Things To Know Before Planning Your First Snow Leopard Expedition In India, According To An Expert

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is one of the most majestic animals in the big cat family. It inhabits alpine and subalpine zones at elevations of 3,000–4,500 metres, ranging from eastern Afghanistan, the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau to southern Siberia, Mongolia and western China. In India, it is estimated that there are 718 snow leopards according to the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Program 2019-2023, which accounts for roughly 10-15 per cent of the global snow leopard population. Listed as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List due to threats of poaching and habitat destruction following infrastructural developments, the snow leopard is rarely seen by humans and has become an icon for critically important landscapes. In 2009, the government of India instituted Project Snow Leopard to protect the endangered big cat and its habitat in the Himalayan and trans-Himalayan regions.

Today, many tourists flock to Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, hoping to see the elusive animal. Morup Namgail, a wildlife photographer and snow leopard tour specialist from Ladakh, loves photographing the big cat. He was inspired to get into the profession thanks to his father, a skilled wildlife spotter himself. “The desire to share the wonders of Ladakh’s wildlife with the world and to raise awareness about conservation efforts for these endangered species keeps me inspired to continue doing what I do,” Namgail says. “The snow leopard’s elusive nature, striking beauty and the challenge of tracking it make each sighting a truly special experience. Beyond snow leopards, I also enjoy photographing other Ladakhi wildlife, such as the Himalayan wolf, ibex and Pallas’s cat. Each species offers a unique perspective of Ladakh’s rich biodiversity.”

Namgail and his family also run an eco-friendly wildlife lodge in the picturesque Uley Valley of Ladakh. Formerly known as Snow Leopard Lodge, the Shan was one of the first accommodations that was especially set up for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the region to observe snow leopards. It offers breathtaking views of the Zanskar mountain range and is surrounded by the natural habitat of snow leopards, wolves, ibex and other wildlife. Designed with the aim to provide a comfortable yet ecologically conscious experience for guests, the lodge is a two-hour drive from Leh if you’re a traveller seeking immersive wildlife experiences while enjoying authentic Ladakhi hospitality.

Outlook Traveller interviewed Namgail about his top tips for planning a snow leopard expedition in India.

Tip 1: Choose The Right Region

The best places to spot snow leopards in India are the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, especially areas like Hemis National Park and Uley Valley. Other notable places include the Spiti Valley and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Himachal Pradesh. These regions provide the ideal habitat for snow leopards and have become prime locations for sightings.

Tip 2: Stay Long

A longer stay increases the chances of sightings, as snow leopards are elusive. A period of nine to 10 days should be ideal. Since expeditions are in high demand, it’s best to secure your spot well in advance by booking early.

Tip 3: Acclimate To The Altitude

Many people overlook the importance of altitude acclimatisation, which is crucial for having a comfortable experience, says Namgail. “Spend at least two days in Leh to adjust to the altitude before heading out. Additionally, visitors sometimes underestimate the need for physical fitness, as tracking snow leopards can involve hours of hiking in rugged terrain. The weather conditions can [also] be extreme, so it’s essential to prepare for potential delays due to snowstorms,” he says.

Tip 4: Dress The Part

Since temperatures can be extremely cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, visitors should:

• wear warm layered clothing,

• pull on sturdy insulated boots to trek across the snow and uneven terrain,

• slap on some sunscreen and wear sunglasses since the light can be intense at high altitudes,

• carry good quality binoculars and cameras as well as portable power banks to keep devices charged in remote areas, and

• bring medication for altitude sickness or any other conditions they are suffering from.

Tip 5: Partner With A Responsible Tour Operator

To plan an extraordinary snow leopard expedition, the first priority is assembling a top-notch team and host, says Namgail. “A dedicated team equipped with quality gear can significantly enhance the chances of a successful and rewarding experience,” he says. Visitors should look for the following key characteristics when choosing a guide or tour outfitter for their snow leopard expedition:

• Local expertise: Guides who are from the region and have experience in tracking snow leopards offer the best chances of sightings and great experiences.

• Conservation-minded: Operators committed to eco-friendly practices and wildlife conservation should be prioritised.

• Positive reviews and testimonials: Check the reviews of previous client to ensure the quality of the experience.

• Knowledgeable hosts: A good host will not only help you spot snow leopards but also educate you about the local ecology and culture.