Ladakh"s Festival Tour
Welcome to India, or as we say ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (The guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
Late night arrival, meeting and assistance upon arrival at the airport as our representative will welcome you and escort you to your car.
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
Overnight at Jaypee Vasant Continental, Delhi (Deluxe Room) (No Meals)
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Delhi airport for your flight to Leh.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival, as our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel.
Rest of the day is at leisure to acclimatize or adjust to the altitude.
Overnight at Abdu’s Hotel (B & D)
At 06:30 AM, we will drive to visit the Thiksey Monastery. Here, we will witness the serene prayer ceremony as monks chant mantras and perform rituals. The rhythmic chants and tranquil atmosphere, set against the stunning backdrop of the Indus Valley, offer a deeply spiritual start to the day.
After the visit, we will proceed for a tour of Hemis Gompa (monastery) which is the most important and the richest Gompa in the whole of Ladakh and is dedicated to Guru Padama Sambhava the great Indian teacher & philosopher. This monastery located among the beautiful landscape of the Hemis National Park was founded in 1630 AD. It is located at a distance of 45km from Leh and is one of the most popular monasteries visited by travelers. It is also famous across the world for the Hemis Festival hosted by it.
Later, we will drive back to our hotel in Leh.
Afternoon, we will proceed on a guided tour of Shey, which is a small town in comparison to Leh. Shey Palace was built in early 17th century AD by Deldan Namgyal as a memorial for his father, Singay Namgyal. The palace houses a three storey copper statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. Overlooking the Shey palace are the ruins of the fort built by the first king of Ladakh, Lhachen Spalgigon. Shey also has a very large scattering of stupas all across its landscape.
Overnight at Abdu’s Hotel (B & D)
After an early breakfast at 07:00 AM, we will visit the Spituk Monastery. The latter is a tranquil Buddhist site perched on a hill, offering stunning views of the Indus Valley. Explore its ancient relics, vibrant murals, and the revered statues, immersing you in the monastery's spiritual and cultural heritage.
From here, we will continue to Pathar Sahib Gurudwara. This is a revered Sikh shrine steeped in legend and devotion. Experience the peaceful ambiance, partake in the langar, and seek blessings while surrounded by the majestic landscapes of Leh.
Later, we will experience the vibrant Phyang Tsedup Festival at Phyang Monastery, where monks perform sacred Cham dances in elaborate costumes and masks. This colorful celebration of Buddhist traditions offers a unique glimpse into Ladakh’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Late afternoon, we will drive to Uletokpo en route visiting the Likir Monastery (if time permits). The journey itself through spell bounding scenes of natural beauty is worth the effort. Snowcapped Himalayas dot the background while craggy dusty mountain ranges and the swiftly flowing Indus River as well as patches of farm make up for the fascinating foreground.
At Nimu we witness the magical confluence of the two main rivers of the region – Indus & Zanskar.
Another interesting aspect of our journey would be the opportunity to travel past several Ladakhi Villages where time has stood still. We will walk into these villages and experience traditional Ladakhi Villages, lifestyles and occupations.
We will make a brief stop at the Likir Monastrey (if time permits) that houses many gigantic clay statue of Buddha in various forms. The primary attraction is, however, their 1000-year old wall painting which make a visit more than worthwhile.
Upon arrival, check into Uley Ethnic Resort. The place is right in the lap of nature and you would very much enjoy the feel of the breeze, the scent of flowers, delightful nature walks, views of the snow capped Himalayas and the gentling rolling sound of the Indus river. If you are a bird lover there are great possibilities of viewing a variety of birds.
Overnight at Ule Ethnic Resorts (Deluxe Cottage) (B & D)
After breakfast, we will drive to Lamayuru en route we will visit the following sites –
Da Hanu: Da Hanu is a part of the Brokpa villages, inhabited by the Brokpa community, known for their unique Aryan heritage, traditional attire, and vibrant culture. The scenic drive to Da Hanu offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and lush greenery.
Kalsi Bridge: A stop at Kalsi Bridge provides stunning vistas of the Indus River meandering through the dramatic landscapes of Ladakh. The bridge is a strategic point, offering a perfect opportunity to pause and take in the serenity of the region. The surrounding mountains and the turquoise river below make this spot a favorite for photographers and travelers seeking tranquility.
Following the visits, we will continue our drive to Lamayuru.
Upon arrival, we check in to hotel.
Afternoon, we will proceed through paradise as we visit Lamayuru. Every twist and turn brings to you new vistas of natural beauty. But, wait till you get to the ‘LamayuruMoonland’. We look down on this landscape which appears to be a dusty surface of the Moon itself with craters & hills. The snow rising in the backdrop of this sandy script reminds you that you are in Ladakh.
The landscape around Lamayuru monastery is one of most spectacular things one could see on earth.
Lamayuru monastery popularly known as, "Yangdrung Gomp" is situated 126 km west of Leh, on the Leh - Srinagar highway. In ancient times there was a huge lake in this place. The great saint Nyimagung, made a prophesy saying: " May a monastery be founded in this place" and he then offered a votive water offering to all the naga serpent spirits who were the guardians of that place. The grains of that corn that formed part of this offering were carried by the waves of different places along the cliff side by the edge of the lake and when they had become mixed with the earth they sprouted forth as corn in the shape of a swastika. At the time when a monastery was later founded there it was called Yangdrung "swastika". In the 11th century the mahasiddha Naropa came to this place and the cave where he resided and meditated is still to be seen today. Then Rinchen Zangpo, the Translator came and built many temples and stupas and so the teachings of the Kadampa School came to flourish greatly there. Thereafter, for many years the monastery was administered by the Red Hats order of the Tibetan Buddhism., but later it was taken over by Digungpa order. Then the rituals and observances of the Digung Kargud School were introduced and the monastery received the name of Yangdrung Tharpaling.
Overnight at Grand Moon Land Hotel (B & D)
After breakfast, we proceed on to visit Alchi. Every twist and turn brings to you new vistas of natural beauty.
The village of Alchi in lower Ladakh is to be considered one of the most important cultural sites throughout the Himalayas. Consisting of four separate hamlets, the village contains numerous historic monuments of different ages and in various states of repair, the oldest and most famousof which is a monastic complex. The 1,000-year-old three-storied Himalayan temple, with its unique murals and iconography, is a fragile wooden structure. Confirmed a World Heritage site by UNESCO, this is one of only four surviving monasteries of the 108 founded by the Great Translator, Lotsava Rinchen bZangpo in the later 10th and early 11th century. The temple preserves some of the finest examples of Kashmiri art of the period
Later, we will drive to Leh.
We will also visit Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. It is situated 25 miles from Leh. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib stands at the place where Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikh religion and the first guru, is believed to have vanquished a demon.
Upon arrival in Leh, check into hotel.
Overnight at Abdu’s Hotel (B & D)
After breakfast, we will travel to Chumathang via Upshi, where you will pause for tea and a passport check as you enter the picturesque Rupshu Valley.
From here, we will continue our journey to Chumathang, located approximately 138 km from Leh, known for its therapeutic hot sulfur springs along the banks of the Indus River, believed to have healing properties for skin ailments.
Here, we will proceed towards Mahe Bridge, passing through ancient Buddhist villages en route, and arrive at the stunning Tsomoriri Lake. Nestled at an altitude of 4,595 meters amidst snow-capped mountains, this pristine high-altitude lake stretches 28 km in length, 2 to 5 km in width, and reaches a depth of 100 feet. The lake, fed by melting snow and springs, offers breathtaking vistas and is a haven for exotic migratory birds. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake, soaking in its tranquil beauty.
Overnight at The Lake View Hotel (Basic Room) (B & D)
After breakfast, we will take a short walk or drive to Korzok Village, situated in the southeastern region of Ladakh within the Nyoma block of the Rupshu Valley. At an elevation of 4,600 meters above sea level, Korzok is one of the highest inhabited villages in the world. The village is home to the historic Drukpa Buddhist Korzok Monastery, a site of spiritual significance and rich cultural heritage.
Historically, Korzok was part of the Central Asian trade route until 1947 and served as the headquarters of the Rupshu Valley. It holds historical importance as the residence of the Rupshu Goba, a local king who built nine permanent houses in the village. Today, Korzok continues to thrive with its small agricultural activities, making it a unique oasis in the high-altitude desert.
The region is renowned for its production of Pashmina wool, a valuable commodity traded by the Changpa nomads, along with salt extracted from the vast salt fields nearby. This adds to the village's distinct cultural and economic landscape.
We will enjoy the The Korzok Gustor is one of the major traditional festivals of the Buddhists, celebrated at Korzok Monastery located in Korzok village. This annual festival is celebrated with great pomp and fervour by the Tibetan Buddhist community and the lamas.
Overnight at The Lake View Hotel (Basic Room) (B & D
After an early breakfast, we will begin our journey from Tsomoriri and pass through several villages before reaching the scenic Puga Valley. Known for its geothermal springs and fumaroles, Puga is a fascinating sight, with hot springs, sulfur deposits, and bubbling mud pools creating a unique landscape. Spend time enjoying the natural wonders of this remarkable valley.
Then, we will continue to Tsokar, a region famous for its salt lake and home to the Kayang, or wild asses, which can often be seen moving in flocks across the plains. The area also houses the Thukje Monastery, adding to its cultural significance.
From Tsokar, it’s a short drive to join the Manali-Leh National Highway, leading you to the spectacular Tanglang La Pass at an altitude of 5,350 meters. Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
Descend into the Upshi region, from where a scenic three-hour drive will take you back to Leh, completing this memorable journey.
Overnight at Abdu’s Hotel (B & D)
Following breakfast, we drive to see a very beautiful Pangong Lake
This journey takes us past picturesque villages of Shey and Thiskey, and turns off the Indus valley by the side-valley of Chemrey and Sakti. The Ladakh range is crossed by the Chang-la (18,000 feet / 5,475 m), which despite its great elevation is one of the easier, passes, remaining open for much of the year even in winter, apart from periods of actual snowfall. Tangse, just beyond the foot of the pass, has an ancient temple.
But the main attraction of this circuit is the Pangong Lake, situated at 14,000 feet (4,267 m). A long narrow basin of inland drainage, hardly six to seven kilometer at its widest point and over 130km long, it is bisected by the international border between India and China. This is a breathtaking scene of natural beauty. Spectacular views are to be had of the mountains of the Changchenmo range to the north. There are reflections shimmering in the ever-changing blues and greens of the lake's brackish waters. At an altitude can be seen glaciers and snowcapped peaks of the Pangong range. There are also a scattering of tiny villages along the lake's southern shore are the summer homes of a scanty population of the nomadic herds people of Tibet and southeast Ladakh. The nomads cultivate sparse crops of barley and peas in summer.
Overnight at Mystic Cabins Hills (B & D)
Morning, we will drive to the Nubra Valley which is little visited, as it is inaccessible for all but a couple of months in the year, its high passes closed by the winter snows. In comparison to the Indus valley which is cooler the Nubra is a comparatively warm valley where walnut, apricot, apple and mulberry trees grow and yak, sheep and goats graze in small forests and along the river Shyok. The journey brings us excellent view of great Karakoram Range.
In the ancient times the fertile Nubra Valley formed a part of the overland route between Tibet and Turkestan. Once dotted with garlands of camel and yak caravans, this Silk Route glen is also known as the ‘Valley of Flowers’ of Ladakh, and is amongst the greenest valleys in the region. During early summer, Nubra is clad in endless bushes of yellow and pink wild roses, and once the valley is through with the season of roses around August, a carpet of wild lavender lies gently on it.
Overnight at The Dunes (B & D)
This morning, we will make an excursion to Panamik which used to be a busy centre being the last major settlement before the caravans entered into the mountains of Karakoram. Today, Panamik is a sleepy village, its inhabitants quietly going about their work in the fields. On the mountainside above the village, hot water bubbles out of the earth in thermal springs, reputed to have therapeutic qualities. Across the river, clinging to the mountains, are a few trees rooted among the rocks surrounding the tiny Ensa gompa.
Later, we will drive back to Nubra.
Overnight at The Dunes (B & D
After breakfast, we visit the Diskit Village which is amongst the larger villages in the region, and home to the 350 year-old Diskit Gompa – the oldest, and the largest monastery in the NubraValley. We will also find time to walk along the Nubra village. The people are amazingly friendly inspite of their lack of material disposition. Their traditional lifestyles and homes give you the feel of a Living Museum.
Later, we cross over Khardung La, the world highest motorable road. You can enjoy this staggering location at an elevation of 5,359m.This is an exquisite place and the amount of satisfaction as well as bliss you will experience is immeasurable. A journey through this motorable road is beyond most of our wildest dreams - a frolic yet a bold place.
Following the visit, we will drive to Leh.
Overnight at Abdu’s Hotel (B & D)
After a leisurely breakfast, we will transfer to the Leh airport to board your flight to Delhi.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival, as our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel, Pride Plaza Aerocity.
Evening, we would visit the home of Mr. Tapas & Mrs. Krishna Banerjee for farewell dinner.
Overnight at Pride Plaza Aerocity, Delhi (Deluxe Room) (B & D)
(Though the checkout time is 12 noon, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges – Subject to availability)
In time, we will transfer you to the international airport to board your onward flight back home.
NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B)
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