Welcome to the Summer Snow Leopard Expedition with Spiti United!
This is an incredible opportunity for you to explore the stunning landscape of the Spiti Valley in the Indian Himalayas and catch a glimpse of 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 who are intimately familiar with the region and its wildlife. You’ll hike through pristine snow-capped mountains, navigate narrow trails, and camp under starry skies, all while searching for the elusive snow leopard.
In addition to the thrill of spotting the elusive big cat, 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 and the need for conservation efforts to protect these incredible creatures and their fragile ecosystems. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure and a journey of discovery with Spiti United!
Summer Snow Leopard Expedition - Itinerary
Day 1
Delhi/Chandigarh - Manali
Arrive in Delhi or Chandigarh and take an overnight Bus/Taxi to Manali. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest for the day.
Day 2
Manali
Rest / Acclimatisation Spend the day exploring the town of Manali and getting acclimatized to the high altitude. You can visit the Hadimba Temple, take a stroll through the old town, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Day 3
Manali to Kaza
Taxi drive from Manali to Kaza, the largest town in Spiti Valley. The drive will take you through the beautiful Rohtang Pass and the Kunzum Pass.
Day 4
Kaza – Kee Monastery – Kibber
Today you visit the famous Kee Gompa which has around 200 monks living in the monastery. After which you drive further to Kibber Village which will be your base camp for the Snow Leopard Expedition
Day 5
Trek to basecamp 1 -
which is situated in the heart of the snow leopard habitat. Keep your eyes open for any signs of the elusive snow leopard. Learn about Camera Trap and equipment’s, you will install a Camera trap today. Learn about the different snow leopard activities in the areas.
Day 6
Trek to basecamp 2 -
explore for snow leopards in the area Continue your trek towards Basecamp 2, which is situated in another prime snow leopard habitat. You can also explore the surrounding area for other wildlife species such as Himalayan blue sheep, Tibetan wolf, Red Fox, Vultures, Golden eagles etc.
Day 7
At basecamp 2 -
Spend the day exploring the area around Basecamp 2 for snow leopards and other wildlife.
Day 9
Kibber Village to Mulche Village
On route you will see Dhankar Monastery after which you do a hike from Kakti Village to Demul – Mulche Village. During this trek you will see different species of birds, grazing grounds for Yaks also possible to see wolves and snow leopards. Spend the night Stargazing in Mulche Village.
Day 10
Mulche Village – Tabo Monastery – Chandrataal Lake
Tabo Monastery, located in Himachal Pradesh's Spiti Valley, is a cornerstone of ancient Buddhist art and culture. Established in 996 CE, it ranks among the Himalayas' oldest continuously active monasteries. Adorned with vibrant murals and frescoes portraying Buddha's life and divine figures, Tabo Monastery's artistic treasures provide a window into the region's profound spiritual legacy. After visit to this Historical landmark you drive to Chandrataal Lake - Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, Chandrataal is a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and breathtaking vistas. The pristine blue waters of the lake reflect the changing hues of the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Spend the night stargazing and enjoying the cool landscape.
Day 11
Chandrataal Lake – Manali
Visit the Lake in the morning, after breakfast departure for Manali.
Day 12
Manali to Chandigarh/Delhi
Take a Bus/Taxi or a flight back to Chandigarh/Delhi
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.
Sun Protection
Carry sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
First Aid Kit
Carry a basic first aid kit with essential medicines, band-aids, and antiseptics.
Water Bottle
Carry a reusable water bottle to keep yourself hydrated during the trek.
Snacks
Carry energy bars, dry fruits, and chocolates for instant energy boosts.
Camera
Carry a good quality camera to capture the stunning landscape and wildlife sightings.
Binoculars
Binoculars are essential for spotting snow leopards and other wildlife from a distance.
Cash
Carry enough cash as ATMs may not be easily accessible in remote areas.
Personal Hygiene Items
Carry items like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues to maintain personal hygiene.
Sleeping Bag
A good quality sleeping bag is a must-have item for a summer snow leopard expedition in Spiti Valley. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a sleeping bag: 1. Temperature Rating: Choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating suitable for the expected weather conditions. In Spiti Valley, temperatures can drop to freezing levels even during summers, so a bag rated for sub-zero temperatures is recommended. 2. Weight and Size: Choose a sleeping bag that is lightweight and compact enough to carry easily on the trek. Down-filled sleeping bags are lightweight and packable, but they can be expensive. 3. Insulation Type: There are two types of insulation - down and synthetic. Down insulation is lightweight, compressible, and provides better warmth-to-weight ratio, but it is expensive and loses its insulation properties when wet. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is affordable, retains its insulation properties even when wet, but is heavier and less compressible than down. 5. Shape: Sleeping bags come in different shapes like rectangular, semi-rectangular, and mummy. Mummy-shaped bags are the most efficient in trapping body heat, but they can be restrictive and uncomfortable for some people. 6. Size: Choose a sleeping bag that fits your body size and shape to maximize warmth and comfort.
Headlamp of flashlight
Headlamp or a Torch / flashlight is an important item to carry on a summer snow leopard expedition in Spiti Valley.
Power bank
With the increasing use of electronic devices, such as smartphones, cameras, and torches, it's important to have a backup power source to keep them charged during the expedition.
We hope you have an unforgettable experience on the summer snow leopard expedition with Spiti United. Our experienced guides and staff are committed to ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the expedition, and we strive to provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unique wildlife and culture of Spiti Valley. We encourage you to stay in touch with us and share your feedback and experiences. We hope that you return home with memories that will last a lifetime and inspire you to protect and conserve the fragile ecosystems and wildlife of Spiti Valley. Thank you for choosing Spiti United for your summer snow leopard expedition. Safe travels and see you soon!
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.
