Ladakh – Gateway to Nirvana

Mystic Ladakh is home to scenic landscapes that are beyond imagination, stunning monasteries, warm hearted natives and adventure at every corner. Explore Hemis & Thiksey monasteries experiencing the daily routines of the monks, take long walks or bicycle rides along lush apricot orchards, learn about native cuisine with a hands on cooking class, treat yourself to a relaxing night on the shore of Pangong Lake and set out to explore the remote Nubra Valley which is home to the unique double-humped camels.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi

Arrive at Delhi international airport. Our representative will meet you at the arrival zone of the airport and introduce you to your driver.

Transfer to the hotel.

Day 2: Leh

Early morning flight to Leh, also known as the roof of the world. The landscape of Ladakh is arid, hence the region is also known as a “dry desert”. On arrival, meet your guide & transfer who will assist with your transfer to your homestay located within the heart of the city.

It is mandatory to have a day of complete rest today to acclimatize to the high altitude.

Enjoy the clear blue skies, sit back with a warm cuppa and spicy dumplings known locally as momos.

Day 3: Hemis & The Oracle

Visit Hemis Monastry which is the most important of all in Ladakh. Hemis is the seat of the Red Hat Drukpa order. Young monks are trained for the royal monasteries here. Spend time exploring the complex and its surroundings, observing the rituals and routine.

In the afternoon, visit a traditional oracle who are known to have healing powers and the knowledge of your future.

Late evening, roam the narrow lanes of local villages either by foot or on bicycles.

Day 4 : A Day with the Monks

Recommend an early start, a wake at 5 AM to visit Thiksey Monastry. The early morning prayer ceremony is a sight to behold. After the prayers you can spend time interacting with the monks.

You can also pay visit to an Amchi healer. The healer follows the practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. The natives still heavily rely on Amchi healers, and they are deeply respected by the Ladakh society.

Next head to the Shey village, which has a panoramic view of Thiksey Monastry. Continue to explore Shey and visit the palace and its gompa of which the 39 feet copper Buddha statue is a highlight.

This evening, enjoy a cooking demonstration with a native family. Sit down for dinner with them and learn more about Ladakhi lifestyle.

Day 5: The Exotic Nubra Valley

After breakfast, drive towards Sumur located in the scenic Nubra Valley. To get there you will pass through Khardung La – the highest motorable road in the world. (18,380 ft.)

This afternoon, set foot on Hunder. A tiny village where Shyok River meets Nubra river, it is a kind of oasis in the middle of the dry desert. Explore the village, and settle down for a camel safari across the sand dunes. Get intimate with the Bactrian Double-Humped camels, a throwback to the Silk Route era.

Next, visit Disket village the largest settlement in Nubra. The monastery here is over 600 years old. Enjoy a brilliant sunset from the location of the mammoth Maitreya Buddha statue.

Day 6: Samstanling Monastery & Panamik Hot Spring

Rise early to begin your day by observing the monks chanting at the Samstanling monastery.

After breakfast, gear up for a cycling expedition. Paddle your way through the scenic delights of Nubra Valley towards the hidden lake and hot spring of Panamik. (25 KM) This village is at close proximity to Siachen glacier, the highest battle filed in the world. Locals from nearby villages in the valley make an annual journey to the hot spring, as they believe in the healing properties of the Sulphur rich water.

Day 7: Pangong Tso

An early start to the day, with a long scenic drive ahead to Pangong Tso (5-6 hours). Heading towards Khalsar which is on the way to Leh, we will take a detour off-road towards Shyok & Durbak villages. The route is off the usual track and the landscape is stunning.

Pangong Tso or Lake (14,500 ft.) is dazzling blue slice of heaven. The salt water lake is shared by India & China.

Arrive at your comfortable campsite, located in Maan Village skirting the lake. You will be staying in traditional Mongolian styled huts, known as yurts. Each with a panoramic view of the lake.

Spend the day relaxing by the banks of Pangong, observing the rapidly changing hues of the surface. At night, the sky is a brilliant burst of stars close enough to pluck.

Day 8: Old Leh Town

Have a leisurely breakfast, before heading into Leh town. Take a walk around the old Leh town which used to be the transit point for the old Silk Route. Your guide will set up the legacy of this location with a narrative of how things were in the past.

Also visit the Leh bazaar, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs. Pashmina shawls, apricot based products like oils, preserve and creams, handicrafts and books, boutique and cafes. Spend your day at leisure exploring the bustling bazaar.

Day 9: Leh – New Delhi

An early morning flight to New Delhi to connect to your international departure ahead.