5 Nights & 6 Days
Venture into the remote highlands of Ladakh on a thrilling 5-night, 6-day journey in search of one of the Himalayas’ most elusive and majestic residents the Himalayan Brown Bear. Set against the stark, dramatic landscapes of the Sham and Drass valleys, this adventure blends rare wildlife encounters with an intimate look at mountain culture and life in one of India’s wildest frontiers.
Your journey begins in Leh, the high-altitude capital of Ladakh, where you’ll acclimatise while exploring ancient monasteries, bustling markets, and hilltop stupas draped in prayer flags. From here, travel to the little-visited habitats of the brown bear, accompanied by expert trackers and naturalists who know the terrain and the rhythms of its wildlife.
Spend your days scanning rugged slopes and alpine meadows for signs of these powerful omnivores, along with other high-altitude fauna such as red foxes, Himalayan wolves, golden eagles, and lammergeiers. When the sun dips behind the mountains, enjoy warm Ladakhi hospitality in cosy homestays or lodges, sharing stories over hearty local meals.
Beyond the bears, this journey is a celebration of Ladakh’s raw beauty jagged peaks dusted with snow, crystal-clear streams, wildflower meadows, and star-studded skies. It’s an expedition for those who seek not just to see wildlife, but to experience the wild in its purest form. By the time you return to Leh, you’ll carry home photographs, memories, and a deep connection to the rugged soul of the Himalayas.
Day 1 – Arrive in New Delhi
Day 2 – Fly Delhi to Leh – Leh to Drass
Day 3 – Wildlife Walk & Village Visit
Day 4 – Dawn Bear Tracking & Evening Safari
Day 5 – Exploring Remote Valleys
Day 6 – Departure
Your adventure begins in the vibrant capital of India. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to rest, explore nearby bazaars, or savour your first chai while people-watching in a bustling street café. This evening, gather with your travel companions for a welcome briefing before tomorrow’s flight into the mountains.
Upon arrival at Leh airport, begin your scenic road journey to your lodge in Drass. After checking in, take some time to settle in before joining your Tour Leader and spotters for an orientation and briefing about the unique Himalayan Brown Bear habitat. The evening is yours to relax and take in the crisp mountain air, followed by a delicious dinner and your first night in the heart of bear country.
Wake up early for a guided walk along the Mushkow River, keeping your eyes peeled for Himalayan Brown Bears and other wildlife such as marmots, ibex, foxes, and wolves in the surrounding valleys. Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy spotting both resident and migratory species.
In summer, the meadows come alive with blooming tulips and wildflowers, making for a breathtaking backdrop. If weather permits, enjoy a freshly prepared picnic breakfast in the open. In the afternoon, visit nearby Shina villages such as Goshen or Pandrass to experience local culture and learn about the region’s fascinating history.
Your days begin before dawn, with a 5:00 AM wake-up call for a hike to an adjacent hillside — a prime vantage point for your spotter to scan for bear activity. Later, return to the lodge for a hearty meal featuring traditional Ladakhi flavours prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
In the evenings, set out again for another tracking session. Depending on sightings, you may explore surrounding valleys and landscapes such as Umba La (snow conditions permitting), Pandrass, Matayen, Shimsha Kharbu, Suru, or the apricot orchards of the charming village of Karkitchu.
Enjoy a final breakfast at the lodge before bidding farewell to your hosts, fellow travellers, and the rugged wilderness of Ladakh. Transfer back to Leh with unforgettable memories and photographs of your time in the land of the Himalayan Brown Bear.
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