Highlights
Chance to see the rare, elusive snow leopard
Wonderful winter walking in mountainous Ladakh, when it is cut off from the rest of the world
Visit ancient monasteries and most departures attend a colourful monastic festival with masked dancers
Enjoy a homestay night and traditional meal with a friendly Ladakhi family
Look for lynx, blue sheep, wolves, bearded vultures, red foxes, Himalayan griffin vultures and golden eagles
Itinerary
Imagine searching for one of the world’s most elusive big cats amid the snowy wilds of Ladakh. The "Search for Snow Leopards with Valerie Parkinson" tour offers a 14-day wildlife quest for those drawn to rare and remote encounters. Starting and ending in New Delhi, with time spent in Rumbak and Leh, this moderate-activity trip is led by Valerie Parkinson, a Himalayan trekking specialist with a lifetime of mountaineering and cultural expertise. As you scan rugged valleys for snow leopards and other high-altitude fauna, you’ll also visit isolated Buddhist communities and experience unique local festivals (itinerary varies by departure). All accommodation, meals, and transport are included, ensuring comfort in challenging terrain. The unique selling point? Exclusive expert leadership and the chance to witness rare wildlife in the spiritual heart of the Himalaya—a true pilgrimage for nature lovers.
day 1Adventure begins in Delhi
Our adventure begins in Delhi, a colourful and chaotic city full of architectural masterpieces. You are free today to explore this buzzing city or rest after your flight.
Around 6pm, say namaste to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.
Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging a group dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Want more time in Delhi? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.
day 2Fly across the Himalaya to Leh
day 3Visit the Shey and Tikse monasteries
day 4Drive to Jinchen; trek to Rumbak Sumdo
day 5 - 9Five days of wildlife spotting in Hemis National Park
day 10Return to Leh
day 11Full day at a monastic festival
day 12Fly to Delhi
day 13Free day in Delhi for individual sightseeing
day 14Adventure ends in Delhi
What's Included
What's Excluded
Good to Know
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