is also evident in the local cuisine, language, and clothing. The resilience of Spiti’s people in the face of harsh living conditions is a testament to their deep spiritual connection with Buddhism and their environment.

Ethical Guidelines for Wildlife Expedition

When embarking on a Snow Leopard Expedition in Spiti, it’s crucial to follow ethical guidelines that respect both the wildlife and the local communities.

These guidelines ensure that tourism does not negatively impact the delicate ecosystem or disrupt the lives of the animals and people living in the region.

Here are some key guidelines to follow:

• Respect the animals’ space: Snow leopards are elusive creatures and should not be disturbed for the sake of a sighting or photograph. Maintain a safe distance and use binoculars or cameras with zoom lenses to observe them from afar.
• Leave no trace: Ensure that you leave the environment as you found it. Pack out all trash, avoid disturbing the natural habitat, and stick to designated trails to prevent damage to fragile ecosystems.
• Support local conservation efforts: Choose expedition operators that prioritize sustainability and contribute to snow leopard conservation. Many local organizations work on community-based wildlife management, and your support can help fund these important initiatives.

By following these ethical practices, you can enjoy a rewarding experience while contributing to the long-term survival of the snow leopard and other wildlife in Spiti Valley.

Staying Safe in the Harsh Terrain

Spiti’s rugged, high-altitude landscape demands careful planning and preparation for safety. The combination of extreme cold, thin air, and challenging terrain can pose risks to even seasoned trekkers, so it’s important to take precautions.

• Altitude sickness: Since most snow leopard expeditions take place at altitudes above 4,000 meters, the risk of altitude sickness (also known as Acute Mountain Sickness) is high. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To minimize the risk, acclimatize by spending a few days at a high-altitude base camp before heading out on longer treks.
• Cold weather protection: With temperatures often dipping below -20°C in the winter, frostbite and hypothermia are real concerns. Dress in layers and make sure to keep your extremities warm with thermal gloves, socks, and hats. Always carry extra layers in case the weather turns unexpectedly cold.
• Emergency preparedness: In remote areas like Spiti, medical facilities are few and far between. It’s essential to carry a well-stocked first-aid kit, including altitude sickness medications. Our guides and spotters will have in-depth knowledge of the terrain and should be relied on for their expertise in managing risks.

Staying safe in Spiti requires vigilance, awareness, and preparation, but with proper precautions, the experience will be both memorable and rewarding.

Importance of Sustainable Tourism in Spiti

Sustainable tourism in Spiti ensures that the fragile ecosystem and the local communities are preserved for future generations.

As tourism increases in the region, there is a greater need to practice responsible travel that minimizes the impact on both the environment and the people who call Spiti home.

Many tour operators and conservation groups have partnered with local communities to develop eco-friendly tourism models. These initiatives promote:

• Community-based tourism, where local residents are involved in guiding and hosting visitors, thus benefiting directly from tourism income.
• Low-impact travel, which encourages the use of renewable energy sources, waste reduction, and support for eco-friendly accommodations.
• Cultural preservation, ensuring that traditional Spitian ways of life, such as nomadic herding and monastery practices, continue to thrive despite external influences.

Sustainable tourism helps maintain the delicate balance between nature, wildlife, and human development. By supporting local initiatives, visitors play a vital role in ensuring that Spiti’s wildlife, including snow leopards, continues to flourish.

Role of Local Guides and Experts

Local guides are the unsung heroes of any successful Snow Leopard Expeditions. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and animal behavior is invaluable.

Many guides have grown up in the Spiti region and have a deep cultural and ecological understanding of the landscape.

Hiring local guides not only enhances the expedition experience but also supports the local economy.

Many locals are involved in ongoing researches related to snow leopards, helping conservationists monitor populations and track movements. Their role in both tourism and conservation cannot be overstated, as they ensure that visitors have a meaningful, educational, and sustainable experience.

A Day in the Life of a Snow Leopard Spotter

Spotting a snow leopard in the wild is no easy task, and those who embark on these expeditions often spend hours, or even days, waiting for a sighting.

A typical day for a snow leopard spotter starts early in the morning, before dawn, when the chances of seeing the elusive cat are higher.

• Morning: The day begins with setting up camp near known snow leopard territories. Spotters use high-powered binoculars and spotting scopes to scan the ridges, cliffs, and valleys for signs of movement. Snow leopards blend perfectly into the rocky landscape, so patience and a sharp eye are required.
• Afternoon: After a few hours of scanning, spotters often break for lunch, eating simple meals like dal and rice, before heading out to a new vantage point for another attempt. Throughout the day, spotters will also be on the lookout for snow leopard tracks and scat, which are telltale signs of the big cat’s presence.
• Evening: As the sun sets, the cold intensifies, and the day’s search may continue until darkness falls.

While the process is painstaking, the reward is well worth the effort. A snow leopard sighting is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

FAQs about Snow Leopard Expedition, Spiti

Q: What is the best time of year to see snow leopards?

The best time to spot snow leopards in Spiti is between January and March, during the winter months when snow leopards come to lower elevations in search of food and water.

Q: What gear do I need for the expedition?

You’ll need warm, layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, binoculars, and a good camera. Specific gear like snow gaiters, trekking poles, and thermal gear is highly recommended due to the cold and rugged terrain.

Q: How difficult is the trek to spot snow leopards?

The trek can be moderately challenging, given the high altitude and cold weather. While prior trekking experience is beneficial, physical fitness and preparation are essential for the expedition.

Q: Can beginners join the expedition?

Yes, beginners can join, but it’s important to be well-prepared and acclimatize to the altitude. Our team of local guides and spotters will ensure safety and offer support throughout the expedition.

Q: Is the expedition safe?

Yes, as long as participants follow the guidance of our experienced guides and take necessary precautions against the cold and altitude.

 

Tour cost includes:

• Accommodation on twin sharing basis
• Camping at Chandra Taal
• Transportation on all days of the tour
• Meals
• Qualified tour leader
• Vehicle: Innova or equivalent

Tour cost does not include:

• Additional food or beverages ordered, room service, porter
• Insurance
• Anything not mentioned in the inclusion list

 

Cancellation Policy:

In the event of cancellation of tour/trek/adventure activity/services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, we must be notified of the same in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective from the date we receive the information in writing (email), and cancellation charges would be as follows:

• 30 days or more prior to the departure date: 90% of the total package fee refundable
• Between 21-30 days prior to the departure date: 60% of the total package fee refundable
• Between 20-11 days prior to the departure date: 30% of the total package fee refundable
• Less than 10 days prior to the departure date: No refund
• No show: No refund
• No refund will be made if a participant is unable to complete the tour/trek/adventure activity owing to medical conditions or any other reasons, after starting the tour/trek/adventure activity