Snow Leopard Tracking Tour
8 Days Starting and ending in Leh, India
Visiting: Delhi, Leh, Ulley Valley, Ulley
Tour operator:
Tour code:
884
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Snow Leopard Tracking Tour, where you'll delve into the heart of the Himalayas in search of the elusive snow leopard. This tour offers a unique opportunity to engage with the Snow Leopard Conservancy Fund, gaining insights into vital conservation efforts. Begin your journey in the enchanting city of Leh, exploring its palaces and temples, before trekking through the breathtaking Ulley Valley. Accompanied by expert trackers and naturalists, you'll traverse stunning landscapes, keeping an eye out for the majestic snow leopard and other wildlife. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and delicious meals throughout your stay, with the chance to immerse yourself in local culture and stories. This tour promises an awe-inspiring experience, blending wildlife exploration with cultural discovery in one of the world's most captivating regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival In Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Grand Dragon or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Namaste and welcome to India! On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Aerocity. Today you have time to recover from your journey. Our wildlife expert will meet you in your hotel to discuss your expectations from the tour and answer any questions you may have. Should you be interested a birding excursion on the outskirts of Delhi, this can be arranged. Delhi and its surrounding region has a bird count of 227 species and surprisingly, is an interesting birding destination. In the winter months when migrating birds arrive from central India, some of these regions can be great for photography as well.
Overnight Roseate House or similar
Day 2 - Fly To Leh
Location: Leh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Grand Dragon or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following an early breakfast, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Leh in Ladakh. Framed by the jagged snow-capped Himalayas, the city itself sits on the historic Silk Road. Dotted with humbling monasteries, stupas and crumbling mud houses, this enchanting city is very easy to fall in love with. Ladakh is Buddhist country with prayer flags fluttering brightly in the wind and long ‘Mani walls’ covered in exquisitely carved prayer stones, stupas and chortens are found along with Buddhist monasteries called ‘Gompas’.
Leh is located at just over 3500m, and it is not uncommon to suffer from a little altitude sickness, whether it be a headache, breathlessness or dizziness. Be sure to drink lots of ginger tea, remain well hydrated and remember, no strenuous exercise while acclimatising. (D)
2 nights at The Grand Dragon or similar
Day 3 - In Leh
Location: Leh
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Snow Leopard Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We have allowed two more days in Leh to acclimatise before starting your trek.
We have allowed two more days in Leh to acclimatise before starting your trek. Early this morning, attend the morning prayers at Thiskey Monastery followed by a gentle hike (1-2hrs) to Gotsang and Hemis Monastery. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Leh To Ulley Valley
Location: Ulley Valley
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Snow Leopard Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Acclimatised and well rested this morning, you make your way to Ulley Valley (approx. 2.5hrs). Ulley is a very small village in the vast expanse of the upper Himalayas. It is home to only seven households that make up this village. A few years ago, one of the families realised the importance of wildlife that surrounded them and started promoting wildlife travel to the region to showcase the elusive ‘grey ghost’.
The drive to Ulley is quite scenic and you will cross some famous sites enroute such as Gurudwara Pathar Sahib (one of the highest places with a Sikh temple), you will see the confluence of two rivers – Indus and Zanskar along with the famous Alchi monastery. Based on the information your team receive on the sighting of the snow leopards around Ulley, they will make a call on whether you explore these beautiful sites and destinations now or on your way back.
Once you are close to Alchi, take a detour on to a road that is less travelled. Be on the look out for wildlife from this point onwards. There will be only one or two villages that fall on this route and from this point on, you will encounter very few people who travel or live in this remote wilderness. The region is home to the Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan Fox, Ibex, Ladakh Uriel, Golden Eagle and Lammergeiers alongside the magnificent snow leopard.
The total journey from Leh to Ulley should take about 2.5 – 4hr depending on the number of stops you make (the landscape is stunning and you will feel like stopping for a picture as you cross each bend in the road). (B,L,D)
5 nights Shan at Uley Valley or similar
Day 5 - 8 – Ulley
Location: Ulley
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Snow Leopard Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue exploring the valleys and mountains around Ulley in search of wildlife. Please note this is not hard core trekking – this is all about searching for wildlife and will take place a comfortable pace for the group accompanied with expert trackers and naturalists.
Distances covered and the level of activity will depend on wildlife sightings and how strenuous you wish to make the journey. You are likely to see signs of the snow leopard, as winter is the time that they descend to lower elevations. If you are lucky, you may see one perched high on the rocks or balanced effortlessly on a sheer vertical ridge.
Snow leopard sightings are a game of patience. Your schedule on these days is subject to previous sightings of the snow leopards, and your guide will collect information from locals and other guides on a daily basis to determine the movement of your day. You will either follow on from the previous day’s route, or trek and explore nearby areas, waiting and watching for the gracious Snow Leopards using a scope.
The moment you witness these beautiful and elegant cats, your breath will be taken away. Everything will seem silent as you watch, captivated by their beauty. Soft padding paws, brush like powerful tails. Every move planned and executed with precision. This will truly be one of the most awe inspiring moments of your journey.
Watch as they scavenge and search for prey. Camouflaged so perfectly into the snow covered rocky terrain. The only sounds to be heard are your gasps of amazement and the click of camera shutters. You will never forget this moment.
All meals will be at the lodge unless you decide to trek the whole day – in which case a packed meal can be carried with the team.
The evenings are spent talking about stories of the various wildlife experiences not only in the region but also in other parts of the country. These stories are a fun interaction with the local boys, naturalists, and your fellow travellers. The lodge also has a few documentaries about wildlife in the Indian Subcontinent which can be projected on a wall in the common area. (B,L,D)
Day 9- Ulley To Leh
Location: Leh
Accommodation Name: Snow Leopard Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After spending the morning searching for the snow leopard, enjoy a restful lunch before you return to Leh. Enroute, you may visit Alchi Monastery and Pathar Sahib Gurudwara. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. (B,L,D)
Overnight at The Grand Dragon or similar
Day 10 - Leh To Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Snow Leopard Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (B)
Overnight Roseate House or similar
Day 11 - Departure
Location: Leh
Accommodation Name: The Grand Dragon or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
What's Included
-
Return airport transfers
Return airport transfers are included in the tour package.
-
10 nights accommodation
The tour includes 10 nights of accommodation.
-
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on all days except arrival and departure days.
-
English speaking local guides
English speaking local guides are included to assist during the tour.
-
Half day sightseeing in and around Leh
A half day of sightseeing in and around Leh with a local city expert is included.
-
Naturalists, spotters and trackers
Naturalists, spotters, and trackers are provided while in the National Park.
-
Entrance fees, park fees and trekking permits
Entrance fees, park fees, and trekking permits as per the itinerary are included.
-
Transportation in an air conditioned vehicle
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included.
-
Wildlife permit fees
Wildlife permit fees are included in the tour.
-
Domestic flight Delhi – Leh – Delhi
The domestic flight from Delhi to Leh and back to Delhi in economy class is included.
What's Not Included
-
International flights
International flights are not included in the tour package.
-
Visas
Visas are not included and must be arranged separately.
-
Travel and medical insurance
Travel and medical insurance are not included and are recommended to be arranged by the traveler.
-
Additional meals and services
All services and meals other than those indicated in the inclusions are not included.
-
Program changes
Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program are not included.
-
Personal expenses
All items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, and tips are not included.
-
Personal trekking equipment
Personal trekking equipment and other special clothing items are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with return airport transfers and domestic flights between Delhi and Leh. Explore the region in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth journey as you traverse the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas in search of the elusive snow leopard.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays at The Grand Dragon in Leh and Snow Leopard Lodge in Ulley Valley, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. Experience the serene beauty of the Himalayas while staying in cozy accommodations that provide a perfect base for your snow leopard tracking adventure.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Snow Leopard Tracking Tour?
During the Snow Leopard Tracking Tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including the Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan Fox, Ibex, Ladakh Uriel, Golden Eagle, Lammergeiers, and the magnificent snow leopard.
-
How strenuous is the trekking during the tour?
The trekking during the tour is not hardcore; it is focused on searching for wildlife at a comfortable pace for the group, accompanied by expert trackers and naturalists. The level of activity will depend on wildlife sightings and the preferences of the group.
-
What is the main focus of the days spent in Ulley Valley?
The main focus of the days spent in Ulley Valley is to explore the valleys and mountains in search of wildlife, particularly the elusive snow leopard. The schedule is flexible and based on previous sightings, with the possibility of trekking and exploring nearby areas.
-
What should I do if I experience altitude sickness in Leh?
If you experience altitude sickness in Leh, it is recommended to drink lots of ginger tea, remain well hydrated, and avoid strenuous exercise while acclimatising. Symptoms may include headache, breathlessness, or dizziness.
-
Are meals provided during the tour?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on all days except arrival and departure days. Meals are typically at the lodge, but packed meals can be arranged if you decide to trek the whole day.
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at The Grand Dragon or similar in Leh and at the Snow Leopard Lodge or similar in Ulley Valley.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
-
What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
-
Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
-
What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
-
Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
-
I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Sunday
Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025Sunday - Sunday
Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 05, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.