Ladakh
What is so unique about Ladakh that everyone seems to have it on their Bucket List?
For one, the contrast of snow-capped peaks and barren mountains and rocky, lunar terrain and life-giving rivers can only be seen in Ladakh. Then, the region boasts of some of the most pristine lakes that change colours with the blink of an eye. Also, ancient monasteries that remained hidden and unexplored for centuries. Not to forget, humble, smiling people and their simple yet mouth-watering cuisine.
Known as the 'Land of High Passes', some of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world are found in this region. Cross one and you lay your eyes on an expansive blue-purple lake. Cross another and you reach a high-altitude desert. Spellbinding scenic beauty everywhere you look. Take innumerable photographs. Go on hikes/treks. Raft down the Zanskar.
An ideal destination for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, adventurers, and those looking to rejuvenate, Ladakh will leave an unforgettable impression in your minds. It is one road trip that you should take once in your lifetime.
Recommended Itinerary
DAY 01 - FLIGHT
Fly to Delhi
DAY 2 - DELHI
Arrive into Delhi and transfer to an airport hotel for the night; at leisure.
DAYS 3 & 4 - DHARAMSALA
A morning flight to Dharamsala; transfer to the Chonor House or Norbu House for two nights; visit Mcleodganj and Norbulingka - centre for Buddhist learning.
DAY 5 & 6 - MANALI
Drive to Manali via Palampur Tea Estate, stay at Casa Bella Vista for two nights; visit Old Manali and Hadimba Temple.
DAY 7 - JISPA
Commence the Trans-Himalayan safari with a drive to Jispa, crossing Rohtang pass at 13,000', visit the Khardung Gompa en route; stay at Gemoorkhar.
DAY 8 - SARCHU
Drive to Sarchu, crossing the Baralacha La (16,000'); stay in a tented camp.
DAYS 9, 10 & 11 - LEH
Drive along Rupshu plains with a chance to see rare wildlife including the wild ass (kiang) and ibex. Cross Taglang La (17,500'), stay in Leh at Spic N Span or Nimmu House for three nights; visit Leh Bazaar, Sankar Gompa, Shanti Stupa; enjoy a full day tour of the Indus Valley including Hemis Monastery, the headquarter of the Drukpa sect; Thiksey Gompa of Gelugpa order (Yellow sect), and Shey Monastery, a former Royal Palace.
DAY 12 - ALCHI
Drive to Alchi visiting Likir Monastery en route; visit the Alchi Gompa; overnight at Alchi Resort.
DAY 13 - LEH
Return to Leh in the afternoon for a night's stay at Spic N Span or Nimmu House.
DAY 14 - DELHI
Fly back to Delhi; stay the night at an airport hotel.
DAY 15 - RETURN
Transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Extensions
Recommended
Nubra Valley; Agra for the Taj Mahal
Health precaution
Ladakh is at high altitude, above 12,000 ft and anyone with breathing or lung related problems should seek medical advice before travelling.
Gallery
Testimonials
“Harji, Wow! Another great adventure in India. Quite different to the last one but certainly nonetheless impressive and just what we wanted – Mountains, monasteries and people. It all went so well – the acclimatisation, the guides, the driver and the accommodation. Going from the Royal Palace to a tent in the mountains was quite a contrast and I think that the King thought we were slightly bonkers (although he was much too polite to say so!). With hotels and home stays it was experiencing life in Ladakh. Brilliant. ”