Welcome to the Snow Leopard Expedition with Spiti United!
The Snow Leopard Expedition in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible opportunity for you to explore the stunning landscape of the Spiti Valley in the Indian Himalayas & to be able to spot one of the most elusive and majestic big cats in the world, the snow leopard.
Over the course of this expedition, you will be led by experienced guides and snow leopard spotters who are intimately familiar with the region and its wildlife. During the course of this expedition you will witness some of the most unique wildlife species living in the most treacherous landscapes.
In addition to the thrill of spotting the elusive big cat the snow leopard, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the local communities, who have lived in harmony with the harsh landscape and its wildlife for generations.
This expedition is not just a chance to see a magnificent animal in its natural habitat, but also an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the natural world. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure and a journey of discovery with Spiti United!
Winter Snow Leopard Expedition - Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at Chandigarh Airport/Railway Station - transfer to Shimla
Upon arrival in Chandigarh, you will be met by a Spiti United representative and transferred to your hotel in Shimla for an overnight stay. Use this day to rest and recover from your journey, or explore the city if you arrive early enough.
Day 2
Shimla to Kalpa
After breakfast, you'll start your journey towards Kalpa, a small town in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The journey will take you through scenic mountain roads, passing through charming villages and apple orchards. After reaching Kalpa, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the town and acclimatizing to the high altitude.
Day 3
Kalpa to Kaza
Today, you will continue your journey towards Kaza, the largest town in the Spiti Valley. The drive will take you through some of the most remote and breath-taking landscapes of the region, including the infamous Hindustan-Tibet highway. Upon arrival in Kaza, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day resting and acclimatizing.
Day 4
Kaza to Kibber
After breakfast, you'll drive to Kibber, a small village located at an altitude of 14,200 feet and known for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. Upon arrival, check into your homestay and spend the rest of the day acclimatizing and exploring the village.
Day 5 to 10
Kibber Village (4000 meters) Snow Leopard Expedition
Over the next six days, you'll embark on a snow leopard expedition in the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Each day, you'll head out into the field accompanied by experienced guides and one porter per participant, in search of the elusive snow leopard and other wildlife such as Himalayan Ibex, Blue Sheep or Bharal, Red Fox, Himalayan Wolves, Golden Eagles, and Vultures. You'll have ample time to observe and photograph the wildlife, learn about their behaviour and habitat, and enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes.
Day 11
Kibber to Rampur Bushahr
Today, you drive towards Rampur Bushahr, a small town located in Shimla district. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the town and its surroundings.
Day 12
Rampur Bushahr to Chandigarh
After breakfast, you'll drive back to Chandigarh, where you'll be dropped off at your designated location. From here, you can continue your journey to your next destination or head back home with unforgettable memories of your Snow Leopard Expedition with Spiti United.
Cost Breakdown for Snow Leopard Expedition
Embarking on a snow leopard expedition promises an unforgettable journey through the majestic landscapes of the Himalayas. Here's a breakdown of the cost for this remarkable adventure:
Base Cost: INR 1,20,000 | GST (5%): INR 6,000 | Total Expedition Cost (Including GST): INR 1,26,000Contact
Inclusive of
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- Vehicle Hire for 12 Days: Comfortable transportation throughout the expedition to explore the mesmerizing landscapes of the Himalayas.
- Accommodation:
-Hotel in Shimla: Stay in a cozy hotel inclusive of dinner and breakfast, providing a comfortable base for your adventure.-Hotel in Kalpa: Enjoy a relaxing stay with dinner and breakfast included, soaking in the serene ambiance of Kalpa.-Homestay in Kaza: Experience local hospitality with dinner and breakfast provided in a charming homestay in Kaza.-Homestay in Kibber: Indulge in authentic homestay experience with lunch, dinner, and breakfast included. Facilities include firewood heaters, hot water, and both twin and double sharing beds, along with generator backup for uninterrupted comfort.
- Spiti United Expert Snow Leopard Spotters: Accompanied by expert spotters from Spiti United, embark on daily excursions to seek out the elusive snow leopards, enhancing your chances of sightings.
- Porter Service: Each participant will be provided with a porter for 6 days during the Snow Leopard Expedition, ensuring convenience and assistance throughout the journey.
- Forest Department Permissions: Gain exclusive access to organize the Snow Leopard Expedition in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary with the necessary permissions secured from the forest department.
- Hotel in Rampur Bushahr: Stay overnight in Rampur Bushahr with breakfast included, offering a comfortable retreat after your expedition.
- Driver Fees: All fees related to the dedicated driver for the duration of the expedition are included for your convenience.
Not Inclusive of
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- Camera Fees: Participants are responsible for any camera fees charged by the Forest Department for photography or filming within designated areas.
- Village Council Fees: Any fees levied by village councils for entry or access to specific locations are not covered in the package and must be borne by the participants.
- Laundry Services: Laundry services at the homestay are available at an additional cost and will be charged separately.
- Extra Orders from Homestay Menu: Any additional food or beverages ordered beyond the provided meals in the homestay menu will incur extra charges, payable directly by the participants.
- Unspecified Activities: Expenses related to activities not included in the itinerary, which require additional expenses or transportation, are not covered and should be arranged and paid for by the participants.
- Mineral Water: The cost of mineral water or any other beverages not provided as part of the package will be the responsibility of the participants.
- Participant Responsibility: Participants are kindly reminded to budget for these additional expenses accordingly and to settle them directly with the relevant service providers. Clear communication and coordination with the expedition organizer are encouraged to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the journey.
Here’s a list of essential items you should carry for a snow leopard expedition to Spiti:
Warm clothing
Temperatures in Spiti can drop below freezing, so carry enough warm clothes such as thermal wear, fleece jackets, insulated pants, woolen socks, and waterproof gloves.
Good quality trekking shoes
You will be trekking in the snow and icy terrain, so make sure to carry waterproof, sturdy, and comfortable trekking shoes with good grip.
BackpackA sturdy and comfortable backpack with enough capacity to carry your personal belongings, camera equipment, and other essentials.
Sleeping Bag
Carry a good quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures as the accommodation during the expedition may not have sufficient heating.
Headlamp or flashlight
Carry a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for safety and convenience.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Carry sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright snow and sun, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the harsh UV rays.
Medicines and first-aid kit
Carry any essential medications you may require, along with a basic first-aid kit that includes band-aids, painkillers, and other essentials.
Water bottle and hydration system
Carry a sturdy and leak-proof water bottle or hydration system to stay hydrated during the expedition.
Camera equipment
Don't forget to carry your camera, extra batteries, and memory cards to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Spiti.
Personal hygiene items
Carry your personal hygiene items such as wet wipes, tissues, hand sanitizer, and other essentials as the facilities during the expedition may be basic.
It's important to pack light and carry only the essentials to ensure that you have a comfortable and hassle-free expedition. Additionally, make sure to check the weather forecast and the specific requirements of the expedition with Spiti United before packing your bags.
Recommended Camera Lens Configuration:
Focal Length:
Opt for lenses with a focal length ranging from 400mm to 600mm. This focal range ensures versatility, allowing you to capture subjects both near and far with exceptional clarity and detail.
Teleconverter:
Enhance the versatility of your lens with a compatible teleconverter. Aim for either a 1.4x or 2.0x teleconverter, extending the focal length of your lens to magnify distant subjects without compromising image quality.
Camera Body Compatibility:
Choose a camera body that aligns with your shooting preferences and requirements:
- Full Frame: Ideal for maximizing light sensitivity and achieving superior image quality. Full-frame cameras offer expansive dynamic range and excel in low-light conditions, making them perfect for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
- Crop Sensor: Offering increased magnification, crop sensor cameras are favored by wildlife and sports photographers seeking additional reach without sacrificing portability. They provide an effective focal length multiplier, making them suitable for capturing distant subjects with precision.
- Micro 4:3: Renowned for their compact design and exceptional portability, Micro 4:3 cameras are favored by travelers and street photographers. Despite their smaller sensor size, they deliver impressive image quality and versatility, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
Recommended Binocular Specifications:
8×42 Binoculars:
- Advantages: These binoculars strike a perfect balance between performance and portability. With an 8x magnification and a 42mm objective lens diameter, they offer a wider field of view, making it easier to spot elusive snow leopards against the rugged terrain. Additionally, their lightweight design ensures that they’re easy to carry, allowing you to traverse through the mountains with ease.
10×42 or 10×50 Binoculars (For Advanced Users):
- Advantages: Designed for more experienced users who are familiar with their equipment, 10×42 or 10×50 binoculars offer enhanced magnification, allowing you to get closer to your subject without physically approaching them. This increased magnification can unveil finer details of the snow leopards’ majestic features, providing a truly immersive viewing experience.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Binoculars:
- Comfort: Opt for binoculars that provide comfortable handling, especially during prolonged use in harsh weather conditions.
- Durability: Choose binoculars that are rugged and weatherproof to withstand the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather encountered during a snow leopard expedition.
- Optical Quality: Prioritize binoculars with high-quality optics to ensure crisp, clear images and minimal distortion, even in low-light conditions.
- Weight: Strike a balance between performance and weight, ensuring that your binoculars are lightweight enough to carry comfortably throughout your expedition.
Booking Process
It’s important to note that the booking process may vary depending on Spiti United’s specific policies and requirements. The guest should carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the booking before making any payment.
