Snow Leopard Expedition
Trip Overview
Snow Leopard Expedition: In Pursuit of the Ghost of the Mountains
Embark on one of the world's most extraordinary wildlife quests—a ten-day expedition into the breathtaking high-altitude landscapes of Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh.
The snow leopard, often called the Ghost of the Mountains, is among the most elusive and revered predators on Earth. Rarely seen, impossibly graceful, and perfectly adapted to survive in some of the harshest environments on the planet, a sighting of this magnificent cat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Traverse remote snow-covered valleys and rugged ridgelines at altitudes where few dare to venture. You will be guided by Tigerwalah's experienced scanners—dedicated trackers who have spent years reading these mountains and understanding the movements of their wildlife.
With vehicle support taking you as close as possible to active sighting areas and a personal porter accompanying each participant, every aspect of this expedition is carefully designed to maximise both comfort and opportunities for wildlife encounters.
Beyond the search for the snow leopard, the spectacular Spitian landscape offers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Ancient monasteries, crimson-robed monks, traditional Himalayan villages, and crystal-clear skies create a setting unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Accommodation is provided in cosy, well-equipped homestays in Kibber village, complete with traditional bukharis for warmth and comfort during the cold winter nights. Evenings are spent sharing stories, sightings, and experiences with fellow wildlife enthusiasts.
A snow leopard expedition is far more than a wildlife tour—it is an adventure that is physically challenging, emotionally rewarding, and spiritually enriching. It is a journey for those who understand that nature's greatest rewards demand patience, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
Join Skipper Anurag Sharma and Tigerwalah on this legendary Himalayan quest and experience the thrill of searching for the Ghost of the Mountains.
Tour Itinerary Plan
Price Per Person
For pricing details, please write to us at info@tigerwalah.com.
Payment Terms
- 30% of the expedition fee is payable as the booking amount. This amount is non-refundable.
- The remaining 70% must be paid at least 120 days prior to the expedition start date.
Inclusions
- Chandigarh – Kibber – Chandigarh transportation.
- Transit accommodation: 2 nights in Rampur and 1 night in Kaza.
- 6 nights accommodation and meals in Kibber.
- Personal porter for every participant.
- Experienced snow leopard scanners and trackers.
- Vehicle support to access active sighting locations.
- Village Development Fee.
- Camping and hiking equipment.
- Entrance fees for Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and wildlife permits.
- All payable tips and gratuities.
- One camera permit per participant.
- Inner Line Permit fees for foreign nationals.
- All applicable taxes.
Exclusions
- Travel costs to and from Chandigarh.
- Accommodation in Chandigarh before arrival or after departure.
- Yak hire charges, if required, payable directly on actuals.
- Medical expenses beyond basic first aid and oxygen support available in Kibber.
- Emergency evacuation or travel expenses due to personal circumstances.
- Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and personal refreshments.
- International airfare and visa costs.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Costs arising from itinerary changes requested by the participant.
- Any item not specifically mentioned under Inclusions.
- Additional expenses caused by flight delays, cancellations, natural disasters, weather conditions, political unrest, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% refund if cancellation is made 90 days or more before the expedition date. (Refund amount will be calculated after deducting the non-refundable 30% booking amount.)
- No refund for cancellations made within 89 days of departure.
- All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to info@tigerwalah.com.
Important Information
- The Kibber homestay is equipped with a traditional bukhari (wood-burning heater), electric blankets, and room heaters.
- A backup generator is available; however, during heavy snowfall and extended power outages, the bukhari remains the most reliable source of warmth.
- Jio network generally provides the best connectivity in Kibber. Connectivity may be affected during heavy snowfall and power cuts.
- A detailed travel advisory covering clothing, equipment, health precautions, and photography gear will be shared after registration.
- The expedition cost includes snow leopard tracking in and around Kibber village. Additional Village Development Fees may apply when visiting nearby villages based on active sighting reports.
- Changes to the itinerary caused by snowfall, landslides, weather conditions, or other natural events may result in additional costs.
- The homestay has one wet toilet and one dry toilet. In mixed groups, the wet toilet is generally reserved for female guests. Both facilities are equipped with essential toiletries.
- Your booking is confirmed upon receipt of the booking deposit.
What Is the Pre-Trip Preparation for This Expedition?
A snow leopard expedition requires thorough preparation before departure. Upon registration, we will share a detailed travel advisory covering everything you need to know. To help you get started, here are some important points:
Physical Fitness
Basic physical fitness is essential for this expedition, as some field days may involve extended periods of scanning, walking, and movement in high-altitude terrain despite vehicle and porter support.
The fitter you are, the more rewarding your experience will be as a wildlife enthusiast or photographer. Mental resilience is equally important. Determination and a positive mindset play a significant role in making the most of this unique adventure.
Weather & Clothing
Field temperatures can range from -10°C to -25°C. While your homestay accommodation is warm and comfortable, proper layering and cold-weather gear are critical for time spent outdoors.
A detailed packing and clothing guide will be provided after registration to help you prepare for these conditions.
Documentation for International Travellers
International travellers may require additional documentation for permits and registrations, including:
- Valid Passport
- Indian Visa
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Any additional documents required by local authorities
Photography Equipment
For snow leopard photography, telephoto lenses in the 600–800mm range are strongly recommended.
If you do not own suitable equipment, lens rental options can be arranged prior to the expedition.
A sturdy tripod is essential. We also recommend carrying shorter focal lengths and wide-angle lenses for landscapes, village scenes, and environmental wildlife photography.
Who Should Participate in This Expedition? Are There Any Eligibility Criteria?
This expedition is designed for passionate wildlife enthusiasts and photographers aged 18 and above (minors must be accompanied by an adult).
Basic physical fitness is essential, as some field days involve extended periods of scanning and movement in high-altitude terrain. Mental resilience and a deep love for the wild are equally important.
The fitter and more prepared you are, the richer your experience will be.
Do I Need Prior Wildlife Photography Experience?
Not at all. This expedition warmly welcomes all wildlife lovers, from seasoned photographers to those simply seeking a profound encounter with nature.
While this is not a photography workshop, our experienced team provides essential on-field guidance throughout the expedition.
If you require telephoto lenses (600–800mm recommended for snow leopard photography), rental options can be arranged in advance.
What Is the Accommodation Like in Kibber?
You will be staying in a well-equipped and cosy homestay in Kibber village.
Each room features a traditional bukhari (wood-burning heating station), electric blankets, and a room heater. A generator is also available, though during heavy snowfall and power cuts, the bukhari remains the most reliable source of warmth.
The property includes one dry toilet and one wet toilet, both fully equipped with essential toiletries.
What About Connectivity in Kibber?
Jio network works reliably in Kibber under normal weather conditions.
During periods of heavy snowfall or power outages—which occur approximately 10% of the time—connectivity may be limited. We recommend informing family members and important contacts of this possibility before departure.
What Is the Cancellation Policy?
A 50% refund applies if cancellation is made 90 days or more before the expedition date, after deducting the non-refundable 30% booking amount.
No refund will be provided for cancellations made within 89 days of departure.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to info@tigerwalah.com.