Ladakh – Roof of the World & Monastic Wonders

At dawn, board a spectacular Trans-Himalayan flight — the snowy giants of the Karakoram and Zanskar ranges stretching below you. Leh welcomes you at an altitude of 3,500 metres; its crisp, bright air immediately feels different. Spend the day resting and adjusting to the altitude. A slower pace is the key to truly appreciating this region.

After breakfast, enjoy a gentle introduction to Leh with a stroll through the old bazaar, where prayer flags flutter above mud-brick houses and small shops selling turquoise jewellery and butter lamps. In the afternoon, visit Shanti Stupa, perched high above town with stunning mountain panoramas. Continue to Sankar Monastery, rich with gold-leaf statues and intricate thangkas — your first glimpse into Ladakh’s spiritual artistry.

Today reveals the grandeur of Ladakh’s religious heritage. Hemis Monastery, the largest in the region, bursts with ancient treasures and vibrant traditions. At Thiksey, tiered whitewashed buildings dominate a hilltop like a Tibetan mini-Potala — an unforgettable sight rising above the Indus Valley. Finally, explore Shey, the former royal residence, its giant copper-gilded Buddha gazing peacefully across the landscape. Return to Leh for the night.

Follow the mighty Indus westwards through valleys dotted with barley fields and traditional farmhouses. Upon arrival at Uletokpo, settle in at your riverside camp surrounded by towering cliffs. Later, visit Alchi Monastery, a priceless 11th-century sanctuary known for its Kashmiri-influenced murals — among the oldest surviving artworks in Ladakh. Nearby, villagers still grind grain by hand, offering a window into agricultural life unchanged for centuries.

Drive to Lamayuru, one of Ladakh’s most dramatically located monasteries, perched on a hillside overlooking a bizarre moon-like landscape carved by ancient rivers. After a picnic lunch in the village, continue to the fertile valley of Temisgang where a Ladakhi family welcomes you for traditional Gur Gur butter tea. Wander slowly through the maze of alleys and terraced fields — a moment of pure cultural immersion.

This morning begins with a short walk to the serene and secluded Ridzong Monastery, home to both monks and nuns. Continue your journey to Likir, where an impressive statue of Maitreya Buddha watches over the valley. Time and light permitting, explore the haunting remains of the Basgo royal palace. On arrival back in Leh, enjoy a relaxed evening in this mountain town.

Cross to the other side of the Indus to visit Stok Palace, still the residence of the Ladakhi royal family and home to a touching collection of royal heirlooms. At Matho Monastery, learn about the mysterious masked oracles believed to communicate with the spiritual world. Later, meet craftspeople at a Tibetan handicraft centre, where exiles keep alive their centuries-old skills in weaving, painting and carving. Leisure time back in Leh.

Breathe deeply, wander where your curiosity leads you, explore local cafés, shop for pashmina and handmade souvenirs — or simply sit in the sun with the mountains as your backdrop. Optional experiences can be arranged: gentle hikes, a cooking class, or even a scenic drive deeper into the Indus Valley.

An early flight whisks you once more over the peaks and glaciers of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure — perhaps a traditional Ayurvedic massage or a first taste of Delhi’s bustling markets.

Explore the contrasts of Old and New Delhi — the grand Mughal Jama Masjid and lively Chandni Chowk, followed by the monumental architecture of India Gate and Rajpath, or the UNESCO-listed Qutub Minar. A vibrant introduction to India’s rich history before your journey home.

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Memories of Himalayas, monasteries, and smiling faces stay with you long after you leave.