The Snow Leopards of Spiti

Procedure photo tour 

This photo tour is an expedition to a remote region in winter. The journey to the Spiti Valley passes through the Himalayan Mountains and road closures, snowfall and unpredictable weather must be expected. Delays and changes in plans may occur under certain circumstances. Flexibility is therefore a prerequisite for participation in this adventurous photo tour to India. The exact daily program may be adjusted on site at short notice in order to be able to respond to the respective weather and light conditions.

Wildlife sightings

The Spiti Valley is considered one of the best regions to observe the snow leopard. Our Indian partner has regularly seen the snow leopards at close range. However, there is no guarantee of seeing the animals, as they are wild animals that are constantly on the move.

Climate and weather

Spiti is mostly dry in March and you can expect a mix of sunny days and overcast weather. Snowfall can occur at any time and is quite unpredictable. Temperatures range from cool to cold and can be very cold at night and in the early morning, with highs averaging -3 to 3 °C in the shade. It feels warmer in direct sunlight. Night time lows average -10 to -20 °C. The air is very dry, so low temperatures do not feel as cold as in humid climates. We are deliberately conducting this photo expedition in winter because snow leopards are comfortable in the cold and are particularly active in winter. When there is a lot of snow in the higher elevations during the winter months, prey of snow leopards descends to lower elevations, giving you the best chance for spectacular snow leopard sightings. February and March are also the breeding months for snow leopards, and it is also the time when they are most vocal.

Traveling at high altitude

On this photo expedition snow leopards, you are traveling at high altitudes, which makes the occurrence of altitude sickness symptoms possible. This has nothing to do with age or personal fitness, but mostly with the speed of the ascent to high altitudes and your own behaviour. Our itinerary is carefully designed to allow for easy acclimatization. If you have had serious altitude problems in the past, be sure to clear participation for this trip with a specialized altitude physician.

Physical fitness

The walking effort on this photo tour is medium. However, it feels more difficult as you will be walking at high altitude in the Himalayas. A good physical condition is therefore desirable to walk at higher altitudes and make the most of this trip. On average, you will walk 3-4 km a day on a hilly terrain. The longer you spend at the higher elevations, the better your body will adapt to the conditions. Many snow leopard sightings last hours, so there is no need to hurry if you see a cat some distance away. Patience is also always important in wildlife viewing, and this is especially true when looking for snow leopards.

Clothing

We recommend for this snow leopard expedition warm, breathable, and functional clothing in the onion principle, which transports sweat to the outside without losing heat and dries quickly. Also important are well broken-in winter hiking boots with appropriate profile sole.

Half of the double room

Sole travellers can register for a half double room. If no second guest registers to share the room, the single supplement will apply.

Entry requirements Indien

Entry requirements India: Swiss citizens need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date and a visa to enter India.

Visa India

The required visa for entry into India must be obtained in advance from the Visa Service in Bern, the Consulate General in Geneva or online.

Medical care and insurance

Medical care is very basic in Northern India. The conclusion of a cancellation insurance as well as a return travel insurance, which covers an evacuation, a local hospital stay and the return travel costs to Switzerland in case of emergency, is strongly recommended.

Travel advice FDFA

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) regularly publishes information on countries in which there are possible security or other risks. The FDFA's travel advice is based on its own sources of information, which are considered to be trustworthy. These travel advisories can be accessed via the FDFA website: www.eda.admin.ch

GTC

The General Terms and Conditions of Amazing Views Photo & Adventure Tours apply, as well as any other provisions listed in the detailed description of the tour.

Changes in prices

Prices are subject to change (especially due to exchange rate fluctuations).

Registration Photo Tour

Photo Expedition Snow Leopards

To register for the photo tour, please complete the form below. Please note that the booking is only confirmed when you receive a travel confirmation and an invoice for the deposit of the trip according to the invitation. Please use the same spelling for your first name and surname as in your passport.