The enchanting 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 magnificent Leh Palace, a majestic 17th-century royal residence perched on Tsemo Hill, boasting a remarkable nine-storey structure. From there, we will venture to the awe-inspiring Shanti Stupa, a symbol of peace offering a mesmerizing view that will leave you captivated. Although it will be hard to tear yourself away, we must continue our exploration with a visit 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, commencing 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, honoring Guru Nanak. As we journey through the Magnetic Hill, you will witness the fascinating phenomenon of cars rolling uphill without any ignition. Our adventure continues until we reach the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar River in Nimmu Valley, where the merging of these two rivers creates a captivating spectacle. We will also explore a series of monasteries, including the ancient Spituk Monastery, perched atop a hill and adorned with numerous icons and statues. The Alchi Monastery, a significant Buddhist center, showcases a rich history through its ancient paintings, temples, chortens, and carvings. Lastly, we will visit the Likir Monastery, which belongs to the Gelugpa monastic order of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Lamayuru Monastery, situated at an impressive altitude of over 3,500m/11,520ft and renowned for its capacity to accommodate more than 400 monks.
While traversing the highest road in the world, Khardung La, we will eventually arrive at the exquisite Nubra Valley. Here, we can leisurely stroll through the serene villages, with the majestic Himalayan ranges serving as our picturesque backdrop. For a unique experience, one can even opt to ride the double-humped camel, transporting us back in time as we witness the extraordinary sight of sand dunes against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains on the horizon. On our return journey to Leh, we will visit the Diskit Monastery. Finally, we will make our way to Pangong Lake, where we will be captivated by the timeless beauty of its crystal-clear blue waters. Along the way, we will also make stops at Hemis Gompa, Thiksey Monastery, and the historic Shey Palace, before concluding our journey at the renowned 3 Idiots Rancho's School.
Highlights:
- 4 Nights in Leh, 1 Night in Nubra Valley, and 1 Night in Pangong - Carefully selected accommodations in all three locations - Enjoy daily breakfast and dinner during your stay - Explore Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Market - Take a memorable excursion to the Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar River in Sham Valley - Experience the breathtaking Khardung La Pass - Visit the historic Diskit Monastery - Marvel at the beauty of Pangong Lake - Discover the spiritual Hemis & Thiksey Gompa - Relive the famous 3 Idiots movie by visiting Rancho's School - Inner Line Permit included, covering wildlife and environment fees
Accommodation:
Stay for 2 nights at Hotel Sia Residency Premium Room (Breakfast and Dinner) Or Similar
Stay for 1 night at Hunder Nubra Ethnic Camp Luxury Room (Breakfast and Dinner) Or Similar
Stay for 1 night at Hotel Sia Residency Premium Room (Breakfast and Dinner) Or Similar
Stay for 1 night at Pangong Heritage Camp Deluxe Tent (Breakfast and Dinner) Or Similar
Stay for 1 night at Hotel Sia Residency Premium Room (Breakfast and Dinner) Or Similar
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 catch a glimpse of the majestic peaks of K2, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum, and the Nun Kun massif, which will make your journey truly unforgettable.
Once you land, our representative will be there to greet you and assist you with the transfer to your hotel for check-in. It is important to take some time to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your own pace.
In the evening, we will take you on a sightseeing tour of Leh. Our first stop will be Leh Palace, situated on the deserted Tsemo Hill. Also known as Lhachen Palkhar, this palace was built in the 17th century and was once the residence of the royal family of Leh. With its impressive architecture and historical significance, Leh Palace has become one of the most popular attractions in the region.
Next, we will visit Shanti Stupa, a magnificent white-domed structure that stands as a symbol of peace and harmony. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the city of Leh.
Our final stop for the evening will be Leh Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and explore the bustling streets filled with shops and stalls offering a variety of traditional handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
After a fulfilling evening of sightseeing, we will return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, preparing you for the exciting adventures that lie ahead in Leh.
Shanti Stupa, situated at an elevation of 4267 meters, offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains surrounding Leh city. It can be reached either by a 5 km drive from Leh city or by climbing 500 steps. The strategic location of Shanti Stupa ensures its visibility from all corners of Leh city. This magnificent structure is built in two levels. The first level features a flight of stairs leading to a Dharmchakra, resembling the white strip of the Indian national flag, with two deer on each side. At the center, there is a golden statue of Lord Buddha seated on a platform, turning the Dharmchakra wheel. The second level showcases various significant events in Buddha's life, including his birth, triumph over devils during meditation, and his eventual passing. Additionally, the second level is adorned 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, visiting the following attractions:
1. 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. It 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 related documents. Additionally, there is a dedicated section showcasing the Siachen glacier.
2. Gurudwara Patthar Sahib: Situated 25 miles from Leh in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, Gurudwara Pathar 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, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is revered and worshipped by both Sikhs and 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 main 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 dream destination for avid trekkers.
Spituk Monastery, located on a hilltop near the Indus River, is a fascinating religious site situated approximately 18 kilometers from Leh on the Srinagar road. Offering a commanding view of the Indus, the monastery consists of both 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, there 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 complex, features two rows of seats along the walls leading to a throne at the far end. The altar displays sculptures and miniature chortens, while an impressive 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 Vajrabhairva is only revealed 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, you will 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: Trasfer 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 (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, the majestic peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range, and the towering 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 insights into the local way of life. If available, you may also have the opportunity to visit a Ladakhi home (additional cost may apply). Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at your camp or hotel.
Day 4: Transfer from Nubra Valley to Leh
Following an early morning meal, we proceed to check-out from the camp or hotel and embark on a journey towards 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 elevated desert, with majestic snow-capped mountains adorning the horizon. As you travel between Hunder and Diskit, you will encounter sand dunes along the roadside. In isolation, one might mistake this scenery for the sand dunes of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. It is truly a peculiar sight, as just to the left of the road lie the Rocky Mountains that define the Ladakhi landscape, while in the distance, the snow-capped mountains stand tall.
After returning, make a stop at Diskit, the main town of Nubra Valley. Take a leisurely walk through the bustling 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, overlooking the entire Valley.
Also known as Diskit Gompa, the Diskit monastery is located in Ladakh's Nubra valley. This ancient Buddhist center is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Leh Ladakh. It was established by Changzem Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century. The main highlight of the monastery is the 100-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, which was inaugurated by the revered Dalai Lama. From the Gompa's summit, where the magnificent statue resides, one can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Nubra valley.
Later in the afternoon, we will drive back to Leh via Khardungla Top. Upon reaching Leh, you will check in to your hotel. The rest 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 "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 attracts a large number of tourists. This vibrant day-long festival is also a state holiday. The monastery is adorned with exquisite paintings and houses 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. Within 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 spanning three storeys in height. In 1834, the royal family of Ladakh relocated to Stok Palace. The three-storey palace at Shey is 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, it is important to respect the students' privacy and refrain from taking photographs. Inside the campus, there is a café and a souvenir shop for visitors to enjoy. 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: Departure from Leh
Thank you for choosing our services. We appreciate your support and guarantee a timely transfer to the Domestic Airport, ensuring you catch your flight to your next destination. We hope you have a memorable experience with us.
Exclusions:
1. Additional amenities such as room or flight upgrades, as well as fees for local camera or video usage. 2. Any sightseeing, activities, or experiences that are not part of the planned itinerary. 3. Early check-in or late check-out from hotels, unless otherwise stated. 4. Meals including breakfast, lunches, dinners, and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary. 5. Any international and/or domestic flights, unless explicitly stated as part of the package. 6. Charges for excess baggage, and any baggage not covered by the fare. 7. Tips for services and experiences are not included. For more detailed information and terms, please refer to the provided useful information.
Important Information:
The vehicle specified in the booking will be provided. If additional or upgraded vehicles are required due to travelers carrying extra or oversized luggage, extra charges will apply.
Guidelines for Hajj Season: Non-Muslim travelers are allowed to arrive at any airport in the Kingdom without any objection. 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 be aware that no changes to the itinerary will be possible after booking.
In hill areas, even if you choose an AC vehicle, the air conditioning will not be operational to prevent any damage or breakdown during the trip. Additionally, playing music in commercial vehicles is prohibited in several hill areas to ensure safety and prevent accidents.
Please note that the availability of airline seats and hotel rooms is subject to confirmation at the time of booking.
If the listed hotels are unavailable, arrangements will be made for alternate accommodation in a hotel of similar standard.
One room can accommodate a maximum of three adults, and the third occupant will be provided with a mattress or rollaway bed. Transportation will be provided according to the fixed itinerary. Please note that the itinerary cannot be modified, and any changes made after confirmation may incur additional costs, which will be the responsibility of the customer. Changes to the itinerary are subject to the availability of tours, weather conditions, and operational possibilities. In the event of closure or maintenance issues, every effort will be made to cover the missed sightseeing, if time permits. Please be aware that the routing of the tour may be adjusted for operational reasons, but all mentioned services will remain unchanged. As Leh serves as the base town for all connecting towns in Ladakh, some sightseeing may be mentioned multiple times in the itinerary. It is at the discretion of the customer whether they wish to revisit these sights, if time allows. However, please note that no refund will be provided if the sightseeing is not covered the second time, as no additional charge is being applied for it.
It is recommended to undergo a health check-up before traveling to Ladakh and to carry the necessary medication as advised. When making a booking, it will be assumed that the customer has already completed or will complete the suggested health check-up prior to their travel.
Upon check-in at the hotel, you may be asked to provide an advance/security deposit, the amount of which will depend on the hotel's policy. This deposit will be refunded during check-out, after deducting the cost of any items taken from the mini-bar or any additional charges incurred (such as late check-out or damages to the accommodation).
Please note that tickets for attractions, museums, trains, cable cars, ferries, rides, safaris, etc. are not included unless explicitly stated as part of the package.
For any inquiries regarding cancellations and refunds, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.
We reserve the right to issue a full refund if we determine that we are unable to provide the services due to any technical reasons.
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