The Land of Mountain Passes ⋆ Itinerary ⋆ Greaves India

The Land Of Mountain Passes

Remote, unexploited and sparsely populated, Ladakh or ‘Little Tibet’ is a heavenly place to visit during the Indian summer.

Described as being ‘the roof of the world’ it forms a high altitude, barren plateau interspersed with green oasis, isolated settlements, farmland and both huge and tiny, medieval gompas (monastery).

Land Of The Mountain Passes

Day 1: Arrive In Delhi

On arrival stay at Taj Palace Hotel.

Day 2: Delhi - Leh (3500m / 11,500ft)

Early morning flight arrives Leh, the capital of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh. Check in to TUTC Chamba Camp, your home for the next 4 nights. Rest of the day at leisure for acclimatisation.

Day 3: Leh (Thiksey)

After a leisurely start, spend the afternoon visiting Sankar Gompa, Shanti Stupa with a heritage walking tour of Leh city and the imposing 17th century nine storied Leh city Palace. You will also witness daily life as you explore this frontier town with its boulevards & markets.

Day 4: Leh - Alchi - Basgo - Leh

Drive through picturesque landscape along the River Indus, arrive at the fabled Alchi Monastery, built in the 11th century. Along your journey explore Basgo Castle and the majestic Likir Monastery. Afternoon optional rafting excursion.

Day 5: Leh

Witness morning prayers at Thiksey monastery home to a two storey statue of Maitreya Buddha. Afternoon proceed to the jewel in the crown of the Drukpa Lineage, the Hemis Monastery located in a secluded valley.

Day 6: Leh - Nubra Valley (3040m / 9975 ft)

Travel by road to Nubra Valley crossing Khardung La Pass, situated along the ancient caravan route of Central Asia. At 5602M / 18,380 ft, Khardung Lais the highest motorable road in the world. This high altitude unfolds a bizarre blend of landscapes with gushing rivers, flower orchards, desert sand dunes and green fields. Arrive the TUTC Camp, Diskit, your home for the next 2 nights. This afternoon visit Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dunes. If possible, enjoy riding a double hump camel.

Day 7: Nubra Valley

A morning drive brings you the base of Ensa Monastery, the oldest monastery in Nubra. Take a steep 45-minute trek (moderate/hard) up to the monastery to see the footprints of Dachompa in one of the three prayer rooms. Next drive to the 132-year-old Samstanling Monastery.

Day 8: Nubra Valley - Leh

Morning transfer by road to Leh crossing Khardung La Pass. On arrival, check in to TUTC Chamba Camp for 1 night. Rest of the day with guide, car and driver at disposal to visit surroundings at leisure.

Day 9: Leh - Delhi

Early morning flight arrives Delhi. On arrival, transfer to The Roseate House for the day at leisure. Evening transfer for onward flight.

The Land of Mountain Passes