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32°19'56.3"N 78°00'36.8"E

Snow Leopard Photography Tour

This one is for the people who love to traverse around in snow-covered mountains and have an interest in the wildlife that dwells in these remote, mountainous areas.
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • 15 Days
  • 15000 FT
  • Moderate
  • ₹ 120000
    $ 1650*
    ?
    The price is for a group of 10 people. The charges will be different for a tailormade private trek. The charges in dollars are more as the permit fees are different for non-indians.

Book Now

Or Call On
+91 8800332031
  • Event Type

    Photo Tour

  • Best Time

    Feb-March

  • Base Camp

    ?
    Click to open in maps

    Kibber Spiti Valley

  • Pickup Point

    ?
    Click to open in maps

    Old Bus Stand, Shimla

  • Minimum Age

    ?
    For this adventure, we only allow people above this age to ensure the safety of everyone joining this adventure.

    14

Highlights

  • As the title suggests, venturing on a thrilling and adventurous journey in order to spot Snow Leopards.
  • Discovering and clicking pictures of other wildlife creatures that survive under the harsh circumstances of the Himalayas.
  • You will be driving around in one of the most remote places in India, now that is something worth considering.
  • You will be touring with wildlife photography experts who will be giving you expert advice regarding this trade.
  • Sessions will be organized with the experts so that they can provide you with information about what to do on the field beforehand.
  • Your mentors will constantly be there to review your photographs.

Overview

This one is for the people who love to traverse around in snow-covered mountains and have an interest in the wildlife that dwells in these remote, mountainous areas. This tour will take you on an adventurous journey in the mountains of Spiti and will let you see the majestic creatures who live in these harsh conditions- the Snow Leopard!


Spiti valley itself is a remote area and the least populated area in India. Spiti means 'the middle land' and it is called so because it is the middle ground between Tibet and India. Exploring this place will be something that every travel enthusiast would want to do. Besides, how cool it would be to boast about the fact that you have been to this awesome place and have actually seen a Snow Leopard!


Wildlife photography is amongst some of the unique artistic and creative hobbies or professions. If you are someone who is interested in this field then you should definitely come on this trip. Even if you are a budding wildlife photographer this tour will help you learn a lot.


Snow Leopards are endangered species who prefer to live on mountains where there's plenty of snow so that they can spot and sneak up on their prey easily. Being able to see these unique creatures along with other wildlife that dwells in the region will be an experience of a lifetime.


During this trip you will be at an altitude of 14,000 ft and above, and as the tour will be during winters the temperature will be extremely cold. Under these circumstances your experience is sure to be one of a very unique kind.


All this hype must have gotten through to you, at least bits of it. The tour is definitely worth all the hype and it is safe to say that your experience exploring this remote land and its creatures will be truly awesome!

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Today will mark the first day of your trip. You will arrive in Shimla and get into your cosy hotel rooms. Take this day to get used to the climate on the mountains. Later on this day you will be getting some advice regarding wildlife photography from the professionals. Make sure to make mental notes regarding the tricks of the business.

Meals : B, L, D
Accommodation : Hotel

Today we will be driving from Shimla to Kalpa. It will be a long drive, so you will have to brace yourself for it. But no need to worry the drive will be through beautiful Alpine forests of the Himalayas so pleasing views will accompany you throughout the way. Himalayan mountains are sure to be present along the way, so take a backseat and enjoy the alluring sceneries that will be unfolding in front of you. Your night will be spent in Kalpa in comfortable hotels or guest houses.

Meals : B, L, D
Accommodation : Hotel
Time Taken : 7 hours
Distance : 225 km

This day will also comprise of driving. You will be driven from Kalpa to Mane. This will again be a long drive. The highlight of this day though is pretty interesting; en route comes the Nako Village where you will get to see a frozen lake. This lake is used as a rink for ice skating during winters by the villagers. The night will be spent in Mane.

Meals : B,L,D
Accommodation : Hotel

Another day of driving around today. This day’s journey will take you from Mane to Kibber, which is the base village for the trip. On the way we will be passing the partially frozen Spiti river. While on the road you will also get a glimpse of the Key Monastery located in Spiti. You will be high up in the mountains now and the view around you will be scenic and mesmerizing.

Meals : B, L, D
Accommodation : Homestay

Hold on to your horses, this is the last day of waiting before you go on to venture in the cold looking for Snow Leopards. Now you are at an altitude of 14,000 ft, your body will need to get adjusted to the rise in altitude, thus, this day is meant for acclimatization. Take this day to rest your body and talk to the mentors about your pictures, learn how you can improve their quality so that you can take amazing pictures of the wildlife during the next few days.

Meals : B, L, D
Accommodation : Homestay

After all the waiting you will finally get to go out and start exploring the snow-laden mountains of Spiti and start looking for Snow Leopards. During these five days, you will explore this mountainous area properly, keep yourself alert for any movement because you surely wouldn’t want to miss out on spotting the majestic animal. The itinerary of these days will be based on reports from the villages about the Snow Leopard so that you have a strong chance to spot one. Also, during your exploration spree, you will come across other fauna living in these mountains. All of these will be unique creatures that you may not get to see somewhere else so make sure to be alert for anything that moves. At night you will be staying in homestays in Kibber or other nearby villages.

Meals : B, L, D
Accommodation : Homestay/Tents

After an adventurous trip, the time has now come to head back to Shimla. The route will be the same one you came through to Kibber. These days will be spent driving from Kibber to Mane, Mane to Kalpa, and finally from Kalpa to Shimla. The drive, as before, will be pleasing. Looking at mountains and landscapes covered in a blanket of snow is something that can never get old. Make sure you enjoy the beauty of this remote land, as nothing else will be a better way to bid goodbye to this place which allowed you to have new and unique experiences.

Meals : B, L, D
Accommodation : Hotel

Today will be the end of your charming journey. Although it’s hard to say goodbye to such a beautiful place, you will be heading home with a lot of beautiful memories and of course, lots and lots of pretty pictures, that is definitely something to look forward to.

Meals : Breakfast Only
Accommodation : Not included

How To Reach

How to Reach  Snow Leopard Photography Tour Base Camp


By Air

The Jubbarhatti airport is situated at a distance of 22 km from Shimla. Jubbarhati airport allows a good connection to all other cities around India. Hence, reaching Shimla via airways is not an uphill task. There are other airports located around Shimla namely the Chandigarh airport and the Delhi airport which makes travelling to Shimla an easy task.


By  Railways

Kalka is the nearest railway station. A decent number of trains from places like Delhi, Kolkata, etc. are available. One can enjoy the scenic view via toy train which connects Shimla to Kalka which is around 96kms (roughly 7 hours).


By Road

Himachal Road Transport Corporation, as well as private operator's bus, is available to Shimla from major cities from North India. The distance between Delhi to Shimla is 340kms and buses are available from the Kashmiri gate. Fare of the buses will depend upon which bus you choose.


After reaching Shimla, we will pick you up for the journey ahead.

Why Trek With Us ?

Twin Sharing Tents
Eco Friendly & Paperless
Finest Guides
Just Right Group Sizes
Commitment to Safety

Trek Calendar All

Inclusions

  • Accommodations: All accommodations will be on twin sharing basis in Hotels or Homestays. Any accommodation in a hotel/homestay will be in a 3 star or higher hotel.
  • Transportation: Transfers in a Car from Shimla to Kibber and back.
  • Photographer Menor and an Assistant: A Photographer mentor and an assistant will be assisting and guiding you on this trip.
  • Services of a Professional Team: A team of an experienced Driver, Cook, Camp Staff, if you are camping;  will accompany you for all the arrangements.
  • Meals: All Meals are included. We will serve Vegetarian Indian food.
  • Camping and Safety Equipment (If we are camping): All the camping equipment such as Tents, Sleeping bags, Toilet Tents, Dining Tent, Mattresses, and other things will be provided by us and we guarantee the quality. Safety Equipment including Medical kit, Oxygen Cylinder, Oximeter, Crampons & Gaiters(if required) will be provided by us. We recommend you to bring your own sleeping bags if possible.
  • Permits and Forest Camping Charges: Only for Indian Clients, All the applicable permits, Camping Charges, Forest Entry Fee, etc will be paid by us. Foreigners have to pay these charges if not mentioned.
  • A Life-Changing Experience: We assure you that by trekking in the Himalayas you will have a life-changing experience and we will do everything we can to provide you with the best services and make your venture in the wild an unforgettable one.


Note: Prior to booking any adventure with Trekmunk, it will be mandatory to sign the waiver form and get a medical certificate from a doctor in due time, without these, you will not be allowed to start the trek. All this will be done online without using any paper.

Exclusions

  • GST and Other Taxes: The goods and services tax is not included in the price mentioned with the trek. They are subjected to change according to the government rules of India.
  • Flights and Transportation: Flights are not included in the package. Transportation from Home city to Shimla and Shimla to Home city is not included in the package. Any expenses that occurred during the journey are not included in the package cost.
  • Personal Equipment: Your camera equipment, Rucksack, personal clothing, shoes and other personal gear is not included in this package. You have to bring your own gear according to the weather and difficulty of the trek.
  • Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance is not included in this package. We recommend you to have travel insurance before opting for such adventures. You can buy insurance from us while booking the trek, it is optional.
  • Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses incurred (Laundry, Bottled Water, Beverages, Snacks, Orders at tea houses or dhabas, Tips for guides, Camera fees, etc) are not included in the package.
  • Emergency Expenses: Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, bad weather, landslides, road conditions, and any other circumstances beyond our control are not included in the package.
  • Anything not mentioned in Inclusions of the package.

Cancellation Policy And More Information

Booking Terms:


1. Confirmation Policy:

Upon Booking, An invoice will be sent to your mail & within 12 to 24 hours the booking confirmation with additional details will be sent to your mail.


2. Cancellation Policy:

(a) 10 percent of the prices of our trips/treks/tours or product or service is your deposit and is not refundable, in any case.

(b) Cancellation received 45 days or more: 90% refund

(c) Cancellation received 30 - 44 days: 60% refund

(d) Cancellation received 30 - 15 days: 30% refund

(e) Cancellation less than 15 days: No refund

For more details, go to https://www.trekmunk.com/cancellation-policy


3. Refund Policy:

Any refund applicable will be processed within 10 to 15 business days as per the company policy.


4. Postpone/Transfer of a booked trek:

1. You can postpone your booked trek for a period of two months (61 days) but we will charge a 20% processing fee. The last date for the postponement will be 15 days before the start of the trek. Failing to book the slot in 2 months (61 days) time, would be considered a cancellation with no refund of any kind. Postpone of a booked trek can only be done once. 

2. You can transfer your booked slot for the trek to any fit person till 15 days before the trek. You just have to mail us the request and rest we will handle. The new person has to get all the mandatory documents duly signed for the trek.


More Information: 

1. We Trek for a Cause: For overall development of the areas we run our operations in, we donate Rs 100/- per booking from our profits which are used for the upliftment of the local people and conserving nature. We have named this initiative as - Trek for a Cause. For more details, follow: https://www.trekmunk.com/trek-for-a-cause


2. We are paperless: We are focusing on Sustainable Tourism and to do that we are trying all measures to convert our trek operations to be Eco-Friendly. Going Paperless is one step closer to our aim. 


3. Single-Use Plastic: Trekmunk does not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We are ensuring that our team is working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We will send you instructions on how to go plastic-free on your adventures.


4. Preparing for your Holiday: Getting some additional exercise makes a lot of sense to spend time before coming on a trekking adventure. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. Hiking in the hill country is the best training but jogging, squash and swimming are also good for developing cardiovascular fitness and stamina. To read more on how to get fit, follow: https://www.trekmunk.com/get-fit-for-trek 


5. Electricity Supply & Plug: You will get electricity supply till the starting point of the trek. If not Indian, We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets/


6. Currency: The unit of currency in India is the Indian Rupees.


7. Health & Vaccinations: 

Severe Allergies: If you have a severe allergy please inform the Trekmunk office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy-free environment on trekmunk trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by our leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on the arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Vaccinations: You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however, if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary. 


8. Passport & Visas/Identity Proofs: If foreigner, Validity for 6 months, should have blank pages, and should be kept with yourself all the time.


9. Water: If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled or filtered. Additionally, you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a LifeStraw, Sawyer Filter) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single-use plastic bottles.


10. Altitude: This adventure involves going to a very high altitude. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatize successfully. We will send you the information in your mailbox about Acute Mountain Sickness and trekking in high altitudes. On this trip, we carry bottled oxygen for use in emergencies.


11. Guidance on Tipping: Tipping is the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. Normally the guide and any other trek staff are given their tips at the end of the trek and this is best done as a group. The main guide will make sure that the tip is appropriately distributed among all the staff members on the trek.


12. Spending/Emergency Money: Approximately Rs. 8000-10000/- (in Indian Currency)should be carried for miscellaneous expenses including porter and trek crew tips, drinks, soft drinks, etc. We recommend that you carry your travel money in the form of cash as the availability of ATM is less in these remote areas. This can also serve as your emergency spending money.


13. Travel Insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance for these kinds of adventures. When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary. We will ask for the Travel Insurance Details over a mail. Indians can buy insurance from us while booking the trek.

Reviews

I was bored with my regular 9 to 5 schedule and then I decided to seclude myself from the chaotic city life. So, I went to Brahmatal trek last month along with a couple of my friends. We went with Trekmunk and it was a lovely experience. The trek guide, Ramesh was very polite and ...

Sidhant Das
Brahmatal Trek

No words for the bike trip from Srinagar to Leh. One should experience it to feel it and all this because of the management of Trekmunk especially Mohit and Harshit whose efforts even made the hardest of the ride exciting adventurous and above all safe. Although some hindrances w ...

Avinash Kumar
Ladakh Motocycle Trip

Chadar trek is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous treks, which requires a lot of skilled trek leaders, a perfect guide and a strong team of porters. I choose Trekmunk for Chadar and they proved they are a perfect team. Highly skilled trek leaders, profession ...

Sushil Chauhan
Chadar Trek

Reviews

Brahmatal Trek
Sidhant Das

I was bored with my regular 9 to 5 schedule and then I decided to seclude myself from the chaotic city life. So, I went to Brahmatal trek last month along with a couple of my friends. We went with Trekmunk and it was a lovely experience. The trek guide, Ramesh was very polite and helpful. The food and snacks were amazing. The activities in the campsite during our overnight stay is something that I am gonna cherish my entire life. I am waiting for my next trek with Trekmunk.

I was bored with my regular 9 to 5 schedule and then I decided to seclude myself from the chaotic city life. So, I went to Brahmatal trek last month along with a couple of my friends. We went with Trekmunk and it was a lovely experience. The trek guide, Ramesh was very polite and helpful. The food and snacks were amazing. The activities in the campsite during our overnight stay is something that I am gonna cherish my entire life. I am waiting for my next trek with Trekmunk.

Ladakh Motocycle Trip
Avinash Kumar

No words for the bike trip from Srinagar to Leh. One should experience it to feel it and all this because of the management of Trekmunk especially Mohit and Harshit whose efforts even made the hardest of the ride exciting adventurous and above all safe. Although some hindrances which are quite common like bike issues and medical problems arose with our co-riders, I liked the way these two guys handled it dexterously. I went with one of my best friends and came with a lot more and the trip turned out to be memories that can be cherished for a lifetime. Thanks, Team Trekmunk for giving me a wonderful experience. I can't wait to go on my next adventure with them.

No words for the bike trip from Srinagar to Leh. One should experience it to feel it and all this because of the management of Trekmunk especially Mohit and Harshit whose efforts even made the hardest of the ride exciting adventurous and above all safe. Although some hindrances which are quite common like bike issues and medical problems arose with our co-riders, I liked the way these two guys handled it dexterously. I went with one of my best friends and came with a lot more and the trip turned out to be memories that can be cherished for a lifetime. Thanks, Team Trekmunk for giving me a wonderful experience. I can't wait to go on my next adventure with them.

Chadar Trek
Sushil Chauhan

Chadar trek is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous treks, which requires a lot of skilled trek leaders, a perfect guide and a strong team of porters. I choose Trekmunk for Chadar and they proved they are a perfect team. Highly skilled trek leaders, professional skiers, gave us details on how to walk on slippery ice. Professionally trained and certified with wilderness medication programs always ready to take your care in any condition and travelers themselves. One will enjoy their company, their travel stories and their way of leading a trek. Cheers to team Trekmunk.

Chadar trek is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous treks, which requires a lot of skilled trek leaders, a perfect guide and a strong team of porters. I choose Trekmunk for Chadar and they proved they are a perfect team. Highly skilled trek leaders, professional skiers, gave us details on how to walk on slippery ice. Professionally trained and certified with wilderness medication programs always ready to take your care in any condition and travelers themselves. One will enjoy their company, their travel stories and their way of leading a trek. Cheers to team Trekmunk.

Sandakphu Trek
Aishwarya Roy

I had the best time of my life at Sandakhphu Phalut trek arranged by Trekmunk. Literally I felt like I was in heaven and I was soo very happy. I will recommend everyone to opt for Trekmunk. I was a solo woman traveler and was a bit worried, but things went very smoothly and I enjoyed it a lot. I miss my fellow trekkers too. I am very satisfied with their arrangements.

I had the best time of my life at Sandakhphu Phalut trek arranged by Trekmunk. Literally I felt like I was in heaven and I was soo very happy. I will recommend everyone to opt for Trekmunk. I was a solo woman traveler and was a bit worried, but things went very smoothly and I enjoyed it a lot. I miss my fellow trekkers too. I am very satisfied with their arrangements.

Hampta Pass Trek
Sreekul Nair

I chose (after a lot of research) Trekmunk for my first trek - The Hampta Pass and Chandratal Trek. And I am so really glad I did so. The trekker needs to only focus on the trek and the beautiful landscape around him/her. The rest of everything is taken care of by Trekmunk from day 1 till the end of the trek. Scrupulously managed logistics; no compromise on safety and security; experienced, intelligent and knowledgeable trek leaders; scrumptious meals; contingency and backup plans; etc. make Trekmunk an ideal choice to go trekking with. My trek was lead by Ashish Pathania, Prashant Reddy and Sanjay Thakur. The three are were thorough professionals. They were jolly, very helpful, experienced, knowledgeable, organized, and needless to say polite yet strict when needed. They played the most important roles in making sure our overall trekking experience was a wonderful one. Thank you Trekmunk for one of the most beautiful experiences I have had till date. Will see you guys soon.

I chose (after a lot of research) Trekmunk for my first trek - The Hampta Pass and Chandratal Trek. And I am so really glad I did so. The trekker needs to only focus on the trek and the beautiful landscape around him/her. The rest of everything is taken care of by Trekmunk from day 1 till the end of the trek. Scrupulously managed logistics; no compromise on safety and security; experienced, intelligent and knowledgeable trek leaders; scrumptious meals; contingency and backup plans; etc. make Trekmunk an ideal choice to go trekking with. My trek was lead by Ashish Pathania, Prashant Reddy and Sanjay Thakur. The three are were thorough professionals. They were jolly, very helpful, experienced, knowledgeable, organized, and needless to say polite yet strict when needed. They played the most important roles in making sure our overall trekking experience was a wonderful one. Thank you Trekmunk for one of the most beautiful experiences I have had till date. Will see you guys soon.

FAQ's

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