Snow leopard and high-altitude wildlife tracking (winter)
A focused winter expedition to track snow leopards and other high‑altitude wildlife around Kaza and Pin/Kibber areas of Spiti Valley. This trip combines guided field surveys, camera‑trap deployment, and scenic high‑altitude trekking across cold desert landscapes. Winter months bring animals to lower ridgelines and valleys, improving sightings for patient teams while presenting alpine challenges—thin air, deep snow and extreme cold.
Location
Kaza, Kibber, Pin Valley (Spiti Valley), Kaza (Spiti), India
Duration
8–10 days (typical); flexible 5–14 day options available depending on objectives
Best Time to Visit
December to March (core winter): coldest, best for tracking movements when snow leopards and other mammals descend to lower altitudes. Late November and early April can be used for shoulder‑season trips with variable snow.
Pricing
Indicative price: INR 55,000–120,000 per person (USD ~700–1,500) for an 8–10 day program. Final cost depends on group size, season window, inclusions and logistics (snow vehicles, porters, permits, guide & naturalist fees).
Typical inclusions: local naturalist/spotter, experienced high‑altitude guide, basic accommodation in Kaza (guesthouses/tented winter camps), meals as specified, field equipment (binoculars, spotting scopes shared), camera‑trap setup assistance, permits.
Typical exclusions: international/domestic flights, road transfer supplements in deep‑snow conditions (snowcat/snowmobile), personal winter gear, travel insurance (high‑altitude/evacuation), gratuities, alcoholic drinks, additional nights.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Target species: Snow leopard (Panthera uncia)
Other high‑altitude species: Himalayan blue sheep (bharal), Himalayan wolf, red fox, Tibetan sandgrouse, lammergeier and other raptors
Field activities: long glassing sessions, camera‑trap deployment and retrieval, snow tracking, night camp observations
Landscape: stark cold‑desert plateaus, jagged ridgelines, frozen streams and spectacular Himalayan vistas
Local culture: visits to Kibber village, interactions with local shepherds and yak/pony handlers who are invaluable for tracking knowledge
Itinerary
Arrival and transfer to Kaza; acclimatisation
Acclimatisation is essential. Brief orientation, kit check, meeting guides and spotters. Short walks around town for camera & scope setup.
Drive to Kibber / high ridgeline; initial reconnaissance
Glass likely ridgelines through spotting scopes. Learn to read sign: scrapes, pugmarks and kill sites. Moderate 3–5 hour walks; carry full winter kit.
Full day tracking & camera‑trap deployment
Early start for dawn glassing. Team splits for reconnaissance and camera trap placement. Expect long stationary periods in hides or vans.
Search & stakeout day (mobile)
Move between vantage points following local intel and fresh sign. Hot drinks at makeshift shelters; minimal disturbance to wildlife.
Deep field day / access to higher pastures (snow permitting)
Use snowshoes/crampons if required. Look for bharal concentrations (prey) and possible predator tracks on ridgelines.
Camera‑trap checks and community visit
Retrieve images and battery data from camera traps. Meet local shepherds to discuss seasonal movement patterns and conservation context.
Repeat tracking; flexible plan for best sighting opportunity
Consolidate intelligence; prepare for potential long stakeout if an animal is located.
Buffer and contingency day; return to Kaza and depart
Use this day for weather delays; final debrief and transfer to next destination or onward travel.
Safety Requirements
High‑altitude acclimatisation: follow staged ascent, rest days, know AMS symptoms and response
Experienced high‑altitude guide and local spotter essential
Cold‑weather technical clothing: down parka, insulated boots, glacier sunglasses/goggles and facemask
Navigation & comms: GPS, satellite phone or HF radio in winter; guides should carry emergency locator beacon
Avalanche & snow travel awareness: training or support staff if crossing avalanche‑prone slopes
First‑aid kit with altitude medication (acetazolamide), oxygen cylinder available, and arrangement for emergency evacuation (helicopter/ambulance)
Minimise disturbance to wildlife — keep distance, no night chases, avoid using bright lights
Tips
Photography: bring a telephoto lens (300–600 mm recommended) and many spare batteries (cold drains batteries fast).
Dress in layers: base, insulating mid‑layers, windproof/waterproof outer shell. Hand and foot warmers helpful.
Pack high‑energy snacks and thermos; hydration is critical even in cold weather.
Book early and travel with operators who maintain relationships with local communities — they supply trackers and winter logistics.
Travel insurance must cover high‑altitude rescue/evacuation. Verify policy limits before booking.
Be patient and flexible — sightings are never guaranteed; success depends on weather, prey distribution and patience.
Respect local customs and carry small offerings if visiting shepherd families (ask your guide).
Bring photocopies of permits/ID; winter road closures may require alternate logistics and extra transport charges.
