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Leh has a variety of accommodations zones, which you can choose at a reasonable price. Many guesthouses are located in Karzoo, Changspa, and the neighboring areas. The accommodations in Changspa are surrounded by agricultural fields, offering a great view of the region. It takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes to …
Taking part in a Snow Leopard Trek, either in the Rumbak or in the Spiti Valley, is one of the only ways to witness the feline in its wild habitat. Try your luck at spotting the rare cat and observe countless other indigenous species on your daily wildlife viewing outings.
The Snow Leopard Trek is not one trek per se, but rather the name given to all treks taking you on wildlife viewings to try and spot the big cat. Because of that, there is no one itinerary and tour companies offer variations in length and difficulty – which will allow you to tailor the trek to your needs and wants. For more chances spotting the Snow Leopard, the trek takes place in winter; so make sure that you have adequate clothes and are able to layer up.
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The Hemis National Park Snow Leopard trek is among the most thrilling treks in the mountainous region of Ladakh. A rare species, the majestic snow leopard, is listed as Vulnerable on the scale published by IUCN Red List. This beautiful animal has found its home in the protected area of Ladakh, where trekkers flock every year to catch a glimpse of it.
A snow leopard sighting mostly depends on the trekker's luck and patience. It is an elusive animal, so it dwells in the high mountain ranges. They are big solitary cats, and one is most likely to spot them at dawn or dusk. It is best to know more about the natural behavior of the snow leopard before going on the trek so that the trekkers can have the perfect chance of spotting one.
The mysterious snow leopard:
The snow leopard is native to the Ladakh region, perfectly adapted to the thick carpet of snow that the high mountainous areas remain covered with. Its paws are larger than the proportions of its body to prevent the animal from sinking in the snow. Its thick coat of grey-white fur helps with the cold and provides excellent camouflage in the territory it inhabits.
On the Snow Leopard trek in Ladakh, trekkers have often followed the paw prints of the white beast left on the snow to see the snow leopard. Trekkers mustn't move too close to the animal. The snow leopard is among the timid big cats who flees when it senses any disruption.
The picturesque Hemis National Park:
The Hemis National Park, the largest national park in India, is located in Leh. It has also been recognized in the Limca Book of Records for its coverage area at 4400 sq km. Established in 1981 near the Hemis Gompa, this national park currently houses the highest density of snow leopards in any protected area. It has become the site for one of the most popular winter treks in Ladakh.
Besides snow leopards, the Hemis National Park is also home to some spectacular species of flora and fauna. Animals like the Bharal (blue sheep), Argali (Great Tibetan Sheep), Shapu, Urial, Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolf, red fox, and the Eurasian brown bear inhabit here. Large birds of prey like the Himalayan griffon vulture, golden eagle, snow cock, snow partridge, and the lammergeier vulture can also be spotted. The vegetation is primarily dry and deciduous as the park falls in the rain shadow region of the Greater Himalayas and is characterized by forests of juniper, birch, fir, and some rare medicinal plants.
Trekking Ladakh in Winter:
For the trekkers who love to hike through snow and can withstand the cold, Ladakh is the ideal spot for winter treks. There are summit treks and expeditions, while some adventurers opt for mountain biking activities. Among the most popular winter treks in Ladakh are the trek along the snow leopard trail, the Stok Kangri peak trek, the Kang Yatse peak trek, the Kanda La pass trek, and the Kongmaru La pass trek.
River valley treks also receive a large footfall during the winter trekking season in Ladakh. The Markha Valley trek and Zanskar River Valley trek are among the famous ones. Trekkers exploring the Snow Leopard trek can also club another trek in the region if time permits.
Location and basic information:
The Hemis National Park Snow Leopard trek is located in the northern Himalayan range at an altitude of 3000 meters to 6000 meters. This is the eastern part of Ladakh and covers the Markha Valley and the Rumbak Valley. The roads are motorable in the initial part of the trek, and vehicles are allowed up to the first checkpoint. But beyond that, no transportation is allowed here to preserve its natural beauty.
Budget and duration:
The 40 km trek is done over the duration of 7 nights and 8 days. The total budget for Snow Leopard Trek is around USD 640 to 870 (INR 48000 to 65000). Since this is a winter trek in a remote region where resources are not readily available, the cost tends to be larger than other Himalayan treks.
Solo trekking:
Doing the Snow Leopard trek solo is not unheard of, but hiking the trail with a group of trekkers is advisable. The trek is a moderate one, and a group of explorers can take care of each other and help out in times of crisis. Professional trekking guides and instructors make sure to keep the trekkers safe. Local experienced guides can also be hired to assist in navigation.
The Snow Leopard trek difficulty level is between easy to moderate. Since no peak climb is involved, the slopes are seldom too steep to cause serious difficulties for the trekkers. However, on the days of snow leopard spots, they will need to climb to high altitudes where the pressure is low.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is also a common occurrence since the trek might take one to a height of above 5000 meters, but proper hydration and rest will get the trekkers back on their feet. Experienced trekkers can conveniently do the trek. Physically fit amateur trekkers who have the experience of one or two treks can also attempt the Snow Leopard trek.
Few people can do the Snow Leopard trek solo. It is a remote area away from any settlement that would allow a solo traveler to seek resources if they run out. The budget is also considerably lessened if one travels with a group.
Wildlife experts say that the Snow Leopard trek best time is from mid-November to mid-February. There was a dearth of food sources in the snow-covered mountains during this time. That increases the probability of spotting the elusive snow leopard when it comes down to the valleys searching for food in winter.
Winter is also the ideal time to experience the scenic beauty of Ladakh's Rumbak Valley. The valley is covered in thick layers of snow. Temperatures vary between 5C to -15C, and trekkers should take great care to protect themselves from the freezing cold.
Many trekkers do the Hemis National Park Snow Leopard trek in late February and March, too, when the cold is not severe. The average temperature rises as the days get warmer. It is more comfortable to trek when the flowers are in full bloom in the spring season.
While packing for the Snow Leopard trek best time in winter, keep in mind the freezing temperatures one will experience here.
Regular clothes and winter wear:
A thermal innerwear set is primarily needed on a trek like this to keep the body warm and snug. Layering 2-3 polyester full-sleeve t-shirts will be ideal since the material dries quickly. 2-3 pairs of joggers and waterproof track pants can be coupled with these. The snow-covered topography may get your clothes wet easily, so remember to carry enough spares accordingly. On top of these, you can layer tight-knit woolen sweaters, pullovers, and hoodies. You will also need a knee-length padded jacket for overall protection from the cold.
Use beanies, woolen caps, or balaclavas, along with woolen mufflers and scarves for the head and neck, as they are most vulnerable to the weather. Carry a pair of woolen gloves and a pair of woolen socks to layer with several pairs of synthetic socks for the night.
Footwear and accessories:
The trekkers will be covering long distances on the snow-covered valley, so it is imperative to purchase a sturdy pair of trekking boots with good grip and maximum ankle support. A waterproof exterior and microspikes along with gaiters will be helpful on the snow.
Snow blindness is a common occurrence here as trekkers are often unaccustomed to the blinding brightness of the white snow, and it can seriously impair their vision. Since they are a lot closer and exposed to the sun's harmful rays than in the plains, they should also take care of their skin against rashes and damages. For this purpose, remember to carry a sun cap, sunscreen, and UV protection sunglasses.
You will also need a pair of quality trekking poles for the day treks. Battery-powered torches and a thick sleeping bag will be required if you stay in camps for the night.
Bags and waterproof covers:
A 50-liter backpack will suffice for the trek. Along with this, the trekker can also carry a 15-20 daypack that they will take on each day's excursions. If the trekker is staying in homestays in Zingchen, then there is no need for offloading, but if they are staying in camps, their best option for offloading is in Leh.
The weather can change suddenly in the mountains, and fresh snowfall can get your bags and their contents wet, so remember to bring waterproof covers for your backpacks and daypacks. Bags made of waterproof materials will also be useful.
Toiletries, hygiene products, and medicines:
To maintain personal hygiene, carry a small box of toiletries in your backpack. This should contain a biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, lip balm, and a deodorant spray. Remember to carry wet wipes, toilet paper, and tissue rolls alongside.
Women should keep a stock of sanitary products at hand to maintain their menstrual hygiene. Carrying enough sanitary napkins, tampons, and menstrual cups will be for the best.
Contracting diseases on a trip is a common thing. Pack a medical kit containing paracetamols, flu medicines, antacids, antihistamines, painkillers, and anti-nausea medication. The snow is slippery, and one can sustain minor injuries on the trek. So, keep a first-aid at hand with cotton balls, antiseptic ointment and liquid, crepe bandages, bandaids, pain-relieving spray, and insect repellent cream. Water-purifying tablets should also be packed.
Important documents to be carried:
The Hemis National Park of Ladakh is a protected area, so the trekkers must carry a valid identity card along with multiple photocopies of it and a few passport-size photographs to produce at the checkpoints. Foreigners should have their passports and visas and keep them safe.
The best way to reach Ladakh is by air. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport at Leh is the nearest airport, only 3.8 km away from the city center. Major cities in North India, like Delhi, Chandigarh, Srinagar, and Jammu, are connected to it via regular flights.
The Snow Leopard trek best time is in winter, which means the trekker should be physically fit and flexible to take on the snowy trekking trail. Regular freehand exercises and activities like running, walking, jogging, skipping ropes, swimming, and squats will help them. Meditation, pranayama, and yoga asanas will also help build focus and determination.
The Snow Leopard trek is among the most exciting adventures in Ladakh. The high-altitude trek brings you closest to the animal. Following the instructions of the trekking guide will increase the chances of a snow leopard sighting.
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