Snow Leopard Trek Hardiness Level: Hard
Ideal season for the trek: Between November and March.
Height: 9,842 feet
Daytime highs of -6°C and +6°C and overnight lows of -10°C and -25°C
Headquarters: Zingchen
Initial and Final Point: Leh Airport
Distance: 29 km
HIGHLIGHTS OF SNOW LEOPARD TREK:
This travel package offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see one of the world's most elusive and rarest big cats in its natural habitat. With unmatched beauty and grace, snow leopards are truly magnificent creatures that will leave you in awe.
The snow leopard trek takes you through some of the most breath taking landscapes and mountain ranges in the world. You'll hike through rugged terrain, past icy streams and frozen lakes while keeping your eyes peeled for signs of these majestic creatures.
You'll also have the chance to interact with local communities who have lived alongside these animals for centuries, gaining insight into their culture and way of life.
Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see some of the world's rarest animals, including snow leopards, blue sheep and Himalayan wolves.
As part of this travel package, you'll stay in cosy lodges or tents with comfortable amenities like hot showers and hearty meals.
You can take advantage of the spectacular views of the snow-covered Mountains from all angles and never pass up the chance to cross frozen bridges while on a search for the elusive Snow Leopards.
Enjoy exploring the stunning kingdom of Ladakh, where architecture and environment have been perfectly balanced.
Get ecstatic to capture images of the extremely rare Snow Leopards, blue sheep,yaks, rare birds, and more.
Cross a frozen river.
Be in awe of the town's unique Buddhist culture and enduring customs.
OVERVIEW OF THE SNOW LEOPARD TREK
If you're seeking a thrilling adventure in the mountains, look no further than our Snow Leopard Trek travel package. This is an experience that will leave you breathless - both from the stunning views and the excitement of spotting one of the rarest big cats in the world. Our tour guides are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring that you'll have every opportunity to see these elusive creatures up close.
The Snow Leopard Trek is not just about spotting wildlife - it's an immersive cultural experience too. You'll meet local villagers and learn about their traditions, while also exploring ancient monasteries and mountain landscapes unlike any other. Our itinerary has been carefully crafted to offer a balance between exciting excursions and peaceful moments for reflection.
Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness nature at its most majestic!
A Snow Leopard Trekking package is available to you, and it includes eight days of nonstop adventure and thrills. Once you reach Leh's wonderland, it begins. Since the Mountains are providing the ideal backdrop every time, start the journey by exploring the shimmering town. The most anticipated Rumbak Gorge entrance is reached through Zingchen. You will go to a lofty altitude of 3050 metres before arriving at the confined gorge.
Afterwards, by comprehending the hilly slopes, you are welcomed to reveal the untamed paths of the mythical land of Husing. Some creatures are compelled to descend from the high altitudes where they typically reside, making it an ideal winter journey. Your chances of simply identifying them will increase.
Discover Husing, stroll through the Rumbak Valley, and observe the Argali Sheep grazing there. After photographing Husing's deceptive vistas, return to Leh to finish your Snow Leopard journey.
Ice-covered Indus River streams flowing between enormous peaks and a rough terrain balance the Rumbak Valley's beauty. Hussing point, Rumbak hamlet, and Tarbung valley are the three most well-known locations along this walk. The snow leopards congregate in these three areas via a number of trails to cross territorial boundaries and settle in for mating and hunting. Every location also has a special vantage point from which hikers and others can rest and take in the breathtaking scenery for several hours. Only during Ladakh's peak winters, from the end of December to the beginning of March, can one view this spectacle. Here, the weather is extremely erratic, with temperatures dropping below zero and sudden snowfall and strong gusts.
It is well known that this ferocious cat is very elusive and difficult to catch. This walk requires a lot of luck, patience, and keen observation. It would be an understatement to say that seeing the Himalayan grey ghost is an exhilarating experience.
The valleys of Rumbak, which are located right in the middle of the Hemis National Park, feature a vast network of ridges that act as a highway for these shifty beings to travel on as they look for sustenance. Leopards lack a lair or cave, in contrast to other cat species. They never stop moving and only stop briefly when they are close to fresh food sources. This makes the possibility of seeing leopards unusual.
Compared to rigorous treks, this trekking has a very different structure and is more like a wildlife expedition.You will be guided through this adventure by a tracking and spotting specialist rather than a trek guide. We will have to stay put and wait for the shifty cat rather than travelling great distances. Telescopes and binoculars will be our primary travel accessories rather than hiking boots and hiking gear. We shall learn how to observe animal behaviour by examining pug markings and other signals for movements rather than how to ascend and descend on routes. The Rumbak region has quite steep, short slopes.
To climb them, you'll need the right expertise, a certain level of physical fitness, some basic tools, and experience. The Snow Leopard Expedition is a level 4 trek. The frosty conditions and treacherous scree portions present the most difficulties here. The area's extreme cold necessitates thick layers, and the slopes' nature needs a solid understanding of the walking techniques used there. It is one of the most sought-after treks in Ladakh. At a height of 3000 metres, it is located in the eastern region of Ladakh. It has an area of 600 square kilometres in the valleys of Markha and Rumbak and is a significant portion of the renowned Hemis National Park.
It allows each hiker to arrive at the point where there was no longer any human intervention and only the wild world. This journey is entertaining because of the rough mountains, the untamed expanses of flora, and the locations where those uncommon kinds of animals and birds can be viewed. You can encounter surprises that you can treasure for a lifetime at each trail bend. You can also learn more about the history of Rumbak Valley.
Ideal Season to Visit
Snow Leopard Trek is best visited between November and March.
The winter in Ladakh is chilly in character. The days are likely to be sunny from January to March, but the air will be chilly. In Ladakh, January is the coldest month. The days start to warm up in March, although the average temperature stays at 7°C. Evenings, nights, and early mornings are all bitterly chilly. The range of daytime temperatures in Leh and along the journey is from -25°C to +6°C. The temperature at night can fall to between -10°C and - 25°C. From January and March, snow is typically present.
ITINERARY
Day 1 LEH ARRIVAL
Our personnel will welcome you when you arrive at Leh Airport. They will lead you to your accommodation so you can rest and refuel. The hotel will serve lunch, warm beverages, and snacks.
You will get the option to explore the majestic Shanti Stupa as the afternoon comes to a close. You will visit the Leh Palace for a brief tour after viewing the Leh sunset. You can afterwards explore Leh's neighbourhood markets.
You will return to the hotel to get a good night's sleep after these excursions.
DAY 2 Acclimatisation (3,500M) and Local Sightseeing at Leh
You can have a headache and fatigue due to the high altitude and low oxygen level. Going to the neighbourhood market and consuming a lot of water are the finest acclimation treatments.
You can go sightseeing at the well-known Leh Palace and other surrounding monasteries. There are various creative cafes and real flea markets in the Leh local market. That is the place to go if you want to buy some mementos and hiking equipment.
After an early breakfast, you'll start your drive to the meeting point of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. During the trip, stops will be made at all of the significant Ladakhi sights.
We will make stops at Spituk Gompa, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, the Ladakh Hall of Fame, and Magnetic Hill on route to the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers.
Go to Chilling by taking the road that leads away from the confluence and past the Zanskar River. You can really cross the Zanskar River on this route as a portion of the well-known Chadar Trek, where hikers cross the river from Padum in the Zanskar Valley to Leh while it freezes during the winter.
Stay for the night in Leh.
Day 3 Leh, Zingchen and Rumbak Valley
We will embark on the Snow Leopard Trek today. A quick breakfast will be followed by hotel check-out. We'll drive to Zingchen, where our hike will begin, when this is finished.
The walk route will extend from Rumbak Valley to Zingchen. Today will put a strain on your stamina because of the route's moderate elevation.
When visiting Rumbak Valley, keep an eye out for snow leopards because it is where you can see them.
Homestay or camp overnight stay.
Day 4 Rumbak Valley -Stok La Rumbak Valley
Today's snow leopard journey will resume. Trekking from Rumbak Valley to Stok La and back will take up the majority of the day. The most sightings of snow leopards are along this section of the journey, so be on the lookout. We'll also go to the Stok La pass to take in the breath taking view of the region below.
Homestay or camp overnight stay.
Day 5 Rumbak Valley
This entire day is devoted to touring the Rumbak Valley and its surrounding regions, including the Husing Valley, Tsarbung Valley, Kharlung Valley, and Tarbung Valley.
These locations are well recognised for housing snow leopards, and there is a good probability that you may see one there.
We'll spend the day tracing known snow leopard paths and their footprints.
Homestay or camp overnight stay.
Day 6 RELAXATION DAY AT Rumbak Valley
Day 6 is a day off from the trek.
You have the freedom to independently tour the entire Rumbak valley and take pleasure in however you like.
To experience Ladakh's traditional village life, one can also choose to visit adjacent villages.
Homestay or camp overnight stay.
Day 7 Rumbak Valley to Zingchen and Leh
You will travel from Rumbak valley back to Zingchen on Day 7.
On the route, there will be a lot of intriguing sights, and we'll make sure to stop there.
The renowned Spituk monastery will also be visited on the way back.
We are going to get back to Leh before nightfall.
Spend the night in a hotel.
Day 8: Travel to Leh
On Day 8, Snow Leopard Trek comes to an end.
Our personnel will deliver you to the Leh Airport after an early breakfast so you can catch a flight back home.
INCLUSIONS OF SNOW LEOPARD TREK
ACCOMODATION
Meals
a first-aid kit with an oxygen cylinder
when necessary, a gaiter, microspikes, and a helmet
seasoned guides and support personnel
Transportation to and from the roadhead in Leh
Trek Leader with First Aid certification and a mountaineering course certification.
INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING SNOW LEOPARD TREK
One should present a legitimate ID during check-in.
Before starting the hike, consult a doctor. While trekking, carry a first aid kit and some basic drugs.
The Snow Leopard Trek is not advised for children under the age of seven.
Take enough time to acclimatise at high altitudes because the climatic conditions differ from those in the plains.
In the event of catastrophes or natural disasters, the management retains the right to alter the route.
Do not encourage littering at nearby sites or tents as the hike passes through an environmentally friendly area. Littering travellers risk fines.Maintain the destinations' ecological balance by not utilising plastic bags.
Follow the trek instructions and instructors to have a secure and enjoyable tour.
You should not consider nighttime trekking unless a guide is with you and it is part of the schedule to avoid unplanned catastrophes.
Resist wearing earbuds on the hike; doing so could make you less alert about your surroundings.
Keep your luggage to a minimal because more luggage means more trouble.
The authorities should be notified in advance if the trek needs to be cancelled.
Bring dry food and snacks from home (you will save a lot of money). Keep water bottles on you along with you so you can refuel.
There might only be a few places where you can get electricity.Mobile and laptop charging stations may or may not be located at a central location on campgrounds.
During the Snow Leopard hike, it is advised to have adequate warm clothing and the appropriate footwear.
WHAT TO CARRY ON SNOW LEOPARD TREK
Water Bottle
bag (50-60l)
Thermals and fleece jackets
Hiking boots
Basic medicine and first aid kit
Protein bars
HOW TO ACCESS
Fly to Leh, where you will spend the following two to three days adjusting to the altitude. Just 1.5 to 2 hours of driving will get you to Hemis National Park from Leh. You can get to the Rumbak Village after a 4-hour hike. Keep in mind that the course has some inclines and that you will need to exercise extreme caution due to the treacherous winter weather and icy air. You can either carry your stuff or hire a mule to carry it.
FAQ'S
1.Are there any snow leopards around on Snow Leopard Trek?
You will undoubtedly observe snow leopards while hiking.You will be able to observe the majestic leopards as you hike and ascend higher and higher. This fascinating creature frequently wanders through and close to the Hemis National Park.
2.How challenging is the Snow Leopard Trek?
The Snow Leopard Trek ranges in difficulty from easy to strenuous. The days when you see snow leopards in person encourage you to
the air becomes noticeably thinner when one ascends to relatively high elevations.
These are the days that will require a lot of physical effort, but if you are physically capable of making the voyage, it shouldn't be a problem.
3.What kind of weather might one expect when trekking the snow leopard?
Snow covers the hills and mountains of Hemis National Park all year long. Hence, the temperature here swings from 20 to –20 degrees Celsius.
Summer: The Snow Leopard Trek experiences warm to chilly summer weather, with typical highs and lows between 20 and 15 degrees Celsius.
Winter: Leh and Hemis National Park experiences their lowest temperatures during the onset of the chilly and blustery winter season. A 5-degree Celsius to -15-degree Celsius temperature range is possible. The Hemis National Park has lows of -20 degrees Celsius in the months of December and January.
4.Is the Snow Leopard Trek secure for female travellers travelling alone?
Absolutely, female solo hikers may successfully complete the Snow Leopard trip. Our first goal is the protection and safety of trekkers. Our trek leaders are amiable, and we provide separate lodging for our male and female trekkers and supportive if something bothers you. You can be confident that on our excursions, the safety of hikers always comes first, especially that of female solo hikers.
5.Which footwear should I get for the Snow Leopard Trek?
It is crucial to wear high-ankle-supporting footwear with a secure grip. Please refrain from bringing regular sports shoes on this or any other hikes across the Himalayas because they are not designed for such terrain and might lead to fatal slips due to inadequate traction.
In order to prevent additional chafing and blisters, please break in new trekking shoes at least three weeks before the walk. When trekking, bring at least 5–6 pairs of cotton socks.
6.Can we take Diamox on Snow Leopard Trek?
If the initial acclimation is done honestly, diamox can be avoided. During the first few days, the altitude gain isn't too significant, so a combination of acclimatisation and routine water consumption ought to work! However, if you get the first signs of acute mountain sickness, which include nausea and headache, let your trip leader know right once. Camping areas are always well-stocked with comprehensive medical supplies and high-quality oxygen cylinders in case of emergencies.
7.What level of fitness should I have for the Snow Leopard Trek ?
The Snow Leopard Trek ranges in difficulty from easy to intermediate, but the harsh winters make it much harder. Even greater altitudes will be reached on the days you are really tracking snow leopards, which means oxygen levels will be low.
You must be able to jog 5 km in less than 25 minutes in order to successfully complete the journey. Your cardiovascular fitness and stamina will increase as a result, which will help you better adjust to the decreased oxygen levels on the walk.
8.What is the base camp for the Snow Leopard Trek?
The main basecamp for the snow leopard trek is Zingchen. In comparison to the other stops during the walk, the temperature in Zingchen is not particularly high. The temperature drops dramatically as you travel along your walk, which ups the excitement and adventure factor.
Where is Snow Leopard Trek located?
The Hemis National Park in Ladakh is the setting for the Snow Leopard Trek. Snow Leopard Trek is accessible by plane and next through road. Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh City is the closest airport to Snow Leopard Trek. The airport has daily incoming and departing flights and is well-connected to all of India's main cities and towns.
After that, you can take a taxi or a private cab to the trek's base camp, Zingchen. From Zingchen, snow leopard hiking begins.
9.How long does Snow Leopard Trek last?
The Snow Leopard Trek, which is situated at a height of 9,842 feet, lasts about 8 to 9 days. The walk is of moderate difficulty and is always covered with snow. You will encounter more and more extreme weather conditions as you hike and ascend to higher elevations, occasionally down into the negatives.
10.Am I allowed to consume alcohol or smoke while on the Snow Leopard Trek?
No, it is totally forbidden to drink alcohol or smoke while on this journey or any other expedition. Dehydration can lead to acute mountain sickness. Trekkers who are caught engaging in such behaviour will be asked to quit the trail right away.
11.How high is the Snow Leopard Trek?
The Snow Leopard Trek is around 9,842 feet (3,000 metres) high. One of the tallest and most well-liked treks in the Ladakh region is this one. A base camp for the snow leopard expedition begins between 3000 and 3400 feet above sea level.
12.How cold would it be during the snow leopard trek?
The Snow Leopard Trek's temperature fluctuates because of its high altitude. During day it can range to -5 to 8 degree Celsius whereas for night one can expect between -5 to - 20
13.Can I embark on the Snow Leopard Trek alone?
Unfortunately, a solo trek to Snow Leopard is not possible. A solo Snow Leopard trek is impossible due to the harsh weather conditions, which include cold, frosty, and brisk winds throughout the entire year. The challenging terrain only compounds this issue.
Also, the weather is erratic and unpredictable, therefore it is usually best to go in a group.
14.Which other top hikes can we go for in Ladakh?
Here is a list of the additional top Ladakh hikes you can reserve with Kashmir Travels:
Trek to Nubra Valley
Trek to Markha Valley
Trek Chadar
Trek Stok Kangri
Lamayuru to Chilling
Trek to Parang La
Sham Valley Trek;etc
15.How should I get ready for my Snow Leopard Trekking?
Start out by jogging 5–6 km each day. You are in good shape for the trek if you can jog 5 kilometres with ease in under 25 minutes.
In addition, for stronger knees, perform a minimum of 3 sets of squats with 10-15 repetitions each time. Muscle cramps can be avoided during the walk by doing yoga asanas and stretching your calves.
16.Is it risky to go on Snow Leopard Trek?
No, it is not too risky or dangerous, but it is thrilling and dangerous to some level. The walk is home to a variety of snow creatures, including the Snow Leopard, Tibetian hare, Ibex, Snow Marmot, Antelope, and many more, as it is situated in the Hemis National Park in the frigid desert of Ladakh.
The presence of these animals makes the expedition not only exciting but also a little exhilarating and perilous.
17.Which season is ideal for Snow Leopard Trekking?
The Snow Leopard Trek is an excellent winter trek in Ladakh and is most enjoyable during the winter months of November and March. Even though January is the coldest month, the days are usually sunny, but the evenings and nights are incredibly chilly, with lows between -10 and -25 degrees in January and February.