Iconic cultures, religions, and ancient history make India one of the most diverse, intense, and fascinating countries in the world.
A mountainous region in the disputed northwest Jammu and Kashmir area in north India, Ladakh was an independent kingdom for nine centuries as a strategic location at the crossroads of trans-Himalaya trade routes. Traders from the neighboring Muslim lands (both Kashmir and East Turkistan, now the Xinjiang province of China) were a common sight in Leh’s bazaar until the 20th century. Strongly influenced by Tibet, Ladakh is not only home to some of the most beautiful and serene monasteries you’ll ever see, but is also a land of rich natural beauty – and it’s this natural beauty that hits you so hard, because it’s a barren beauty. Many travelers find themselves at a loss to understand how something so barren can yet be so beautiful.
A mountainous region in the disputed northwest Jammu and Kashmir area in north India, Ladakh was an independent kingdom for nine centuries as a strategic location at the crossroads of trans-Himalaya trade routes. Traders from the neighboring Muslim lands (both Kashmir and East Turkistan, now the Xinjiang province of China) were a common sight in Leh’s bazaar until the 20th century. Strongly influenced by Tibet, Ladakh is not only home to some of the most beautiful and serene monasteries you’ll ever see, but is also a land of rich natural beauty – and it’s this natural beauty that hits you so hard, because it’s a barren beauty. Many travelers find themselves at a loss to understand how something so barren can yet be so beautiful.
Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to an airport hotel. Overnight in Delhi.
After breakfast, transfer back to airport for a flight to Leh, capital city of Ladakh. This is one of the most sensational flights in the world for great mountain views of K2, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum and the Nun Kun massif.
Upon arrival at Leh Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel in the city. Today you should only take short walks and stay hydrated because of the sharp gain in altitude. Overnight in Leh. (Breakfast)
We recommend that you take this morning slowly and relax as you will still be feeling the effects of the altitude. At about noon, visit the main bazaar area and old town where you find a wide range of interesting local shops and restaurants for lunch. Then take a short stroll to Leh Palace, the former royal palace King Senge Namgyal built in the 17th century. The palace was abandoned when Dogra forces took control of Ladakh in the 19th century and the Royal Palace moved to Stok Palace. Today, it is still under restoration and you can enjoy very scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains from the roof top. Overnight in Leh. (Breakfast)
After breakfast, visit Thikse Monastery from the 16th century and part of the Gelug-pa Sect. The monastery is 12 storied and painted in deep shades of red, ochre and white. The main dukhang houses numerous racks of religious texts. Behind the main alter lies a small chamber that contains images of revered deities.
Continue your drive along the Indus River to Hemis Gompa in the village of Karu. This famous monastery dates back to the 17th century and was built over a period of 40 years (1602 – 1642 A.D.). In the dukhang, remnants of the original 17th century murals can be seen. The gompa boasts of an excellent library, well preserved frescoes and murals, silver gilt chortens and a Kashmiri lacquered wooden throne.
On the return journey to Leh, visit Stok Palace, the present residence of the former royal family of Ladakh. King Teswang Thondup Namgyal built this palace in 1825 and the last king of Ladakh died here in 1974. The palace museum has an interesting display of royal collections, original artefacts and ritual objects. Overnight in Leh. (Breakfast, Packed Lunch)
Today, it’s about 5 to 6 hour to drive to Nubra Valley but crossing the Khardung La Pass at 18,340ft. From the pass, you can see all the way south over the Indus Valley to seemingly endless peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range. Nubra Valley was part of the ancient Silk Road for merchants entering India from Tibet.
Along the way, stop to visit Diskit Monastery perched on a rock overhanging next to a stream. Founded around 1420 AD, this is one of the most important and richest monasteries in Ladakh, filled with thangkas, magnificent giant statues, effigies of the Buddha and old mural paintings. Continue on to the town of Hunder where you will spend the night in a tented campsite. Overnight in Diskit. (All Meals)
Today you will take a walk in the stunning countryside, passing through villages to see how the Nubra people live, visiting local monasteries, enjoying the magnificent culture and scenery before heading back to the campsite. A visit to the nearby Nubra dunes will show you the local Bactrian camels; their ancestors were once used on the old trading routes that passed this way… if you are so inclined you may take a ride. Overnight in Diskit. (All Meals)
After breakfast, you will return over the mighty Khajung La and down to Leh. The rest of the day will be free to explore the markets of Leh. Overnight in Leh. (Breakfast, Packed Lunch)
Transfer to airport today for your flight back to Delhi. (Breakfast)
Our private tours include the things that make it so you don’t have to worry about logistics for your trip.
Here’s an explanation of what to expect and why about the planning and booking process and working with a Red Lantern Journeys travel consultant.
Your peronal travel consult to work with you to prepare your itinerary, recommend tours and activities and accommodation and explain the reasoning behind every aspect of your tour.
You'll have your own private, chauffeur-driven vehicle for all of your airport transfers and daily excursions. These will also include your personal, English-speaking guide who is licensed and will provide the insights to make each of your tours an exceptional experience.
We've inspected hundreds of hotels and can recommend accommodation that fits your style and budget.
We have access to a wide range of activities to make your trip truly memorable. Activities range from visiting iconic sights to meeting local personalities, adventure sports, and exclusive dining experiences!
The months from mid-September to mid-October are considered to be the best season to enjoy the stunning beauty of the landscape of Ladakh and Leh. The month of March is considered to be the best time to visit Ladakh for an adventure trip. While the months from April to mid-May remain the peak season for Ladakh tourism.
Please fill out the form below with as much information as possible about when you want to travel, how many people and anything else you’d like us to know. We’ll get back to you within one business day, if not sooner!
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