Unparalleled glimpse into the heart and soul of Ladakh and its incredible wildlife
Unparalleled glimpse into the heart and soul of Ladakh and its incredible wildlife
This 12-night odyssey takes you beyond the usual tourist trail. Trek through Hemis National Park in search of the elusive snow leopard, witness the breathtaking beauty of the Nubra Valley, and explore historic monasteries perched high in the mountains. Unwind in luxurious mountain retreats with unparalleled vistas, savour delicious Ladakhi cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the local Ladakh people. This meticulously crafted itinerary promises a unique blend of cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, and luxurious comfort, ensuring your journey becomes a cherished tale for years to come.
1 night Delhi | 4 nights Leh | 4 nights Rumbak Valley | 3 nights Nubra Valley
Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake your stay to any of our destinations
Upon arrival in Delhi, your &Beyond host will greet you and transfer you to the JW Marriott Aerocity, conveniently located near the airport.
Unwind in your luxurious room and recover from jetlag (if necessary) at this haven of comfort, featuring exceptional service, delectable dining options, and modern amenities.
This morning, embark on a scenic flight to Leh, offering remarkable views of the Zanskar and Karakoram mountain ranges. Upon arrival, meet your host and settle in at The Grand Dragon Ladakh, boasting magnificent décor and unparalleled comfort.
Begin your adventure by gaining a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhism through a fascinating meeting with a Buddhist scholar over breakfast. The rest of the day is yours to relax and acclimatise to the high altitude. Explore the charming old town on foot or simply soak in the serene mountain vistas.
Start your day with a unique interaction with a local oracle, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of Ladakhi spiritual healing traditions. Delve into the rich tapestry of Leh’s history on a heritage walk through the old town. Weave through bustling bazaars overflowing with local handicrafts and traditional textiles. The afternoon offers free time to explore further or unwind at your leisure.
After breakfast, join the captivating ceremony of morning prayers at the Thiksey Monastery, enveloped by the ethereal sounds of chanting and cymbals.
Next, enjoy a guided tour, marvelling at the magnificent two-storey statue of the Maitreya Buddha and the breathtaking views of the Leh Valley. Learn the secrets of Pashmina weaving from young girls in a local village and try your hand at natural dyeing. Later, indulge in a culinary journey with Chef Kunzes Angmo, savouring a taste of Ladakhi cuisine during lunch.
End your day soaking in the memorising setting sun over the Indus Valley from the Shanti Stupa before returning to your hotel.
House of Rumbak Wildlife Lodge
Following breakfast, you’ll be driven along the Indus River, crossing the Spituk Bridge to reach Zingchen Village. From here, go on a trek towards the Hemis National Park, keeping an eye out for elusive snow leopard. Enjoy a hot picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscape before arriving at the House of Rumbak Wildlife Lodge.
The remainder of your evening is at your leisure.
For those seeking a little more, you can opt for a fun cycling expedition from Spituk to Rumbak village, passing by the Indus River. The ride is approximately 50 km (31 mi), which should take around 50 minutes. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you traverse the dramatic landscapes. The experience will be nothing less than meditative as the silence of the mountains allow you to hear nothing but your breath as you pedal.
House of Rumbak Wildlife Lodge
Over the next three days, unleash your inner explorer with a series of thrilling hikes around the House of Rumbak. Witness unforgettable panoramas, encounter traditional villages, and delve into the local way of life.
Hike to the Hozing Plateau, marvelling at the Stok villages, Phyang, and Taru valleys. Enjoy packed refreshments along the way before tucking into lunch at a traditional village home. Here, immerse yourself in local activities, from traditional ploughing with dZos to hand-spinning wool.
Go on a scenic hike to Yurutse village and Ganda La Base (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), encountering blue sheep and other wildlife along the way.
Challenge yourself with a trek to the Stok La (an impressive 4,800 m / 15,748 ft), offering stunning views of the Indus Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Today, head out on a scenic drive through the Wari La, passing herds of yaks and vibrant wildflowers, before reaching the Nubra Valley. Experience the unique Bactrian camels, a remnant of the ancient Silk Route, and soak in the beauty of the valley nestled amidst the dramatic Karakoram and Ladakh ranges. Check in to The Kyagar, a charming resort steeped in history, and enjoy a bonfire followed by dinner under the starlit sky.
Following breakfast, explore the village of Panamik, visiting the Ensa Monastery and the intriguing ruins of Charasa. Decipher ancient petroglyphs (a form of rock art) and observe the crystal-clear waters of Yarab Tso Lake. Savour a delicious farm lunch amidst the Alfa-Alfa grasslands and apricot trees, followed by a guided walk through the Kalon Farmhouse. Later that evening, explore the vibrant Diskit village market and embark on a memorable camel ride on the Hunder sand dunes.
This morning, enjoy a guided excursion to Hunder Gorge / Dok (4100 m / 13,452 ft). This involves a scenic 1 hour, and 45-minute drive followed by a moderately challenging 3.5-hour hike up to the Gorge and a 1.5-hour return trek to Diskit Monastery. Alternatively, take an early morning drive to the top of Hunder Gorge and the charming village of Hunder Dok. Follow a glacier-melt stream on a leisurely walk past terraced farmland, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Karakoram mountains. A delicious picnic lunch awaits you before returning to the quaint village of Hunder.
Cap off the day with a visit to Diskit Monastery, perched dramatically on a craggy spur offering unparalleled panoramic views of the valley below. Don’t miss the impressive 32-m (106-ft) Maitreya Buddha statue gracing the hill below the monastery.
Optional excursion: Balti village of Turtuk
Alternatively, you can choose a full-day excursion to Balti village of Turtuk (approximately 3-hour drive). Explore the unique village of Turtuk and enjoy a traditional lunch at the Balti Kitchen.
It’s time to bid farewell to the wonders of Nubra Valley and enjoy a scenic return drive to Leh (approximately 4.5 hours). Traverse the Khardung La Pass, once the world’s highest motorable pass at a staggering 5,359 m (17,582 ft).
Upon arrival in Leh, check back into the comfortable haven of The Grand Dragon Ladakh.
This evening, you have the delightful option to explore the bustling main market, a treasure trove of Ladakhi handicrafts and souvenirs, perfect for commemorating your unforgettable adventure.
This morning after breakfast, you’ll be met and transferred to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you’ll be driven for 10 minutes to the JW Marriott Aerocity, where you can relax until your departure.
Later, depending on your flight timings, you’ll be transferred to the international airport for your journey onward.
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