The dramatic photos show the big cat stalking a Himalayan blue sheep while it is camouflaged and then jumping 50m from its hideout to pounce on it.
The endangered animal, nicknamed the Grey Ghost of the Himalayas, is seen dragging its victim away and pouncing on its neck amid a whirlwind of dust.
The incredible shots were captured by photographer Adam Riley during a tour of Hemis National Park, India.
He said: “To capture this moment was a mixture of intense exhilaration and tremendous relief!”I have worked with big cats most of my career and having led the tours I know how elusive snow leopards can be.
“I have never managed to photograph a snow leopard before, let alone a kill, so it was really exciting for me personally.
“When people first saw the Snow Leopard the relief and joy was incredible; there were high fives, hugs and huge smiles!”We use an extremely experienced team on our tours, but that doesn’t guarantee anything and I felt enormous pressure to help locate this almost mythical creature.”
The snow leopard began stalking its prey while it was with its herd and followed them until three became cut off from the group.It then jumped from its hideout and chased the youngest up a steep rock face before attacking its jugular.
The snow leopard is classed as an endangered animal by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.However, Hemis National Park is home to between 50 and 60 of the creatures.
The animals are hunted for their thick, grey fur which helps protect them from the cold and is made into clothing.Mr Riley runs INDRI Ultimate Wildlife Tours and has previously worked as a guide at Sir Richard Branson’s wildlife property in South Africa.
He added: I love these moments – looking for wildlife is like going to the greatest theatre on earth where you really have no idea what you might experience.”Not only does it celebrate life but, more often than not, it is the best way of reflecting on life.”