Ghost of the Himalaya: A Journey Through Ladakh

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.

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.

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.

• 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Absolutely. We offer private departures for families, friends, or organizations.

Contact us to discuss group size, pricing, and flexible deposit and cancellation terms.

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.