Tour overview

Snow leopard trekking in Nepal typically takes place over the course of 22 days. Trekkers will hike through rugged, high-altitude terrain, traversing steep ridges, mountain passes, and deep valleys in search at Narphu valley and manang their elusive prey.

The best time of year for snow leopard trekking in Nepal is generally from October to November, and from March to May. During these seasons, the weather is cooler and clearer, making it easier to spot snow leopards as they prowl the mountainsides.

Experienced local guides are essential for these treks, as they are skilled at reading the landscape and identifying signs of snow leopard presence, such as tracks, scrapes, and scat. They also know the best vantage points to scan for the big cats.

While sightings can never be guaranteed, trekkers in Nepal have a good chance of glimpsing a snow leopard during their expedition. Other wildlife that may be spotted includes Himalayan blue sheep, Tibetan fox, Himalayan brown bear, and a variety of birds of prey.

In addition to the wildlife, the cultural component of these treks is also a major draw. Trekkers will have the opportunity to visit remote mountain villages and gain insight into the traditional way of life of the Sherpa and other Himalayan peoples.

The snow leopards are dispersed along its northern boundary and the districts of Mustang, Mugu, Dolpo, and Humla are supposed to be well-known for snow leopard areas. There are eight mountain protected areas of Nepal where the snow leopard is spotted; they are the Shey Phuksundo National Park, the Manaslu Conservation Area, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, the Annapurna Conservation Area, the Makalu Barun National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, and Langtang National Park. In the Shey Phuksundo area, there are about five snow leopard conservation committees involving herders and village leaders, and elders and increasing awareness may give the beautiful animal a chance.Overall, a snow leopard trekking expedition in Nepal’s Himalayas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the world, while pursuing the elusive and majestic snow leopard.

Included

  • Airport Pick up and drop by private Car.
  • 4 nights twin sharing 3-star categories hotel with Bed and Breakfast plan.
  • You’re all accommodation during the trek in Trekking Lodge.
  • Three-time tea or Coffee in a day and meals, (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
  • All Ground Transportation by private vehicle during the trip.
  • 10 Days Nar-Phoo valley especial permits and all Annapurna conservation permit.
  • Special adventure English speaking guide who has knowledge about the Snow Leopard.
  • All necessary trekking porter and their food accommodation insurance salary.
  • All Government taxes and first aid kit.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Not Included

  • Your International Airfare.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu Hotel.
  • Personal gears & clothing for during the trip.
  • Nepal Visa fee for 30 days
  • Any items of personal nature and Soft, hard, and cold drinks.
  • Client's Insurance and medical evacuation in case of emergency.
  • Expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslide, strikes, political unrest, etc.
  • In such case, extra will be charged as per actual.
  • Tips for guide, porter, and Driver.

Short Itinenary

Outline Itinerary
Day 01: You’re Arrival in Kathmandu 1350 meters.
Day 02: Permit preparing day ready to pack your gear.
Day 03: Drive to Beshisahar and continue to drive to Koto.
Day 04: Trek to Meta about 7-8 hours walking.
Day 05: Trek to Kyang 5-6 hours waling.
Day 06: Snow Leopard habitat exploration day in Kyang.
Day 07: Trek to Phu Village best place for Snow Leopard.
Day 08: Exploring snow leopard habitat in Phu Village.
Day 09: Another exploration day in Phu.
Day 10: Trek to Nar Phedi
Day 11: Trek to Nar Village
Day 12: Exploration of snow leopard Habitat in Nar
Day 13: Another exploration in Nar.
Day 14: Trek to Ngawal from Kangla pass 8-9 hours walk.
Day 15: Trek to Manang
Day 16: Trek to Yak Kharka
Day 17: Exploring snow leopard Habitat in Yak Kharka.
Day 18: another explore day in Yak Kharka.
Day 19: Trek to Manang and drive to Beshisahar.
Day 20: Drive back to Kathmandu.
Day 21: Rest day in Kathmandu evening farewell dinner.
Day 22: Departure to your final destination.

Useful Info

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary, but as this is adventure travel in a remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it! Weather conditions and the health of trekkers can all contribute to changes. The guides and their Sherpa assistants will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if necessary.
Experience Required: This Trek is suitable for keen walkers who are able to walk for 6 – 7 hours in a day, with a light rucksack. Some of the days are quite long, and the walking feels more strenuous at altitude. Generally, the trail is a good track, but occasionally it will be uneven and rocky.
Food & Accommodation: You will be accommodated in the tea house & during trekking. Tea houses are simple, local-run guesthouses with twin-share or single rooms. Toilets and showers are of varying standards.
Typical food available for lunch and dinner is Nepali rice & lentils, pasta, potato dishes, soups, or pizzas. Delicious pancakes, porridge, toast, and eggs are the main breakfast fare, while tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are always available. You will probably be pleasantly surprised at the variety of food at the lodges.
What about our luggage?
1 Porter will be shared between 2 participants, they take a maximum load of 12kgs per participant.
You may keep things you will not use on the trek at our hotel in Kathmandu.
What will the temperature be like?
Basically, the atmospheric temperature fluctuates between -10 to 25 degrees throughout the day.
When we are trekking, the temperature would be on the high. For trekking, our concerns are focused on sun and wind exposure. To protect yourselves, you can wear long trekking pants or convertibles, in case it gets too warm, and a dry-fit long sleeve top and have the rain shell or outer waterproof layer accessible.
You’ll need your fleece or maybe the down jackets for those who are more afraid of cold when we reach the lodgings or at night to keep warm.
How much money should we bring?
You will need to carry Nepali Rupee if you decide you want to more shower than 3 times or have additional hot water on the trek. At the trekking lodges, you may wish to buy specialty menu items as well, or pick up souvenirs on the trek. Shopping can be done on your last day in the Thamel area.
What about Acute Mountaineering Sickness (AMS)?
AMS occurs to different people differently at different altitudes due to our tolerance level.
Signs of AMS include Dizziness, Nausea, Loss of Appetite, Fatigue or weakness, Shortness of breath, Drowsiness, and Fluctuation.
Peripheral Edema (Swelling of extremities)
Fluctuation in body temperature
Prevention of AMS:
Adequate REST prior to the trip.
Adequate HYDRATION during the trek or activity. (It is alright to keep going to the look, it is good for you)
Adequate SALT AND SUGAR in your bloodstream. (Basically, EAT)
Adequate WARMTH. (Keep yourself warm and try to not lose as much heat as possible to maintain bodily functions)
PROPER BREATHING. (Breathe deep into the diaphragm, breathe slow and steady. Breathe through your nose. Do not pant.)
PROPER EXERTION. (Go at a constant, manageable pace, do not chase after the person in front, and try not to keep stopping and starting)
All in all, sound out when you do not feel well. We are only human.