Ladakh is an important Buddhist heartland set 3500m up high in the Himalayan plateau amidst a breath-taking and lunar-like landscape.  Travelling to Ladakh is the ideal way to see Tibetan Buddhist culture in its true and free form.

This short stopover is an intensive search into the Buddhist culture of Leh. It is a perfect addition to a more extensive itinerary of travel around India, or can be combined with a trekking or adventure holiday in the region.

ITINERARY

DAY 01  DELHI - LEH 
We take the morning flight to Leh over the Himalayan range - one of the world’s most spectacular flights.  After checking into one of Leh’s finest hotels we take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatise to the high altitude.

DAY 02  LEH 
Today we visit the palace of Sengge Namgyal, a nine story building of imposing Tibetan architecture.  Afterwards, we visit the monastery at Shanka Gompa where you will see the Buddhist monks in their orange robes performing their daily duties.

DAY 03  LEH 
This morning we drive by jeep across the Indus River into the Stok area and visit the Stok Gompa.  This is the royal residence of the present Namgyal Dynasty.  In the afternoon there is an opportunity to visit a local Ladakh family.

DAY 04  LEH 
Today we visit one of the highlights of the tour – Hemis Gompa.  This monastery is one of the largest in Ladakh and houses a remarkable library and a 10m high golden statue of Lord Buddha.  Ladakh’s major festival – Hemis Festival - is held here annually.

DAY 05  LEH 
Today we tour the monasteries of Shey, Thikse, Demtshog and Tragthog.  All have their own history and appeal but share a common atmosphere of peace and tranquillity, reflecting the Buddhist way.

DAY 06  LEH 
Our last day in Leh is spent visiting the Chemre Tibetan Refugee Camp and the Ladakh Ecological Development Centre.

DAY 07  LEH - DELHI 
Departure by air to Delhi.  On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel or to the starting point of your onward journey.  Tour ends.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Accommodation on a room-only basis.

All transfers by road as specified, including pick-ups and drop-offs at start and end of tour.

All sightseeing tours as specified.

All economy class internal flights as specified: DELHI - LEH; LEH - DELHI.

Tour Cost
Per Person on Twin Sharing :  -  USD $ 734