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  • Country Nepal
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Difficulty Moderate The tracking season lies in the winter time with ocassional snowfall. So prepare well for the cold weather condition.
  • Trip profile Snow Leopard Encounter in Nepal
  • Activity Snow Leopard Tracking and Photography
  • Max. altitude 4,030 m /13.221 ft
  • Best season January to early March
  • Accommodation Hotel & Tea House
  • Meals All Meals Included Throughout the expedition
  • Start / end point Kathmandu- Besisahar- Chame- Manang-Kathmandu
  • Transportation 4 WD Private Jeep
  • Age limit Above 6 Years

Highlights of Snow Leopard Encounter in Nepal

  • Spectacular view of eight-thousands Dhaulagiri (8,176m), Manalsu (8,156m) & Annapurna (8,091m)
  • Tracking the mighty snow leopard and other animals like blue sheep, Himalayan Tahr, alpine ibex, etc.
  • Vast and blood red rhododendron forest during March, April
  • Dazzling sunrise view on the silver mountains making them golden.
  • Mesmerizing greenery and beautiful landscape
  • Unique and rich culture of different indigenous group such as Magar, Gurung and Thakali
  • Trek into the heart of the Annapurna, surrounded by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchhre, Hiunchuli and more.
  • An unforgettable Himalayan adventure combining Snow Leopard tracking, breathtaking mountain landscapes, rich culture, and an expert wildlife team.
  • A rewarding hot bath out in the nature at the end of the trek to wash of your exhaustion.

Overview of Snow Leopard Encounter in Nepal

12 Days | Manang, Annapurna Conservation Area | Private Expedition | January–March | Snow Leopard Tracking & Photography

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is one of the world's most elusive mountain cats, perfectly adapted to the steep cliffs, rocky valleys and high-altitude landscapes of the Himalayas. In Nepal, one of the most exciting places to search for this rare predator is the Manang region of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Our snow leopard tracking in Nepal expedition is different from a standard Himalayan trek. The primary goal is wildlife observation and tracking. Rather than simply following a fixed trekking route, we spend dedicated days searching for snow leopard signs, studying the landscape and observing prey species and potential movement areas. Our experienced local tracking team adjusts the daily search according to wildlife activity, weather and recent signs.

During winter, snow leopard prey can move to lower elevations, bringing these elusive cats into areas where experienced trackers can search for them. This makes winter, particularly February and early March, an important period for our Manang snow leopard expeditions.

Meet Tashi R. Ghale – Our Snow Leopard Tracking Expert

Tashi R. Ghale is our dedicated local snow leopard tracker and nature guide in Manang. A native of the region, Tashi has spent more than two decades studying, photographing and tracking snow leopards in their natural habitat.

He has recorded more than 60 snow leopard sightings and has developed an exceptional understanding of the animals, their habitat and seasonal movements. His wildlife photography and conservation work have also received international recognition.

Tashi's local knowledge is one of the most important parts of our snow leopard expedition in Nepal. He understands the terrain, wildlife signs, prey movement and locations where snow leopards are known to move.

During the tracking days, he leads the team into snow leopard territory, often starting early in the morning and continuing throughout the day when conditions and wildlife activity are favorable.

Snow Leopard Tracking in Nepal – Dedicated Manang Expedition

Experience one of Nepal’s most exciting wildlife adventures with our private snow leopard tracking expedition in Manang. This dedicated snow leopard tour in Nepal combines expert local tracking, multiple full days in the field and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes to maximize your opportunity to encounter the elusive Manang snow leopard in its natural habitat. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, the expedition offers excellent opportunities for snow leopard photography in Nepal, while also looking for Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, golden eagles and other high-altitude wildlife.

If you are looking for the best place to see snow leopard in Nepal, Manang is one of the country’s premier destinations for a focused and authentic Himalayan snow leopard experience.

Snow Leopard Photography in Nepal

This expedition is also designed for wildlife photographers who want to photograph the snow leopard in its natural Himalayan habitat.

The combination of rugged cliffs, winter landscapes, dramatic Himalayan peaks and elusive wildlife creates exceptional photographic opportunities. Alongside snow leopard photography, you may photograph Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, red foxes, golden eagles, Himalayan griffons and other high-altitude wildlife.

Our trackers and guides help you understand the landscape and wildlife behavior while allowing time for patient observation and photography.

For travelers looking for a more photography-intensive experience, we also offer a dedicated Snow Leopard Photography Expedition in Nepal.

Best Time for Snow Leopard Tracking in Nepal

Our main snow leopard tracking season in Manang is from January to early March, with February and early March generally considered the prime period based on our field experience.

During winter, snow and changing prey movements can bring snow leopards toward lower elevations. This can make tracking and observation more productive.

Winter conditions can be cold, with occasional snowfall, so suitable clothing, footwear and cold-weather equipment are essential.


Fixed Departure Date - 2027

Embark on an extraordinary adventure as you explore Nepal's pristine trails, encounter majestic Snow Leopards, and customise your itinerary to match your preferences. For a personalised quote, please reach out to us, as costs adapt to the season and group size. The minimum requirement is 2 people or a solo expedition.

"Exclusive Solo & Private Snow Leopard Tracking – Reserve Your Spot for 2027, the Journey of a Lifetime Awaits!"

Itinerary of Snow Leopard Encounter in Nepal

  • Accommodation 4/5-star hotel
  • Transportation 4WD Private Jeep
  • Maximum altitude 1,350 m /4,429 ft.
  • Trek duration 30 minutes drive
  • Trek distance 10 km
  • Meals B,L, D

Discover for yourself everything you have seen and heard about the tranquil beauty of Nepal and the warm hospitality of its people. Get ready to experience Nepal up close and personal with an unforgettable adventure.

As your flight approaches Nepal, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan landscapes and the natural beauty of this trekkers’ paradise. Upon arrival at the airport, our company representative will be waiting for you with a placard displaying your name or company name. You will receive a warm welcome before we transfer you to your booked hotel or our recommended hotel in Thamel.

After checking in, take some time to relax and refresh. Later, we will provide a detailed briefing about your upcoming tour and answer any questions you may have. Then enjoy your time at Thamel, the vibrant heart of Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation Gateway Resort Hotel
  • Transportation 4 WD Private Jeep
  • Maximum altitude 760 m / 2,493 ft
  • Trek duration 8 hours drive
  • Trek distance 175 km drive
  • Meals B,L,D

After breakfast, we drive to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Our private vehicle will pick you up from the hotel, and the scenic 6–7-hour journey will take you through beautiful landscapes, winding hills, rivers, and charming countryside villages.

Enjoy the changing scenery as we leave the city behind and gradually enter the beautiful Himalayan region. Upon arrival in Besisahar, take some time to relax, explore the surroundings, and prepare for the trekking adventure that begins the following day. Overnight stay in Besisahar.

  • Accommodation Mountain Lake Hotel
  • Transportation 4 WD Private Jeep
  • Maximum altitude 3,500 m /11,483 ft.
  • Trek duration 5 hours
  • Trek distance 98 km drive
  • Meals B,L,D

On this day, we drive to Manang, which takes around 2–3 hours through beautiful Himalayan landscapes. This day is perfect for resting after the journey and allowing your body to acclimatize before the trek.

Once in Manang, you can explore the charming mountain village, experience the local culture, and enjoy the unique lifestyle of the Himalayan people. For a relaxed day, you can visit the Manang Cultural Museum, Bhraka Gumba, or spend time at cozy cafes offering delicious food and internet facilities.

Manang is also an important trading hub where you can purchase essential trekking items such as batteries, sunscreen, snacks, and chocolates. Overnight stay in Manang.

  • Accommodation Mountain Lake Hotel
  • Transportation Trek
  • Maximum altitude 3,500 m /11,483 ft.
  • Trek duration 8 hours
  • Trek distance 7-8 km
  • Meals B,L,D

Today, the real adventure begins. We enter the remote wilderness of Upper Manang, a hidden Himalayan paradise and one of the best habitats for the elusive snow leopard. Trek through rugged alpine landscapes, ancient trails, and silent valleys while our expert team searches for signs of this magnificent predator. Keep your eyes on the cliffs and rocky slopes — every footprint and movement tells a story.

  • Accommodation Mountain Lake Hotel
  • Transportation Trek
  • Maximum altitude 3,500 m /11,483 ft.
  • Trek duration 8 hours
  • Trek distance 7-8 km
  • Meals B,L,D

Rise early and continue our snow leopard tracking journey. The high Himalayan terrain offers the perfect setting to search for the “Queen of the Mountains.” As we explore the valleys and ridges, we look for fresh pugmarks, resting spots, and natural pathways used by snow leopards and check the camera traps for their movements. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna peaks and untouched mountain wilderness.

  • Accommodation Mountain Lake Hotel
  • Transportation Trek
  • Maximum altitude 3,500 m/ 11,483 ft.
  • Trek duration 7-8 hours
  • Trek distance 7-8 km
  • Meals B,L, D

Another exciting day in the snow leopard kingdom. We trek through the dry alpine landscapes of Manang, carefully observing the surroundings and learning about the habits of this rare Himalayan cat. Beyond snow leopards, the region offers chances to spot other mountain wildlife while experiencing the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

  • Accommodation Mountain Lake Hotel
  • Transportation Trek
  • Maximum altitude 3,500 m/ 11,483 ft.
  • Trek duration 7-8 hours
  • Trek distance 7-8 km
  • Meals B, L, D

Patience, silence, and observation are the keys to today’s adventure. Spend the day exploring prime snow leopard habitats with our experienced tracking team. From high viewpoints, scan the cliffs and valleys where these elusive animals roam. Every moment in this wild landscape becomes a memory of a lifetime.

  • Accommodation Hotel Dream Home
  • Transportation Trek
  • Maximum altitude 4,030 m /13,223 ft.
  • Trek duration 7-8 hours
  • Trek distance 7-8 km
  • Meals B,L,D

Depending upon the movements of the snow leopards, we will fix our base camp. Wake up surrounded by the majestic Annapurna range and enjoy the full-day snow leopard search. Capture the beauty of the mountains, the peaceful wilderness, and the unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most spectacular wildlife destinations.

  • Accommodation Hotel Dream Home
  • Transportation Trek
  • Maximum altitude 4,030 m /13,223 ft.
  • Trek duration 7-8 hours
  • Trek distance 7-8 km
  • Meals B,L,D

Wake up surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna Himalayas and enjoy your final opportunity to search for the elusive snow leopard.

Spend the morning carefully observing the wilderness, looking for fresh tracks, signs, and possible sightings of this rare Himalayan predator. After completing this unforgettable wildlife experience, we begin our descent through the beautiful Manang Valley, carrying memories of an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Himalayas.

  • Accommodation Gateway Resort Hotel
  • Transportation 4 WD Private Jeep
  • Maximum altitude 760 m / 2,493 ft.
  • Trek duration 6 hours
  • Trek distance 98 km drive
  • Meals B,L,D

After breakfast, we bid farewell to the high Himalayas and begin our descent through the beautiful Manang Valley. Enjoy the final moments of this incredible journey while reflecting on your snow leopard tracking adventure. We continue our trek toward the lower valleys to Besisahar.

  • Accommodation 4/5 star hotel
  • Transportation 4 WD Private Jeep
  • Maximum altitude 1,350 m / 4,429 ft.
  • Trek duration 8-9 hours
  • Trek distance 175 km drive
  • Meals B,L,D

After this wonderful trip, you will drive back to Kathmandu from Besisahar

Once you reach Kathmandu, you will check in at a nice hotel around the Thamel area. At the evening, you can stroll around for souvenir shopping, drinks, and dinner. Walking around Thamel and nearby areas for shopping and self-exploring the narrow streets of this tourist hub is a good idea to spend your evening in Kathmandu.

  • Transportation Flight
  • Maximum altitude 1,350 m / 4,429 ft.

Your adventurous tour concludes today. It is time to bid farewell! Our company representative will meet you at your hotel and drop you at the airport according to your flight schedule for your return flight home.  It is good to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your departure to complete the airport check-in on time. Tiger Encounter hopes to take you on another exciting wildlife safari in Nepal soon.

What Is Included

  • All necessary airport arrival and departure transport as per the itinerary.
  • 2 nights luxuries hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (4/5-star category hotel) in BB plan.
  • Private 4WD Land Cruiser transportation from Kathmandu to Manang via Besisahar and Chame
  • One night premium accommodation in Besisahar on a BB plan and 1-night accommodation in Chame.
  • 7 Night accommodation with attached rooms in Manang.
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, during the course of the drive, trek, and tracking program
  • Hot Beverage (Tea, Coffee, Milk, Hot Chocolate, Hot Water)
  • All programs as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Private 4WD Land Cruiser transportation from Manang to Kathmandu
  • Insurance for Nepalese staff. (Guide and driver)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Dedicated expert Tashi R. Ghale and his salary entire Snow Leopard tracking
  • Kathmandu to Kathmandu guide and guides service
  • Basic medical kits & insurance for Nepalese staffs
  • All government and local taxes.
  • Welcome or farewell dinner in Kathmandu

Trip Excludes

  • International airfare to/ from Nepal
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Insurance covers medical, emergency evacuation, etc.
  • lcoholic drinks, cold drinks and personal beverages
  • Extra accommodation caused by early arrival, late departure or an unplanned early return from the mountains
  • Personal clothing and trekking equipment
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities for staff

Just Fill and Book

This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation


    Additional Information - Snow Leopard Expedition in Nepal

    A Dedicated Private Wildlife Experience

    This is not a large-group tour.

    Our private snow leopard tour in Nepal allows you to travel with your own dedicated team and gives us greater flexibility to adjust the tracking program according to weather, wildlife movement and your interests.

    For photographers and serious wildlife enthusiasts, this flexibility is particularly valuable because successful wildlife observation requires patience and time in the field.

    Difficulty, Altitude & Fitness

    This is a moderately challenging high-altitude wildlife expedition rather than a conventional sightseeing tour. The tracking days involve several hours of walking over uneven mountain terrain, with some steep sections and changing winter conditions.

    The expedition reaches approximately 4,030 meters, and participants should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable walking for several hours at altitude.

    Previous trekking experience is helpful, but dedication, patience and a positive attitude are equally important.

    Because the expedition takes place during winter, cold temperatures and occasional snowfall are possible. Proper warm clothing, footwear and personal trekking equipment are essential.

    Why Choose Tiger Encounter?

    Local Expertise
    Our snow leopard expeditions are led by people with extensive knowledge of Nepal’s wildlife and Himalayan landscapes.

    Expert Snow Leopard Tracker
    Tashi R. Ghale brings more than 20 years of experience tracking and documenting snow leopards in Manang.

    Private Expedition
    You travel privately rather than joining a large group, allowing greater flexibility and personalized attention.

    Wildlife-Focused Itinerary
    The itinerary provides multiple dedicated days specifically for snow leopard tracking rather than treating wildlife as an occasional part of a conventional trek.

    Photography Friendly
    The expedition is suitable for wildlife photographers and travelers who want time for careful observation and photography.

    Complete Logistics
    From airport pickup and private 4WD transportation to permits, premium accommodation, meals and mountain guides, we manage the expedition from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.

    What Other Wildlife Can You See?

    Although the snow leopard is our primary target, the Manang ecosystem supports a remarkable variety of high-altitude wildlife.

    During the expedition, you may encounter:

    • Himalayan blue sheep (bharal)
    • Himalayan tahr
    • Himalayan ibex
    • Tibetan wolf
    • Red fox
    • Golden eagle
    • Himalayan griffon
    • Lammergeier
    • Snowcock
    • Marmots
    • Pikas
    • Other high-altitude Himalayan birds and mammals

    The presence and movement of prey species are particularly important because they can provide valuable clues when tracking snow leopards.

    About Snow Leopard

    Snow leopards protect themselves from the cold with their stunning spotted white-greyish coat. Their tail, which may extend from 80 to 105 meters, helps keep their body in equilibrium. Their primary prey is blue sheep, which fill their bellies for a week. They also consume ibex, marmots, Himalayan tahr, pika, hares, small rodents, and game birds in addition to blue sheep.

    Their natural habitats are rough, steep high mountain terrains. They prefer cliffs, rugged terrain, and ravines since they are high-altitude acrobats. They can move and remain agile in steep, rocky terrain due to their short forelimbs and long hind legs.

    Snow leopards are referred to as the “Queen of the mountains”. This is due to their elusiveness and rare sightings. In the mountains of Nepal, local people call them God’s Pet based on their deep-rooted culture and belief. Buddhists believe that harming any animals is a sin and advocate empathising with the pain the animals go through. They are sparsely distributed in the South Asian and central Nepali mountains.

    With only an estimated 350–500 snow leopards in Nepal’s remote highlands, your private snow leopard tracking experience will be a once-in-a-lifetime, truly unforgettable journey into the heart of one of the world’s rarest and most elusive big cats.

    Expert snow leopard tracking team:

    Tashi R Ghale serves as our professional nature guide for all snow leopard tracking expeditions in Manang. A local resident with over 20 years of experience, he has seen snow leopards more than 60 times—more than anyone else in Nepal. His photography has been featured internationally, and his dedication to conservation has earned him major awards, including from WWF, Disney, and the U.S.-based Bob and Zhang/Xavier Conservation Award.

    Our experienced leading guide and conservationist, Tashi, will be guiding you. Also, he will guide you in the snow leopard territory early in the morning. Moreover, our guide will track the snow leopards the whole day, and return to the hotel in the evening.

    Wildlife & Vegetation in Manang:

    The wildlife and vegetation are diverse in this conservation area. The altitude of the Annapurna Conservation area ranges from 1000 m – 8000m. From the subtropical sal forest to perennial snow, this area is home to 22 different forests with 1226 plant species. Among them, 55 species of plants are endemic, only found in Nepal. Annapurna Conservation Area is a habitat to about 101 species of mammals including endangered species like snow leopard, musk deer, Tibetan argali, and Tibetan wolf. This is the only area where all 6 Himalayan Pheasants of Nepal are found.

    Snow Leopard Species Ecology:

    Snow Leopards occur in cold, arid, and semi-arid scrubland, alpine and subalpine areas, grasslands, and open forests, favouring steep terrain characterised by cliffs, ridges, gullies, and rocky outcrops at elevations of between 3,000 m and 5,500 m. The main prey species of Snow Leopards are Ibex, Blue Sheep, and the Himalayan Tahr, although smaller species including Marmot, Pika, Hares, small rodents, and game birds such as the Snowcock and Chukar Partridge also supplement the Snow Leopard diet. Considerable predation is reported on domestic livestock, usually goats and sheep.

    Age at first reproduction is estimated at 30 months and females produce litters of between two to three cubs after a gestation period of 90 to 103 days. Captive females have been known to breed to up to 15 years of age; however, the longevity of Snow Leopards in the wild is about 10-12 years.

    Snow Leopard Characteristics:

    The snow leopards have thick light grey fur with a black spot on the head and neck. Their tails are bushy and long while the legs are short, making them slightly smaller than other wild cats. The short legs are powerful enough to leap and jump as far as 50 feet. Likewise, the long bushy tails are useful for balancing and covering sensitive parts against severe mountain chills. They are about 22 inches tall and 30 – 59 inches long weighing between 22 – 55 kg however some large males have been recorded weighing up to 75 kg. They have 1.13 inches long pointed teeth.

    Snow Leopard Diet and Hunting:

    The snow leopards are an opportunist and feed on carrion as well. However, these carnivorous cats actively hunt their prey. They are capable of killing most of the animals in their range. They pursue the prey down the steep mountainsides. Using the momentum of their leap they kill with a bite on the neck and drag the prey to a safer location to eat.

    Their natural prey is Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan blue sheep, wild goats, etc. They usually prefer prey weighing 36 to 76 kg but also hunt smaller mammals. Other species such as wild boar, red panda, and snowcock also become their prey sometimes. They eat all the edible parts of their prey and can survive on one Himalayan Tahr for two weeks. Due to the loss of prey animals in their natural habitat, they also feed on domestic livestock resulting in conflict with the herders. They hunt in pairs, especially during mating season.

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