Snow Leopard, Eurasian Lynx & Pallas’s Cat Expedition – Ladakh
Join us for an extraordinary expedition deep into the mystical highlands of Ladakh—a journey unlike any other, where you’ll track not one, but three of the most elusive wild cats of the Himalayas: the Snow Leopard, the Eurasian Lynx, and the Pallas’s Cat.
The Snow Leopard, often called the “ghost of the mountains,” is renowned for its beauty, power, and elusive nature—an apex predator of the high-altitude Himalayas. The Eurasian Lynx, more secretive and solitary, roams the rugged valleys and remains one of Ladakh’s most under-documented carnivores. And the flat-faced, wide-eyed Pallas’s Cat—charismatic yet rarely seen—is a true Himalayan enigma.
Led by Legend Safaris’ photographic guides, local guide Mohd Imran and his indigenous team—India’s only crew to have successfully documented all three species in their natural habitat—this expedition offers unrivalled access to Ladakh’s remotest wildlife corridors and authentic cultural experiences. Expect to witness raw wilderness, untold conservation stories, and intimate moments with some of the rarest felines on the planet.
This is more than a wildlife tour. It’s a front-row seat to a legacy in the making.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Leh
Fly into Leh from Delhi—an awe-inspiring flight over the western Himalayas. You’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day at leisure to acclimatise.
Overnight: Hotel in Leh
Days 2–3: Acclimatisation, Local Exploration & Wildlife Opportunities
These two days are set aside for altitude acclimatisation and gentle exploration of the surrounding region. Accompanied by local guide Mohd Imran and a Legend Safaris photographic guide, the focus will be on soaking in Ladakh’s unique culture and natural beauty—with flexibility for nearby wildlife sightings as they arise.
Activities may include:
- A visit to the magnificent Thiksey Monastery
- Sunset views from the iconic Shanti Stupa
- Leisurely lunch at a local café and time to explore the Leh market
If any wildlife activity is reported close by, the group may venture out to investigate.
Overnight: Hotel in Leh
Day 4: Journey to Tangyar Village
Travel to Tangyar village in Nubra Valley via one of two scenic routes depending on snow conditions:
- Wari La Pass (approx. 3 hrs)
- Khardung La Pass (approx. 5 hrs – world’s highest motorable road)
Enjoy dramatic Himalayan landscapes en route.
Overnight: Homestay in Tangyar
Days 5–11: Eurasian Lynx & Snow Leopard Tracking – Nubra Valley
Explore the remote and ecologically rich valleys of Nubra including Warila, Hundar-Tangyar, Rong, Digar, Khyungroo, Khema, and Terit. These valleys offer excellent opportunities to track both the elusive Eurasian Lynx and the Snow Leopard. Guided by trained trackers and supported by camera traps, you’ll set out each morning with the aim of encountering these majestic cats in their natural habitat, along with other wildlife such as red foxes, woolly hares, Himalayan ibex, and lammergeiers.
Community interactions with local elders and herders deepen understanding of life alongside these rare predators. Each evening, return to the homestay to rest and review the day’s sightings.
Overnight: Tangyar or nearby village homestay
Day 12: Tangyar to Hanle
Embark on a 7–8 hour scenic drive tracing the Indus River toward Hanle. Stop for lunch at Chumathang, known for its natural hot springs. Upon arrival in Hanle, check in and prepare for potential Pallas’s Cat sightings as spotters monitor known dens in the area.
Overnight: Guesthouse or homestay in Hanle
Days 13–16: Pallas’s Cat Focus – Hanle & Changthang Region
Begin daily drives at 6:30 AM with tea and snacks, focusing on tracking Pallas’s Cat. Other notable species may include:
- Tibetan Wild Ass
- Eurasian Eagle Owl
- Himalayan Wolf
- Black-necked Crane
Explore the Changthang plateau and nearby regions by vehicle. Enjoy open-air lunches and local cultural encounters with nomadic communities. Hanle’s dark sky reserve offers ideal conditions for night photography and stargazing.
Overnight: Guesthouse or homestay in Hanle
Day 17: Hanle to Leh
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast followed by a scenic drive back to Leh. Bid farewell to the Hanle team and enjoy a small celebration dinner in Leh.
Overnight: Hotel in Leh
Day 18: Departure
Transfer to Leh Airport for your flight back to Delhi. Depart with unforgettable memories of your journey into Ladakh’s wild heart.
Dates & Rates
Dates:
17 February – 06 March 2026
08 March – 25 March 2026
27 March – 13 April 2026
Rates:
- 9,500 USD per person sharing
- 13,500 USD per person single
Included:
- Domestic flights
- Accommodation in boutique hotels and authentic village homestays (twin sharing)
- All meals
- All ground transportation in private vehicles (Innova)
- Local guides, including Mohd Imran
- Legend Safaris photographic guide
- Wildlife spotters and use of spotting scopes
- All wildlife and village community entry fees
- First aid kits and oxygen cylinders
Excluded:
- International airfare
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities for staff and guides
- Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks
- Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, souvenirs, snacks)
- Camera equipment rental or special permits (if required)
- Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Medical expenses beyond first aid and oxygen provided
- Anything not specifically mentioned under “Inclusions”
Weather: Leh will experience pleasant, warmer temperatures with good sunshine. Temperatures typically range from -20°C to +15°C. Days will be warm, but evenings can get bitterly cold. It’s essential to stay well-hydrated at all times. Please only drink bottled mineral water, ensuring the seal is intact. A cool box stocked with mineral water bottles will be provided in your vehicle for the day.
What to Wear: Prepare for cold climates by bringing thick jackets and trekking boots.
Comfort & Eating Out: Consider requesting less spicy food if needed. If you have food allergies, please inform us in advance so we can advise on suitable options. Consume food in small quantities, always freshly cooked and served hot, as your stomach may not be accustomed to the spices and oil used in preparation. When ordering cold drinks, request no ice in the glass. Bottled water and drinks must have unbroken seals when purchased. We recommend labeling your bottles.
Others: Cell phone connectivity may be inconsistent while on the road between destinations and varies among operators. Prepaid mobile numbers do not work in the UT of Ladakh.
The Fine Print: While the itinerary is the part to dream, over here are the Terms and Conditions to ensure our trip runs smoothly. Please read carefully.
Disclaimers: We cannot accept responsibility for flight delays or lost luggage; once air tickets are booked, the airline’s conditions apply. Please be patient during airport formalities. Our team assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to property or baggage, injury, illness, death, or any damages or claims arising directly or indirectly from accidents, delays, transport failures, strikes, wars, terrorism, uprisings, or acts of God over which we have no control. The tour starts upon your arrival in Leh. Our aim is to provide a hands-on experience of local life and culture rather than a tourist coach bubble situation. There’s a clear timetable for each day but flexibility to explore options at each location. If you see something you like and time allows, we can stop and check it out. We ensure you have a memorable experience with us.
