The stunning region of Ladakh never fails to amaze visitors with its breathtaking scenery. However, with our services, you can enhance your experience by enjoying private transfers and pre-booked accommodations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey. Upon arrival in Leh, our first stop will be the Leh Palace, a magnificent 17th-century royal residence perched on Tsemo Hill, boasting a remarkable nine-storey height. From there, we will take a short drive to the Shanti Stupa, a symbol of peace that offers a mesmerizing view you won't want to tear yourself away from. However, we must continue our exploration and make our way to the Leh Market, where you can purchase souvenirs and interact with the locals in their native dialect. Our itinerary also includes an excursion to Sham Valley, which begins with a solemn visit to the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the brave warriors who fought in the Indo-Pak wars. We will then proceed to Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, a place of reverence and worship for followers of Sikhism, dedicated to Guru Nanak.
As we drive through the Magnetic Hill, you will witness the fascinating phenomenon of cars rolling uphill even when their engines are turned off. Our journey will lead us to the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar River in Nimmu Valley, where you can marvel at the merging of these two majestic rivers. We will also visit a series of monasteries, including the ancient Spituk Monastery, dating back to the 11th century and adorned with numerous icons and statues. The Alchi Monastery, known for its Buddhist shrines, showcases the rich history of this sacred place through its ancient paintings, temples, chortens, and carvings. Likir Monastery, belonging to the Gelugpa monastic order of Tibetan Buddhism, and Lamayuru Monastery, situated at an impressive altitude of over 3,500m/11,520ft, will also be part of our itinerary.
Finally, we will embark on a journey through the world's highest road, Khardung La, to reach the picturesque Nubra Valley, where you can take a leisurely stroll and explore the serene villages nestled amidst the Himalayas.
Includes In Package Price:
- Chandigarh to Leh return flight tickets - 4 nights in Leh, 1 night in Nubra Valley, and 1 night in Pangong - Carefully selected accommodations in all three locations - Daily breakfast and dinner included - Explore Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Market - Enjoy a Sham Valley Excursion to the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar River - Experience the breathtaking Khardung La Pass - Visit the Diskit Monastery and marvel at its beauty - Witness the stunning Pangong Lake - Discover the Hemis & Thiksey Gompa monasteries - Visit the famous school from the movie "3 Idiots" - Rancho's School - Inner Line Permit included, covering wildlife and environment fees.
Accommodation:
Leh 4 nights:
Stay for 4 nights at Hotel Sia Residency Premium Room (Breakfast and Dinner)
Nubra Valley 1 night:
Stay for 1 night at Hunder Sarai Resort Luxury Room (Breakfast and Dinner)
Pangong 1 night:
Stay for 1 night at Pangong Heritage Camp Deluxe Tent (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day Wise Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Leh + Evening Tour
Upon your arrival at Leh Kushok Bakula Airport, you will experience one of the most breathtaking flights in the world. On a clear day, you can witness the distant peaks of K2, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum from one side of the aircraft, while on the other side, the Nun Kun massif appears so close that you can almost touch it.
Once you land, our representative will be there to greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel for check-in. Take the entire day to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude. In the evening, embark on a sightseeing tour that includes visits to Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Market.
Leh Palace, also known as Lhachen Palkhar, is situated on the deserted Tsemo Hill. Erected in the 17th century, it served as the former palace of the royal family of Leh. During its prime, it stood as one of the tallest structures with 9 stories. Today, it remains a highly sought-after attraction in Leh.
At a height of 4267 meters, Shanti Stupa offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains surrounding Leh city. It can be reached either by a 5 km drive from the city or by climbing 500 steps. The strategic location of Shanti Stupa allows it to be visible from all corners of Leh city. This two-level structure features a flight of stairs leading to the first level, where a Dharmchakra with two deer on each side is displayed. The central image of Lord Buddha, in golden color, sits on a platform and turns the Dharmchakra wheel. The second level showcases the birth of Buddha, his triumph over devils in meditation, and his eventual passing, along with numerous vibrant images of meditating Buddha.
Leh Market is a bustling street market that consists of numerous lanes and bylanes, each lined with small shops offering a wide range of products. From footwear and clothing to warm woolen wear and exquisite jewelry, you can find it all here. Additionally, the market is home to stalls selling carpets, shawls, and souvenirs. The Tibetan Refugee Market, located within Leh Market, showcases locks adorned with unique carvings, artifacts, and souvenirs. Moreover, you can also purchase resonant bowls made from a blend of nine metals, such as cymbals, decorative brass, and copper trumpets. Engaging in conversation with local shopkeepers can be challenging at times due to language barriers. However, haggling is crucial in a market like this to ensure you don't end up paying more than necessary for the items you wish to buy.
Day 2: Sham Valley Day Trip Following breakfast, we will embark on a day excursion to Sham Valley, where we will visit the following sites:
Hall of Fame: Located near the Leh Airfield, the Hall of Fame is a museum established and maintained by the Indian Army in honor of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Indo-Pak wars. This museum serves as a memorial for these war heroes. The building comprises two floors. The ground floor provides information about the courageous soldiers and houses a souvenir shop. On the first floor, you will find artifacts from various wars, particularly the Kargil war, including weapons used during the conflict and important documents related to it. Additionally, there is a dedicated section showcasing the Siachen glacier.
Gurudwara Patthar Sahib: Situated 25 miles from Leh in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, Gurudwara Patthar Sahib stands at the very spot where Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion and the first guru, is believed to have defeated a demon. Despite the region being predominantly Buddhist, this Gurudwara is also revered and worshipped by Buddhists. Tibetan Buddhists hold Guru Nanak in high regard, referring to him as Guru Gompka Maharaj and Nanak Lama.
Please note that these are the highlights of our day excursion to Sham Valley.
Magnetic Hill: Positioned approximately 30 km away from Leh, the renowned Magnetic Hill in Ladakh is a gravity hill that captivates visitors with its ability to defy gravity. When vehicles are parked at the designated spot, they appear to move upwards on the hill, seemingly unaffected by the force of gravity. Situated at an elevation of around 14,000 feet above sea level, this intriguing hill is accompanied by the Sindhu River flowing on its eastern side. Originating in Tibet, the Sindhu River is a significant stopover for travelers exploring Ladakh. Whether it is an optical illusion or a genuine phenomenon, the Magnetic Hill's enigmatic magnetic properties continue to attract tourists from all corners of the world.
Confluence Of The Indus And Zanskar River: Nestled in the picturesque Nimmu valley, the confluence of the Indus River and Zanskar River is a sight to behold. The Indus River, acting as a lifeline for the arid and desolate landscapes of Ladakh, drains the landlocked valley. On the other hand, the Zanskar River, a tributary of the Indus, merges into it from the north-eastern direction. Along its course towards the meeting point, the river traverses the awe-inspiring Zanskar Gorge, a trekkers' paradise.
Spituk Monastery, located on a hilltop near the Indus River, approximately 18 kilometers from Leh on the Srinagar road, is a fascinating place of worship. Offering a commanding view of the Indus, the monastery consists of a new Gompa and a restored old Gompa. Built in a tiered structure with courtyards and steps, it showcases the rich architectural heritage of the region. Perched higher up on the hill is a chamber that houses a colossal statue of the goddess. This statue remains covered throughout the year and is unveiled only during the annual festival.
Founded in the 11th century by Od-De, the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub-od, the Spituk Gompa was given its name by Rinchen Zangpo, a translator who prophesied the rise of an exemplary religious community at this location. Initially following the Kadampa school, the Gompa later converted to the Gayluk Pa order during the reign of King Gragspa Bumide. Visitors to this 15th-century monastery can explore numerous Buddha icons and five thangkas. The Dukhang Hall, the largest building within the monastery, features two rows of seats along the walls leading to a throne at the far end. The altar displays sculptures and miniature chortens, while a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and exquisite thangkas can also be found.
Further up the hill lies the Mahakal Temple, which houses the shrine of Vajrabhairava. The fearsome face of Vajrabhairava is revealed only during the annual festival held in January.
Alchi Monastery, a significant religious center in Ladakh, is a collection of ancient Buddhist shrines. It was founded in AD 1000 by Rinchen Zangpo, a renowned translator, who brought skilled wood carvers and sculptors from Kashmir to construct it. The monastery comprises various temples and chortens from different time periods. It proudly preserves some of the oldest wall paintings in Ladakh, including the remarkable mural of 1000 Buddhas. Within the shrine, one can find majestic statues of Lord Buddha and other deities adorned with exquisite wooden carvings and artworks reminiscent of the Baroque period.
Likir Monastery, also known as Likir Gompa, is situated in the village of Saspol, approximately 52 km (32 miles) west of Leh. It belongs to the Gelugpa monastic order of Tibetan Buddhism and was commissioned by the fifth King of Ladakh, Lhachen Gyalpo, and constructed by Lama Duwang Chosje. The monastery complex encompasses numerous shrines and currently houses 120 Buddhist monks.
Lamayuru Monastery, situated in the Leh district, is a renowned Buddhist monastery perched at an elevation of 11,520 ft. This magnificent monastery is widely regarded as a captivating destination that should not be missed. Lamayuru monastery holds great significance as it is associated with numerous legends. In the past, it consisted of five colossal buildings, but only one remains standing today. Nevertheless, it still stands as the largest monastery, providing a home to approximately 150 Buddhist monks permanently, whereas in earlier times, the number reached 400.
Additionally, customers have the option to partake in rafting at Sangam, with payment made directly. Subsequently, we will return to Leh and spend the night at the hotel.
Day 3: Transfer from Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La
After enjoying your breakfast, it is time to check-out from the hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Nubra Valley, also known as the 'valley of flowers' (120 kms/4-5 hrs). As you begin your journey, you will traverse the famous Khardung La pass (5602 mts, 18,390 ft, 39 km from Leh) - renowned as the highest motorable road in the world. From this vantage point, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Indus valley, as well as the majestic peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range, and the imposing Saser massif to the north. Nubra Valley is nestled between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges of the Himalayas, offering a picturesque setting.
Upon reaching Nubra, you will check in to your hotel or camp in Hunder. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the charming villages to gain insight into the local way of life. If available, you may also have the opportunity to visit a Ladakhi home (additional cost may apply). Enjoy an overnight stay at your camp or hotel, surrounded by the natural beauty of Nubra Valley.
Day 4: Transfer from Nubra Valley to Leh
Following an early morning meal, we will complete the check-out process at the camp/hotel and embark on a drive to Hunder. Here, you will have the opportunity to partake in a camel ride on a bacterian camel (double humped) amidst the sand dunes of this high altitude desert, with snow-capped mountains visible on the horizon (at your own expense). As you travel between Hunder and Diskit, you will encounter sand dunes alongside the road. In isolation, one could easily mistake this landscape for the sand dunes of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. It is a peculiar sight, as immediately to the left of the road are the Rocky Mountains that define the Ladakhi landscape, while in the distance, snow-capped mountains can be seen.
On the return journey, we will make a stop at Diskit, the main town of Nubra Valley. Take a leisurely stroll through the bazaar, observing the local shops and people going about their daily routines. Diskit is renowned for its 515-year-old Buddhist Monastery, perched majestically on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of the entire Valley.
The Diskit Monastery, also known as Diskit Gompa, is located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh. This Buddhist center is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Leh Ladakh. Founded by Changzem Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century, the Diskit Monastery houses a remarkable 100-foot-high Maitreya Buddha statue, which was inaugurated by the revered Dalai Lama. From the summit of the Gompa, where the divine statue resides, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Nubra Valley.
Later in the afternoon, we will drive back to Leh via Khardungla Top. Upon arrival in Leh, you will check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and unwind.
Day 5: Journey from Leh to Pangong Lake via Changla
Following an early morning meal, we embark on a drive towards Changla Pass. The gradual and effortless ascent leads us to Changla Pass, navigating through its winding roads that pass by Sakti Village. We pause at Changla Pass for a brief photography session before continuing our journey to the village of Tangtse, where a refreshing cup of tea awaits. Departing from Tangtse, we traverse through a few small villages of Changthang, eventually granting us a sudden glimpse of the breathtaking Pangong Lake, situated at an elevation of 14,000 feet (4,267 m).
This renowned azure brackish lake, stretching over 133 kilometers in length and 5/6 kilometers in width, captivates with its mesmerizing beauty. Half of the lake lies on the other side of the "Indo China Border," offering a unique experience of being in close proximity to nature and the environment. The scenery is truly unforgettable. Following the success of the film "3 Idiots," this stunning natural location has attracted tourists from all corners of the globe. Upon arrival, we check-in at our Camp near Pangong Lake, where we will spend the night.
Day 6: Journey from Pangong Lake to Leh Exploring Shey Palace, Hemis & Thiksey
After a delightful morning spent admiring the serene beauty of Pangong Lake, embark on a scenic drive to Leh. Known as the 'high grassland lake' in Tibetan, Pangong Tso is one of the largest brackish lakes in Asia. Its timeless charm may be familiar to you from the Bollywood film 3 IDIOTS (2009). This disputed territory and saline water lake is currently in the process of being recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. As you catch your first glimpse of the azure waters and the unsteady lakeshore, it's difficult to fathom the vast expanse this lake covers.
En route to Leh, make sure to visit Hemis Gompa, Thiksey Monastery, Rancho School, and Shey Palace. Hemis Gompa: Located 40 kilometers southeast of Leh, Hemis Monastery is not only the largest but also the most renowned monastery (Gompa) in Ladakh. It was constructed under the patronage of King Singge Namgyal in 1672 AD. The monastery hosts an annual festival known as Hemis Tsechu, which takes place in the month of and is a major attraction for tourists. This vibrant day-long festival is also a state holiday. The monastery boasts exquisite paintings and a statue of Lord Buddha, which are among its main highlights.
Thiksey Monastery, situated approximately 19 kilometers east of Leh, is the largest monastery in the central region of Ladakh. Its architectural style bears resemblance to the renowned Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. This impressive 12-storey complex showcases various Buddhist art forms, including Thangka paintings, statues, stupas, and swords. Additionally, it houses a nunnery. One of the main highlights for tourists is the Maitreya temple, which was established in 1970. Inside this temple stands a colossal 49-foot statue of the future Lord Buddha, making it the largest of its kind in the region.
Shey Palace, located near Leh city, falls under the purview of the Archaeological Survey of India. Although mostly in ruins now, it was originally constructed in 1650 by King Deldan Namgyal of Ladakh as a summer retreat. The palace boasts the largest CHANGCHUP (Chorten stupa) in Ladakh, with its pinnacle crafted from pure gold. Subsequently, the king also built Shey Monastery in honor of his father. This royal palace and monastery, dating back to the sixteenth century A.D., houses the DU-KHANG, which features a copper gilded statue of Lord Buddha reaching a height of three storeys. In 1834, the royal family of Ladakh relocated to Stok Palace, leaving behind this three-storeyed palace adorned with a 7.5-meter seated Sakyamuni Buddha statue made of copper, brass plated with gold and silver, and embellished with precious gems and stones.
Rancho School, also known as Druk Padma Karpo School or Druk White Lotus School, gained fame after being featured in Aamir Khan's movie Three Idiots. This school is renowned for its clean and eco-friendly structures, designed to withstand seismic disturbances. In 2016, BBC London recognized it as one of the most beautiful schools in the world. Upon arrival, a guide will accompany you inside the campus, allowing you to explore different areas of the school. However, please refrain from disturbing the students or taking photographs of them. Inside the campus, there is a café and a souvenir shop for your convenience. It is recommended to allocate a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes to fully appreciate the beauty of this school campus. Afterward, continue your journey to Leh and check into a hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Leaving Leh
We express our gratitude for your support and guarantee a timely transfer to the Domestic Airport, where you will board your flight to your next destination, carrying with you unforgettable memories.
Excludes:
- Room or flight upgrades, as well as local camera or video fees, are not included. - Any additional sightseeing, activities, or experiences outside of the itinerary are not covered. - Early check-in or late check-out from hotels are not included, unless stated otherwise. - Breakfast, lunches, dinners, and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are not provided, unless specified in the itinerary. - International and/or domestic flights are not included, unless explicitly mentioned as part of the package. - Excess baggage charges and any baggage not included in your fare are not covered. - Tips for services and experiences are not included. - For more information on what is included and excluded, please refer to the useful information and terms. - Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees are not part of the package. - Any additional sightseeing, activities, and experiences outside of the planned itinerary are not included.
Important Information:
The vehicle mentioned in your booking will be provided to you. However, if you require an additional vehicle or an upgraded vehicle due to carrying extra or oversized luggage, there will be extra charges applicable.
Guidelines for Hajj Season:
For non-Muslim travelers coming to the Kingdom, there are no restrictions on their arrival at any airport. However, travelers holding a business, commercial, or family visit visa are not allowed to arrive in "Jeddah, Medina, Taif, and Yanbu" after May 29th. The last date for accepting passengers with UMRAH visa is June 3rd.
Please note that after booking, no changes can be made to the itinerary.
Vehicles in Hill Areas:
Even if you choose an AC vehicle, please be aware that the AC may not be operational in hill stations. This is done to avoid any damage or breakdown of the vehicle during your trip. Additionally, in several hill areas, commercial vehicles are not allowed to play music in order to prevent accidents.
Availability of Airline Seats and Hotel Rooms:
Please note that airline seats and hotel rooms are subject to availability at the time of confirmation. In case the listed hotels are unavailable, we will make arrangements for alternate accommodation in a hotel of similar standard.
Occupancy in Hotel Rooms:
A maximum of 3 adults are allowed in one room. If there is a third occupant, a mattress or rollaway bed will be provided.
Transportation and Itinerary:
Transportation will be provided as per the fixed itinerary. Please note that the itinerary cannot be modified after confirmation. In case any changes are made post-confirmation, additional costs may be applicable, which will be borne by the customer.
Changes to Itinerary:
Any changes to the itinerary are subject to the availability of tours, weather conditions, and operational possibilities. If any tour is missed due to closure or maintenance issues, we will make every effort to cover the sightseeing, time permitting. Please note that due to operational reasons, the routing of the tour may be amended, but all mentioned services will remain unchanged.
- In the event of closure or maintenance issues, every effort will be made to cover the sightseeing, time permitting. - The routing of the tour may be changed for operational reasons, but all mentioned services will remain the same. - Some sightseeing spots may be mentioned multiple times in the itinerary due to Leh being the base town for connecting towns in Ladakh. It is up to the customer to decide if they want to visit the same spot again, time permitting. However, no refund will be provided if the spot is not visited the second time. - It is recommended to undergo a health check-up before traveling to Ladakh and carry necessary medication as advised. - It is assumed that the customer has already done or will do the suggested health check-up at the time of booking. - Upon check-in, the hotel may require an advance/security deposit, which will be refunded at check-out after deducting any charges for items taken from the mini-bar or other expenses. - Tickets for attractions, museums, trains, cable cars, ferries, rides, safaris, etc. are not included unless explicitly mentioned. - For information about cancellations and refunds, please refer to our Cancellation Policy. - We reserve the right to issue a full refund if we are unable to provide the services due to technical reasons.
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