SNOW LEOPARD SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS Track the mountain ghost

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1 SNOW LEOPARD SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS Track the mountain ghost

TRACK THE MOUNTAIN GHOST Truly a once in a lifetime photographic and wildlife experience, &Beyond s Snow Leopard Small Group Journey offers an unmissable opportunity to meet Asia s mountain ghost

This extraordinary set departure caters for intimate groups, and offers special access to a series of unique experiences that are exclusive to &Beyond guests.

This incredible 13-day winter expedition meets the elements head-on, in an awe-inspiring landscape, in search of the elusive snow leopard.

2 TRACK THE MOUNTAIN GHOST Truly a once in a lifetime photographic and wildlife experience, &Beyond s Snow Leopard Small Group Journey offers an unmissable opportunity to meet Asia s mountain ghost whilst travelling to a selection of India s most iconic destinations. This extraordinary set departure caters for intimate groups, and offers special access to a series of unique experiences that are exclusive to &Beyond guests. The Trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh, known as Little Tibet, has been hailed as one of the last frontiers for wildlife tourism. This incredible 13-day winter expedition meets the elements head-on, in an awe-inspiring landscape, in search of the elusive snow leopard. Three exclusive set departures in 2017 and December January March 2018 Caters for a maximum of 8 guests, which guarantees exclusivity and flexibility Guests can enjoy a unique 13 day / 12 night itinerary to Leh and Ulley in the Himalayan region of Ladakh Spend seven nights living with a Ladakhi family, understanding their unique culture and lifestyle Led by one of the region s most expert snow leopard guides who will also offer incredible insight on the region s fascinating cultural heritage In addition to searching for the majestic snow leopard, guests also have the opportunity to view other exceptional wildlife such as ibex, Tibetan antelope, blue sheep, shapo, marmot and Tibetan hare

3 AT A GLANCE Srinagar JAMMU AND KASHMIR Ulley 3 2 Leh 4 Khima THREE DEPARTURE DATES: Jammu Amritsar Dharmshala HIMACHAL PRADESH TIBET (CHINA) December January March nights / 13 days PUNJAB Ludhiana Shimla Chandigarh NANDA DEVI NATIONAL PARK Dehra Dun Haridwar Rishikesh UTTARAKHAND CORBETT NATIONAL PARK Private Guides: David Sonam or Surya Ramachandran Maximum guests: 8 Rate: USD 6495 per person sharing The Great Indian Desert INDIA HARYANA Meerut DELHI 1 NEW DELHI Moradabad Haldwani Bareilly SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES 1 NIGHT, TRIDENT HOTEL GURGAON Delhi, India A fascinating history awaits you here in the capital of India, a modern vibrant metropolitan city with ancient buildings juxtaposed with gleaming stylish architectural wonders. 3 NIGHTS, THE GRAND DRAGON Leh, India Visit the Snow Leopard Conservancy and view the efforts made by the local authorities, and community, to conserve this endangered species. Explore the Thiksey monastery, the most beautifully situated monastery in Ladakh, perched high on a hill above the Indus River. 7 NIGHTS, SNOW LEOPARD LODGE Ulley, India Over the next 8 days, set out in search of the elusive snow leopard, and explore three valleys, which are also home to other unique wildlife including ibex, Tibetan antelope, blue sheep, shapo, marmot and the Tibetan hare. Venture out on foot, and by 4 4 vehicle, and gain insight into the region s fascinating folklore, customs and traditions. 1 NIGHT, THE GRAND DRAGON Leh, India Travel to the ancient Alchi Gompa monastery, located on the south bank of the Indus River. The heart of the monastery complex is the Dukhang, where the monks worship and perform their ceremonies. The complex boasts huge statues of Buddha, and elaborate wood carvings in a style similar to European baroque. SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES At &Beyond we believe in taking a shared responsibility for our future, as well as the futures of our children and our planet. From our greater conservation model, down to the tiniest details of our activities, every decision that we make revolves around our core ethic of Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, and Care of the People. These values have become an intuitive part of the way that we operate and, increasingly, are part of the reason why our guests find their experience with us so rewarding. &Beyond has partnered with the Snow Leopard Conservancy and guests will learn first-hand about its incredible initiatives that ensure the survival of the snow leopard, and the conservation of mountain landscapes, by expanding environmental awareness, and sharing innovative practices through community stewardship and partnerships.

SIGNATURE TRADEMARKS PRIVATE GUIDES - IN OUR HANDS FROM BEGINNING TO END From the moment guests touch down in India, to the moment they leave, &Beyond will be at their side throughout their adventure.

MEET THE PRIVATE GUIDES DAVID SONAM David is one of Ladakh s most distinguished residents, and comes with immense knowledge and expertise on the cultural heritage and natural history of the region.

His grandfather was Ladakh s first ordained Moravian priest. It is a legacy that gives David that extra edge of insight into the history and culture of his high Himalayan homeland.

After more than 10 years with Tiger Tops, he worked as the Dean at the Moravian Mission School in Leh before opening the Snowview Hideaway Hotel.

He has been a founder trustee of the Snow Leopard Conservancy India and is now the Managing Trustee.

4 SIGNATURE TRADEMARKS PRIVATE GUIDES - IN OUR HANDS FROM BEGINNING TO END From the moment guests touch down in India, to the moment they leave, &Beyond will be at their side throughout their adventure. Our wealth of expertise found in our private and specialist guides, ground logistics teams and over 2000 &Beyonders means that guests will experience a journey unlike any other! MEET THE PRIVATE GUIDES DAVID SONAM David is one of Ladakh s most distinguished residents, and comes with immense knowledge and expertise on the cultural heritage and natural history of the region. His family name, Zipata, was given as a title to his great grandfather a renowned sculptor and artist whose work can be seen in many of Ladakh s monasteries. His grandfather was Ladakh s first ordained Moravian priest. It is a legacy that gives David that extra edge of insight into the history and culture of his high Himalayan homeland. David started working for Tiger Tops at the Ladakh Sarai and later in Nepal and Central India. After more than 10 years with Tiger Tops, he worked as the Dean at the Moravian Mission School in Leh before opening the Snowview Hideaway Hotel. At the same time, David also started his travel company, and still manages to lead several wildlife and birding tours. He has been a founder trustee of the Snow Leopard Conservancy India and is now the Managing Trustee. An active member of various societies in Leh, he is best known for his work as head of the REWA Society, which provides physiotherapy for disabled children, especially in the remote parts of Ladakh. SURYA RAMACHANDRAN Surya is an engineer from the south-indian city of Chennai who later pursued his passion into the wild. His jungle journey commenced in the forests of Satpura at Forsyths, where he started as an intern and then later turned into a full time naturalist. His interests vary to all types of life forms, especially the lesser fauna of the region and their microhabitats. His vehement enthusiasm led to pioneering Central India s first walking safari, canoeing, wilderness camping and night drives at Satpura. Satpura, having been a less tiger centric park, gave him the chance to explore other activities other than just Jeep safaris. His love for wildlife, and eagerness to learn led him to explore India s special and rare mammals, birds, reptiles and butterflies. Surya enjoys the idea of guiding and explaining the little secrets of the jungle to people rather than just seeing it for himself. The need to guide people encouraged him to write a book Photo Field Guide to Central India which covers 850 species of the region, a first of its kind field guide in India. Surya believes that the key to sustainable ecotourism is to keep the locals at the helm. He is currently working on setting up wildlife lodges in Ladakh in the Trans Himalayas with snow leopard and other lesser fauna as the focus. This is going to be in collaboration with the houses and villages in the valley, making sure to include the local residents. * Terms and conditions apply

EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 1 night, Trident Hotel Gurgaon Delhi India Upon arrival

elements and luxury of space, water and light into its design.

is conveniently close to magnificent attractions.

world, and is a mixture of bustling international metropolis, medieval chaos and

5 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 1 night, Trident Hotel Gurgaon Delhi India Upon arrival in bustling Delhi, guests will be warmly welcomed by a representative from &Beyond. They will be chauffeured to the Trident Hotel Gurgaon, blending the natural elements and luxury of space, water and light into its design. Located just 30 minutes from Delhi international airport, Trident Hotel Gurgaon is conveniently close to magnificent attractions. Established in 900 BC Delhi is the capital of the largest democracy of the world, and is a mixture of bustling international metropolis, medieval chaos and regal splendour. Crammed to bursting with tombs, temples, monuments and ruins, the city boasts modern suburbs and glass and chrome skyscrapers. In this quintessentially Indian city, a surprise lies around every corner.

EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 3 nights, The Grand Dragon Leh India Revel at the Grand Dragon Hotel

Beautiful design takes inspiration from traditional Ladakhi architecture, and whitewashed

Offering panoramic views of the surrounding Ladakhi landscape and snowy peaks, this is the

Guests can explore the fascinating labyrinth of winding streets and quaint bazaars, and visit

community to conserve the endangered snow leopard.

6 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 3 nights, The Grand Dragon Leh India Revel at the Grand Dragon Hotel located in the heart of the ancient city of Leh. Beautiful design takes inspiration from traditional Ladakhi architecture, and whitewashed walls and timber window frames blend in with the buildings of old Leh. Offering panoramic views of the surrounding Ladakhi landscape and snowy peaks, this is the ideal spot to acclimatise gently without pushing yourself. Guests can explore the fascinating labyrinth of winding streets and quaint bazaars, and visit the Snow Leopard Conservancy, and view the efforts made by the local authorities and community to conserve the endangered snow leopard. Set out for an extraordinary drive eastwards towards the local villages, and marvel at startlingly dramatic scenery. Spot unique wildlife including blue sheep, golden eagles, bearded vultures and red-billed choughs perform synchronised aerobatics.

EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 7 nights, Snow Leopard Lodge Ulley India Savour this

lifestyle, and gather in the kitchen, the heart of a Ladkahi home, sharing their warm,

Relatively free of tourism, guests can explore three valleys which, apart from the

Over the next few days they will have the opportunity to venture into the area on foot

7 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 7 nights, Snow Leopard Lodge Ulley India Savour this extraordinary experience staying at the enchanting Snow Leopard Lodge, and living with a Ladakhi family. In the depths of winter, this is an extraordinary opportunity to understand their lifestyle, and gather in the kitchen, the heart of a Ladkahi home, sharing their warm, communal space resplendent with brass, copper and silver ornaments. Relatively free of tourism, guests can explore three valleys which, apart from the elusive snow leopards, are great for finding urial, ibex, wolf and Himalayan fox. Over the next few days they will have the opportunity to venture into the area on foot and by 4 4 vehicle, with an expert guide. Interacting closely with the local people, the guide will use his network of local intelligence to narrow down the likely sites of the mountain ghost.

EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 1 night, The Grand Dragon Leh India On the way back to stay at the

the ancient Alchi Gompa monastery, situated on the south bank of the Indus River.

or Assembly Hall and the three-storied Sumtseg, or Main Temple, both of which reflect the

The three-story tall Sumtseg is one of the most outstanding structures of its kind, with an

columns and facades, clay images and painting of the interior, created by the finest

8 EXPECT THE EXTRAORDINARY 1 night, The Grand Dragon Leh India On the way back to stay at the Grand Dragon, in the land of spectacular scenic and cultural beauty, guests will travel to the ancient Alchi Gompa monastery, situated on the south bank of the Indus River. Established in 1000 AD by Rinchen Zangpo, the monastery s two main temples are the Dukhang, or Assembly Hall and the three-storied Sumtseg, or Main Temple, both of which reflect the Kashmiri style of architecture. The three-story tall Sumtseg is one of the most outstanding structures of its kind, with an unassuming exterior made of loam and stone that belies the luxurious woodwork, elaborate columns and facades, clay images and painting of the interior, created by the finest Kashmiri artists. Beautifully preserved statues of goddesses and images of three deities, draped with magnificent textiles depicting the life of Buddha adorn the temple.

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Departures. Group 1: 1-12 Feb 2019 Group 2: Feb 2019

Departures. Group 1: 1-12 Feb 2019 Group 2: Feb 2019 Departures Group 1: 1-12 Feb 2019 Group 2: 13-24 Feb 2019 ITINERARY. Day 1 ARRIVE Leh (L & D) Take the early morning flight to Leh from New Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the Grand Dragon Ladakh located