In pursuit of Himalayan Snow Leopard
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- In pursuit of Himalayan Snow Leopard
Price Starting From
₹88,000
Tour Highlights
- Strategically camp for the first 3 days of the tour, amidst breathtaking landscapes, acclimating before venturing into Spiti's rugged terrain.
- Embark on 5 FULL days of expeditions led by expert scanners in the dramatic landscapes of Spiti Valley.
- Maximize your opportunities to capture the elusive Snow Leopard and other Wildlife of the Himalayas.
- Explore Valley's distinctive ecosystem and gain insights into the behavior of its wildlife with knowledgeable guides.
- Stay in traditional homestays, embracing Spiti's warm-hearted local culture, minimizing ecological impact.
- Contribute to conservation efforts and experience the delicate balance between culture and wildlife.
- Pre-departure session prepares you for the expedition, while on-tour photo tips & tricks elevate your photography skills.
- Marvel at the celestial beauty in high-altitude, low-light environment, capturing stunning images of the Milky Way and star trails during the new moon.
Tour Overview
Embark on an extraordinary Snow-leopard expedition in Spiti Valley, commencing from accessible Chandigarh, India. Designed for gradual acclimatization to the 14,000 feet elevation, this journey transcends encounters with elusive Snow leopards, inviting you to explore the celestial wonders of the Trans-Himalayan region.
January-March offers prime opportunities to spot Snow leopards in their natural habitat. The winter snow blankets the valley, prompting Ibex and Blue sheep to descend in search of food. Seizing this opportunity, Snow leopards also venture down, increasing your chances of remarkable sightings.
Wildlife Exploration:
Experience the wonders of Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary in a 5-day expedition led by expert scanners. Their keen eyes optimize chances of capturing these majestic creatures against Spiti’s rugged landscapes. Delve into Spiti Valley’s unique ecosystem with The Wild Terrain’s knowledgeable guides, gaining insights into its flora and fauna. Learn valuable photo tips from your Mentor Ankul Shetty. Immerse yourself in the delicate balance of nature.
Authentic Homestays:
Embrace authenticity in traditional homestays with basic amenities, highlighting The Wild Terrain’s commitment to minimal ecological impact. Enjoy simple, locally sourced food and utilize dry toilets for an eco-friendly experience. Engage with Spiti’s warm-hearted locals, contributing to conservation, fostering cultural enrichment, and environmental preservation.
Celestial Night Sky Experience:
This expedition goes beyond wildlife. During the new moon time, Spiti Valley’s night sky transforms into a celestial spectacle, bringing it to life amid minimal light pollution. Marvel at the brilliance of the Milky Way in Spiti’s high-altitude, low-light environment. Learn the art of photographing the Milky Way and star trails, allowing the cosmic symphony to become an indelible part of your adventure.
Join The Wild Terrain’s holistic adventure where wildlife and celestial wonders intertwine. Capture the magic of snow leopards and the brilliance of the night sky in the breathtaking landscapes of Spiti Valley.
Who can Join this tour
- Physical Fitness: Participants should be in good physical condition as the tour involves travel to high-altitude regions with varying terrains. Some degree of fitness is beneficial for activities like tracking and hiking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The expedition includes opportunities for wildlife photography, especially capturing the elusive Snow leopards. Participants with an interest in night sky photography, will find the experience rewarding.
- Nature and Wildlife Lovers: Individuals who appreciate the beauty of natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the thrill of encountering Wildlife in their natural habitat will find the tour fulfilling.
- Adventurous Spirits: As the tour involves tracking and observing wildlife in a challenging environment, participants should possess an adventurous spirit, resilience, and adaptability to varying weather conditions.
- Open to Group Dynamics: The tour is typically conducted in a group setting. Participants should be comfortable with group dynamics, sharing accommodations, and participating in group activities.
- Patience and Perseverance: Wildlife sightings, especially of elusive species like the Snow leopard, require patience and perseverance. Participants should be prepared for unpredictable wildlife behavior.
- Altitude Considerations: Given that the tour involves high-altitude locations, individuals with altitude-related concerns or health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before joining.
MENTOR
Ankul Shetty
Naturalist and Photographer
Phone Number
+91 96324 50008
contact@thewildterrain.com
Detailed Itinerary
March 07, 2024 - Day 1: Expedition Kickoff - Chandigarh to Rampur
- Begin your journey with a morning pickup from Chandigarh airport.
- Relax in a comfortable van during an 8-hour drive to Rampur.
- Arrive at Rampur for an overnight stay, enjoying meals on the way.
- Depart from Rampur to Nako/Tabo (8-10 hours on the road).
- Arrive for an acclimatization day (~10,000 feet above sea-level) with all meals included.
- Overnight stay amidst the serene landscapes of Nako/Tabo.
- Travel from Tabo to Kaza (3-4 hours on the road).
- Spend the day acclimatizing to the above 11,000 feet altitude in Kaza.
- Overnight stay with all meals provided.
- Morning drive to Kibber, reaching by noon.
- Enjoy lunch on arrival, followed by an exciting venture into snow leopard territory.
- Begin a 5-day expedition dedicated to tracking and photographing these elusive creatures.
- Immerse yourself in the thrilling pursuit of tracking and photographing Snow leopards.
- Utilize evenings for capturing the enchanting night sky, including the milky way and star trails.
- Engage in a final morning tracking session in Kibber.
- Depart for Nako, savoring the memories of your snow leopard encounters.
- Overnight stay with picturesque views.
- Depart from Nako to Shimla, providing a backup day for flexibility in case of road closures or unexpected delays.
- Arrive in Shimla for an overnight stay.
- Enjoy leisure time exploring the charming town, visiting cafes, and indulging in shopping for local delights.
- Return from Shimla to Chandigarh for your departure flight home, carrying the magic of the Himalayas with you.
This meticulously planned itinerary ensures a harmonious blend of wildlife exploration, acclimatization, and celestial wonders, creating a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Himalayas.Top of Form
Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.
Upcoming Tours
Date
March 07 - March 17, 2024 (10N 11D)
Price starts from
₹88,000.00
FAQ
- The tour begins and concludes in Chandigarh. Travel expenses from Chandigarh to Spiti Valley and back are covered.
- All meals during the transfer and throughout the 10-night stay are included.
- Overnight stays for all 10 nights are provided.
- All necessary permits, park entry fees, village charges, etc., are included in the package.
- The cost for two trackers is covered. These individuals play a crucial role in assisting with wildlife tracking, increasing the chances of spotting snow leopards.
- A knowledgeable tour guide/Naturalist is included to provide insights into the unique ecosystem of Spiti Valley, guide participants during activities, and enhance the overall experience.
- Expenses related to airfares and other charges for reaching Chandigarh airport from your home city are not covered.
- Visa fees, medical and health insurance costs are not included in the package.
- If participants require porter services to carry luggage during hikes, this service is not included in the package.
- Alcoholic beverages and other items of personal nature are not covered in the package.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, trackers, and other service staff are not included and are at the discretion of the participants.
- Additionally, any optional or personal expenses that are not explicitly mentioned in the package should be considered separately.
The accommodation during the tour is designed to provide participants with a comfortable and authentic experience, considering the remote and rugged nature of the expedition. Here are general insights into the type of accommodation you can expect:
Hotels and Traditional Homestays: The tour may include a mix of hotels and traditional homestays. Hotels in larger towns may offer standard amenities, while traditional homestays provide a more local and cultural experience.
Basic Amenities: Given the remote locations, accommodations may have basic amenities. This is part of the experience, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Limited Resources: In certain areas, resources may be limited, and accommodations reflect this aspect. Participants should be prepared for a more rustic experience in some locations.
Preparing for an 11-day Snow Leopard Tour in Spiti Valley requires careful consideration of the unique environment and activities involved. Here’s a list of essential items you may need to carry:
Clothing:
Warm Layers: Given the cold temperatures, pack thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, and insulated outer layers.
Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Protect yourself from rain or snow.
Gloves, Hat, and Scarf: Keep extremities warm.
Comfortable Hiking Boots: Waterproof and suitable for rough terrains.
Socks: Pack enough warm socks for the duration of the tour.
Personal Items:
Backpack: A comfortable and durable backpack for day trips and tracking.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Protect against harsh mountain sun.
Cat4 UV protection Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from UV rays.
Personal Medications: Carry any necessary medications.
Toiletries: Basic toiletries, including wet wipes, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Trekking Poles: Optional but useful for stability during hikes.
Photography Equipment:
Camera with Zoom Lens: For wildlife photography.
Tripod: Useful for stable shots.
Camera Batteries and Charger: Ensure you have enough power for your camera.
Memory Cards: Carry extra memory cards for your camera.
Electronics:
Power Bank: Keep your electronic devices charged.
Headlamp: Essential for night activities.
Weather Protection:
Rain Cover for Backpack: Protect your belongings from rain or snow.
Dry Bags: Keep your electronics and other sensitive items dry.
Personal Documents:
ID, Passport, and Visa: Ensure all necessary documents are in order.
Travel Insurance: Carry proof of travel insurance.
Snacks:
Energy Bars and Snacks: Provide quick energy during hikes.
Cash:
Sufficient Local Currency: ATMs may not be readily available in remote areas.
Miscellaneous:
Towel and Sleeping Bag: If required
Notebook and Pen: Document your experiences.
Binoculars: Enhance wildlife observation.
Optional Items:
Portable Seat or Cushion: For comfort during long waits.
Payment Terms
30% of the total tour cost is required to secure your spot. This deposit ensures your reservation is locked in.
70% of the total tour cost must be paid at least 60 days before the scheduled start date of the tour.
100% of the total tour cost is required at least 30 days before the start date of the tour.
- Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change, and we aim to accommodate your needs. Please be aware of our cancellation and refund policy below:
- The 30% upfront deposit made towards securing your booking is non-refundable.
- 40% of the total tour cost will be refunded in the form of a credit note, if notified between 60 to 30 days before the scheduled start date.
- Cancellation within less than 30 days of the tour start date or failure to show up will result in 100% of the tour cost being charged as cancellation fee.
Testimonials
VerifiedVikas Rai2022-09-05Wildlife Experience with "The Wild Terrain" Have done trips to Masai Mara and Kabini with The Wild Terrain. @Ankul Shetty is a well known Wildlife Photographer and his knowledge with both the camps made the experience smooth and memorable. It one of those surreal times in life, just spending time in wilderness with best of wildlife and clean atmosphere, dint want the trip to end. Waiting for more trips in the near future and have found comfort with @The Wild Terrain guys.VerifiedSajeesh Chandran2022-08-11Amazing Mara Trip I had an excellent experience with "The Wild Terrain" for my recent Masai Mara trip . It was a well crafted itinerary for the whole 7 days . Also had excellent stay inside Masai Mara for 5 days in Mara Eden camp. Food,stay and the Safari was excellent. Appreciations for Ankul shetty for arranging such wonderful stay, and Excellent driver for our Safari.VerifiedChrys2022-08-10Best wild life experience I’ve been to Kabini and Masai Mara with Ankul Shetty. It’s been an amazing experience. If you love nature and wildlife and want an authentic, sustainable visit to these fragile ecosystems, I’d strongly recommend The Wildlife Terrain. Ankul’s passion for wildlife and his knowledge is inspiring. His photography is mesmerising. He’d be a great mentor if you love to learn how to take amazing wildlife photos!VerifiedDevishree Chouta2022-08-10Best safari experience This being my first safari and spotting tigers in the first safari was something I did not expect and hence it was the best experience for me. Not just because of that the hosts were very knowledgeable and tried their best to ensure we get the best out of the trip. They made sure everyone was having a good time and also took care of each of us understanding each of our needs and respecting each individual’s space as well. Overall the best experience and thank you very much again guys 😊VerifiedSaliesh Chandran2022-08-10Fantastic Awesome trip to Masai maara Kenya, great support and service from wild terrain. The complete trip was well organised and great experience for wild life.
Why book with us
Quality standards
We work relentlessly towards ensuring that our customers have a seamless and quality experience with us by managing all logistics and operations end-to-end.
The expertise of Local Guides
During our trips around various reserves, we enlist the help of drivers and guides from the local community.
Customer Satisfaction
As a customer-centric organisation, we work towards providing a hassle-free experience to all associated with TWT.
Personalized Tour
The Wild Terrain’s specialists will configure your calendar to fit your priorities and create your travel unique based on your time frame, specific preferences, and specifications.
Contact us for detailed enquiries now!