the Snow Leopard Trek in Hemis National Park
An unforgettable 7-day expedition into the heart of Ladakh. Journey through the icy valleys of Hemis National Park, explore historic Tibetan monasteries, and track the elusive Snow Leopard alongside expert local guides. From the vibrant markets of Leh to remote mountain homestays, this itinerary offers the ultimate Himalayan wildlife adventure.
Duration
7 Days (approx.)
Best Season
Jan – Mar (Winter)
Mountain
4,500m / 14,760ft
Wildlife Chance
High
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Leh Airport & City Exploration
After a scenic 1-hour flight over the Great Himalayan range, you'll be welcomed by our local representative and transferred to your hotel in Leh for acclimatization.
Leh Arrival: Hotel check-in and high-altitude rest.
Shanti Stupa & Leh Market: Afternoon visit to the iconic stupa and local bazaar. Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Leh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 2: Around Leh Local Sightseeing
Take a half-day sightseeing tour around the scenic Indus Valley to explore the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Ladakh before heading into the mountains.
Shey Palace & Valley Drive: Enjoy a beautiful drive through the Indus Valley passing by the historic Shey Palace.
Thiksey & Hemis Monasteries: Guided visit to the famous Thiksey and Hemis monasteries (3 hours, admission tickets included).
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Leh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Leh to Rumbak Village
Depart from Leh and enter the famous Hemis National Park as you journey deeper into snow leopard territory.
Drive & Arrival: Scenic drive through Hemis National Park toward Rumbak village and check-in to your traditional homestay.
Valley Exploration: Embark on a short afternoon trek around the surrounding valley to stretch your legs and scan for early wildlife activity.
🏠 Accommodation: Authentic Local Homestay
🍽️ Meals Included: Dinner
Day 4: Wildlife Tracking in Hemis National Park
A full day dedicated to exploring Hemis National Park and tracking its famous, elusive wildlife with local expert spotters.
Wildlife Spotting: Full-day excursion around the valleys scanning rugged ridges and cliffs for snow leopards, blue sheep (bharal), and Himalayan wolves.
🏠 Accommodation: Authentic Local Homestay
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Around Rumbak and Yurutse
A full day of high-altitude hiking and wildlife tracking between the remote settlements of Rumbak and Yurutse.
Hiking & Tracking: Trek through key wildlife corridors around Rumbak and Yurutse while scanning the mountains for snow leopards and high-altitude birds.
🏠 Accommodation: Authentic Local Homestay
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Drive Back to Leh & Monastery Visits
Say goodbye to the mountains and head back toward Leh, stopping at historic cultural sites along the way.
Drive to Leh: Scenic drive back from the valley toward Leh.
Alchi & Likir Monasteries: Stop to visit the ancient Alchi and Likir monasteries and explore the surrounding local villages.
🏠 Accommodation: Not included
🍽️ Meals Included: Not included
Day 7: Leh to Delhi & Onward Journey
Final morning in Leh before heading to the airport for your flight back to Delhi and onward connections.
Airport Transfer: Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh for your departure flight.
🏠 Accommodation: Not included
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast
Trail Profile
🥾 Terrain & Trail Profile
Expect uneven mountain paths, rocky moraines, and snow-covered tracks. The walking pace is intentionally moderate and flexible to maximize wildlife tracking and observation opportunities.
🏠 Accommodation & Vibe
Comfortable hotel stays in Leh combined with warm, traditional homestays in mountain villages. Experience authentic Ladakhi hospitality, home-cooked meals, and genuine local culture.
🏔️ Altitude & Acclimatization
High altitude (3,500m to 4,200m+) is a core factor. The first two days in Leh are strictly dedicated to proper acclimatization before entering Hemis National Park.
❄️ Weather & Gear
Sub-zero winter mountain conditions require proper layering, a high-quality down jacket, insulated trekking boots, and specialized high-altitude cold weather gear.
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