Young snow leopard cub lies on rocky ground, gazing upwards against a blurred backdrop. For those eager to witness such majestic creatures in their natural habitat, visit India—one of the few places where and when to see snow leopards in all their glory.

INDIA

When & Where to See Snow Leopards in India

Where do Snow Leopards Live?

Among wildlife enthusiasts, there are some sightings that are truly prized and seeing the “gray ghost” (as the snow leopard is known) is one of them. This elusive creature is quite difficult to spot in its natural mountain habitat, which is the Central Asian mountain ranges covering 12 countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Grayish-brown rosettes camouflage snow leopards against their rugged terrain, making it particularly challenging for the untrained eye to spot them, which is why it is crucial to travel with experts.

Are Snow Leopards Endangered?

The world’s snow leopard population is thought to be anywhere from 3,900 to 7,000 individuals. Knowing exactly how many snow leopards there are in the wild is difficult due to the high altitude and rough mountain terrain they live in, along with such a large habitat. The status of the snow leopard has been changed from endangered to vulnerable, however, they are still at risk of poachers and human-animal conflict. The largest population (about 60%) of snow leopards is in China and the second largest is in Mongolia, however, most of the snow leopard habitat in these countries is not accessible to the public.

In most countries, your snow leopard safari will be done through a research or conservation facility, where you will follow researchers who have been monitoring snow leopards in their region, either through camera traps or in the field. Depending on the area, expeditions can be booked throughout the year. However, with warmer temperatures in spring and summer, many of the animals wander further up the mountain away from human-encroached areas, especially the shy snow leopard.

A snow leopard gracefully navigates the snowy landscape of India, with delicate snowflakes dancing around it.

When is the Best Time to See Snow Leopards?

The ideal time for an expedition is between November and March. Snow leopards live at elevations anywhere from 6,000 to 22,000 feet when the higher parts of the mountains are covered in snow. Their preferred prey include bharal (blue sheep), Ibex (wild goats), argali (mountain sheep), marmot, and pika. These mammals descend further down the mountain at this time of year to feed on grass, shrubs, and herbs. Like other predators, snow leopards follow their prey down the mountain. Sometimes, if necessary, they also feed on livestock.

Bundled in winter clothing, a person uses a camera on a tripod, scanning the snow-dusted landscape for elusive snow leopards amidst the blurred rocky terrain. Wildlife sightings in this rugged expanse offer a rare glimpse into India's majestic wilderness.

Where is the Best Place to See Snow Leopards?

Ladakh in the Himalayan region of India offers the best snow leopard sightings, with a number of provisions set up for expeditions in this area. In Ladakh, your snow leopard safari is equipped with a robust support team, including trackers, chefs, porters, and guides, all on the lookout for these magnificent creatures. The expert trackers are local Ladakhi villagers who grew up in snow leopard territory and know the behavioral patterns of the “shan,” as the Ladakhis call them. These trackers maneuver through the mountains in the early mornings and late nights, while you rest up at your lodging, and scale the slopes to look for signs of snow leopard including tracks, scat, or remnants of a kill. The next morning, you will be taken to the optimal locations for a chance of a sighting. Snow leopards are most active during dawn and dusk. At other times of day, there is the opportunity to look for other mammals such yak, ibex, Tibetan wolf, and red fox.

Two elusive snow leopards stand on the snowy ground, one gently licking the other's head against a foggy backdrop in India. It's a rare and magical moment, showcasing why understanding where and when to see these majestic creatures is so important.

Snow Leopards Facts

Snow leopards are solitary cats. They are only seen with other snow leopards during mating season, which is between January to March, and when they have cubs, usually in the summer months of June and July.
Snow leopard habitat can range depending on the amount of prey. With a large prey base, snow leopard’s have a range of 11-65 square miles. With a small prey base, they will need around 300 square miles to hunt and live in.
Snow leopards cannot roar.
Humans are the biggest threats to them, such as poachers, herders, and hunters who hunt the snow leopards’ prey.
Their paws, unlike other cats, have adapted to their surroundings and act like snow shoes, helping in walking on icy cliffs and snow.
Adult snow leopards weigh between 77-120 lbs. Females weigh about 30% less than males. These animals are about two feet high, and body and head length is 30-59 inches. The tail is around 30-40 inches long.
The snow leopard shares common DNA with the tiger, not the leopard.

Learn More

Talk to an Expert

Our Asia Specialists know every detail about our India trips. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Choose A Trip