Snow Leopard Tracking Trek in Nepal

• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel

  Kathmandu (1,300m /4,265ft)

  You will meet our company representative at the airport after flying through the breathtaking scenery of this trekkers’ paradise. For a breathtaking trip, you must have a restless heart. Prepare to have a close-up encounter with Nepal. Check out Nepal’s serene beauty and the friendly hospitality of the Nepalese. But before that, we’ll take you to your hotel. Refresh yourself after checking in at the hotel and get ready for the trek briefing.

  If you arrive early, explore Thamel’s trendiest town, where you may discover eateries serving a variety of cuisines. You will be staying in Kathmandu for your first night there.

• Day 02: Sightseeing at Kathmandu and preparation for the trek

  Kathmandu (1,300m /4,265ft)

  On the second day, you can explore some of Kathmandu’s well-known historical and religious attractions.  You will meet your tour guide at the hotel after visiting this city of temples. A thorough explanation of the wildlife adventure will be given to you. Additionally, the guide will help you with any last-minute trek-related purchasing needs.

  Prior to leaving for the wildlife trek in the Himalayas, have a restful night in Kathmandu.

  (You can dispose of the items you do not want to take on the trek at the hotel or our office supply store.)

• Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat/Dharapani

  Kathmandu (1,300m /4,265ft) Dharapani: 1,810m/ 5,938ft)

  After a delicious breakfast, we will drive on a private vehicle towards Jagat or Dharapani via Besi Shahar, the entry point of Annapurna Circuit Trekking. It is about 8 to 9 hours of drive today.  Once you reach Jagat or Dharapani, your adventure for the day will come to a conclusion. You can unwind after the long drive and prepare for tomorrow for the rest of the evening.

• Day 04: Drive from Jagat/Dharapani to Manang

  Dharapani: 1,810m/ 5,938ft) Manang: (3,500m/ 11,482ft)

  Today we will be driving along the Marshayandi Rivers towards the Manang village. You can get your first glimpse of the mountains from Bhulbhule if the weather is favorable. Enjoy the view of several mountains and magnificent waterfalls during the drive. While reaching Manang, you can get to know the locals and learn about their unique culture and way of life. You might go to the Cultural Museum, Bodzo Gumba, and cafes that offer better food and internet.

• Day 05: Acclimatization hike to Ice Lake

  Manang: (3,500m/ 1,482ft) Ice Lake: (4620m/15157ft)

  Manang, a settlement at the base of Annapurna III, has breathtaking views of both Gangapurna and Annapurna. Side hikes that include climbing high and sleeping low are essential for effective acclimatization days. Any walk along the Annapurna Circuit should include a stop at the Ice Lake, which is a fantastic side hike for acclimatization. Visit Ice Lake today for an acclimatization stroll.

• Day 06-10: Trek and track the Snow Leopard trails

  Manang: (3,500m/ 1,482ft)

  We will be trekking and tracking the Snow Leopard trails continuously for 5 days.  During these days, we can admire the Annapurna range as well while strolling through the top portion of Manang, which is unofficially known as the Annapurna Circuit’s trekking hub.

• Day 11: Drive from Manang to Besi Shahar

  Manang: (3,500m/ 1,482ft) Besisahar: (830m/ 2,723ft)

  After our wonderful and adventurous trek to see the Snow Leopard is over, we will take a private 4WD Jeep back to Besi Shahar. Reaching Besi Shahar, you can have full refreshment and relaxation after the long trek.

• Day 12: Drive from Besi Shahar to Kathmandu

  Besisahar: (830m/ 2,723ft) Kathmandu (1,300m /4,265ft)

  Today, we will be leaving Besisahar early in the morning and taking a return drive to Kathmandu.

  As soon as you get to Kathmandu, you’ll check into a hotel at Thamel. You can take a stroll in the evening for food, beverages, and souvenir shopping. It’s a fantastic idea to spend your evening in Kathmandu wandering about Thamel and its surroundings for shopping and independently exploring the winding streets of this popular tourist destination.

• Day 13: Final Departure

  Kathmandu (1,300m /4,265ft)

  You will leave Nepal today with priceless experiences and memories. In accordance with your travel schedule, our crew will bid you farewell and take you to the international airport for your flight home. It’s a good idea to arrive at the airport at least two hours before takeoff.

  Trekkers’ Paradise hopes to take you to another exciting touring in Nepal. If you want to return to Nepal for yet another tour or trek, contact us to schedule the greatest adventures in a prompt and easiest way.

   

   

   

• Will someone come after my arrival to pick me up at the airport?

  Yes, a Trekkers Paradise representative will be there to greet you outside of Terminal Hall. He will be displaying a Trekkers Paradise name card with your name on it. You will be moved to the pre-select Hotel after that.

• Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?

  All foreign nationals, except Indian Citizens, need visas to enter Nepal.

• What is the cost of the visa application process and Visa? Should we apply for a visa from our home country or will we get it at Nepalese Airport? Which documents are important that I should bring with me?

  After landing, you can obtain a visa at Tribhuwan International Airport, furthermore, it will be easier if you are fill-up the visa form online (http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa) before taking the flight to Nepal. Entry Visa fees- at present are $ 30 for 15 days, $ 50 for 30 days, and $ 125 for a three-month visa on entry to Nepal.

  You should bring the following essential documents on the trip:

  • Valid Passport: must be valid for up to 6 months.
  • Travel insurance: you need to provide a copy of the insurance paper to Trekkers Paradise before you start the trek.
  • Flight Tickets.
  • Emergency contact numbers for T/C’s bank, insurance, and family contacts.

• When is the best time to travel to Nepal?

  The weather is probably the best guide for deciding when to plan your trip to Nepal. The best time to visit Nepal is between September to November and March to May.

• How is the Higher Himalayan toilet facilities like?

  There are generally common toilet facilities in teahouses and lodges, which are typically clean and well-maintained. A limited number of tea houses and lodges now sell attached toilets. We will provide you with the best choice in this regard, as far as possible.

• How are the shower facilities on the trek?

  Normally there are hot water shower services in various teahouses and lodges. In the absence of such a facility, the teahouse/lodges will provide you hot water bucket. The payment for the shower has to be made by yourself and the cost varies with the place.

• Will we have Wi-Fi?

  Wi-Fi and network might not be always available. However, most of the hotels provide Wi-Fi free or with a certain charge these days.

• Are there porters or yaks carrying the luggage or are we supposed to be carrying it alone?

  Our porters, who are honest and experienced, will look after your luggage while on the trek. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like a camera, water bottle, sun cream, money, etc. Normally, we assign one porter to carry the luggage of two trekkers.

• May I charge my camera and mobile batteries on my Trip?

  These facilities will be available in most of the places in your Hotel reception by paying some service charges. Don’t forget to bring your adapters!!

• Is it safe to trek in the Annapurna region?

  The only potential hazard during the trek is the possibility of altitude sickness to reduce the chances of it we suggest a single day for acclimatization. You will also be guided by an experienced trekking guide and assisted by local porters, who are there to take care of you during your trek.

• What are the facilities available in case of emergencies during the trek?

  In case you suffer from altitude sickness or any other problems, we will offer you the doctor’s prescribed medicines according to the type of problem facing you. We will descend you and incise of extreme cases, you will get rescued by helicopter.

• Can I add extra days to my Trekking Trip?

  Yes, it is absolutely possible to add some more days to the trip. Along your trek, we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation, and food.

• Are Trekkers Paradise’s staff insured?

  Yes, all the staff of Trekkers Paradise including guides and porters are insured to recover any kind of casualties.

• What are some basic Nepali customs that I should know about?

  • Take off your shoes before entering a temple or one’s home
  • Ask for permission before entering a Hindu temple
  • Taking photographs inside most temples is considered illegal
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of objects, including Nepali people.
  • Nepali people are friendly by nature. Have a genuine interest in them. Talk to them. Be friendly as you travel.

• Where can I find a snow leopard in Nepal?

  According to statistics, the best chances of seeing a snow leopard are in Manang between the months of February and March.

• Why it is difficult to spot a snow leopard in the wild?

  Snow leopards are extremely difficult to spot in the wild due to their cautious and elusive nature, as well as the remote and rocky landscapes that they reside in.

• Why are snow leopards on the verge of extinction?

  Snow leopards are endangered as there have been numerous dangers to snow leopards for many years, which has greatly decreased the population. Because of habitat degradation, lack of prey, revenge kills, poaching, and other crimes.

• What are our options if we don't see a snow leopard throughout the day?

  Typically, the time allotted for snow leopard tracking is longer. We will move to another leopard region the following day if we don’t see any leopards on the first day. Similarly to this, we can lengthen our days in this manner till we eventually encounter the snow leopard.

• How many snow leopards are left in Nepal?

  In Nepal, there are an estimated 350–500 snow leopards. They are mostly found in the Manang district in the Annapurna Region of Nepal.

• What is the Nepali name for the snow leopard?

  The snow leopard is called Hiun Chituwa in Nepali.

• What are the interesting facts of Snow Leopard?

  • Snow leopards are mostly found in South Asia including the Himalayas of Nepal.
  • They are high-altitude acrobats well adapted to the cold environment.
  • They are incredible athletes capable of long jumping and climbing ability. They can jump 6 times their body size and climb remote and rugged terrains.
  • They are camouflage. They can blend in quite well with the rocks and snow as a backdrop and setting. They favor settling on rock outcrops, cliffs, and ridges. These areas are useful for stalking and sneaking up on prey because they offer camouflage.
  • Leopards are solitary predators.
  • Leopards are the smallest members of the big cat family.
  • Unlike other cats, they can’t roar but yowl, chuff, hiss, growl, mew, and wail.
  • Compared to other real large cats, snow leopards are tiny, weighing about 27–54 kg.
  • Females are approximately 30% smaller than males.
  • They have a tail as long as their body.
  • They have bright blue eyes and 1.13 inches long pointed teeth.
  • They are active during the dusk and dawn.
  • They can travel a distance of a marathon in one night.
  • The blue sheep are their preferred prey.
  • They can catch prey that is up to three times as heavy as themselves.
  • They consume slowly, and a kill may be enough for two to three days.
  • They are defenseless and are under the threat of human activities.

Aside from geographical protection, Trekkers Paradise has taken safety in following things to make travel as safe as possible making the most out of it without any worry!

• Our guides have received extensive wilderness first-aid training.
• Trek leaders and guides have years of trekking experience who can help you if there is any kind of uneasiness and assure happiness & satisfaction are guaranteed.
• We’ll have High-quality masks & Gloves with sanitizers for everyday use throughout the journey for the Trekkers Paradise team assisting you.
• Encouragement and inspiration can be a regular occurrence.
• Food and accommodation in the mountains would be rechecked for additional hygiene.

Our trek takes us to high altitudes near the world’s highest point, which means your body will need enough starch, protein, and nutrition, as food is the body’s fuel for hiking on such massive Himalayan trails.

All the meals including breakfasts, lunch, and dinner are served during your stay in Kathmandu and the trekking journey. Usually, breakfast and dinner are served at the same hotel where we stay overnight and lunch is served en route to our destination during the trek.

The services are basic, with some of the popular western, Asian, or Nepalese menus being the most popular and consumed. The most popular and common menu items include the Dal-Bhat set, which consists of rice, lentils, and vegetables, as well as meat, rice, and noodle items, spaghetti, pasta, momo(dumplings), Tibetan bread, chapatti, local tsampa porridge,  potatoes, sandwiches, macaroni dishes, pizza, Sherpa stew, steaks, vegetable curry and so forth.  The Dessert Items  (Rice Pudding, Apple pie), Hard Drinks Steaks, etc.) are available on the menu as well during the trek.

However, you cannot compare them with the choices available in large cities. Usually, local agricultural products are used to prepare meals. Other ingredients are purchased from the market if they cannot grow at a particular elevation.

Breakfast and dinner orders are taken in advance to save time; breakfast orders are taken the night before and dinner orders are taken as soon as you arrive at the teahouse. Depending on your schedule for the day, your typical day will begin. Breakfast is served in your lodge each morning, after which you leave for the next stop. A guide will notify the next tea house or lodge of your arrival each day. Around noon, you’ll stop for lunch at any nearby lodge on the way. You will arrive at your destination shortly after lunch. You can unwind or explore the nearby attractions when you arrive. You will dine around 7 to 8 pm.

At high altitudes, we strongly advise drinking hot liquid drinks in addition to fresh vegetable foods and fruit drinks. Drink plenty of water, not all a once but regularly at a time interval.

It is best to avoid smoking cigarettes, consuming alcohol, non-vegetarian foods like meat, caffeine-containing foods, hot chocolate, and dairy and cheese products on high-altitude treks. These things increase the chances of getting altitude sickness and diarrhea.

You can find some teahouses and lodges with good services on the trekking routes during your tracking days. But as you ascend higher they become more basic. Rooms are basic, almost every room consisting twin-bedded with two beds with a mattress, a pillow, and blankets. You can share a room with a fellow trekker with whom you feel at ease.

Although, each lodge has its own set of standards, please do not anticipate luxurious accommodations, particularly in the mountains. Most teahouses offer hot showers, boiled drinking water, extra blankets, charging stations, and WIFI for an additional fee. The price of teahouses is determined by the location and the facilities/services they offered.

The availability of drinking water is not an issue.  Bottled mineral water is available in most places for purchase, but there is no provision to dispose of plastic bottles. We encourage guests to do what they can to protect the environment. We do not recommend purchasing single-use plastic bottles. You can buy or bring your own Nalgene bottles on the trek which makes the trail free from bottles and rubbish.

Filling your water bottles in tea houses is another option for getting drinking water. Several guesthouses have the Euro-guard filters water.  Boiled filter water is also available in tea houses that are completely safe to drink but may be inexpensive for the duration of the trek.

River water is generally full of glaciers and sand and may be contaminated with animal urine and toilet run-off, so do not drink it. The tap water in the lodges is piped from high up, away from rivers and clean glaciers, so it is better, but it still must be treated.

Use iodine drops (3 per liter) locally known as Lugols solution, available at Thamel supermarkets in Kathmandu. The chlorine-based tablets are another choice, but they do transmit a taste to the water. Alternatively, you could purchase a Steripen, which uses UV to kill the bacteria but is a bit fragile to carry during the trek.

The best option is the water purification tablet Aquaprove, which uses cutting-edge technology. Most importantly, it works against all pathogens in impure water. It’s light, simple to use, has no taste, and is all-natural.

Leave No Traces, Only the Footprints! Pack out your own waste. We practice responsible eco-tourism and organize eco-friendly trips to support sustainable tourism.

The trekking trail in Nepal has suffered significant damage as a result of not having a strong policy on waste management. Act and travel responsibly. We prefer that all of our clients bring their trash and keep them in a container or bag, and dispose of it properly at a specific spot or dustbin.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the most deadly risk of trekking. Anyone can get a victim of this sickness when their body is exposed to a higher elevation in a short period of time and the body is unable to adapt to the changing atmospheric pressures. As you ascend higher, the oxygen and air pressure decrease. Our bodies are capable of handling the change, but they require time to gradually adapt. If it is not treated in time, it can be severe and result in death. You can take a few preventative measures to avoid it.

• Not to climb too high too fast.
• Climb slowly and attain the height gradually.
• Take it easy and climb at your own comfortable pace.
• Reduce your walking hours as you reach 2000 meters and walk slowly.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Get plenty of rest. If you feel like your body needs more rest, get it.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
• Meditation and warm-up exercise each day before starting the trek.
• Allow an acclimatization day for every 1000m of elevation gain.

There are two more serious but less common severe forms of altitude sickness. Both have the potential to be fatal. You must descend immediately to receive medical care.

High-altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) causes the lungs to swell with excess fluid, which makes breathing difficult even when at rest. You experience extreme exhaustion, weakness, and perhaps a sense of suffocation. A dry cough, nose breathing, shortness of breath, fever, chest tightness, rapid heart rates, congestion, swelling, and fainting are the symptoms of HAPE.  If HAPE is not promptly treated by lowering the altitude or using oxygen, it can be fatal.

High-altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is characterized by an accumulation of fluid on the brain that results in swelling. Confusion, poor coordination, and possibly violent behavior could occur. Hallucinations, loss of consciousness, fever and fatigue, photophobia, hypertension, coma, shortness of breath, and inability to walk are some more symptoms of HACE. HACE can result in death if it is not treated immediately.

The early signs of altitude sickness can be relieved by immediately descending. However, if you are experiencing severe acute mountain sickness symptoms, you should see a doctor.

The drug acetazolamide can ease heavy breathing and lessen the effects of altitude sickness. You may also be given the steroid Dexamethasone. But you are never recommended to take such drugs as far as possible until the situation is harsh.

During the Snow Leopard Tracking trek, you will be accompanied by our local best trained and well-experienced guides/Sherpas to make your journey even more comfortable and memorable. All guides are well-trained and licensed with prior experience they have spent years trekking/climbing a peak all over the world. Porters will also be assigned to carry your luggage. Two members will be assigned one porter, combined luggage should not exceed more than 20 kg. We provide basic accommodation for our guides and porters or tents with sleeping gear and we also provided them with food and warm drinks.

• Intensive Wilderness First Aid
• Authorized certificate of Trekking Guide Training
• Fluent English-speaking guide and other major languages
• Rock climbing
• Conservation and biodiversity

Trekkers Paradise is a government authorized, registered, licensed, and bonded trekking and touring operator in Nepal. The company registered number is 221608/076/0677. We are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Therefore, book the Trekkers Paradise trip with confidence as we are reliable.10 percent of payment in advance and other necessary documentation like passport copy, passport size photos, travel insurance policy, arrival, and departure flight details can be made later but must not exceed within two weeks’ period from the booking date. Payment is to be made by bank transfer, western union. The remaining trip cost can be paid whether in cash or by bank transfer when you arrive in Nepal. Furthermore, we put forward the necessary modes of payment details at your convenience by mail.