Ladakh Signature Wildlife Tours with Snow Leopard And Birding Expeditions

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Ladakh, nicknamed “The Land of High Passes,” is a region located in the Himalayas in northern India. It is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, high-altitude deserts, and Buddhist monasteries. The region is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, argali sheep, and a variety of bird species.

Ladakh Signature Wildlife Tours offers a unique opportunity to see some of Ladakh’s most iconic wildlife on a snow leopard and birding expedition. These expeditions are typically led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and habitat. The expeditions typically take place in the winter months, when snow leopards are more active.

Here are some of the highlights of a typical Ladakh Signature Wildlife Tour:

• Jeep safaris: Explore the remote regions of Ladakh in search of snow leopards and other wildlife.
• Nature walks: Hike through the stunning scenery of Ladakh and learn about the local flora and fauna.
• Birdwatching: Spot some of the many bird species that call Ladakh home, including lammergeyers, Himalayan griffons, and Tibetan eagles.
• Cultural experiences: Visit some of Ladakh’s many Buddhist monasteries and learn about the region’s unique culture.

Ladakh Wildlife and Snow Leopard Expedition Tour

Detailed Itinerary 

Day 1: Gateway to the Himalayas

Your adventure begins with a breathtaking flight to Leh. As you soar through the skies, feast your eyes on the majestic panoramas of the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Gasherbrum ranges. Leh, your destination, sits at an impressive altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level.

Acclimatization is Key
Due to the high altitude, it’s crucial to prioritize acclimatization upon arrival. To ensure a smooth transition, plan for a full day of rest after checking into your hotel. Take it easy, relax, and allow your body to adjust to the thinner air.

A Night in Leh
After a restful day, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the wonders of Leh tomorrow. This overnight stay provides the perfect opportunity to recharge and get ready for the exciting adventures that await.

Day 2: Unveiling Ladakh’s Buddhist Heritage : Indus Valley Tour

Day 2 of your Ladakh adventure takes you on a captivating journey through the Indus Valley, exploring significant monasteries and palaces.

Shey Palace and Monastery

• Distance from Leh: 15 kilometers
• Location: Leh-Manali road

Your first stop is the Shey Palace and Monastery complex, dating back to the 16th century.

• Explore the Du-kang, a hall enshrining a colossal 10-meter copper statue of Lord Buddha.
• Marvel at the Shey Palace, once the royal residence until 1834 AD.
• Learn about the palace’s claim to fame – the largest victory stupa in Leh, featuring a pure gold top.
• Shey Palace is currently under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for preservation purposes.

Thikse Monastery

• Distance from Leh: ~18 kilometers (after Shey Palace)
• Religious Sect: Gelug-pa

Next, you’ll visit Thikse Monastery, a vibrant and active monastery established in the 16th century.

• Witness the monastery’s imposing 12 stories adorned with vibrant shades of red, ochre, and white.
• Explore the central courtyard, surrounded by buildings on three sides.
• Discover the Dukhang, the main assembly hall, housing numerous religious texts.
• Learn about the Khanpo Rimpoche, the head of the monastery’s lineage of reincarnated lamas.

Hemis Gompa (Hemis Monastery)

• Distance from Leh: ~25 kilometers (after Thikse Monastery)
• Location: Upstream along the Indus River

Continuing your journey along the Indus River, you’ll arrive at Hemis Gompa, the most renowned monastery in Ladakh.

• Founded in the 17th century, Hemis Gompa boasts a rich history spanning over 40 years of construction (1602-1642 AD).
• Immerse yourself in the significance of the Hemis Tsechu festival, celebrating Guru Padmasambhava’s birthday.
• Every 12th year (猴年; hóu nián – year of the Monkey in the Chinese zodiac), witness the unveiling of a giant thangka depicting Guru Padmasambhava. This masterpiece, intricately crafted with pearls and appliqué, is a celebrated art treasure of Ladakh.
• Explore the central courtyard, the heart of the masked dances performed during the summer festival.
• Take a moment to appreciate remnants of the original 17th-century murals within the Dukhang.

Returning to Leh
After a day filled with cultural and historical discoveries, you’ll return to Leh for the evening.

Day 5: Trekking Snow Leopards (Flexible Itinerary)

Day 5 focuses on tracking elusive snow leopards in Tangyar Phu and surrounding valleys. Your base camp location might change depending on the movements of these magnificent cats, maximizing your chances of a sighting. Expect another overnight stay, potentially in a different location within Agham or nearby.

Day 6: Unveiling Digar and Digar Phu

Dedicate day 06 to discovering Digar, a village likely located near your base camp, and Digar Phu,possibly a plateau or ridge in the vicinity. Prepare for an enriching exploration.

Day 7: Following the Snow Leopard’s Trail (Khema/Khungri Exploration)

On Day 7, the quest for snow leopards continues! Today’s exploration hinges on the movements of these elusive cats. Your destination might be Khema or Khungri village, depending on where the snow leopards have been spotted. Explore these villages and the surrounding valleys, keeping your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures.

Adapting to the Snow Leopard’s Schedule
The beauty of this expedition lies in its flexibility. The possibility of changing your base camp location ensures you have the best chance of encountering a snow leopard. Embrace the adventure and be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on these fascinating animals.

Overnight Adventure
Depending on the day’s discoveries, you might spend the night back in Agham or a different location closer to where the snow leopards were found. This adaptability allows you to maximize your chances of a sighting.

Day 8: Farewell to the Mountains – Departing Leh

Today marks the bittersweet conclusion of your Ladakhi adventure. After a final exploration of khema/khungri and the surrounding valleys, with a lingering hope pf spotting a snow leopard, it’s time to bid farewell to the mounatins.

Embark on the journey to Leh, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the breakthtaking landscapes, unique culture, and the thrill of the snow leopard chase.

Day 9: Head back to Leh airport.