A snow leopard expedition
with Mattias Klum
Ladakh | India
Ladakh, in the very north of India, is a spectacular habitat for snow leopards, surrounded by some of the world’s greatest mountain ranges. During our expedition into the former Tibetan Buddhist kingdom, this signature expedition will offer intimate insight into the culture and history of the region as we seek this rare and elusive species. The journey will be hosted by National Geographic photographer, Mattias Klum, and Expedition Leader, Behzad J Larry.
3rd-14th
December 2025
$15,215 USD per person based on shared DBL or TW
$20,092 USD per person for single supplement
HIGHLIGHTS
Seek the ghost of the mountain with the best snow leopard trackers in the world
Stay in specialist properties, located in prime snow leopard territory
Enjoy carbon negative tours and photographic masterclasses and presentations by Mattias Klum
Engage in conservation discussions led by the founder of High Asia Habitat Fund, Behzad J Larry
Track Tibetan wolves, Eurasian lynx and golden eagles
Visit local villages to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Ladakh and its interconnectedness with wildlife
Learn about the history of the silk route
INCLUDED
Expert guiding, tracking and personal hosting throughout
Photographic masterclass
Full board accommodation
10% donation to the High Asia Habitat Fund
Several high-powered Swarovski BTX 95 spotting scopes
Domestic flights, road journeys and airport transfers
Pre-trip advice and briefing
Community conservation activities
DETAILS
3rd-14th December 2025
11 Nights
$15,215 USD per person based on a shared DBL or TW
$20,092 USD for single supplement
Arrive to New Delhi
DETAILS
3rd-14th December 2025
11 Nights
$15,215 USD per person based on a shared DBL or TW
$20,092 USD for single supplement
Arrive to New Delhi
WHAT TO EXPECT
Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the heart of the Trans-Himalayas, where we will aim to not only observe but capture the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat. Hosted by legendary National Geographic photographer, Mattias Klum, this exclusive journey will place guests in the world’s premier specialist snow leopard camp, from where we will enjoy an unmatched opportunity to track and photograph the notorious ‘ghosts of the mountain’ with the best experts in their field. This expedition is designed for those who crave the thrill of discovery and artistry—an ultimate snow leopard photographic journey like no other.
CONSERVATION IMPACT
The High Asia Habitat Fund (HAHF) leads snow leopard conservation efforts in Asia’s high-altitude areas by fostering sustainable ecosystems that benefit both wildlife and local communities. Through predator-proof corrals in regions like Ladakh, HAHF reduces livestock losses, lowering retaliatory killings of snow leopards and supporting local livelihoods. Additionally, eco-tourism initiatives create alternative incomes tied to snow leopard conservation, promoting environmental and economic sustainability. These efforts not only protect this keystone species but also enhance biodiversity and ecosystem health across the landscape. HAHF works to ensure that snow leopards are seen not as threats but as valuable assets to the environment, a perception shift that is essential to long-term conservation success. Through education, community engagement, and strategic interventions, the Fund directly invests in both wildlife protection and the economic well-being of the people who share these landscapes.
YOUR HOSTS
Meet your hosts:
Mattias Klum and Behzad J Larry
Mattias Klum
Mattias Klum, a distinguished photographer, artist, filmmaker, and conservationist, uses his evocative storytelling and visual artistry to connect humanity with nature. A National Geographic Photographer and Explorer since 1991, Klum has crafted 13 cover stories for the reputed magazine, directed 12 documentaries, and published 17 books co-authored with esteemed scientists and luminaries like Johan Rockström and Jane Goodall. Honoured with numerous awards, including Sweden’s royal medal, an honorary doctorate and a Young Global Leader nomination, Klum’s global lectures and exhibits inspire conservation and appreciation for the natural world and ethnic minorities in peril.
Behzad J Larry
Behzad J. Larry is one of the world’s foremost guides when it comes to snow leopards and exploring the Roof of the World. As an accomplished expedition leader, conservationist, and photographer, Behzad has led countless wildlife tours through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Behzad’s work extends beyond guiding—he founded the High Asia Habitat Fund, which directs tourism revenue toward vital conservation efforts in high Asia. His renowned LUNGMĀR Remote Camp in Ladakh is one of the premier locations globally for spotting snow leopards, and it serves as a model for how sustainable tourism can support both wildlife and local communities.
A GLOBALLY UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE
ON CONSERVATION IN ACTION
Frequently Asked Questions:
Journey to Ladakh
What is the altitude like in Ladakh?
Ladakh, being a high altitude region, requires all travellers to acclimatise to the altitude before embarking on travel in the area. Acclimatisation is the biological process that creates more red blood cells and increases the flow of oxygen in the blood. Time is the only thing that helps the body acclimate to altitude. All of the LUNGMĀR's guests must stay in Leh for two full days before they can transfer to the camp on day three. This is done to ensure that your body has sufficient time to rest and begin to cope with lower atmospheric pressure.
It is recommended that the first day, the day of arrival, is one of total and complete rest at your hotel in Leh. We recommend reading a good book, hydrating well, and just taking in the incredible views. No walks, exercising, or sightseeing. Day 2 can have a few activities peppered in, like visiting the Thiksey monastery, whilst we keep the afternoon free to rest some more.
On the morning of Day 3, a LUNGMĀR vehicle will transfer you to camp to begin your adventure.
Acclimatising to the altitude is a key requirement to enjoying the search for the snow leopard. We live by the 6Ps, a British army adage that states "proper planning and preparation prevents poor performance."
In case of emergencies, we are always prepared. Our camp and vehicles have oxygen cylinders. The LUNGMĀR has a field first-aid station, a doctor on call, and a portable hyper-baric chamber. Our team has decades of experience running operations at high altitude. You're in good hands.
Can you organise an extension to this hosted journey:
Absolutely! We would be delighted to put together a bespoke itinerary for you should you wish to extend your stay in India. We can organise for you to do any of the following big cat safari's or alternatively explore other areas of India. Simply get in touch with Katya Payne ([email protected]) to start curating your extension!
Jawai Extension (Post Snow Leopards): Dec 13 to 19
A post-snow leopard trip extension to Jawai, Rajasthan, staying at SUJÁN Jawai, one of the world’s top 50 hotels.
Itinerary link: https://itineraries.voygr.com/JWP-Jawai
Ranthambhore Extension (Pre Snow Leopards): Nov 27 to Dec 3
A luxury tiger extension before the main snow leopard trip, staying at SUJÁN Sher Bagh in Ranthambhore. Includes 8 game drives over 4 days, ideal for guests seeking a mix of luxury and wildlife.
Itinerary link: https://itineraries.voygr.com/JWP-Ranthambhore
Kanha Extension (Pre Snow Leopards): Nov 28 to Dec 3.
An immersive wildlife experience in Kanha, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to maximize time in nature. The trip includes rare full-day permits, allowing our vehicles to remain in the park from dawn until dusk with access to all four zones of Kanha for better wildlife sightings.
Itinerary link: https://itineraries.voygr.com/JWP-Kanha
What kind of activities will we be doing?
You will kick off most mornings accompanying the spotters and trackers to various parts of the valley to spot snow leopards whilst also being on the lookout for other interesting flora and fauna in the area. Throughout the day, there are opportunities to visit local homes and villages, offering a deep understanding of the region's way of life and the crucial role of local communities in conservation. You will also visit the monastery of Hemis one day (to witness morning prayers). Exiting the park you will head into mountains, about 1 hour away, to try spot Eurasian Lynx and Wolves, which are harder to find in the camp’s tracking areas. In the downtime between sightings there will be opportunities for learning experiences: photography masterclasses, film screenings and conservation conversations and presentations.
Where will we be staying?
What happens after I book?
Once you have booked your trip the journey begins! Prior to departure, our team will share your personalised itinerary via the Safari Portal App which will contain all of the information about your journey. We will share reading and watching recommendations and updates from the field, so that you can begin your learning journey from home. In the days prior to your trip, you will be connected with your hosts and fellow guests on a whatsapp group as the excitement builds! The JWP team will be on hand in the lead up to and during your journey to assist with any questions you may have.
What is the best international airport to arrive at and depart from?
New Delhi
Who looks after us during our journey?
You will be joined on this journey by Katya and Sophie who will be your JWP host. They will be on hand to assist with any questions or requests prior to or during your journey. During the journey our expedition leader will be Behzad J Larry.
Can this journey be organised for a private group?
This journey to Ladakh from 3rd - 14th December 2025 has been designed to bring together a small group of curious, creative and like minded people who want to deepen their understanding of, and engagement with, snow leopard conservation in Hemis National Park. However, if you are unable to join the journey in December or would like us to organise this journey as a private group, our Journey Planners would be delighted to organise this for you. Please reach out to the JWP team on [email protected] to begin creating your impact journey.
Journeys to champion the
wild and celebrate conservation
Where will your impact journey take you?
As a mission-led business our journeys are designed to be transformative, on the traveller and on the people and places you engage with. When you book a journey with us you become part of our growing community of changemakers – the curious, the intrepid, those looking to engage with the natural world on a deeper level. To learn, exchange and realise change.
A journey starts with a discovery call with our expert team. These journeys are personal – they offer connection and insights into cultures, wildlife and landscapes in wild corners of the world – for an experience that has a positive impact, long after you return home.