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In the Footsteps of the Snow Leopard — 2027

Route : Leh → Spituk Monastery → Uley Valley → Hemis National Park → Uley Village → Leh

08

Days

07

Nights

Dates:

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Overview:

Ladakh lies between the Karakoram and the Himalayas at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,500 meters.
The climate is cold and arid: summer temperatures reach +20…+25°C, while winter drops to −15…−25°C.
Main valleys: Zanskar, Nubra, Changthang, Uley.
Major monasteries: Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Shey Palace, Lamayuru Monastery.
Historically, Ladakh formed part of the Silk Road linking Tibet and India.

Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrival in Leh (3,524 m)
Arrival in the capital of Ladakh — Leh. Airport meet and transfer to The Bilupa Mountain Lodge. The day is entirely dedicated to acclimatization: rest, warm drinks, and light meals. In the evening — a short walk along the main street.
About Leh: Once a key Silk Road hub connecting Tibet, Kashmir, and Central Asia. Today, it retains a deeply Buddhist atmosphere — prayer wheels, monks, juniper incense. Overnight in Leh.
Day 2. Leh → Spituk Monastery → Uley (≈70 km)
Visit to Spituk Monastery — one of the oldest Gelugpa monasteries (11th century). Continue along the Indus River toward Uley Valley. Accommodation at Snow Leopard Wildlife Lodge.
About Uley Valley: Located at the entrance to Hemis National Park — the region with the highest density of snow leopards in India. Overnight in Uley.
Day 3. First Valley Reconnaissance
Early departure into the mountains with professional spotters. Search for tracks, scent marks, scratch marks on rocks. Wildlife observation includes:
• Bharal (blue sheep)
• Himalayan ibex
• Tibetan fox
Overnight in Uley.
Day 4. In the Footsteps of the Snow Leopard
Sunrise observation sessions. Use of telescopes and professional optics. Occasionally, the elusive Snow Leopard — Snow Leopard — may be spotted moving across ridgelines or resting on rocky slopes.
Search methodology: – Early morning and late afternoon observation – Reports from local villagers through Snow Leopard Conservancy networks – Camera traps and motion sensors Overnight in Uley.
Day 5. Exploring New Gorges
Trekking into neighboring valleys. Study of predator behavior and movement patterns.
About the Snow Leopard: Panthera uncia — the “Ghost of the Mountains.” Lives at altitudes up to 5,500 meters and can leap up to 15 meters. In Buddhist tradition, it symbolizes compassion. Overnight in Uley.
Day 6. Village Culture & Final Observations
Checking camera traps for rare captures. Meeting with families in Uley village. Yak butter tea and discussions about coexistence between humans and snow leopards. Farewell dinner by the fire. Overnight in Uley.
Day 7. Return to Leh
Drive back to Leh. Stops at scenic viewpoints and monasteries. Overnight in Leh — The Bilupa Mountain Lodge.
Day 8. Departure
Transfer to the airport. Return home carrying the experience of encountering the spirit of the mountains.

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Travel Notes for Ladakh :

Altitude & Acclimatization

Ladakh is located at high altitude (3,000–4,500 meters above sea level). The first day
is always reserved for rest and gentle acclimatization. A slow and mindful start
ensures a comfortable adaptation.

Mountain weather can change quickly. Sunny days may feel warm, while evenings
and mornings are cool. Layered clothing, a light down jacket, sunglasses, and SPF
protection are recommended.

Journeys pass through high mountain passes and scenic valleys. Roads are part of the
adventure, offering breathtaking landscapes. Travel times may vary depending on
weather and road conditions.

No special training is required; however, the program includes walking on uneven
terrain, monastery steps, and natural trails. The pace is always adjusted to the group.

Festival dates are fixed, but the exact timing of rituals is determined by the monastery.
These are authentic spiritual events, not staged performances.

Mobile signal and internet access may be limited in remote valleys. This is a rare
opportunity to disconnect and fully experience the silence and vastness of the
Himalayas.

Weather and mountain conditions may occasionally require minor adjustments to the
itinerary. The integrity and depth of the experience are always preserved.

Price

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