This is a land shaped by the mighty Brahmaputra, where floodplains, wetlands, and tall grasslands support some of the most iconic and endangered wildlife in Asia. At the heart of it lies Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vast herds of Indian One-horned Rhinoceros, the largest population of this species anywhere in the world. But Kaziranga is far more than just rhinos. These biodiverse forest, wetland and grassland mosaics are also home to wild elephants, tigers, swamp deer, water buffalo, and the rarely seen Gangetic River Dolphin. Birders will find themselves in paradise, with raptors, hornbills, and migratory waterfowl appearing in spectacular numbers. The region’s proximity to the Indo-Malayan biodiversity hotspot brings with it surprises like Western Hoolock Gibbons in the treetops and otters in quiet streams. The Sundarbans offer a different experience, with boat rides through the mangrove forests teeming with wildlife such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, deer, and more. Safaris here are an immersion into a uniquely rich ecosystem where the jungle hums with life and the drama of predator and prey plays out against a backdrop of epic landscapes. Guests are accommodated at premier homestays like the Iora Retreat that offer excellent access to wildlife zones, combining comfort with the raw charm of India’s northeastern wilderness. Set against the stark and sweeping beauty of the Trans-Himalayas, this journey brings us deep into the wild heart of Ladakh – across windswept valleys, dramatic ridgelines, and remote plateaus. We begin by exploring the landscape of Leh, its ancient monasteries perched above the river, and habitat that is home to wildlife such as the Woolly Hare, Red Fox, and, with luck, the elusive Eurasian Lynx. From here, we move into Uley, known for its high density of Snow Leopards, spending days scanning rugged slopes for this elusive cat, while also encountering Ibex, Urial, and Tibetan Wolves. High above, Golden Eagles and Lammergeiers soar on thermal currents, and the hills echo with the calls of Snowcocks and Chukars. Continuing into Ladakh’s remote eastern plateau, we venture into the marshes and plains of Hanley, where Black-necked Cranes breed and Pallas’s Cats silently stalk through the scrub. Accommodations at the Snow Leopard Lodge and similar premier properties offer a perfect balance of comfort, convenience, ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and insights into the local way of life. This is a journey into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wildernesses, where each day brings new encounters and unforgettable moments.