Day 01 – Flight from Delhi to Leh & Safety and Health Period (Acclimatization)
Fly early in the day from Delhi to Leh via one of the most beautiful flights in the world through the Himalayas.
On your arrival at Leh, you will be assisted with the transfer to your hotel.
Leh (the former capital of the historic Himalayan state of Ladakh) is a tranquil little town steeped in rich Buddhist culture and history. The famous 17th-century Leh Palace is located above the town, built after the Potala Palace (Tibet) for the former Royal Family.
Leh is very high, so this day is for your body to adjust to the elevation (high altitude sickness). You will be spending the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel.
Tonight, you will have dinner and sleep at the hotel.
Day 02: Feast at Hemis & Visit to Leh
Your second day begins with a hearty breakfast before being captivated by the excitement of the Hemis Festival. This well-known festival takes place at the Hemis Monastery and is known for its dynamic celebration of Guru Padmasambhava (the “Second Buddha”) and the introduction of Vajrayana Buddhism to the Himalayas.
Among the events that make the festival truly fascinating is the colorful Cham dance performed by monks, who wear elaborate masks and costumes, as they participate in rituals representing the triumph of good over evil.
After the Hemis Festival, you will be led on a scheduled tour of Leh. The following places will be visited during this tour:
Namgyal Tsemo Monastery
Shankar Gompa
Shanti Stupa (sunset view)
Stok Palace (Museum of Royal artifacts)
Dinner at your hotel will conclude your second day.
Day 03: Leisure Day to Explore Leh – Visit Leh Market and Cultural Sites
You will have all day after breakfast today to explore some of the sights in Leh on your own.
Many people will be returning to the Hemis Festival again for other cultural performances or to stroll through the bustling and colourful Leh Market where you can buy many handicrafts and souvenirs, plus sample delicious local food.
You may also like to visit;
Jokhang Temple – a popular shrine for Buddhist worship and meditation
Leh Jama Masjid – a traditional Indo-Tibetan style mosque that is very historically significant
In the evening, spend time enjoying the harmonious blending of cultures and traditions.
You will have dinner and an overnight stay in Leh city.
Day 04: Visit Indus Valley Monasteries – Shey and Thiksey
You will begin your scenic drive after breakfast this morning through the Indus Valley, where the numerous monasteries and temples are located in Ladakh.
You can visit;
The Palace and Monastery at Shey – previous summer residence of the kings of Ladakh, with an impressive statue of Buddha inside.
Thiksey Monastery – this beautiful structure, located high on the hill, is built similar to Potala Palace, and you will have incredible views of the valley from this monastery!
If you want to, you may also be able to visit Stok Palace again and to explore additional exhibits in their historic collection.
Return to Leh city in the evening.
You will have dinner and stay overnight at your hotel.
Day 5: Leh to Delhi – Departure
In the early hours, you’ll arrive at the airport in Leh to board your return flight back to Delhi.
After reaching Delhi, you may choose to continue your travels or spend additional time in the area and take advantage of the many things to see in the capital city.
Leave Ladakh with memories of the beauty, spirit, and culture of this region that will last a lifetime.
