Explore Ladakh Cultural Tour - 17 Days

The
possibilities are endless. Ladakh has numerous centuries old monasteries, palaces,
and forts located in very scenic surroundings that are easily accessible by
vehicles. Most of the monasteries are very well preserved and operating today
as centers of the Buddhist faith, much as they have done over the centuries.
The monks, who are trained at the monasteries from an early age, are a very
important aspect of Ladakhi life. The friendly Ladakhi people have survived
in this stark, high altitude environment by relying on their faith, their neighbors,
and their highly adapted skills to sustain themselves and prosper. Many families
and individuals are willing to share their lives with interested tourists. Here
is a partial list of activities that can be included in a cultural tour.
Come experience the rich culture of Ladakh on this tour through the upper and
lower Indus River Valley and the remote Nubra Valley. You will be accompanied
by our knowledgeable local guide who will bring alive the deep spiritual meaning
of the colorful wall paintings, statues, and other Buddhist symbolism and rituals
that are found in and around these centuries old monasteries. They are home
to hundreds of volumes of scriptures originating from the time of the Buddha.
You will see with your own eyes the unspoiled practice of Vajrayana Buddhism
as it was in Tibet before the Chinese invasion. You will visit several palaces
including Stok Palace, the current home of the royal family. You will also have
a chance to visit with several Ladakhi families in their homes. The itinerary
that follows can be customized to meet your interests and needs.
Places to See : Delhi - Leh - Lamayuru - Leh - Nubra Valley - Sumar -
Leh - Delhi
Duration : 16 Nights / 17 Days
Day 1 : Delhi
Upon arrival at the IG Airport, Delhi, our representative will welcome
you and transfer you to the hotel.
Day 2 : Leh
Departure and transfer to domestic airport, where we will fly to Leh. On arrival
we will transfer you to the hotel.

Acclimatization
and rest day.
Day 3 : Leh
Full day of sightseeing at Hemis Monastery (17th century), Thiksay Monastery
(15th century), and Shey Palace (10th century), the oldest capital of Ladakh.
For those who are up to a short hike, we can visit the Gotsang meditation place
above Hemis. Overnight in hotel in Leh.
Day 4 : Leh
Full day of sightseeing of Takthok cave (8 AD), Chemday from the 6th century,
and Stakna monasteries. Overnight in hotel in Leh.
Day 5 : Leh
Sightseeing of Phyang Monastery (16th century), and Spituk Monastery (11th century).
Phyang Kargutpa school and Spituk Gelukpa. Overnight in Leh.
Day 6 : Leh
After breakfast, walk up to Leh Palace and Tsemo Gompa. Evening visit to Sangkar
Gompa and Japanese Stupa. Overnight in Leh.
Day 7 : Leh
Visit Stok Palace (17 km) the residence of present royal family, then Matho
Monastery (8 km) and Stakna Monastery. Overnight in Leh.
Day 8 : Lamayuru
Drive to Lamayuru (126 km) and visit monastery. Come back to Temisgam village.
Overnight in Namra Guest House in Temisgam.
Day 9 : Leh
After breakfast, drive to Leh and on the way visit Alchi Monastery (11th
century), and Rizong Monastery. Overnight in Leh.
Day 10 : Leh
Rest day in Leh.
Day 11 : Nubra Valley 
Drive to the Nubra Valley (130 km) over the Khardong La at 18,000 feet, the
highest road in the world. Overnight in camp or guest house in Sumar. Visit
Samstanling Monastery.
Day 12 : Sumar
Full day sightseeing of Diskit and Hunder Monasteries. Walk in Hunder village.
Visit a local family for tea and chang. Overnight in Sumar.
Day 13 : Leh
Drive back to Leh. Visit Khardong village on the way.
Day 14 : Leh
Rest day/shopping.
Day 15 : Leh
Visit a traditional Ladakhi family and watch a cultural show.
Day 16 : Delhi
Fly to Delhi, where you will be transferred to the hotel.
Day 17 : Delhi
Departure. Transfer to the International Airport and fly home.
Explore Ladakh Cultural Tour - Reservation Form