Epic India: Spotting Snow Leopards
Take the chance to view the magnificent snow leopards in their natural habitat with some of the best private India tour guides in the Trans-Himalayan Region on a join-in expedition. This epic itinerary is fabulously unique and perfect for someone who likes to get off the beaten track in search of adventure with added luxury and home comforts.
Journey highlights
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Track the elusive snow leopard with expert naturalists in the wild heart of Ladakh, staying in boutique wilderness lodges.
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Discover a side of India few ever see, with private guides, seamless logistics and the reassurance of Scott Dunn’s round-the-clock support.
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Stay in properties chosen for their character and soul, from regal Oberois to an intimate mountain camp beneath infinite stars.
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Explore Ladakh’s otherworldly landscapes and timeless Buddhist culture, guided by those who call these mountains home, an experience of rare depth and serenity.
- Wild itinerary:Our Wild Journeys focus on wildlife encounters in their natural habitat, with expert guides and premium accommodation
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
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- J
- J
- A
- S
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- N
- D
Due to temperatures and precipitation, Delhi and much of northern India can be an extreme place to visit during certain months of the year. The hottest months of the year are May and June, during which time temperatures can get up to 40°C. The coldest months are from December until February while the monsoon season is from the end of May through to August. During this time although the temperature cools, the humidity is very high, and rainstorms are frequent. It is not advised to visit during these months.
Ladakh is normally only open for tourists only during the summer months of May to September. However for special experiences and expeditions it is possible to access the region during other harsher months. The weather of Ladakh remains cold and chilly for most part of the year. Winter usually lasts from October to May and its usually very cold. During these months the whole area is covered with snow. Monsoon season experiences rainfall but due to the land slides, the area is closed. The temperature is cool and can go up to 33°C.
Itinerary
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At a Glance
Begin in Delhi, a city where every monument tells a story. Your private guide reveals both its grandeur and its pulse, from the soaring minarets of the Mughal era to the fragrant chaos of Chandni Chowk’s spice lanes, best explored by rickshaw. Step inside one of Delhi’s most sacred Sikh temples, where you’ll help prepare food in the community kitchen, a humbling glimpse into the spirit of service that defines India. Return each evening to the calm elegance of The Oberoi, your sanctuary above the city’s energy.
Where to stay
The Oberoi New Delhi (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Fly north into the high-altitude desert of Ladakh, a world apart. The first glimpse of snow-dusted peaks signals your arrival in a land of monasteries, prayer flags and crisp, luminous air. Settle into your tented camp overlooking the valley, where modern comfort meets expedition-style adventure. Acclimatise gently with walks to Thiksey Monastery, morning chants with red-robed monks, and leisurely drives through landscapes that feel almost lunar. Evenings are for stargazing and storytelling by the campfire, an introduction to the wild beauty ahead.
Where to stay
The Ultimate Traveling Camp - Chamba Camp, Thiksey (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
Once you have acclimatised you will begin your journey by car to Ulley Village where you will be spending the next seven nights. The journey will take approximately two hours by car and along the way as you venture west you’ll pass through the small town of Nimmu and towards Likir, one of the region's famous Buddhist monasteries. The dramatic open landscapes narrow into smaller valleys as you continue on into snow leopard country until you reach Ulley Village. Snow Leopard Lodge is the only non-tented accommodation in the area and provides clean, comfortable and warm base from which to explore this incredible area.
The Trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh is known for its raw and dramatic landscapes, in this high altitude cold desert, which makes for all the more of a rewarding experience. As the environment is bleak and cold, the people of this region are warm and welcoming and alongside the wildlife you will have a chance to enjoy a true cultural immersion.
During your seven nights here you’ll explore the three surrounding valleys which are not only home to snow leopards but a whole host of interesting wildlife including urial, Ibex, wolf and Himalayan fox. Using a mix of on foot transport and SUVs your guide will expertly lead you through the landscapes calling on his impeccable knowledge and connections with local people to pinpoint where the snow leopards might be found.
Where to stay
Snow Leopard Lodge (7 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
On departure from Ulley Valley you will drive back to Leh and on the way have the chance to visit Alchi monastery, one of the earliest monasteries built in Ladakh. In Leh you will have one night in order to connect to your onward flight to Delhi.
Where to stay
The Grand Dragon (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
For the final stop in India, you will take a short flight from Leh to Delhi where you will have one final night to relax and unwind, staying at the Trident Gurgaon Hotel before either taking your international flight home or to continue with any onward trips.As the region of Ladakh is difficult to access during winter months, the itinerary is on set departure dates and can accommodate up to 8 guests per trip. In order to have the best chance to spot to snow leopards this itinerary does involve trekking at a moderate to strenuous grade and you will need a good level of fitness to be able to take part. The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and the experience of the expert guides as to what will work best for each individual departure. As the portion of the itinerary in Ladakh is set, we cannot tailor this but we can of course tailor your trip before and after the expedition depending on interests. Before you head into the mountains as a suggestion you could add in some additional time into exploring the jewels of Rajasthan and then to end the adventure tack on some downtime under the swaying palm trees in Kerala.Where to stay
The Trident Gurgaon (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
Price Guide: ( based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 2025 | $10,500 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $10,500 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | $10,500 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | $10,500 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | $10,500 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
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December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,500
Deposit from*$2,600
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January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,500
Deposit from*$2,600
-
February 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,500
Deposit from*$2,600
-
March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,500
Deposit from*$2,600
-
April 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,500
Deposit from*$2,600
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
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View ExperienceOld and New Delhi
Take a full day exploring both Old and New Delhi taking a rickshaw through Chandni Chowk and visiting the Jama Masjid, Kartavya Path (Rajpath) and Humayun's Tomb.
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View ExperienceDelhi Street Food Tour
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Old Delhi with a guided street food tour through Chandni Chowk’s bustling lanes. Wander past fragrant spice stalls, tasting beloved local delicacies before ending with a refined high tea at a restored haveli.
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View Experience2026 Solar Eclipse - Fisherman's Village
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View ExperiencePrivate Manchester United Football Stadium Tour
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View ExperienceThe Pekoe Trail
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View ExperienceSpiritual journey with Hermit Monks
Enjoy an insider's tour of the birthplace of Buddhism and engage in meaningful interactions with a resident monk, and conclude with experiencing herbal tea and traditional snacks.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 858 345 1762 to start planning your vacation.
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