The Snow Leopard: The 1978 book that survives the test of time for Nepal’s vibrant depiction

The Snow Leopard is an enthralling account of Peter Matthiessen ‘s journey through the remote mountains of Nepal in pursuit of the elusive and mysterious snow leopard. The 1978 publication is now considered a classic of travel literature and one of the most vibrant depictions of Nepal ever written.

The book accounts how Matthiessen and his naturalist friend, George Schaller, embark on a journey to Dolpo to study the Himalayan blue sheep and, with great luck, capture a glimpse of a snow leopard. Matthiessen’s trek through the Himalayas is not only a physical voyage, but also one of self-discovery and introspection.