THE SEARCH FOR THE SNOW LEOPARD

The Search for the Snow Leopard – an amazing trek in a tough neighborhood
The snow leopard, or as the locals call it, "the ghost of the mountains," is one of the shyest and most elusive animals on the planet.
Illegal hunting and extensive trade in its fur and body parts are the main cause for the dwindling numbers of the snow leopard population.
The rarity and elusiveness of the snow leopard protect it, but it is also another motivating factor to hunt it, mainly because of the beauty of its fur, which is a source of income for the poor communities living near its habitat.
Its habitat in the Himalayas, which rise to altitudes of 5800-7600 meters above sea level, is one of the harshest places on earth. This protects the snow leopard from poaching and habitat loss.
In the harsh winter, when temperatures plummet to -35°C and mountain peaks are covered with impassable snow, the snow leopard follows its prey to ravines and valleys at altitudes of 3000-4600 meters above sea level.
The search for the snow leopard is carried out in the excellent Hemis National Park, where the largest population of snow leopards exists.
The adventure takes place at altitudes of between 3400-4500 meters.
Daytime temperatures are between 5 – 4 degrees Celsius, and at night can drop to -35 degrees Celsius.
The trek is led by a professional and experienced guide.

Recommended time for travel: November-March. During this period, the accumulated snow causes the snow leopards to descend at the foot of the mountains, thus significantly increasing the chance of seeing this animal.
The animals you are likely to see: snow leopards, blue sheep, yak
Difficulty: Medium