Ghost of the Himalayas: A Journey Through Ladakh
India | 15 Days | From $12,895
Limited to 12 Travelers
Price Includes:
Integrated Carbon Offsetting
Inclusive by design, unless otherwise noted
Journey at a Glance
Experience Ladakh on a small-group journey designed for depth, presence, and perspective, where rare wildlife, ancient culture, and one of the harshest landscapes on Earth come together in a story of coexistence. Track the elusive snow leopard and experience life in one of the most remote landscapes on Earth.
This is not a typical wildlife expedition. You will track the elusive snow leopard alongside local spotters and explore the high-altitude valleys of Ulley and Hemis, where communities and predators share the same fragile terrain.
What sets this journey apart is what lies beneath the experience.
Through community-led initiatives, Ladakh has transformed human-wildlife conflict into one of the world’s most compelling examples of coexistence. Your presence helps support this balance, ensuring both livelihoods and wildlife can thrive.
Traveling with expert local trackers and naturalists, you’ll learn to read the landscape as they do—following signs and scanning ridgelines in this high-altitude ecosystem.
Arrive: Leh, India
Depart: Leh, India
Defining Moments
Track the Ghost of the Himalayas. Scan ridgelines with expert local spotters in search of the elusive snow leopard.
Stay in a Conservation Success Story. Base yourself at Snow Leopard Lodge, where tourism directly supports local communities and wildlife.
Witness Coexistence in Action. See how Ladakhi communities have transformed conflict with wildlife into collaboration.
Explore the Changthang Plateau. Journey through vast high-altitude landscapes home to kiang, foxes, and rare wildlife.
Connect with Living Culture. Experience monasteries, local traditions, and a way of life shaped by the land.
Not ready to book? Start here.
Get our Field Guide to Purpose-Driven Travel and learn how to choose journeys that truly support conservation and local communities.
The TerraFauna Difference: Why Your Journey Matters
Itinerary
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Day 1: Welcome to India
Overnight: The Grand Dragon
Arrive in Leh, the gateway to Ladakh and one of the highest airports in the world. You’ll be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel for a full day of rest and acclimatization.
In April, the apricot blossoms will be bursting to life along with other birdlife like the Black-necked Crane.
At over 11,000 feet, today is intentionally slow. Take in your first views of Ladakh’s stark, high-altitude landscape while allowing your body time to adjust—an essential step in preparing for the days ahead.
In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner where you’ll meet your TerraFauna guide and fellow travelers. This is a chance to settle in, connect, and begin to understand the journey ahead.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way. -
Day 2: Leh & the Indus Valley
Overnight: The Grand Dragon
Ease into Ladakh with a gentle exploration of Leh and the surrounding Indus Valley. Visit ancient monasteries and wander through local markets, where Tibetan-Buddhist culture is deeply woven into daily life.
You may also choose to rest further as your body continues to acclimatize—an essential part of preparing for the journey ahead.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Monasteries & Cultural Immersion
Overnight: The Grand Dragon
Spend the day exploring Ladakh’s spiritual and cultural heart. Visit historic monasteries, observe daily rituals, and gain insight into a way of life shaped by both landscape and belief.
In the evening, attend a monastic prayer ceremony—an opportunity to quietly witness the rhythm of spiritual life in the Himalaya.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.
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Overnight: Snow Leopard Lodge
After breakfast, journey west into the Sham region, entering true snow leopard habitat. Arrive at your base for the coming days, nestled in the small mountain village of Ulley.
After a briefing from your guides and trackers, begin your first exploration of the surrounding valleys—scanning slopes and ridgelines for movement in the high-altitude wilderness.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.
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Overnight: Snow Leopard Lodge
These days are dedicated to tracking the elusive snow leopard and exploring one of the most remarkable ecosystems on Earth.
Each morning, head out with expert local spotters who read the landscape through tracks, alarm calls, and subtle shifts in wildlife behavior. Your search may take you across valleys such as Hemis Shukpachen, Mangyu, and beyond—regions known for their rich biodiversity.
Along the way, encounter Himalayan ibex, blue sheep (bharal), Ladakhi urial, Tibetan wolf, and a range of high-altitude birdlife. The rhythm here is one of patience, presence, and deep observation.
Evenings are spent sharing stories, warming meals, and reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.
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Overnight: Grand Dragon Leh
After a final morning in snow leopard country, return to Leh with a stop at Alchi Monastery—one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist sites in the region.
The afternoon is yours to rest and reset after several days in the field.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.
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Overnight: Ruth Pa Homestay
Travel east across the Indus Valley and onto the vast Changthang Plateau. The journey will take us 6 hours by car. This remote region is defined by sweeping landscapes, high-altitude wetlands, and remarkable wildlife.
Arrive in the village of Hanle, home to one of India’s highest astronomical observatories and the country’s first Dark Sky Reserve. Settle in and take in the stillness of this extraordinary place.
*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.
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Overnight: Ruth Pa Homestay
Spend your days exploring the remote plains surrounding Hanle in search of rare and adapted wildlife.
This region is home to Pallas’s cat, Tibetan gazelle, sand fox, and migratory birdlife. With your local guide, traverse open grasslands and wetlands, learning how life persists in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
At night, step outside to experience some of the clearest skies on the planet—where stars stretch endlessly across the Himalayan horizon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner*Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.
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Overnight: The Grand Dragon
Begin your journey back to Leh, following the Indus River through dramatic gorges, high-altitude plains, and remote villages.
Along the way, keep watch for kiang, marmots, Tibetan fox, and raptors soaring overhead. Stop at Chumathang hot springs before continuing onward.
Arrive in Leh in the evening for your final night in Ladakh.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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Transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. A day room in Aerocity is arranged for rest and refreshment before your international departure.
You leave with more than memories—carrying with you a deeper understanding of what it means for people and wildlife to coexist.
Meals: Breakfast
The price of this journey is $12,895 per person. This includes the required non-refundable deposit of $1,000 USD. This deposit secures your space on the itinerary and covers the cost of non-refundable, non-transferable permits—an extraordinary privilege that is limited and highly sought-after. If you would like to travel as a single, in a your own room, there is an additional single supplement fee of $2,995. If you are a solo traveler and would like to share a room this option is also available at the double price.
Please note: Because our journeys venture into remote, wild, and weather-sensitive areas, comprehensive travel insurance—including coverage for cancellation, interruption, medical needs, and evacuation—is required. We recommend Trawick International for coverage and added perks. You may purchase this coverage at the time of booking or add it on closer to your departure date in your traveler portal with us. If you have any questions about this policy, we’re happy to assist.
Dates & Pricing
Upcoming Journeys
Dates
Pricing
March 28 - April 9, 2027
$12,895
November 20 - December 2, 2027
$12,895
Make This Journey Private
Prefer to travel with your own group? This journey can be arranged as a private departure for families, friends, alumni groups, or your team.
You will experience the same thoughtfully designed itinerary, trusted local partners, and conservation experiences while traveling exclusively with your chosen group.
Private departures also allow for added flexibility in timing, pace, and special interests.
Not ready to book? Start here.
Get our Field Guide to Purpose-Driven Travel and learn how to choose journeys that truly support conservation and local communities.
Your TerraFauna Guides
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Conan Dumenil
Conan’s passion for nature and education started two decades ago in the Himalayan foothills. His first role was as a naturalist at a renowned wildlife lodge in Corbett National Park.
There, he guided visitors, educated them about the natural world, assisted film crews on documentaries, and gained practical outdoor skills through trekking, fishing, and rafting. This experience was transformative, inspiring him to question traditional science education and realize the need to reconnect people with nature.
Since then, he’s led numerous nature-based trips, documenting a wide range of wildlife and contributing to snake conservation and snakebite mitigation.
Today, Conan continues to design, execute, and lead custom wildlife journeys across India, Nepal, and Bhutan, alongside developing experiential learning programs for children.
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Surya Ramachandran
Surya’s journey as a naturalist began in the forests of Satpura, before moving to Kanha. During his time in Central India, he co-authored a field guide to the region’s wildlife.
His interests have led him to diverse landscapes, including the Trans-Himalaya – where he has worked with snow leopards and other wildlife for over a decade; the Thar Desert, and the rainforests of the Western Ghats. This enabled him to co-author a second, comprehensive field guide focusing on southern India’s wildlife.
Surya’s expertise extends globally, having guided tours in Africa, South America, and Borneo. He enjoys interpreting and documenting hidden stories of nature through his photography. His work earned him the prestigious TOFT Award in 2016, and he serves as the Swarovski Optik Birding ambassador for the Indian region.
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Faiza Mookerjee
Faiza grew up in New Delhi but inherited a deep connection to the natural world from her parents—a wildlife conservationist and a travel writer. Her career began as a SCUBA divemaster in the Andamans, where she realized her true passion lay in sharing nature with others to foster a deeper connection and education.
Driven by this mission, she managed a wildlife lodge in the Himalayan foothills and honed her expertise working with renowned companies like RARE India and andBeyond, where she specialized in curating and guiding wildlife tours.
Today, Faiza focuses on designing enriching, tailor-made journeys across India, with a special emphasis on walking experiences in lesser-known regions. With a wealth of knowledge on flora, her personal travels revolve around her two great loves: food and wildlife.
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Varun Devaraj
Varun’s journey into natural history began in his homeland, the Nilgiri Mountains, part of the UNESCO-recognized Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This gave him a deep understanding of its unique ecosystem, launching his career in wildlife and nature conservation over a decade ago with the Keystone Foundation.
In 2011, he moved to the Central Highlands of the Satpura Tiger Reserve, spending six years immersed in its forests, frequently encountering leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and tigers.
Following Satpura, Varun transitioned into Wildlife Consulting, where he helped properties develop programs and content, promoting ethical travel and sustainability.
Now a Naturalist Guide, Varun curates experiences across diverse Indian landscapes, from the tiger reserves of Central India and the mountainous Western Ghats to Trans-Himalayan Ladakh. His extensive adventures and knowledge equip him to immerse travelers in meaningful wildlife encounters.
When not in the field, Varun trains park guides and explores India’s varied habitats, from the mangroves of the Sundarbans to the arid zones of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
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Vedant Thite
A multifaceted naturalist, Vedant Thite has dedicated 16 years to conservation, research, wildlife rehabilitation, and responsible tourism in India. His passion began near Pune, leading him to contribute to multiple academic studies and scientific publications on biodiversity.
He transitioned from academia to exploration, working at Tadoba National Park for two years, specializing in tracking and understanding big cats like Tigers and Leopards.
Vedant then spent seven years as Head Naturalist at SUJÁN JAWAI in Rajasthan, a world-renowned leopard habitat. Here, he truly excelled, leading excursions, initiating biodiversity and rewilding projects, and minimizing human-wildlife conflict through local education and liaison with the Forest Department.
A specialist in crafting holistic and safe experiences, Vedant now offers his expertise as an expedition leader, providing personalized, in-depth, and luxurious tours of India’s rich flora and fauna.
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Tsewang Nurboo Sanath
Nurboo is a dedicated wildlife enthusiast and experienced guide with over four years of hands-on experience in the field. His work as a wildlife guide has shaped his deep understanding of nature, animal behavior, and sustainable tourism, while also strengthening his ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
He holds a Master’s degree in Rural Development, reflecting his commitment to community growth and environmental sustainability. In addition, Tsewang has over a year of experience working at Decathlon, where he developed strong customer service skills and a keen interest in sports and outdoor activities.
Passionate about the natural world, Tsewang finds joy in wildlife exploration, long bike rides, trekking, and hiking. His adventurous spirit, combined with his professional experience, makes him someone who thrives in dynamic outdoor environments and is always eager to explore new terrains and experiences.
Refined Stays in Wild Landscapes
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Snow Leopard Lodge
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The Grand Dragon
FAQS
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This is a small-group journey with a maximum of 12 guests. Keeping the group intentionally small allows for deeper connection, greater flexibility, and a more personalized experience throughout.
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We pour our hearts into crafting meaningful, conservation-driven journeys—and we know that travel plans are a significant investment of both time and intention. While we hope you’ll be able to join us, we understand that circumstances can change. Please review the following policy carefully before booking.
Standard Cancellation Terms
121+ days (4+ months) prior to departure: A $200 cancellation fee per person will apply.
61–120 days (2–4 months) prior to departure: 50% of the total trip cost, including internal flights, pre/post extensions, and added services (e.g. additional hotel nights), will be non-refundable.
60 days or fewer prior to departure: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer any refunds at this stage due to our financial commitments to local partners and accommodations.
Deposit Policy
All trip deposits and payments are non-refundable.
For fully private bookings (e.g., you reserve an entire departure), deposits are double the standard rate and remain non-refundable.
Special Note on Deposits & Cancellation Policy
This journey requires a non-refundable deposit of $1,000 USD per person, in addition to the total trip cost. This deposit secures your space on the itinerary and covers the cost of non-refundable, non-transferable permits. Please note that this policy differs from our standard terms, due to the unique nature of the experiences and conservation access included in this itinerary.
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Yes. Because our trips venture into remote, wild, and weather-sensitive areas, comprehensive travel insurance is required for all travelers. This must include coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, emergency medical needs, and evacuation. We recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to maximize your coverage window.
If you have any questions about this policy, we’re happy to assist.
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International flights
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Pre- or post-journey accommodation in Windhoek
Optional activities and excursions not outlined in the itinerary, such as hot air ballooning or scenic flights
Beverages beyond those specified
Laundry services
Gratuities for your TerraFauna Guide
Personal expenses such as phone usage, shopping, or medications
Travel insurance
Entry visa fees
Bank or credit card processing fees
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This journey takes place at high altitude, where the primary challenge is elevation rather than distance or intensity.
You will spend time between 11,000 and 14,000+ feet, where thinner air can impact energy levels and stamina. The itinerary includes time for acclimatization, but all travelers should be prepared for the effects of altitude.
Daily activities are moderate and flexible. Expect short walks on uneven terrain, time outdoors in cold conditions, and periods of standing or sitting while scanning for wildlife. Tracking does not require long hikes, but it does require patience and time outside.
Temperatures can range from below freezing to mild daytime conditions, and proper layering is essential.
Travelers should be in good general health, comfortable walking short distances on uneven terrain, and prepared for cold weather and a slower pace. This journey does require resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to slow down.
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The best time to visit Ladakh for this journey is during winter, from January to March, when snow leopards descend to lower elevations and tracking conditions are at their best. During this time, Ladakh’s high-altitude cold desert experiences cold, dry, and often sunny conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 5°C to -10°C (41°F to 14°F) and colder nights dropping to -15°C (5°F) or below . While the weather can be extreme, it is precisely these conditions that make wildlife sightings more possible and the landscape most powerful, offering a rare opportunity to experience Ladakh at its most raw and authentic.
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Yes—India is generally safe for travelers, and Ladakh is one of the safest regions in the country. It is remote, culturally rich, and known for its strong sense of community and hospitality.
On this journey, safety is supported by experienced local guides, trusted partners, and thoughtfully planned logistics.
The primary consideration is not safety, but altitude and environment. With proper preparation and guidance, this journey is both safe and deeply rewarding.
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Yes—most travelers will need a visa to enter India.
For many nationalities, the process is straightforward through India’s e-Visa system, which can be completed online prior to departure. Tourist e-Visas are typically issued for short stays and should be applied for in advance of your journey.
Requirements and processing times can vary depending on your nationality, so we recommend applying early and checking the latest guidelines through the official government website or your local consulate.
We recommend checking the most up-to-date requirements prior to departure, as entry regulations can change. TerraFauna is happy to guide you through the process to ensure everything is in place before your journey.
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The local currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR).
For this journey, most major expenses are included, so you’ll only need money for personal purchases, tips, and small incidentals. We recommend bringing a mix of cash (USD or INR) and a credit card.
In remote regions like Ladakh, cash is essential—ATMs can be limited and unreliable outside of Leh, and smaller vendors do not accept cards. Plan to withdraw or exchange money upon arrival in Leh, and carry smaller denominations for ease.
Overall, spending needs are minimal, but having accessible cash will ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.
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All tipping for lodge staff, local guides, and drivers is included in your TerraFauna package.
The only gratuity not included is for your dedicated TerraFauna guide; we recommend tipping $20 USD per person, per day, based on your satisfaction.
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This journey is designed primarily for adults. Older teenagers with an interest in wildlife and nature may be a good fit. Please reach out if you are considering traveling as a family.
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This journey is designed so that your presence directly contributes to conservation and community well-being in Ladakh.
Through partnerships with organizations like the Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust and community-based initiatives such as Himalayan Homestays, tourism revenue is intentionally directed into local villages. This supports livelihoods through guiding, hosting, and wildlife tracking—while reinforcing the value of protecting species like the snow leopard.
Your stay at places like the Snow Leopard Lodge contributes to a model where conservation and income are directly linked. Funds help maintain predator-proof corrals, support livestock insurance programs, and create stable jobs for local trackers and families.
The result is a powerful shift: wildlife is no longer seen as a threat, but as a shared asset. By traveling here, you are helping sustain a system where communities and conservation thrive together.
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We recommend a comprehensive policy that includes trip cancellation, interruption, medical coverage, and emergency evacuation. Namibia’s remote environments make evacuation coverage especially important. We are happy to recommend providers such as Trawick International.
We recommend Trawick International Insurance for reliable coverage; contact us for assistance purchasing a policy.
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No special vaccinations are required for Ladakh, but you should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date and consult your healthcare provider before visiting India.
The main consideration is altitude. At 11,000–14,000+ feet, you may feel the effects of thinner air. The itinerary includes time to acclimatize, but it’s important to come prepared.
Stay hydrated, move at a slower pace, and consult your doctor about altitude and any necessary medications.
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English is the official language of Namibia and is widely spoken throughout the country. Your guides are fluent in English and are exceptional communicators, offering deep local knowledge and storytelling throughout the journey.
Namibia is also home to a rich diversity of languages. You may hear Afrikaans, German, and several Indigenous languages such as Oshiwambo, Otjiherero, and Damara/Nama spoken throughout the regions you visit. This linguistic diversity reflects the country’s cultural depth and heritage.
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Yes! We’re happy to assist with pre- or post-trip hotel bookings if you want to extend your stay in Namibia.
Let us know your plans, and we’ll arrange accommodations tailored to your needs.
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Absolutely. We offer private departures for families, friends, or organizations.
Contact us to discuss group size, pricing, and flexible deposit and cancellation terms.
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Booking as “willing to share” means reserving a spot at the double occupancy rate and agreeing to share a room with another traveler of the same gender you don’t know.
If no roommate match is found 120 days before departure, the single supplement fee applies.
Book Your Journey Today
Our journeys are personal and so is our approach.
If you're curious, have questions, or just want to talk it through, we're here. Every trip is intentionally crafted, and we're happy to help you find the one that resonates most. Reach out when you're ready, we'd be honored to guide you. You can also request your free guide to purpose-driven travel to get your journey started.