A remarkable journey into the high-altitude wilderness of Hemis National Park, combining Ladakh’s dramatic landscapes, Buddhist heritage and the thrilling search for the elusive Snow Leopard.
The Snow Leopard Summer Trek is an extraordinary wildlife and high-altitude adventure into the remote landscapes of Hemis National Park, Ladakh, offering an immersive journey through some of the most spectacular mountain habitats of the Trans-Himalayas. This 13-day expedition combines scenic drives, Buddhist monasteries, remote valleys and dedicated wildlife exploration in search of the elusive Snow Leopard.
The journey begins with a scenic transition from the green valleys around Naggar and Manali into the stark high-altitude landscapes of Lahaul and Ladakh. After acclimatization and exploring the monasteries of Shey, Thiksey and Hemis, the trek enters Hemis National Park through Zingchen and Rumbak, a renowned habitat for Snow Leopards and other Himalayan wildlife.
Dedicated exploration days around Rumbak, Chortenchen and Stok Valley provide opportunities for wildlife tracking and observation, with possible sightings of Snow Leopard, Himalayan Blue Sheep and other high-altitude species. The route combines rugged ridgelines, alpine valleys and expansive mountain panoramas while allowing time for acclimatization and photography.
With a maximum altitude of approximately 4,800 metres, this Moderate–Hard adventure is designed for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive Himalayan experience in one of Ladakh’s most remarkable protected landscapes.
Trek at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Duration | 13 Days / 12 Nights |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,800 m / 15,748 ft |
| Total Travel Distance | ~2,011 km |
| Region | Hemis National Park, Ladakh |
| Difficulty | Moderate–Hard |
| Total Ascent | ~1,300–1,700 m |
| Total Descent | ~1,300–1,700 m |
| Trek Type | High-Altitude Wildlife & Trekking Expedition |
| Main Highlight | Snow Leopard Tracking |
| Key Areas | Rumbak, Chortenchen & Stok Valley |
| Wildlife | Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep & Himalayan Wildlife |
| Cultural Highlights | Shey, Thiksey & Hemis Monasteries |
| Landscape | Alpine Valleys, Rocky Ridges & High Mountain Desert |
| Highest Trekking Zone | ~4,800 m |
| Starting Point | Naggar / Manali |
| Ending Point | Leh |
| Best For | Wildlife Enthusiasts, Photographers & Adventure Trekkers |
Highlights
- 🐆 Snow Leopard habitat – Hemis National Park
- 🏔️ Stok Kangri base camp
- 🦅 Golden eagle, blue sheep sightings
- 🏯 Monasteries: Shey, Thiksey, Hemis
- 🌄 High altitude Ladakh landscapes
Itinerary
Breakfast on arrival & scenic drive to Naggar
Short drive with hot springs visit & local exploration
Drive via Atal Tunnel into Lahaul valley landscapes
High altitude drive crossing passes into Ladakh
Cultural exploration & Snow Leopard habitat introduction
Drive to Zingchen & trek into Hemis National Park valley
Snow Leopard tracking, Blue sheep & Himalayan wildlife spotting
Trek through remote high-altitude valleys and ridgelines
Gradual ascent to alpine base camp with wide mountain views
Acclimatization, ridge walks & wildlife tracking
Descent via valley trails and drive back to Leh
Recovery, monastery visits or local markets
Departure with expedition memories
