Inspiration Itinerary | India

Exploring Ladakh

In the Land of the Lamas

Ladakh – the ‘Land of the High Passes’ – is one of the most stunning parts of India, and one of our favourite destinations! Situated between the Karakoram mountain range in the north and the Himalayan mountain range in the south, it is a starkly beautiful region in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. A wonderful mix of dramatic landscapes, cultural charm and impressive architecture this journey is perfect for those who wish to discover the magic in every corner of India.

After a (recommended) overnight in Delhi your journey begins with an epic flights over the Himalayas into Leh where you will spend time exploring stunning palaces, temples and monasteries before driving along the world’s highest motorable road, across the Khardungla Pass, into the Nubra Valley. Here on the Tibetan Plateau you can ride Bactrian Camels in the Hunder Desert, experience traditional village life and marvel at the Chamba Monastery before returning to Leh.

A day trip to Pangong Lake and an extension to the remote village of Nimmu can be added to this extraordinary journey – please get in touch to design your own Ladakh adventure!

8 UPLIFTING DAYS

PLEASE NOTE:

This itinerary provides the perfect framework to experience the Buddhist world of Ladakh, however it can be designed to suit your preferred pace, price and pursuits. Contact us for a tailormade journey.

DAY 1 | DELHI | 1 NIGHT

We recommend overnighting in Delhi before flying to Leh as most flights to Ladakh leave very early in the morning due to the weather conditions in northern India. Enjoy your evening at leisure in Delhi.

DAY 2 | LEH | 2 NIGHTS

Start with an early morning wake-up and transfer to the airport for the spectacular flight to Leh. The views of the mighty Himalaya are impressive and if the sky is clear you may even see the peak of K2. Met on arrival with the remainder of the day at leisure to acclimatise to your new address at 3,500m!

DAY 3 | LEH

The morning is at leisure before a hearty lunch and an afternoon visit the famed Matho Monastery before undertaking a Leh City Heritage Walk ending in Chubi Village.

DAY 4 | DISKIT | 2 NIGHTS

Depart for Diskit on the highest motorable road in the world. Marvel at the spectacularly stark landscape, make a brief stop for photos at Khardungla Pass (5,360m), and across the Nubra Valley, before descending to Diskit where you have the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

DAY 5 | DISKIT

After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Diskit Gompa, considered to be the oldest & largest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley. Later this afternoon ride a double hump Bactrian camel on the sand dunes of the Hunder cold desert. An optional rafting trip on the Shyok River is also available (but must be pre-booked).

DAY 6 | LEH | 2 NIGHTS

Begin the stunning return road journey to Leh through a landscape that you can never tire of (there is an alternate route back to Leh for variation). Arrive late afternoon with the evening at leisure.

DAY 7 | LEH

At dawn visit Thiksey Monstary & participate in the Buddhist morning prayer before returning to your accommodation for breakfast. After lunch explore the jewel in the crown of the Drukpa lineage, the Hemis Monastery ‐ the biggest monastic institution in all of Ladakh. Late afternoon wander Leh’s markets and bazaars where you will discover some of the finest pashminas in the world.

DAY 8 | END OF ITINERARY

Your time amongst the Lamas of Ladakh ends today with a transfer to the airport to begin your return home, or to start your next adventure.

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Stunning Tented Camps that will be a highlight of your visit to Ladakh

Chamba Camp Thiksey – Leh, Ladakh

Pitched at the base of Thiksey monastery, for a few months over festivals during Ladakh’s short summer, the luxurious Chamba Camp has entered into a unique commercial and spiritual partnership. Your stay provides valuable income for the monastery at one of the most picturesque places on earth. Read More

Chamba Camp Diskit – Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Chamba Camp Diskit is located amongst jagged mountains on the northern route to Leh, where the two rivers of the Nubra and the Shyok meet to form the glorious Nubra Valley. Sleep in luxurious canvas tents with grandiose four poster beds, take in the 360 degree views on your private sit out and unwind in the Himalaya region. Read More

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NEED TO KNOW

8 days of Himalayan happiness that can be shortened or extended to suit

Please enquire for pricing based on your preferences

START: Delhi, India | Finish: Delhi, India

This itinerary provides the perfect inspiration for a spectacular journey & can be tailored to suit your style, pace, preferences and budget. Elements of this trip may vary based on your chosen season & dates of travel which may also present the opportunity to see & do even more!

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