If you are an animal lover specially cat lovers Ladakh is a dream destination to spot Snow Leopard. Ideal period for spotting snow Leopard is from October to March. These elusive cats are spotted throughout the Hemis National Park in the left bank of river Indus.
Hemis National Park is situated in the east of Ladakh with a carpet area over 3000 - 4500 meters. It covers an area of 600 sq.kms in the valleys of Markha and Rumbak. This area formed in 1981 for the conservation and protection of it’s unique flora and fauna. There are many rare and endangered animal species found in this cold desert, amongst these are the elusive Snow Leopard, Ibex, Tibetan Antelope, Blue Sheep, Shapo, Marmot, Tibetan Hare etc. Among the avi fauna population found are the Snow Patridge, Golden Oriole, Snow Cock, Golden Eagle, Horned Lark, Red Billed Chuff etc.
In the west of Leh town are another spots to see this cat. Village like Ney Phu, Ule Phu, and hills of Skindyang village are common to witness the cat. Other famous and rare animals like "Nyan" or "Tinetan Argali",(Ovis ammon); Himalayan blue sheep, called "Bharal" or "Napo", (Pseudois nayaur); Uriel, locally called "Shapo" (Ovis orientalis), Asiatic ibex Skin(Capra sibirica), and among the predators are Red Fox, Tibetan Wolf, Lynx, Pallas Cat, and many others.
A Himalayan brown bear expedition in Ladakh typically involves observing these bears in their natural habitat, potentially tracking them, and learning about their behavior and ecology. This often includes wildlife and landscape excursions, birding opportunities, and local cultural visits.
Early morning and evening bear sightings are common, often from specific viewpoints or on designated trails.
Experienced guides may lead participants in tracking bear tracks and signs, potentially getting closer to the bears if possible.
Opportunities to photograph not only the bears but also other wildlife like Tibetan wolves, red foxes, and blue sheep, along with the surrounding landscapes.
Ladakh offers a variety of trekking options, with the Markha Valley Trek being a popular choice. Other popular treks include the Chadar Trek (on the frozen Zanskar River), Snow Leopard Trek, and treks to Tso Moriri Lake.
Here's a more detailed look at some popular trekking activities in Ladakh:
This trek is known for its stunning landscapes and cultural encounters as it passes through remote villages and ancient monasteries. It typically starts from Chilling and leads to Hemis Monastery.
This unique trek involves walking across the frozen Zanskar River during winter. It's a challenging but rewarding adventure.
This trek focuses on the possibility of spotting snow leopards in their natural habitat, typically in the Hemis National Park.
This trek offers views of the high-altitude Tso Moriri Lake and its surrounding landscapes.
This trek allows you to explore the monasteries and monasteries of Ladakh while enjoying scenic views.
Lamayuru to Alchi Trek: This trek takes you to ancient monasteries in the Lamayuru and Alchi regions.
Sham Valley Trek: Often referred to as the "baby trek," this trek is suitable for all levels and offers a chance to experience Ladakhi culture.
Nubra Valley Trek: This trek explores the diverse landscapes of Nubra Valley.
Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek: This trek provides a scenic route to the Tso Moriri Lake.
Darcha Padum Trek: This trek starts from Darcha in Himachal Pradesh and leads to Padum in Zanskar.
The best time to trek in Ladakh is generally from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the trails are accessible. The Chadar trek is best enjoyed in the winter months (January-March).
A Jeep safari in Ladakh offers a thrilling adventure through high-altitude passes, stunning landscapes, and remote areas. Popular routes include Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La, Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shayok Valley, and Leh to Manali. These safaris often involve crossing high passes like Khardung La, and offer opportunities to experience the unique culture and landscape of Ladakh.
This route features the world's highest motorable road, offering breathtaking views and a chance to witness the Border Road Organization's work.
This route takes you to Pangong Lake, known for its changing colors and scenic beauty.
This route showcases the beauty of both Pangong and Tso Moriri lakes.
This route connects Ladakh with Himachal Pradesh, passing through the iconic Manali-Leh highway.
This route involves crossing passes like Zoji La and offers a glimpse into the cultural diversity of Ladakh.
River rafting in Ladakh is a popular adventure activity, particularly on the Zanskar and Indus Rivers. The most popular routes include Phey to Nimo (Zanskar) and Phey to Saspol, as well as options on the Indus River. Rafting on the Zanskar River, known as the "Grand Canyon of Asia," is particularly thrilling and involves rapids ranging from Class III to IV+.
Phey to Nimo: A popular route for both beginners and experienced rafters, featuring rapids ranging from Class II to III.
Chilling to Nimmo: A challenging route with rapids up to Class IV+.
Karsha to Nimmo: A 4-day trip with rapids ranging from Class III to IV+, offering a scenic journey through the Zanskar valley.
Phey to Saspol: A route known for its challenging rapids and breathtaking views.
Phey to Nimo (Sangam): This route allows rafters to experience the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers.
Upshi to Kharu: A route on the Indus River with varying rapids.
Upshi to Nimo: Another option on the Indus River.
If you are bike lover you have this ultimate destination to ride your bike of all kind with high passes and dusty trails. Manali to Leh motor bike tours is one of the main segment for this adventure sport. While as driving in the south west of Leh around Tso Moriri Lake and Tso Kar lake worth riding. Riding to Pangong Tso and driving to Nubra valley by crossing Warila pass and coming back to Leh over Khardungla pass ( highest in the world ) is another attraction for you.
Driving in the west of Leh city by following river Indus you will reach at Aryan Valley where you have incredible views of deep gorges of river Indus and most amazing views at the top of Himbotingla pass and Shashi La passes. This is off beat destination and full of thrilling experience.
You have possibility to start your ride from Manali to come to Leh by covering almost 500 Kms and ride all around Ladakh region and drive in the west following Leh - Srinagar highway to enter in Kashmir. Motor bike ride in Ladakh is increasing day by day and many opportunities to explore the hidden places of this beautiful part of the world.