Track one of the world’s most elusive big cats in the wild — the snow leopard — in the high-altitude landscapes of Hemis National Park.
This is not a traditional trekking route, but a wildlife search experience based in a remote Himalayan village. You’ll stay in a local homestay in Rumbak, heading out each day with expert guides to scan ridgelines and valleys for signs of snow leopards and other wildlife.
Unlike fixed itineraries, this experience is adaptive and real-time, shaped by recent sightings, animal movement, and local tracking knowledge — making every day different.
It’s a rare opportunity to combine wildlife tracking, winter trekking, and immersive Ladakhi culture in one of the best snow leopard habitats in the world.
Local Ladakhi homestays.
Basic facilities (no running water, compost toilets)
3 home-cooked meals per day (with packed lunches)
Explore the different routes available within this region. Each route offers a unique experience — from gentle introductions to challenging high-altitude crossings.
A flexible, wildlife-focused itinerary with daily exploration from a fixed base. Ideal for maximizing snow leopard sighting chances while allowing proper acclimatisation.
Requires 4+ days acclimatisation in Leh
6 nights / 7 days (extendable)
Jan to Mar
Moderate to Challenging
Drive to Jingchen (~1.5 hours), short walk or direct transfer to Rumbak village. Settle into homestay.
Acclimatisation day. Short hikes (2–3 hours) into nearby valleys. Begin scanning for wildlife signs.
Day hikes into surrounding valleys based on latest sightings. Look for snow leopard tracks, blue sheep, and other wildlife. Flexible duration.
Explore different valleys depending on guide inputs and recent activity. Long observation periods with spotting scope.
Early morning and late afternoon excursions (best wildlife activity time). Midday rest at homestay.
Continue search efforts. Possibility to trek higher for better vantage points.
Drive back to Leh. End of trek.
A longer version of the trek to significantly improve chances of sightings. Recommended for wildlife photographers and enthusiasts.
Requires 4+ days acclimatisation in Leh
7–9+ nights / 8–10+ days
Jan to Mar
Moderate to Challenging
Drive and transfer to homestay in Rumbak.
Acclimatisation + short hikes.
Daily guided hikes into different valleys depending on sightings and local intelligence.
Drive back to Leh.
A shorter version for those with limited time. Lower probability of sightings but still offers a strong wildlife experience.
Requires 4+ days acclimatisation in Leh
4 nights / 5 days
Jan to Mar
Moderate
Drive to Rumbak. Settle into homestay.
Short hikes and wildlife spotting.
Explore nearby valleys with guide.
Full day tracking and observation.
Return drive to Leh.
Wildlife search with day hikes (base camp: village homestay)
Snow leopard (primary focus) Blue sheep (key prey species) Himalayan birds and other high-altitude fauna
Unlike standard treks with fixed routes, this experience is location-based and flexible.
* Stay in a homestay throughout the trek * No campsite movement — reduces fatigue and improves acclimatisation
Each day involves guided hikes into nearby valleys and ridgelines * Routes vary depending on: - Recent snow leopard sightings. -Tracks, scat, and prey movement. -Local guide intelligence
*Early morning and late afternoon are key tracking times. * Use of a shared spotting scope to scan distant slopes *Patience and observation are central — this is a wildlife expedition, not a guaranteed sighting tour
Standard: 7 days / 6 nights Recommended: Stay longer (8–10+ days) for higher chances of sightings
Every route can be customised to your pace, fitness level, and group size.
A deposit secures your booking. Full T&Cs are provided on enquiry.
Let's design your perfect Ladakh journey together.
