Shadow of the Snow Leopard: Ladakh Wildlife Expedition 2027

This snow leopard Ladakh expedition is one of the world’s great wildlife experiences: a small-group winter journey into the frozen high-altitude desert of Ladakh to track the Ghost of the Mountains across some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. With a maximum of six guests and one couple per SUV, this is a genuinely exclusive expedition led by expert local trackers with deep knowledge of the terrain and the behaviour of their quarry.

Delhi and the Journey to Leh

You fly from your UK airport to Delhi with Virgin Atlantic, spending your first night at the JW Marriott Delhi Aerocity, a 5-star hotel connected to the airport terminal. The following morning, a spectacular flight over the snow-covered Himalayas brings you into Leh. You spend two nights at The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Leh’s only certified 5-star hotel, giving you time to acclimatise to the altitude and explore the ancient city. The tour includes a visit to one of Ladakh’s most revered monasteries to witness morning prayers, the murmur of chants, and the sight of monks in saffron robes before an impressive gilded statue of Maitreya, the Future Buddha.

Into Snow Leopard Territory: Rumbak Valley

From Leh, you travel into the heart of snow leopard territory and check in at Rumbak Wildlife Lodge, a six-cottage retreat on the periphery of Hemis National Park, deep within the Rumbak Valley. The lodge sits on a plateau with panoramic views of glacier mountains, and despite its remote location provides underfloor heating, ensuite bathrooms, and full-board Ladakhi cuisine. For five days, your routine follows the rhythms of the search: early starts, patient scanning of ridgelines and rocky slopes with experienced spotters, and evenings gathered around the wood stove to share the day’s encounters.

The Rumbak Valley is one of the highest-density snow leopard habitats in the world. The area is also home to the Himalayan lynx, blue sheep, Tibetan wolves, golden eagles, and numerous high-altitude bird species. Each day remains flexible, guided by recent sightings and tracking information. Shorter walks to vantage points and longer distances covered by SUV ensure the best possible opportunity to encounter the snow leopard.

Return to Leh and Delhi

The journey back to Leh includes a scenic detour to two of Ladakh’s most iconic monasteries before a final evening in the city. An early morning flight returns you to Delhi, where you spend a final night at The Park Hotel before your homeward flight.

Additional departures are available on 10 February, 24 February, and 10 March 2027 at a supplement. Solo traveller prices are available on request.

• Return international and domestic flights with Virgin Atlantic, 23kg baggage included
• Domestic flights Delhi to Leh and Leh to Delhi included
• All airport transfers and sightseeing by private SUV (1 couple per SUV, 3 guests per SUV max)
• 1 night at JW Marriott Delhi Aerocity in a Double King Room, full board
• 3 nights at The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Leh (5-star) in a Heritage Room, full board
• 5 nights at Rumbak Wildlife Lodge in a Cottage, full board
• 1 night at The Park Hotel, Delhi in a Luxury Room, bed and breakfast
• 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners included
• Expert local snow leopard trackers and guides throughout
• All entrance and camera fees at all locations included
• All applicable taxes at airports and hotels included
• Basic porterage at airports and hotels included
• Pre-trip briefing included
• Maximum 6 guests per departure
• Additional departures: 10 February 2027, 24 February 2027, 10 March 2027 (supplement applies)
• Solo traveller prices available on request