This 14-day journey offers the most immersive snow leopard photography spiti experience in the Indian Himalayas, crafted for wildlife photographers seeking rare sightings, expert led tracking, and world class Himalayan landscapes. Beginning in Chandigarh and gradually ascending through Kinnaur into Spiti Valley, this expedition is designed for optimal acclimatisation, comfort, and photographic opportunity.
For eight dedicated days in the high altitude habitats of Kibber, Chicham, and Hikkim, expert spotters and local naturalists support your search for snow leopards, blue sheep, red foxes, Himalayan ibex, and golden eagles. Strategic vantage point positioning, Swarovski level optics, and professional field guidance ensure the best chance of capturing iconic wildlife images.
Luxury homestays, warm hospitality, acclimatisation breaks, and cultural interactions with Spiti’s ancient Tibetan Buddhist communities create a balanced expedition combining wildlife, photography, and high altitude comfort in one of India’s most dramatic Himalayan regions.
HIGHLIGHTS:
⭐ A dedicated snow leopard photography spiti expedition across India’s high altitude Himalayan desert
⭐ Eight intensive field days with elite Himalayan wildlife spotters
⭐ Long-range photography using advanced optics and expert positioning
⭐ Explore Kibber, Chicham, Hikkim, Langza, and high Spiti ridgelines
⭐ Capture rare species: Himalayan ibex, blue sheep, foxes, eagles, lammergeiers
⭐ Luxury homestays and expedition lodges with heating and hot meals
⭐ Stunning Himalayan landscapes, deep canyons, frozen rivers, and ancient monasteries
⭐ Culturally rich interactions with Spitian families and Buddhist heritage sites
Pick up from New Delhi airport
● Total Driving Distance: 20 km
● Total Hiking Distance: None
● Max Altitude: 250 m (820 ft)
● Total Altitude Gain/Loss: Minimal
Arrive at Delhi International Airport, where our team greets you and transfers you to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. The remainder of the day is yours to rest, recover from your journey, and prepare for the adventure ahead. You may choose to relax at the hotel, explore nearby markets, or enjoy a warm meal before settling in. This easy first day ensures you are fully refreshed before flying to the Himalayas tomorrow.
Altitude: 2,708 m Drive: 190 km / 6–7 hrs Gain: +1,800 m
Fly from Delhi to Chandigarh and meet your expedition team upon arrival. Begin your scenic drive into the lower Himalayas, winding through pine forests and orchard filled valleys toward Narkanda. Enjoy light photography stops along the way before settling into your mountain lodge. An evening briefing and gentle acclimatisation walk prepare you for the altitude and the journey ahead.
Altitude: 2,960 m | Drive: 180 km / 6–7 hrs | Gain: +250 m
Depart Narkanda and drive through winding mountain roads toward Kalpa, passing dense forests, river gorges, and impressive rock formations along the Sutlej Valley. Enjoy scenic stops for landscape photography as the terrain transitions from green slopes to the dramatic mountains of Kinnaur. Arrive in Kalpa by late afternoon and settle into your accommodation with stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.
Altitude: 3,280 m | Drive: 160 km / 7 hrs | Gain: +320 m
Descend from Kalpa and follow the Sutlej River into the stark, high-altitude landscapes of Spiti Valley. The shift in terrain is dramatic, offering geological formations, cliffs, and desert-like scenery. Arrive in Tabo, home to one of the Himalayas’ oldest monasteries. Enjoy a gentle evening walk, light photography, and restful acclimatisation as you prepare for increasing elevation over the next days.
Altitude: 3,650 m | Drive: 50 km / 2 hrs | Gain: +370 m
Spend the morning visiting Tabo Monastery before heading to Kaza, the cultural and administrative heart of Spiti. This short drive allows your body to adapt comfortably to higher elevation. Explore Kaza’s markets, riverside paths, and surrounding cliffs. The slower pace is intentional, helping you acclimatise before moving to Kibber, where snow leopard photography intensifies and the altitude increases significantly.
Altitude: 4,270 m | Drive: 20 km / 1 hr | Gain: +620 m
Climb toward Kibber, one of the world’s most reliable snow leopard habitats. Settle into your heated homestay and meet the local wildlife spotting team. Take a light acclimatisation walk around the village and explore nearby ridgelines, familiarising yourself with terrain where snow leopards and blue sheep are commonly seen. This day marks your transition from travel to wildlife-focused fieldwork.
Altitude: 4,300–4,600 m | Activity: 6–8 hrs
Begin your first full day of snow leopard tracking in the Kibber region. Your team positions you at vantage points overlooking steep ridges and gorges where movement is frequent. Capture images of blue sheep, red foxes, lammergeiers, and sweeping Himalayan landscapes. Return to your warm accommodation for hot meals and evening image reviews with your guide.
Altitude: 4,300–4,700 m | Activity: 6–8 hrs
Explore the dramatic cliffs and deep canyons around Chicham, an area known for reliable wildlife sightings. Spotters scan early to detect movement before you reach prime viewing points. Photograph ibex herds, soaring eagles, and rugged Himalayan terrain. Evening rest includes warm meals and acclimatisation time at high altitude.
Altitude: 4,400–4,800 m | Activity: 6–8 hrs
Move toward Langza, an iconic village beneath Chau Chau Kang Nilda peak. This region offers expansive Himalayan backdrops ideal for wildlife and landscape photography. Search for snow leopards along ridgelines and encounter unique geological fossil formations. Return to Kibber for dinner and a relaxed evening.
Altitude: 4,450–4,800 m | Activity: 6–8 hrs
Today focuses on the high ridges around Hikkim and its surrounding plateaus. These wide-open landscapes provide optimal lighting and clear sightlines for long-range photography. Your guides select positions based on wildlife movement and current tracking patterns. Expect sightings of blue sheep, foxes, and golden eagles.
Altitude: 4,300–4,700 m | Activity: 6–8 hrs
A flexible day dedicated to whichever area shows the strongest wildlife activity. Spotters track fresh signs, ensuring the highest chance of snow leopard encounters. Enjoy a slower afternoon for rest, editing photos, or light walks around Kibber.
Altitude: 4,300–4,700 m | Activity: 6–8 hrs
Your final field day focuses on capturing remaining images and revisiting successful vantage points. This day often delivers exceptional sightings as you adjust to the rhythm of the landscape. Celebrate your last evening with traditional Spitian hospitality.
Altitude: 2,960 m | Drive: 200 km / 8–9 hrs | Loss: –1,300 m
Begin your descent toward Kalpa, retracing dramatic Himalayan landscapes. Enjoy changing scenery as you move from the high-altitude desert to forested valleys. Overnight in Kalpa with time to rest and reflect on your photographic journey.
Altitude: 2,276 m | Drive: 230 km / 8–9 hrs | Loss: –684 m
Depart Kalpa and begin your journey toward Shimla, following the Sutlej River through shifting terrains and forested slopes. Enjoy changing Himalayan scenery as you descend from high mountain landscapes to colonial-era hill architecture. Arrive in Shimla by late afternoon or early evening for hotel drop-off or onward travel.
Altitude: 350 m | Drive: 120 km / 3–4 hrs | Loss: –1,926 m
Depart Shimla after breakfast and descend through winding Himalayan roads toward Chandigarh. Enjoy final views of forested hills and valleys before reaching the plains. Upon arrival, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Connect to your international onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable snow leopard photography expedition through the Indian Himalayas.
⭐ Taxes and GST
⭐ Two nights’ accommodation at The Grand Dragon, Leh (breakfast included)
⭐ Five nights at Lungmar Remote Camp on a full-board basis
⭐ Two nights’ accommodation in Delhi (arrival and return nights)
⭐ All ground transfers as per the itinerary
⭐ Dedicated vehicle access for wildlife spotting and field movement
⭐ Use of premium Swarovski optics for wildlife viewing
⭐ Guided wildlife tracking with certified field experts and trained spotters
⭐ Daily field support and coordinated spotter communication for optimum sighting opportunities
⭐ Travel and medical insurance
⭐ Visa fees
⭐ Lunches and dinners during your stay in Leh
⭐ Accommodation in Delhi or Leh beyond the listed itinerary
⭐ Domestic and international flights to and from Leh
⭐ Tips, gratuities, and discretionary staff appreciation
⭐ Personal expenses in Leh or Delhi (shopping, snacks, etc.)
⭐ Any services, activities, or items not expressly mentioned in the inclusions
Essential Cold-Weather Clothing
● High-quality down jacket (available for rent from Into Wild Himalaya Shop)
● Insulated thermal base layers (top & bottom)
● Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket
● Fleece or mid-layer warmth jacket
● Insulated gloves and inner liners
● Warm woollen beanie, buff, or neck gaiter
● Sturdy high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip
● Two pairs of warm woollen socks
● Lightweight camp shoes (optional)
● Microspikes (optional, depending on personal preference)
● Sunglasses with UV protection
● Lip balm, moisturiser, and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
● Personal medications and altitude-support prescriptions
● Reusable water bottle or insulated thermos
● Compact personal hygiene kit
● Small daypack (20–30L) for daily field movement
● Camera and extra batteries (cold drains power quickly)
● Optional binoculars (premium Swarovski optics provided on expedition)
● Headlamp with extra batteries
● Heat packs or hand warmers
● High-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, bars)
● Electrolyte sachets or hydration salts
● Notebook or journal for documenting sightings
Personal First Aid Kit (Professional Recommendation)
(Into Wild Himalaya carries a comprehensive expedition medical kit for all guests. The items below are for personal comfort and individual needs.)
● Basic pain relief (Ibuprofen/Paracetamol as personally suitable)
● Personal prescription medications (minimum 10-day supply)
● Anti-nausea tablets (for altitude/flight discomfort)
● Anti-diarrheal medication (Loperamide or equivalent)
● Oral rehydration salts / electrolytes
● Blister care items (blister pads, Compeed, moleskin)
● Antiseptic wipes & small bandage roll
● Small tube of antibiotic cream
● Allergy medication (if required)
For details on our cancellation policy, please refer to the following link:
https://iwhexpeditions.com/cancellation_policy/
