Pallas Cat Expedition in Ladakh

7N/8D

View Gallery

Overview

Pallas's Cat (Otocolobus manul), locally known as Ribilik, Tak Shan, or Sukthung, is a rare and elusive small wild cat found in Ladakh, India. It is the smallest of the three wild cat species in the region, alongside the Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) and Snow Leopard (Uncia panthera), and the hardest to spot.

With limited data on its population and habitat, sightings are rare. Wildlife photographers and filmmakers increasingly visit eastern Ladakh, especially Hanle(Changthang) and the Anley Basin Wildlife Reserve, hoping to capture glimpses of this cat.

As wildlife tourism grows, Ladakh is emerging as a key Himalayan destination for spotting rare species like the Tibetan/Himalayan Wolf, Tibetan Sand Fox, Himalayan Red Fox, and Eurasian Lynx.

Itinerary

Arrive at Leh Airport and transfer to the hotel in Leh. Spend the day at leisure for acclimatization. In the evening, take an easy walk to the Leh Main Market.

Overnight at the hotel in Leh. It is mandatory for every traveler to spend at least two nights in and around Leh to acclimatize to the high altitude. A full day of rest is essential.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed sightseeing tour of the Shey, Thiksay, and Spituk monasteries. Later, explore the Leh Market. The day remains light to aid further acclimatization.

In the evening, attend a pre-expedition briefing on Pallas's Cat, their habitat, and ongoing conservation efforts. Overnight at the hotel in Leh.

After an early breakfast, drive to Hanle, situated at an altitude of 4,250 meters (14,000 feet). The scenic drive along the Indus River offers breathtaking views and excellent opportunities to spot wildlife and bird species.

Stop for lunch at Nyoma, the block headquarters of the Changthang region. The journey passes through the Rong Valley and crosses the Indus River at Loma before entering the Hanle Basin.

On the way, you may spot the Black-necked Crane (state bird of Ladakh), Tibetan Wolf, Blue Sheep, Asiatic Ibex, Red Fox, Kiang, and Tibetan Sand Fox. Overnight at a guesthouse or homestay in Hanle.

Begin your wildlife adventure with guided drives and walks in the Hanle Basin. Search for the elusive Pallas's Cat and encounter species like Tibetan Wolf, Red Fox, Kiang, and Blue Sheep. Birdwatchers may spot Black-necked Crane, Lammergeier, and other high-altitude birds. Overnight at the Hanle.

Explore new areas of the Hanle region, tracking wildlife and observing migratory birds. Early and late hours offer the best chances. Continue your search for Pallas's Cat. Overnight in Hanle.

Make a final attempt to spot the Pallas's Cat. Revisit promising locations and capture any missed sightings. Enjoy the serene landscape and reflect on the expedition. Return to the guesthouse. Overnight in Hanle.

After breakfast, drive back to Leh following the same route. Enjoy your final glimpses of the stunning Changthang landscape. Overnight at the hotel in Leh.

Transfer to Leh Airport for your onward flight. Trip ends.

What's included

Accommodation in Homestays, Guest House, and Lodge.
All meals are included.
All transportation by private vehicle.
Nature guide services will be provided throughout the tour in Ladakh.
Spotters throughout the tour.
National Park entrance fees.
Homestay charges and village environmental fees.
LAHDC environmental fees.
Spotting Scope and walkie-talkie during the trek.

What's excluded

Flight tickets.
Sleeping bags, trekking shoes, and clothing.
Any kind of personal expenses, personal binoculars, or optional tours/extra meals ordered.
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head “prices included”.
Tips, insurance, laundry, phone calls.
Any kind of drinks (alcoholic, mineral, aerated).
Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks, and/or any factors beyond control.

Good to know

Dos:

Rest for at least 24 hours upon arrival to acclimatize to the high altitude.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or fluids (avoid alcohol).
Cooperate with locals, porters, guides, and drivers.
Respect the local culture and environment.
Avoid using polythene; Ladakh is a polythene-free zone.
Dispose of all waste properly.
Carry an identification card (passport, voter ID, driving license, etc.) along with a photocopy.

Don’ts:

Do not wear denim; it is not suitable for trekking.
Do not overpack with snacks, colas, alcohol, or personal food.
Do not bring any trekking equipment such as tents; it will be provided.
Do not expect guaranteed smooth transit as weather and road conditions may affect travel.

Clothing:

Heavy warm feather jacket
Warm fleece jacket
Woolen and windproof gloves
Warm hat
Woolen socks
Warm windproof trousers
Sweaters

Gear and Accessories:

Waterproof trekking shoes
UV-protected sunglasses
Torch with extra batteries
Sunscreen lotion and cold cream
Sleeping bag suitable for -25°C
Light, quick-drying towel
Lip balm or chapstick
Water bottles (insulated or regular)
Camera, memory cards, and spare batteries
Personal toiletries, tissue rolls, windcheater
Walking sticks (if available)

Documents:

Identification card (passport, voter ID, driving license, etc.)
Photocopy of the identification card

Medicines

Avomine for vomiting
D Cold or Combiflam for cold or body ache
Vicks balm
Diamox (250mg) for high altitude issues (consult your doctor)
Saridon for headaches
Glucon D or Electral powder
Camphor
Any personal prescribed medicines
Consult your doctor for additional recommendations

Preventing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

AMS can affect anyone at altitudes above 10,000 feet
Leh is situated at 11,500 feet above sea level
Common symptoms include headache, disturbed sleep, nausea, breathlessness, fatigue, and lack of appetite
Rest for the first 24 hours after arrival
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol or smoking
Keep warm and avoid physical exertion on the first day
Take Diamox if recommended by a medical professional

#wildlife

#mountains

#adventure