Mystic Ladakh

A mesmerizing journey into the treasure trove of the Indian Himalayas.

Trip Overview

Price From

Duration

8N/9D

Best Season

May - Sep

Difficulty

Soft adventure

Renowned for its breathtaking vistas, vibrant culture, and spiritual sanctuaries, Ladakh is a treasure trove. Situated in the Trans-Himalayan region, a visit to Ladakh offers mesmerizing journey through the most stunning parts of the Indian Himalayas. Dotted with ancient monasteries, palaces, old towns and villages, and showcasing unmatched natural beauty and grandeur, Ladakh is haven for discerning travelers. 

Ladakh also offers a sense of isolation and adventure that's hard to find elsewhere. The vast expanses of untouched wilderness and the feeling of being on top of the world make it a destination like no other.

Highlights: 

  • Enjoy stunningly beautiful drives with sky-scraping passes
  • Visit the centuries-old monasteries and feel the serenity and spirituality
  • Drive through the Khardungla Pass (18380 ft), along the ancient Silk Route
  • Explore Nubra valley with green oasis villages and vast sand dunes
  • Behold the tantalizing Pangong Lake situated at altitude of 13860 ft

Brief itinerary: 
Day 1 - Arrival in Delhi: Transfer to hotel
Day 2 – Fly to In Leh (11,560 ft), rest for acclimatization and visit to Shanti Stupa (B/L/D)
Day 3 – Sightseeing in Leh - visit Hemis Monastery, Leh Palace and Leh Old Town (B/L/D)
Day 4 – Day Excursion to Lamayuru and Alchi Monastery (B/L/D)
Day 5 – Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass, enroute visit Diskit Monastery (B/L/D)
Day 6 – Pleasant hiking in Nubra Valley with short camel ride (B/L/D)
Day 7 – Drive to Pangong Lake (13,860 ft) (B/L/D)
Day 8 – Drive to Leh via Chang La Pass (B/L/D)
Day 9 – Morning flight to Delhi, connecting return flight (B)

  • Included

    • 7 nights at 3-4 star hotels on a double/ twin-sharing basis (single supplement applies)
    • 1 night at a 2-star (tourist-standard) camp at Pangong Lake
    • All meals in Ladakh as per itinerary (B/L/D), except in Delhi
    • Domestic airfare: Delhi – Leh – Delhi          
    • All land transfers in private vehicle, including sightseeing and airport transfers
    • Guided sightseeing as per the itinerary, including entrance fees
    • Experienced local English-speaking guide throughout the trip
    • Ladakh Protected Area Permit
    • All currently applicable taxes
  • Not Included

    • Visa fee
    • International airfare
    • Travel or medical insurance
    • Expenses of a personal nature (e.g. laundry, camera/video fees, donations, spa etc.)
    • Beverages (unless otherwise specified)
    • Lunch and dinner in Delhi
    • Tips or gratuities

    𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: We recommend that you purchase travel and medical insurance independently, based on your preference and convenience. It can be easily arranged online, and there are several reputable US-based providers suitable for this trip, including Travelex, Allianz, Travel Guard, World Nomads, Travel Insured International, Seven Corners, and WorldTrips, among others.

    We kindly request a copy of your insurance policy, which we will keep on file and provide to the relevant authorities if required during your journey.

Day 1 - Arrival in Delhi: Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Take some time to relax and unwind after your journey.
Meals: None
Accommodation: The Royal Plaza, New Delhi

Day 2 – Fly to In Leh (11560 ft): After an early breakfast, take a short flight to Leh – the capital city of Ladakh. Upon arrival at Leh, you will be met by your guide and transfer to hotel. Rest for acclimatization, then at late afternoon, drive to Shanti Stupa for a brief walk and enjoy the panoramic view of Leh. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Tsokar Retreat, Leh

Day 3 – Sightseeing in Leh: Begin your day with a scenic drive to Hemis Monastery, one of the most revered and grandest monastic institutions in Ladakh. The drive takes about an hour and offers breathtaking views of the Indus Valley and the majestic mountain landscape that frames it. On arrival, explore the impressive Hemis Monastery, known for its rich spiritual heritage, vibrant murals, and ornate architecture. Wander through its prayer halls and courtyards, soaking in the serene, meditative ambiance and learning about its centuries-old history tied to the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. 

Retrace your route back to Leh with a brief stop along the banks of the Indus River for a panoramic view of the iconic Stakna Monastery, perched dramatically on a hilltop. Upon arrival in Leh, visit the 17th-century Leh Palace, a majestic structure perched on a hilltop overlooking the town. Once the royal residence of the Namgyal dynasty, the palace offers panoramic views of Leh, and the Indus Valley. After exploring the palace, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Leh's Old Town – a charming maze of narrow alleys, traditional mud-brick houses, and hidden courtyards. This area reflects the soul of Ladakh, where time seems to stand still amidst centuries-old architecture and local life.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Tsokar Retreat, Leh

Day 4 – Day Excursion to Lamayuru and Alchi Monastery, approx. 6 hours’ drive roundtrip: Embark on a full-day journey from Leh to explore two of Ladakh’s most iconic and ancient monasteries. Drive along the dramatic landscapes of the Srinagar-Leh highway, passing through mountain gorges and charming villages. Visit Lamayuru Monastery, dramatically perched on a hill and surrounded by the otherworldly ‘Moonland’ terrain, known for its eroded cliffs and surreal scenery. Later, continue to Alchi Monastery, one of the oldest monastic complexes in Ladakh, famous for its exquisite 11th-century murals and unique Kashmiri-influenced architecture. Enjoy scenic stops along the way, including confluences of rivers and quiet hamlets, before returning to Leh by evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Tsokar Retreat, Leh

Day 5 – Drive to Nubra Valley (10,300 ft) via Khardung La Pass, approx. 5 hours’ drive: Begin your adventure with a thrilling drive from Leh to the enchanting Nubra Valley, crossing Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world at 18,380 ft. The journey offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Ladakh Range, deep valleys, and shifting landscapes that transition from rugged mountains to the desert-like terrain of Nubra. On arrival in the valley, stop at Diskit Monastery, the oldest and largest monastery in the region, perched high above the valley floor. Here, marvel at the towering 106-meter Maitreya Buddha statue, overlooking the valley with a serene gaze and offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Shyok River and surrounding villages. Continue your journey to your accommodation in Nubra, taking in the beauty and tranquility of this remote Himalayan paradise.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Hotel Stendel, Nubra 

Day 6 – Pleasant hiking in Nubra Valley: After breakfast, set out on a peaceful and scenic walk along the banks of the Shyok River, where the gentle sound of flowing water and panoramic views of Nubra’s unique landscape create a truly calming experience. Continue your hike to the Hunder Sand Dunes, a striking contrast of desert beauty amidst the high Himalayas. Enjoy a short camel safari on double-humped Bactrian camels, once used along the ancient Silk Route, and soak in the surreal charm of this high-altitude desert. Return to your resort for a relaxing lunch, and spend the rest of the day at leisure, unwinding or exploring the surroundings at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Hotel Stendel, Nubra

Day 7 – Drive to Pangong Lake (13,860 ft), approx. 6 hours’ drive: After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake, a journey that takes you through some of Ladakh’s most remote and spectacular landscapes. Traverse winding mountain roads, high-altitude passes like Shyok or Wari La (route may vary based on road conditions), and vast open valleys dotted with small settlements and grazing yaks. As you approach, witness the mesmerizing beauty of Pangong Lake, a high-altitude saltwater lake that stretches across the Indo-China border. Its ever-changing shades of blue, set against a backdrop of stark mountains, make it one of the most breathtaking sights in Ladakh. Arrive by afternoon and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this stunning natural wonder.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Pangong Heritage Camp 

Day 8 – Drive to Leh, approx. 6 hours’ drive: After a peaceful morning stroll by the serene lake and breakfast, embark on another thrilling journey to Leh, retracing the picturesque route through Chang La Pass (17,688 ft). Along the way, soak in the dramatic landscapes of the high-altitude desert, dotted with rugged mountains and remote villages. Arrive in Leh by late afternoon and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the local market.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Accommodation: Tsokar Retreat, Leh

Day 9 – Fly to Delhi: After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Leh Airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be assisted with your transfer to International Terminal for your connecting return flight.

Meals: Breakfast