INDIA

Ladakh Unveiled:
A Cultural Exploration

TOUR DATES : MAY THROUGH SEPTEMBER

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A Cultural Exploration

Bound by two of the world’s highest mountain ranges—the Himalaya to the south and the Karakoram to the north—Ladakh sits on the western edge of the Tibetan Plateau, averaging 10,000 feet in altitude. Often referred to as “Little Tibet” due to its historical ties with Lhasa and its predominantly Tibetan Buddhist culture, Ladakh’s capital, Leh, stands at 11,400 feet above sea level, ranking among the highest cities globally.

After exploring the vibrant bazaars and sights of “Old Delhi,” a scenic flight takes you to Leh, where vibrant market streets once served as a vital point on the ancient Silk Road. Amidst pilgrims, you’ll visit significant monasteries to admire their intricate designs and meditate. Journeying through the Leh and Indus valleys to Alchi, you’ll marvel at the mural-rich Alchi Gompa. Continue to Rizong and Lamayuru monasteries, enjoying the picturesque stupas that dot the majestic landscape.

PRIVATE JOURNEY DATES:

MAY – SEPTEMBER

2 TRAVELERS

$6,235 Per Person

INTERNAL AIRFARE:
(Delhi-Leh-Delhi)

$390 Per Person

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INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Land Price Includes:

All required permits for touring in Ladakh and Nubra;
Ground transportation in India as described in the itinerary;
All Airport/Hotel transfers on arrival and departure;
All accommodations based on double or twin occupancy;
All meals as noted in itinerary;
All excursions, entrance fees, and visits as described in itinerary;
Extensive pre-departure Travel Guide, reading list, important information about your trip;
Bilingual Nomadic Expeditions guide throughout your stay.

Land Price Does Not Include:

International airfare to & from Delhi, India;
Internal India airfare (listed separately)
Tips to guide, camp staff and drivers;
Comprehensive medical and trip insurance;
Excess baggage charges;
Photography and video fees;
Food and beverages not included in the group meals;
Items of a personal nature, including alcoholic beverages, laundry and telephone calls;
Other items not specifically mentioned as included.

Itinerary

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Days 1-2

Arrival in Delhi & Exploring Contrasts

Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The next day, explore the contrasts of Old and New Delhi. In Old Delhi, take a bicycle rickshaw through the narrow alleyways of Chandni Chowk to the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Visit the Qutub Minar, a striking 72-meter high victory minaret built a millennium ago. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Indian welcome dinner.

Days 3-4

Flying to Leh, Exploring the Indus Valley

Fly to Leh, enjoying spectacular views of the Zanskar Range and K2. Upon arrival, rest and acclimate to the high altitude of 11,400 feet. The next day, explore the local villages and monasteries of the Indus Valley, including Shey Palace with its giant gilded copper Buddha statue, Thikse gompa with its stunning Maitreya Buddha, and Hemis gompa, the most important “Red Hat” monastery in Ladakh.

Days 5-6

Exploring Nubra Valley’s Remote Charms

Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Visit Deskit Gompa with its 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue, and ride Bactrian camels in Hunder. The next day, explore remote monasteries like Samstanling and Ensa, hike along the Holy Yarab Tso Lake, and visit the Women’s Alliance of Nubra.

Day 7

Ulley and the Mural Wonderland of Alchi

Drive back over the mountains to the Indus Valley and follow the river to Ulley. After settling in, explore the “mural wonderland” of Alchi, a 10th-century gompa with prolific art despite being inactive.

Days 8-9

Lamayuru Monastery and Stok Canyon Hike

Visit the 10th-11th-century Lamayuru Monastery, once a powerful contender for supremacy throughout Tibet. After a picnic lunch with dramatic mountain views, head to Stok Village. The next day, hike up the visually striking Stok Canyon and visit the Stok Palace museum, housing 17th-18th-century Tibetan artworks. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 10

Return to Delhi and Departure

Fly back to Delhi, with the afternoon free for exploring, shopping, and packing before your late-evening departure from India.

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