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: Delhi to Leh
The Ladakh flight is one of the most spectacular in the world, passing over the western Himalayas before descending into Leh. On arrival, you will be met by the Frozen Himalayas team and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and acclimatisation to the high altitude.
Overnight: Hotel in Leh
Days 2–4: Adaptive Wildlife & Culture
After breakfast, each day unfolds according to real-time wildlife updates from our experienced spotters. Depending on the most promising sightings, the group may head into the greater Leh region in search of Snow Leopards or Eurasian Lynx. Maintaining flexibility gives the best chance of meaningful wildlife encounters.
When time and conditions allow, visits may include Thiksey Monastery, Leh Market and sunset at Shanti Stupa, offering a balance of wildlife, culture and acclimatisation.
Overnight: Hotel in Leh
Day 5: Leh to Nubra Valley
Travel to Tangyar Village via either the scenic Wari La Pass or Khardung La Pass, depending on snow conditions and permits. Both routes offer spectacular mountain scenery before arriving at your base for the next stage of the expedition.
Overnight: Tangyar Village
Days 6–10: Snow Leopard & Eurasian Lynx Tracking
Spend five days exploring the remote valleys of Nubra with expert local trackers searching for Snow Leopards and Eurasian Lynx. Camera traps, local wildlife scouts and daily tracking updates maximise the chances of sightings. Along the way, look out for Himalayan ibex, red foxes, woolly hares and lammergeiers while also learning about the relationship between local communities and these elusive predators.
Overnight: Tangyar Village
Day 11: Tangyar to Hanle
After breakfast, journey through the spectacular Indus Valley towards Hanle with a stop at Chumathang’s famous hot springs. On arrival, settle into your accommodation while local spotters begin monitoring known Pallas’s Cat territories for potential sightings.
Overnight: Hanle
Days 12–15: Pallas’s Cat Focus
Early mornings are dedicated to tracking the elusive Pallas’s Cat across the Changthang region. Other possible sightings include Tibetan Wild Ass, Himalayan Wolf, Black-necked Crane, Tibetan Gazelle and Eurasian Eagle Owl. The journey also offers opportunities to experience local nomadic culture, enjoy outdoor lunches and photograph Hanle’s world-famous dark skies.
Overnight: Hanle
Day 16: Hanle to Leh
After breakfast, return to Leh, taking in the final Himalayan landscapes along the way. Celebrate the expedition with a farewell dinner and reflect on an unforgettable journey through Ladakh.
Overnight: Hotel in Leh
Day 17: Departure
Transfer to Leh Airport for your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of tracking three of the Himalaya’s most elusive wild cats.
Dates & Rates
- 02 February – 18 February 2027
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.
