WHY TRAVEL WITH US
explore The Himalayas
Ladakh Unveiled
From Silk Route to Sky Trails
An 18-Day Journey Through Hidden Valleys, Sacred Monasteries, and Himalayan Wilds
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Ladakh, India's remote and spectacular high-altitude desert, steeped in Buddhist spirituality and cradled by the mighty Himalayas. This immersive 18-day journey offers the perfect introduction to the region’s awe-inspiring beauty and cultural richness.
Begin with a flight over towering Himalayan peaks to reach Leh, Ladakh’s atmospheric capital. Explore ancient monasteries clinging to cliffs, witness life in remote mountain villages, and drive the dramatic Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads on Earth, into the stark, enchanting landscapes of Nubra Valley.
Then, lace up your boots for an extraordinary trek through the Markha Valley, where verdant oases, chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and blue sheep await beneath the gaze of Kang Yatze Peak. Ascend high passes like Stok-La and Kongmaru-La, camping in pristine wilderness and connecting with warm-hearted locals.
This journey blends culture, soft adventure, and unforgettable Himalayan scenery, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and natural grandeur.
Tour Highlights
- Drive across Khardung La (5,840 m), one of the world’s highest motorable passes
- Trek the famed Markha Valley, a stunning high-altitude route
- Explore ancient monasteries: Hemis, Thiksey, Alchi, and Spituk
- Spot Himalayan wildlife—blue sheep, golden eagles, marmots
- Visit remote mountain villages and meet Ladakhi families
- Stay in traditional camps and scenic Himalayan tented sites
- Acclimatize with cultural discovery in Leh and along the Indus River
- Enjoy a farewell visit to Old Delhi’s Mughal marvels
At a Glance
- Duration: 18 Days
- Best Time: June to September
- Highest Altitude (Drive): Khardung La – 5,840 m
- Highest Altitude (Trek): Kongmaru-La – 5,100 m
- Physical Rating: Moderate to challenging (due to altitude and passes)
- Tour Focus: Culture, trekking, landscapes, monasteries, and wildlife
Detailed Programme
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, around midnight. Receive a traditional garland welcome and transfer to a comfortable hotel in Aerocity for rest.
Day 2: Delhi – Leh (Flight)
Take an early morning flight to Leh, a breathtaking journey over the Great Himalayas. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day at leisure to acclimatize. In the afternoon, stroll through Leh’s vibrant bazaars and absorb the high-altitude ambiance. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Leh Monastic Excursion
Visit the 200-year-old Shankar Monastery, featuring stunning statues and frescoes. Continue to Shanti Stupa, offering panoramic views of the town. Later, explore Leh Palace and walk to Tsemo Monastery. Overnight at hotel.
Day 4: Indus Valley Monasteries
Take a full-day trip to Alchi Monastery, famed for its ancient Kashmiri-style wall paintings and giant Buddha statues. En route, see the Indus-Zanskar river confluence and visit Spituk Monastery. Return to Leh for the night.
Day 5: Leh – Nubra Valley (Drive via Khardung La)
Drive over Khardung La (5,840 m), one of the world's highest motorable roads, to the enchanting Nubra Valley. Enjoy spectacular views of the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges. Camp overnight in a scenic location.
Day 6: Nubra Valley Exploration
Visit Diskit and Samsthaling monasteries. Enjoy an optional Bactrian camel ride across Hunder's sand dunes. Return to camp for overnight stay.
Day 7: Nubra – Stok (Drive)
Return to Leh via Khardung La and continue to Stok village. Visit the Stok Palace and museum. Set up camp above the village. Dinner and overnight in tents.
Day 8: Trek Begins – Stok to Rumbak
Trek across Stok La (4,900 m), taking in stunning views of the Indus Valley. Descend into the green Rumbak Valley, known for its traditional homes and schools. Camp overnight.
Day 9: Rumbak to Shingo via Ganda La
Trek over Ganda La (4,900 m), with dramatic views of Zanskar and Karakoram ranges. Descend to Shingo for overnight camping.
Day 10: Shingo to Skiu
A pleasant walk along a shaded gorge, crossing streams to reach the riverside village of Skiu. Afternoon free to explore. Camp overnight.
Day 11: Skiu to Markha
A long yet rewarding day along the Markha River, crossing multiple streams. Reach Markha village (3,800 m) nestled among lush fields. Camp overnight.
Day 12: Markha Rest Day
Explore the village and its ancient hilltop monastery. Enjoy a relaxed day amid scenic beauty. Overnight in tents.
Day 13: Markha to Tchatchutse
Continue deeper into the valley, passing old monasteries and possibly spotting blue sheep. Camp near Tchatchutse.
Day 14: Tchatchutse to Nimaling
Ascend towards Nimaling, a broad high-altitude pastureland with views of Kang Yatze Peak (6,400 m). Spot marmots, hares, and raptors. Camp overnight.
Day 15: Nimaling – Kongmaru La – Shjang
Trek over Kongmaru La (5,100 m), with panoramic views of eastern Karakoram. Descend through a narrow gorge to Shjang. Camp overnight.
Day 16: Shjang to Hemis, Return to Leh
Descend past mountain hamlets and gorges to Hemis. Visit the opulent Hemis Monastery. En route back to Leh, visit Thiksey Monastery. Overnight in hotel.
Day 17: Leh – Delhi (Flight) & Old Delhi Exploration
Morning flight to Delhi. In the afternoon, explore Old Delhi: Red Fort (closed Mondays), Jama Masjid, and Raj Ghat. Evening farewell dinner and transfer to airport.
Day 18: Departure
Catch your international flight home or continue your journey onward.
