SNOW LEOPARDS OF SPITI VALLEY, HIMALAYAS

ARRIVAL IN DELHI – AIRPORT PICK-UP-CHANDIGARH. Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representative and transferred to train station to board your train to Chandigarh at 05:50 AM to 08:50 AM (03:00) Hrs. Check-in hotel and rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight: Chandigarh (Breakfast, Lunch &Dinner included)

Following an early breakfast (departure at approximately 7:45–8:00 AM), we begin our scenic journey towards the historic town of Rampur. The drive takes approximately 7–8 hours, passing through some of the most picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. After about an hour on the road, we gradually gain elevation and reach the outskirts of Shimla (approximately 2,135 m / 7,000 ft), the former summer capital of British India and the present-day capital of Himachal Pradesh. As we continue our journey, the scenery transforms dramatically, revealing the magnificent snow- capped peaks of the Greater Himalayas. We will stop for lunch at a scenic viewpoint (included) before driving through the beautiful Himalayan foothills towards Rampur. Our highest elevation for the day is just under 2,740 m (9,000 ft). We expect to arrive in Rampur by early evening, where we will check into our comfortable hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner together. Overnight: Rampur (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

Following an early breakfast, we begin our journey towards Rikong Pio (approximately a 3-hour drive). Upon arrival, we will complete the mandatory permit formalities required for entry into the Spiti Valley. All foreign nationals are requested to carry two passport-sized photographs along with a photocopy of their passport. After obtaining the permits, we continue our drive to Tabo, a journey of approximately five hours. A lunch stop is included en route. Today’s drive showcases some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas. As we ascend into the mountains, the route winds along dramatic gorges and narrow mountain roads, offering breathtaking views throughout the journey. While the drive is immensely rewarding, it may not be suitable for travellers who experience severe vertigo due to high mountain passes and steep drop-offs. As we enter the Trans-Himalayan region, the landscape transforms dramatically—from lush, forested hills to the stark beauty of rocky, barren mountains. Along with the striking change in scenery, you will also notice a significant shift in climate and culture, as the region gradually transitions from Hindu traditions to the predominantly Buddhist heritage of Spiti. This evening, we arrive in Tabo and check into a comfortable family-run guesthouse. Accommodation is more basic than on previous nights, reflecting the remote nature of the region while offering an authentic Himalayan experience. Overnight: Tabo (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

After breakfast, we continue to Chicham, a picturesque village located adjacent to the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary in the heart of the spectacular Spiti Valley. Chicham will serve as our base for the next five nights, as we begin our search for the elusive Snow Leopard. Today’s drive is relatively short, taking approximately 3–4 hours. En route, we will enjoy breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, dramatic geological formations, and excellent photographic opportunities. Weather and road conditions permitting, we will make several scenic stops to capture the region’s remarkable beauty. Upon arrival in Chicham, we will enjoy lunch before settling into our rooms. The remainder of the afternoon is reserved for rest and acclimatisation to the high altitude, helping ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. In the evening, we will gather for a traditional Himalayan dinner in the homestay’s dining area. Please note that accommodation in Chicham consists of simple, family-run homestays, offering an authentic local experience rather than the facilities of a conventional hotel. Due to the remote location, water availability is limited, and guests are kindly requested to use it responsibly. Overnight: Chicham Homestay (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

Our daily routine at Chicham Homestay typically begins with tea or coffee between 07:00 and 07:30 hrs, followed by time to prepare for the day’s excursion. While guests enjoy their morning refreshments, our experienced spotters will already be in the field, searching for snow leopards and other wildlife. Breakfast is usually served between 08:00 and 08:30 hrs. Depending on updates received from our spotters, we will depart shortly after breakfast. Departure times are flexible and determined by the latest wildlife activity. Before leaving, our dedicated porter team (one porter per guest) will assist by carrying camera equipment and tripods from the homestay to the vehicles. We then travel by our expedition vehicles to the designated observation area. Searching for Snow Leopards Upon reaching the search area, we usually continue on foot to the latest reported sighting location. Walks may involve both uphill and downhill terrain and generally range from a 5–15-minute hike to 1–2 hours, covering distances of up to 4 km, depending on where the animal has been located. Once a snow leopard has been found, we may spend several hours observing its natural behaviour. As these elusive cats move freely across the landscape, the duration of each sighting and the distance required to reach new locations can vary considerably. Please note that snow leopard sightings cannot be guaranteed. Despite the expertise of our local tracking team, wildlife movements remain unpredictable. Nevertheless, the Kibber region has consistently offered exceptional opportunities for snow leopard observation year after year. Throughout the day, our support team and porters will carry guests’ camera bags and picnic lunch. Foldable chairs are also provided to ensure greater comfort while waiting at observation sites. Lunch is usually enjoyed in the field near the sighting location. As temperatures drop rapidly after sunset, we return to the homestay in the late afternoon or early evening. Dinner is served at the homestay each evening. Overnight: Chicham Homestay (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our final homestay and begin the scenic drive to Rampur. Although today’s journey is longer, we travel via a different route, offering fresh perspectives of the dramatic Himalayan landscape, deep river gorges, and high mountain passes. Overnight: Rampur (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

Following breakfast, we continue our journey south towards Chandigarh. With a shorter drive than the previous day, we gradually descend to lower elevations and return to the vibrant city. Upon arrival, enjoy the comfort and amenities of a well-appointed 4-star hotel after two days of extended travel. Overnight: Chandigarh (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

After breakfast, we begin the final leg of our expedition to Delhi, with an expected arrival by early to mid-afternoon. In the evening, we gather for a memorable farewell dinner before enjoying a comfortable overnight stay at our hotel near Delhi Airport. Overnight: Hotel Pride Plaza Aero city, New Delhi (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included).

Tour Concludes At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from the hotel to Delhi International Airport for your onward international flight. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 3.5 hours prior to your departure, as Delhi International Airport is often busy and security procedures may require additional time. IMPORTANT NOTE This expedition takes place in a remote high-altitude mountain region where weather and road conditions can be unpredictable. While every effort will be made to operate the tour as planned, the itinerary may be modified at any time to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests. Any additional accommodation, transportation, or other expenses resulting from itinerary changes caused by adverse weather, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances will be the responsibility of the guest.