Ethnic Ladakh 4 Star Luxury Tour 9 Days

Day 1 · ARRIVAL IN LEH

1. 1

   Leh

   one day

   Our representative will receive you at Leh airport. Transfer to hotel in Leh. Complete day rest for acclimatisation. Evening free to go for a walk towards Leh market on your own. Overnight and Dinner at Hotel in Leh.

2. 2

   Leh Market

   2 hours

   Drink plenty of fluids and take ample amount of rest. Evening you can take a visit to Leh market.

Gyalpo Residency

Day 2 · LEH LOCAL SIGHTSEEING

1. 1

   Leh Royal Palace

   one hour Admission not included

   Leh Palace, also known as Lachen Palkar Palace, is a former royal palace overlooking the city of Leh in Ladakh, India. It was constructed circa 1600 by Sengge Namgyal. The palace was abandoned when Dogra forces took control of Ladakh in the mid-19th century and forced the royal family to move to Stok Palace.

2. 2

   Thiksey Monastery

   one hour Admission not included

   Next visit to Thiksey monastery. Located 19 kilometers east of Leh, Thiksey monastery is the largest monastery in central Ladakh. And is famous for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa.

3. 3

   Hemis Monastery

   one hour Admission not included

   To witness the grandeur of the Hemis Monastery, you can take an extra drive of around 40 km towards the east of Leh town. Hemis Monastery is one of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh, and it is famous for its colorful festivals and traditional masked dance performances.

4. 4

   Gyap-Thago Heritage Home

   1 h 30 min

   Afternoon, visit the Gyab Thago heritage home for a traditional Ladakhi culinary experience. The Gyap Thago is a heritage home that is more than 200 years old, located in Stok Hamlet, which is almost 20 km away from Leh. This magnificent house is a legacy of Ladakh's great ancestors, and it still stands today. During the heritage lunch, you will have the opportunity to tour the ancient home before enjoying a pure vegetarian Ladakhi lunch, starting with the traditional alcoholic brew called "Chang."

5. 5

   Shanti Stupa

   one hour

   After exploring the various attractions of Leh, you can spend the evening at the Shanti Stupa, which offers stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. It is a peaceful and serene place to watch the sunset and meditate.

Gyalpo Residency

Day 3 · LEH TO NUBRA

1. 1

   Khardung La

   15 min

   Famously known as the gateway to the Nubra and Shyok Valleys in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the highest motorable pass in the world. It is filled with tourists crossing over from Leh and stopping long enough to click some photographs. Adventure bikers from all parts of our country and across the world visit this mountain pass on their motorcycles for an adventure-soaked experience. Khardung La Pass is positioned on the Ladakh range, which is 40 km from Leh, at an altitude of 18,379 ft (5602 m).

2. 2

   Hunder

   2 hours

   Enjoy the spectacular view of Shayok valley and don’t miss on Desert Safari ride of famous Himalayan Doubled-hump Camel in Hunder.

3. 3

   Diskit Gompa

   one hour Admission not included

   Diskit Monastery also known as Deskit Gompa or Diskit Gompa is the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in Diskit, in the Nubra Valley in the Leh district of Ladakh, India. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism

4. 4

   Hunder Sand Dunes

   2 hours

   After visiting the monastery, head to the Hunder Sand Dunes, where you can witness the unique sight of the famous Himalayan double-humped camels. Take a Desert Safari ride and enjoy the spectacular view of the Shayok Valley.

Sand Dunes Retreat

Day 4 · NUBRA TO PANGONG

1. 1

   Pangong Tso

   one day

   After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive towards the eastern border of Ladakh, crossing the Shayok Valley. The drive to Pangong is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the rugged mountains and the picturesque landscapes of Ladakh. Upon reaching Pangong by afternoon, you'll be greeted by the world's highest saltwater lake, situated at a height of almost 4,350m. The crystal-clear blue waters of the lake stand in stark contrast to the arid mountains surrounding it, making for a breathtaking sight. Pangong Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Leh Ladakh, extending to almost 160 km, with one-third of it lying in India and the other two-thirds in China. You can spend the evening exploring the beauty of the lake, enjoying a leisurely stroll along the banks. Since the region is situated at an altitude of over 4000 metres above sea level with minimum artificial light, the entire Changthang is ideal for stargazing (Subjected to clear weather conditions)

Pangong Vista | Pangong House (Winters)

Day 5 · PANGONG TO LEH

1. 1

   Changla Pass

   Passing by

   Get up early to not to miss the mesmerising sunrise view at Pangong lake. After enjoying your breakfast on the shores of Pangong lake, proceed back towards Leh passing through the Changla Pass.

2. 2

   Shey

   30 min

   Shey monastery and palace is located 15 kilometers from Leh town on the Leh - Manali road. Shey palace and the monastery were built in the 16th Century AD. The monastery enshrines the Du-Khang with an almost 10 meter high copper statue of Lord Buddha.

   The Shey palace was built by King Deledan Nagmyal and Shey Palace boasts of the largest victory stupa in Leh, the top of which is made of pure gold. The Shey Palace was the abode of the royal family till 1834 AD when they moved to the Stok palace. The Shey Palace has been taken over by ASI for conservation.

Gyalpo Residency

Day 6 · LEH-SHAM VALLEY

1. 1

   Magnetic Hill

   15 min

   Experience the Gravity defying Magnetic Himm

2. 2

   Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers

   30 min

   Drive to Nimoo to see the magnificent view of the Confluence of Indus and Zanskar river at Nimo. Guests can opt here for an thrilling experience of rafting in the Zanskar river

3. 3

   Basgo Monastry

   30 min Admission not included

   Perched dramatically on a craggy hilltop, Basgo Fort is one of Ladakh’s most significant historical landmarks, renowned for its medieval grandeur and spiritual significance. Dating back to the 16th century, it once served as a key political and cultural center of the Namgyal dynasty. The fort complex houses the stunning Maitreya Temples, adorned with ancient murals and a towering copper-gilded statue of Buddha. Surrounded by rugged, ochre-hued cliffs, Basgo Fort stands as a silent guardian of Ladakh’s past, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s rich architectural and artistic heritage.

4. 4

   Alchi Monastery

   one hour Admission not included

   Nestled along the banks of the Indus River, Alchi Monastery is one of Ladakh’s oldest and most exquisite Buddhist sites, dating back to the 11th century. Unlike the typical hilltop monasteries, Alchi’s location in a serene valley makes it unique. Renowned for its Kashmiri-influenced frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and ancient murals, the monastery houses some of the finest examples of Indo-Tibetan art in existence. The Sumtsek Temple, with its grand statues and vibrant wall paintings, is a highlight. A visit to Alchi is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Ladakh’s rich artistic and spiritual heritage.

5. 5

   Saspol

   30 min

   A quaint village along the Indus River, Saspol is renowned for its ancient rock-cut caves, adorned with some of Ladakh’s most exquisite Buddhist murals. These hidden caves, believed to date back to the 11th–13th centuries, feature stunning frescoes depicting various Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and intricate mandalas, showcasing influences from both Tibetan and Indian artistic traditions. Beyond its artistic treasures, Saspol offers a glimpse into traditional Ladakhi life, with its charming homes, apricot orchards, and serene landscapes. A visit here unveils a lesser-known yet invaluable part of Ladakh’s spiritual and cultural legacy.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   12 hours

   Overnight and Dinner at the boutique Heritage Hotel of Moljoks Family

Moljoks Heritage House

Day 7 · SHAM VALLEY-HANU VALLEY

1. 1

   Stop 1

   one hour

   Tucked away in the picturesque village of Skyurbuchan, this ancient monastery and fort stand as silent witnesses to Ladakh’s rich history. The Skyurbuchan Fort, though now in ruins, once served as a strategic stronghold, offering commanding views of the Indus Valley. Nearby, the monastery, adorned with age-old murals and sacred relics, reflects Ladakh’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. The village itself, known for its fertile fields and apricot orchards, adds to the charm of this hidden gem. A visit to Skyurbuchan offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and stunning landscapes, away from the usual tourist trails.

2. 2

   Garkone

   one day

   Post breakfast in Saspol drive straight towards Hanu Valley. Home to the unique Buddhist Dard tribes. Explore the culturally rich villages of Dha, Hanu, Garkone, and Darchik, where ancient traditions, distinct attire, and unique architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into Ladakh’s lesser-known heritage. Make a stop at the Aryan Museum in Garkone village, where you can learn about the history, customs, and lifestyle of the Dardic people through preserved artifacts and exhibits. Engage with locals, visit traditional homes, and witness their age-old rituals that have remained unchanged for centuries. Overnight and dinner in Garkone Village

Local Homestay/Guest House

Day 8 · ARYAN VALLEY-LAMAYURU-LEH

1. 1

   Lamayuru

   one hour

   erched dramatically on a rugged mountainside, Lamayuru Monastery is one of Ladakh’s oldest and most revered monastic sites, dating back to the 11th century. Often called the "Moonland" due to its surreal, eroded landscape, Lamayuru is home to enchanting legends, ancient murals, and sacred prayer halls. The monastery follows the Drikung Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and hosts vibrant festivals like the Yuru Kabgyat, featuring masked dances and spiritual rituals. Overlooking the stark yet mesmerizing terrain, Lamayuru offers visitors a chance to experience solitude, spirituality, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, making it a must-visit in Ladakh.

2. 2

   Likir Monastery

   one hour Admission not included

   Nestled amid the serene landscapes of Ladakh, Likir Monastery is a stunning Buddhist sanctuary known for its majestic 75-foot gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha, which dominates the skyline. Established in the 11th century, it belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is home to a vibrant community of monks. The monastery houses ancient thangkas, sacred texts, and intricate murals, reflecting Ladakh’s deep spiritual heritage. Overlooking the Indus Valley, Likir offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking Himalayan views, making it a perfect stop for those seeking history, culture, and serenity in Ladakh.

4 Course Dining Experience at the award winning "Tsas By Dolkher"

Gyalpo Residency

Day 9 · DEPARTURE

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Passing by

   It’s time to bid farewell to the valley and mountains of Ladakh. Post breakfast departure to Leh airport as per your flight timings.