SNOW LEOPARD EXPEDITION

Ladakh, spanning more than 59,000 km², is one of the world’s most extraordinary high-altitude ecosystems. Despite its rugged and arid terrain, Ladakh supports an impressive range of Himalayan wildlife, including bharal (blue sheep), ibex, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan wolf, yak, and the region’s most iconic predator—the snow leopard. Major protected areas such as Hemis National Park, Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary offer vital refuge for these species.

Ladakh is also a haven for birdlife, with 318 species recorded, including several rediscovered in the 21st century after decades of absence. Many birds breed in high-altitude wetlands like Tso Moriri or along river valleys. While Ladakh’s mammals and reptiles resemble those of Central Asia and the Tibetan Plateau, many bird species migrate from warmer regions of India, making Ladakh a crucial seasonal habitat within global biodiversity.

The Snow Leopard in Ladakh

The snow leopard, often described as one of the world’s most beautiful and elusive large cats, is the crown jewel of Ladakh’s wildlife. Its thick, soft fur—whitish to yellowish-grey with dark spots and rosettes—helps it blend perfectly into the rocky terrain. Distinct features include a short snout, high forehead, powerful limbs, and an exceptionally long, bushy tail used for balance and warmth.
Males typically weigh 40–50 kg, females 30–40 kg, and their lifespan in the wild is about 15 years. These solitary cats inhabit steep cliffs, ridges, rocky slopes, and deep valleys between 3,000 m and 5,000 m. Their movements closely follow their prey, which includes blue sheep (bharal), ibex, argali, smaller mammals such as marmots, pikas, woolly hares, and occasionally young livestock. Snow leopards occur throughout Ladakh but are most commonly seen in central and southern regions where prime habitat exists.

Snow Leopard Expedition Experience

Our Snow Leopard Expedition offers a unique opportunity to explore Ladakh’s wild valleys in search of this rare predator. Guided by highly trained spotters equipped with professional spotting scopes, the expedition focuses on maximizing sightings while respecting the animals’ natural behavior.