Highlands of Ladakh
Highlands of Ladakh
Ladakh, nestled between the Great Himalaya and Karakoram ranges, is a high-altitude desert on the Tibetan plateau’s edge. Its breathtaking, moon-like terrain—shaped by wind and water over millennia—features stark landscapes punctuated by green oases, poplar trees, and apricot orchards. Despite the rugged altitude, Ladakhis exude warmth and a timeless joie de vivre. Rich in Buddhist heritage, the region boasts ancient monasteries perched on ridges, adorned with fluttering prayer flags and exquisite frescoes. The culture, natural beauty, and spirituality of Ladakh promise an unforgettable experience, offering travelers a rare glimpse into one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring and enchanting destinations.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
Arrive Delhi. Transfer to the hotel near the airport.
Day 2: Delhi – Leh (11500 feet)
Morning take the spectacular mountain flight to Leh. Rest of the day at leisure to acclimatize to the height of Leh.
Day 3: Leh
Early morning prayers at Thiksey monastery including the calls to the prayers. Later visit Hemis monasatery and Shey Palace
Day 4: Leh
Monring hike in the Stok Gorge. Also visit Stok Palace. Afternoon explore Leh town including its old market.
Day 5: Leh – Alchi
Drive to Alchi past the confluence of Indus and Zanskar as well as Basgo Castle. Explore the ancient murals at Alchi. Drive through a gorge to see Mangyu monastery.
Day 6: Alchi – Da Hanu
Drive to the Aryan areas of Da and Hanu village via Skurbuchan village. Evening spectacular cultural program by the local Aryan community.
Day 7: Da Hanu – Kargil
Drive to Kargil via Hamboting La (13,300ft). Enroute visiting the ancient 7th century Apati Budhha. Late afternoon explore the Shia town of Kargil.
Day 8: Kargil – Rangdum
Drive to Rangdum via beautiful Suru valley. Great views of Mt Nun(23,400feet) and Mt Kun(23,220feet). Sunset views of Rangdum monastery.
Day 9: Rangdum – Padum
Drive to Padum via Pensi La pass(14,450 feet). Stunning views of Drang Drang glaciar
Day 10: Padum
Fullday to explore Padum including Karsha Monastery, Stongdey Monastery and Zangla village and castle.
Day 11: Padum – Purne – Padum
Drive to Purne and hike for two hours to spectacularly situated Phuktal Monastery. The hike is along with the torquise blue Tsarap Chu river. Return to Padum.
Day 12: Padum – Leh
Drive to Padum over the newly constructed road through the Zanskar gorge. Zanskar river gives us company till Nimmo.
Day 13: Leh – Tso Morori (15.000 feet)
Drive to Tso Morori, the highest sleeping elevation on our trip. Late evening explore the camp area of the Changpa nomads, famous for their pashmina goats.
Day 14: Tso Morori – Leh
Drive to Leh via Tsokar lake. High chances of spotting the rare black necked cranes. Drive over Tanglang La (17500 feet) to reach Leh
Day 15: Leh – Delhi
Morning fly to Leh. Afternoon sightseeing of old Delhi including a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk.
Day 16: Depart Delhi
In time departure to connect with your international flight.