Unforgettable Ladakh Festival Photo Tour

Nameste! Welcome to India! Our adventure begins in Delhi, where we will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel (group flight only). Standard Check in time at the hotel 14:00 hours. 

Delhi is a fascinating city, and if you haven't visited before, then we do urge you to try to spend an extra day or two here before the start of the trip. Loosely comprising of Old Delhi and New Delhi; both have some incredible monuments to see, and their own unique atmosphere.

Old Delhi is noted for the ancient Red Fort, or Lal Qila, which was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan 1639 and the Jama Masijd mosque which built a few years later. Around the Jama Masijd is a network of historic alleys, and the incredibly busy Chandni Chowk – one of the oldest and most historic wholesale street markets of Old Delhi that dates back to1650.

At the 1911 Delhi Durbar, King George V announced that the capital of India was to move from Calcutta to Delhi. Inaugurated in 1931, the ambitious work of British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, New Delhi is an audacious statement of Imperial British control over India. Monuments here include the India Gate, and the Raj Path which leads to the Indian Parliament building.

Special Information
This evening at 18:00 meet with our tour leader at hotel for the briefing of a trip followed by a welcome dinner at local restaurant. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let us or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Arrival transfer:
Included on Group flight basis only

Accommodation:  Jaypee Siddharth Hotel or similar
Meals included: Welcome dinner

After breakfast, we will be transferred to the airport to board our flight to Leh to experience this Himalayan region of high mountain passes, monasteries, stupas, breathtaking landscapes, and local festivals. We are planning to take Indigo 6E-2583 (11:05 hours – 12:25 hours) 

Upon arrival in Leh, we will be met with our representative and transferred to the hotel. The day is at leisure to get acclimatised to the high altitude. Situated at high altitude above 3524 metres it is important to get used to the altitude for the next few days to avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

There is a lot to see in Leh and we will have time to explore further later on the trip. Today though, maybe enjoy a gentle stroll to the centre of town, to browse some of the many shop, look inside some of the historic monasteries, and soak up the atmosphere of this unique town. Later in the evening we will head out for dinner.

Special Information: Snacks and Soft Beverages are available for sale onboard the flight. Flight timings and fares are subject to change at the time of issuance of tickets. Domestic Baggage Limit is 15 kgs checked baggage and 7 Kgs hand baggage. Obviously you may well have more baggage, but this is relatively cheap at 800INR (approx. £6.25 a kilo) – less if you buy it in advance.

Included activities:
• Delhi to Leh flight

Accommodation: Hotel Leh Plaza or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we will head to the week long Ladakh Polo festival. Polo is a heritage game of the Ladakhi region, and seeing the spirited competitions against a backdrop of majestic and picturesque Himalayan mountains is breathtaking.

The unique thing about Polo in Ladakh is, that it is different from that played all over the world, as it features six (not four) players per team, local mountain ponies and is played on rugged natural terrain – sometimes accompanied by traditional live music. This game was introduced to Ladakh in 15th century CE through a princess from Baltistan, who also happened to be a mother of the Ladakhi ruler, Singge Namgyal. 

The festival should also have cultural dancing and maybe even an archery display – to showcase Ladakhi culture. The festival also is a great place to sample local cuisine like Thukpa (soup noodles), Mok mok (dimsum), chutai-sku (local pasta) and kholak (barley), and to interact with local people who come along to witness the event – often dressed in traditional clothes.

After our time at the Polo Festival, we will visit the Shanti Stupa – a beautiful white domed stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa, built by a Japanese Buddhist as a part of Peace Pagoda mission. The Shanti Stupa has fantastic views across Leh, and the light is perfect as the sun begins to set. After dark we will be able to see the illuminated Stupa which looks unique and beautiful during evening hours.

Included activities:
• Leh - Polo Festival visit
• Leh - Shanti Stupa visit

Accommodation: Hotel Leh Plaza or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast we will take the very scenic and classic drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla, one of the highest motorable roads in the world, at approximately 5602 metres. Along the way we will take short breaks at roadside cafes and scenic points for photography. 

Even though July is the hot season in Delhi, with temperatures reaching up to 30° centigrade, there is usually snow at the top of Khardungla, which attracts many domestic tourists who like to indulge in snowball fights. There is also a small temple bedecked many colourful prayer flags at the pass and a strong Indian army presence. The road is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation, a part of the Indian military and we are very likely to see road maintenance happening, which is done with atmospherically very little health and safety.

The Border Roads Organisation is also responsible for the  iconic yellow safety signs such as "Life is Short – Don't Make it Shorter", which you will see by the sides of roads all over Ladakh. 

After exploring Khardungla, we continue our scenic drive to Nubra Valley, stopping on route for various photo-opportunities, such as nomadic Yak herders and a reflective lake.

Nubra valley originally called Ldumra, which means valley of flowers,  is famous for its stark landscape, rough mountains and Bacterian Camels. The Shyok and Siachen Rivers meet in the Nubra valley, and this is the place that separates Ladakh from the Karakoram range and the massive Siachen glacier.

Upon arrival by mid-afternoon, check in at our camp. Later in the afternoon we will head to the Nubra dunes to photograph the dunes and Bactrian Camels at sunset, before returning to our camp for dinner.

Special Information: Leh to Khardungla is approximately 80 minutes drive (40 kms); Khardungla to Nubra Valley is approximately 3 hours drive (82 kms).

Included activities:
• Leh - Khardungla pass

Accommodation: Fossils Premier or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we will explore and enjoy the landscape and the mesmerising views of this iconic valley by driving to the villages of Turtuk and Tyakshi, through incredible mountain and riverine scenery.

Nestled in the Nubra Valley along the banks of the Shyok River, Turtuk is a breathtaking, lush oasis surrounded by arid Karakoram peaks. As India’s northernmost village, this culturally distinct Balti enclave—replete with apricot orchards and around 300 stone houses—was opened to tourists only in 2010.

Originally part of Baltistan under Pakistani control following the 1947 partition, Turtuk and its surrounding borderlands were thrust into the frontlines of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. During the conflict, Indian forces under Operation Ladakh launched a daring campaign, capturing the region and permanently shifting the Line of Control to integrate these villages into India. Along the way, local regimental memorials honour the incredible resilience and sacrifices of soldiers who fought in these treacherous, frozen terrains.

Located just a few kilometres past Turtuk toward the Line of Control, Tyakshi is another serene Balti village that changed sovereignty overnight in 1971. Known for its warm hospitality, terraced fields, and unique blend of Tibetan and Persian heritage, it offers a poignant look at life right on the border edge. 

Note: depending on the prevailing political climate, there are times when non-Indian passport holders are not allowed in to Tyakshi; no-one is allowed to approach the Line of Control.

After exploring the Nubra valley during the day, return to our camp by evening. Dinner and overnight stay at camp.

Special Information: Our round trip today will be approximately 5-6 hours drive (170 kms)

Included activities:
• Nubra - Turtuk village visit
• Nubra - Tyakshi village visit

Accommodation: Fossils Premier or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

This morning after breakfast we depart from the Nubra valley and drive to Pangong Lake. En route we will visit Diskit Monastery to see the 106 ft Maitreya Buddha statue. This is considered to be the largest and the oldest monastery in Nubra valley, and was founded by Changzen Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century. The Monastery is situated on a hill above the plains of Shayok river, the Maitreya Buddha statue was inaugurated by HH Dalai Lama, and offers a magnificent panoramic view of Nubra Valley.

We will continue on to visit Samstanling Gompa. The remoteness of the Gompa's location adds to the aura and mystique: it can also be seen from a distance, with its gold, red & white hues. Perched in Sumur village, it is a prominent 19th-century Gelugpa monastery founded by Lama Lama Pavu Khenpo. Framed by colorful prayer flags and dramatic mountain backdrops, it houses a rich collection of traditional wall paintings, intricate thangkas, and statues of Buddha and his avatars.

Finally, we continue to Pangong Lake. On arrival by late afternoon, we will settle in our accommodation and enjoy the almost supernatural beauty of the landscape here at the end of the world. We can hike along the lake and will be rewarded with a beautiful view for our efforts.

Pangong Lake straddles the border between Tibet and Ladakh, and part of the shore is a closed military area. The lake lies at 4300 metres altitude, and famously shifts colours throughout the day, displaying brilliant shades of blue, green, and grey depending on the sunlight and weather. The lake serves as an important breeding ground for migratory birds such as bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks.

Special Information: Our total travel today will be approximately 6 hours drive (240 kms)

Included activities:
• Nubra - Diskit Monastery visit
• Nubra - Samstanling Gompa visit

Accommodation: Pangong Vista Resort or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Early this morning we will get up to experience the mesmerising view of sunrise at Pangong Lake. Then  after breakfast we will depart from Pangong and return to Leh, taking a different route to our arrival in Nubra.

Along the way, we will visit the Taktok Gompa. Situated in Sakti village, Taktok Gompa is the only monastery in Ladakh belonging to the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Its name translates to "rock roof," as the entire monastery is built around a mountain cave where Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) is believed to have meditated in the 8th century. Today, it stands out for its unique cave-dwelling architecture and ancient, soot-darkened murals.

As we continue on our way, we will stop to photograph the stunning Chemrey Gompa. Founded in 1664 as a memorial to King Sengge Namgyal, Chemrey Gompa is a striking 17th-century Drugpa Kagyu monastery perched dramatically on a steep hill in the Indus Valley, famous for its grand statue of Padmasambhava and rare collection of ancient scriptures written in silver and gold lettering.

Upon arrival in Leh we will visit Leh Palace, a nine-storey building depicting medieval Tibetan architecture. The Palace offers amazing view of Stok Kangri and the Ladakh region, the huge walls and the wooden balconies of the palace are modelled on the Potala Palace in Lhasa, capital of Tibet. The former palace of the royal family of Leh, it was erected in the 17th century.

After our visit we have the option of wandering around the local Tibetan market in Leh, to see the local life and the handicrafts of this region. You may shop or spend time walking through the markets. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel. 

Special information: Our total travel today will be approximately 4 hours drive (158 kms)

Included activities:
• Sakti - Taktok Gompa 
• Leh - Leh Palace

Accommodation: Hotel Leh Plaza or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

For those who are keen, we will have an optional very early start this morning to drive to nearby Thiksey Monastery to photograph the morning Conch shell ritual which summons monks for morning prayers at sunrise. After which we can stay for the prayers.

Those who have made the early start will find a breakfast locally, and those who have had a lie in will have breakfast at the hotel and then join the rest of the group to look around Shey Gompa.

Shey Monastery was built in 1655 within the Shey palace complex. The palace was the former residence of the pre-Tibetan royal family. The palace houses a 12 metre high copper statue of Lord Buddha which is plated with gold and is the largest of its kind and covers three stories in the building.

We will continue on to visit Thiksey Monastery, which is famous for its architecture and its location. The 12-storey monastery has 10 temples, assembly hall, and residence for 120 monks and nunnery. The monastery buildings are structured in hierarchal order. The monastery is referred as ‘Mini Potala’ of India as it resembles Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.

Later we will drive to Hemis Monastery which is dramatically hidden in a cleft the mountains. Here we find a gigantic thangka, one of the largest in the world, and the largest and one of the most important in Ladakh. Hemis Gompa was founded about 350 years ago by Stagtshang Rinchen, who was invited to Ladakh by King Singe Namgyal.

Please note: photography of the interiors of Hemis monastery and especially the Museum is strictly forbidden. You can see more about photograph restrictions inside of monasteries in Ladakh in the  Notes.

Once we have finished in Hemis, we will drive back to Leh for our final night in this intriguing city before exploring the rest of Ladakh. 

Included activities:
• Shey – Shey Monastery
• Thiksey – Thiksey Monastery
• Hemis – Hemis Monastery

Accommodation: Hotel Leh Plaza or similar
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast today you will explore the west side of Ladakh known as the Sham Valley/Lamayuru. Lamayuru is known as the Moonland for its magnificent, out of this world landscapes and beautiful monastery.

Enroute we will stop at Likir Monastery (approximately 68 Kms from Thiksey, 2 Hours’ drive approximately). Likir Monastery was built in the 11th century and was again rebuilt in the 18th century and is home to a 25 feet gold covered seated Buddha Statue.

After that drive further to Alchi village, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This area is incredibly isolated, and it is fascinating to see how the lifestyle of the monks of Alchi Monastery have adapted to the remoteness. The architecture of Alchi Monastery is of Tibetan style. The monastery complex has three major shrines – the Dukhang (Assembly Hall), the Sumtsek, and the Temple of Manjushri. There are also chortens in the complex.

Please note: photography of the interiors of Alchi monastery is strictly forbidden, but the exteriors, lines of prayer wheels and entrancing village life make it well worth the effort. You can see more about photograph restrictions inside of monasteries in Ladakh in the  Notes.

After the visit we will continue our drive to Lamayuru via the famous Moonland. Upon arrival check in and have some time to walk around the village, before catching the sunset – the views from just in front of our hotel across the village to the monastery on a large rocky outcrop are perfect. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

Special Information: Our travel today will be approximately 3.5 hours drive (128 kms)

Included activities:
• Likir - Likir Monastery
• Alchi - Alchi Monastery

Accommodation: Hotel Grand Moonland or similarMeals included: Breakfast & Dinner

If you are keen, there is an opportunity to climb a nearby hill to view the sunrise over the monastery, but this will take a very early start. An alternative would be to attend the morning chanting at the monastery, although photography is generally not allowed.

After an early breakfast, we  breakfast venture out to explore Lamayuru Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery which occupies an incredible position on the top of a vast rocky outcrop in the middle of the village.  Founded in the 11th century by the Indian scholar Naropa, who legend says miraculously drained a high-altitude lake to build the sanctuary, Lamayuru is one of Ladakh’s oldest and largest Drikung Kagyu monasteries, Nearly 150 monks belong to the monastery and 30-40 still reside at the gompa belonging to the Red-Sect of Buddhism.

Some of the highlights of Lamauyru are the ancient stupas and lines of prayer wheels, which are seemingly littered with more recent mani stones, which are hand-carved with sacred Tibetan Buddhist texts, most commonly the six-syllable mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum". The views from the top of the monastery down to the Moonland landscape are spectacular.

From Lamayuru we will drive to Padum in the Zanskar Valley, along the new road, which was only finished a few years ago. Previously the drive to Zanskar would have taken two or three days via the town of Kargil.

Upon arrival check in at hotel and evening free at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel. 

Special Information: Our travel today will be approximately 7 hours drive (200 kms)

Included activities:
• Lamayuru – Lamayuru Monastery

Accommodation: Hotel Potala or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

For the next two days, we will be exploring the remote Zanskar valley along with the historic Stongdey Gustor festival.

This morning after breakfast, we will drive to Sani Gompa which stands apart from all other gompas in Ladakh as it is not built on a hill or mountain but on flat land. It is built in the shape of a fortress. Located next to Sani village, it is believed to be the oldest religious site in the entire Ladakh and Zanskar region. The gompa belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is the only order which has nuns.

We will also visit Zangla Palace, an old castle which is almost in ruins, but is still inhabited by some monks. It is often referred to as a Zangla Monastery, majorly because it houses a temple. The view from the castle is simply spectacular, making it an unmissable site. We will also visit the nearby Tsa Zar monastery.

Later we will drive to Stongdey Monastery to witness this important Ladakhi festival which is famous for its Cham Dances. This is a two day festival that takes place in the 11th month of Tibetan Calendar. Local people from nearby villages come to be a part of this festival. The monastery is decorated beautifully, while the locals beautify themselves in the most traditional attire, the lamas and monks from the monasteries add an extravagant charm to the festival by performing their sacred dance.

In the morning, the monks raise a sacred pillar in the centre of the courtyard, then in the prayer hall monks start their haunting religious chanting.

The festival opens in the afternoon with a grand gathering in the central courtyard as resident monks perform the sacred Cham masked dances, invoking fierce Gelugpa protector deities through synchronised movements to cleanse the land of negative energies. Devotees and villagers from across the Zanskar Valley arrive in elaborate traditional dress, filling the monastery to receive spiritual blessings and watch the colourful, story-driven mythical performances.  

Later we will return to Padum for a dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

Included activities:
• Zanskar – Sani Gompa
• Zanskar – Zangla Palace
• Zanskar – Stongdey Gustor Festival

Accommodation: Hotel Potala or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we will visit Dzongkhul Monastery or Zonkul Gompa, about half an hour drive from Padum. This small monastery is located in Stod village, and is famous for its frescoes on the cave wall, a beautiful prayer room,  library, glass swastika, collection of paintings on cloth and several statues.

Dating back to the 11th century, this rare cave monastery was founded by the Indian Mahasiddha Naropa, who famously used the natural rock shelters as a secluded retreat for deep meditation. Uniquely carved directly into a sheer cliff face in Zanskar's Stod Valley, the complex features historic cave frescoes created centuries ago alongside sacred rock impressions of Naropa's staff and footprints.

Afterwards we will visit Karsha Gompa, located in Padum valley above the Stod river. As the largest and most prominent Gelugpa monastery in Zanskar, Karsha was established in the 11th century by the famed translator Phagspa Shesrab and remains an active spiritual heartland for over a hundred resident monks. Its vast collection of whitewashed, fortress-like buildings tumbles dramatically down a craggy mountain slope, offering sweeping panoramic views over the Doda River and the Padum Valley below.

It was founded in the 11th century and was constructed on the steep mountain above Karsha village. The monastery is famous for its wall paintings, huge collection of Thangkas (paintings on cotton and silk). The complex has eight temples, chapels, chortens, residential rooms for 150 monks and assembly halls. The 14th Dalai Lama’s younger brother looks after the monastery. 

In the afternoon, we can return to the Stongde Gustor for the second day of the festival. The second day builds toward the spiritual climax of the festival with high-energy ritual dances depicting the ultimate victory of good over evil.  

As a part of the ceremony, a live, adorned yak is led directly into the central monastery courtyard as a symbolic representation of the local protective deities (Dharmapalas) and mountain spirits. Its presence serves as a living vessel to absorb the accumulated negative energies, bad luck, and evil forces of the community before the final Storma effigy is destroyed and burned to purify the valley for the year ahead.

Included activities:
• Zanskar - Dzongkhul Monastery
• Zanskar - Karsha Monastery
• Zanskar - Stongde Gustor

Accommodation: Hotel Potala or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

The next phase of our journey sees us leave the Zanskar Valley and Ladakh, to head to Manali in Himachal Pradesh. We will be driving along the stunning Nimmu–Padum–Darcha (NPD) road, which was only provisionally finished in March 2024. 

For all of the construction, this is still an adventurous option and the views from the road are unparalleled. We will need to leave by 6:30am in order to be able to ford a couple of rivers before the days glacial melt makes them impassable.

Along the way we will make a number of photo-stops, including yaks, the turquoise waters of the Tsarap River and the snow capped summit of the Shinku-La pass, bedecked with prayer flags. This pass is over 5000 metres, and marks the border between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. The pass will soon be bypassed with a tunnel which is under construction.

After we enter into Himachal Pradesh, we join the Leh-Manali Highway, which was previously one of only two road routes into Ladakh. This highway passed over the Rhotang Pass, a 4000 metre pass that was closed by snow for most of the year – cutting Ladakh off from the rest of India by road. Now the road passes through the 9 km Atal Tunnel under the Rhotang Pass, which was opened in 2020. Once crossing the pass took me 10 hours. Now the tunnel has reduced this to a matter of minutes, and means that the road to Ladakh is drivable all year.  

Reaching Manali is always a relief, and this pleasant alpine town is noted for its atmospheric Old Town, temples and free-growing marijuana plants, which made it popular with hippie travellers in the 1970s.

Although it feels like a thriving metropolis after the remoteness of Ladakh, Manali is still a remote outpost in itself. Delhi is 10-12 hours drive away and the nearest large airport is at Chandigarh over six hours away.

Upon arrival in Manali we will check in at our hotel and relax for the night.

Accommodation La Serene Valley by DLS or similar

 Special Information: Our total travel time today will be approximately 10-11 hours

Included activities:
• NPD road drive

Accommodation: La Serene Valley by DLS or similar
Meals included: Breakfast

Today we have a full day to explore Manali. Nestled on the Beas River, the city offers magnificent views of the Solang and Parvati valley. We will visit Hidimba Devi Temple where the Goddess Hidimba Devi is considered to be the local deity who protects the valley in times of dire needs and calamities. The temple sanctum sanctorum is a cave shrine that is believed to have footprints of the Goddess.

Rest of the day is free to walk around the local market, meet and interact with locals and see the lifestyle of these Himachali people with your local guide. Overnight stay at hotel.

Included activities:
• Manali – Hidimba Devi Temple
• Manali – Walking Tour of City

Accommodation: La Serene Valley by DLS or similar
Meals included: Breakfast

Today is another atmospheric drive where the terrain seems to be continually changing as it transitions from the narrow, pine-forested gorges of the Kullu Valley into the wide, terraced basin of the Kangra Valley. As you travel west along winding mountain roads, the terrain softens into rolling green tea gardens and subtropical pine forests before rising dramatically again beneath the jagged, snow-capped wall of the Dhauladhar Range.

Key highlights along the route include the paragliding hotspot of Bir Billing, the ancient 13th-century stone Shiva temple at Baijnath, and the lush tea estates surrounding Palampur.

Dharamshala is also known as McLeod Ganj. Strung with prayer flags and busy with robed monks strolling between monasteries, this hilltop retreat is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile.

Upon arrival check in at hotel and evening free to stroll along the bustling Mall Road.  Accommodation Amritara Surya or similar

Special information: Our total travel time today will be approximately 7 hours (232 kms)

Accommodation: Amritara Surya or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

Dharamshala offers a distinct blend of tranquility and vibrant mountain culture, split between a bustling lower district nestled amidst cedar forests and tea gardens and the hilltop enclave of McLeod Ganj above. Known affectionately as "Little Lhasa," the upper town exudes a deeply spiritual, Tibetan-influenced atmosphere with the rhythmic clatter of spinning prayer wheels, fluttering prayer flags, and maroon-robed monks strolling alongside local artisans and backpackers.

The visual backdrop is spectacular, defined by the towering, snow-capped wall of the Dhauladhar Range framed above pine-draped ridges and lively steep-sloped street markets. The overall feel is relaxed, creative, and cosmopolitan—a place where quiet, meditative energy around monastic shrines seamlessly mixes with bohemian rooftop cafés serving steaming momos and hot tea.

Today after breakfast venture out to visit Norbulingka Institute, established to train Tibetan refugees in preserving the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. Wander through its serene grounds, home to a stunning temple and various workshops where artisans practice woodcarving, painting, and intricate needlework.

Afterwards we will visit the Tsuglag Khang complex, which houses the Dalai Lama’s temple. This is an incredibly spiritual place which attracts Tibetan pilgrims from all over India. There is an atmospheric main prayer hall housing large statues of Shakyamuni Buddha and Avalokiteshvara. The complex also includes the Tibet Museum, which offers deeply moving exhibits detailing the history and diaspora of Tibet.

A major feature of Tibetan Buddhism is walking along lingkors, or pilgrimage paths, which are lined with prayer wheels. The lingkor (or Kora Circuit) at Tsuglag Khang is almost two kilometres long, with hundreds of prayer wheel, including some giant wheels. There are stunning views from the circuit and it is well worth walking it – clockwise, of course.

For a deeper insight into Tibetan culture, consider stopping by the Losel Doll Museum, where handcrafted dolls vividly depict daily life and customs from different regions of Tibet.

Spend the rest of the day exploring this thriving and varied town with its incredible Tibetan atmosphere.

Included activities:
• Dharamshala – Norbulingka Institute ·
• Dharamshala – Dalai Lama Temple

Accommodation: Amritara Surya or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, our adventure concludes , and it is time to head for home. There are no other activities planned for the day, and you can leave the accommodation by the designated check-out of 11:00 hours. For those who wish to stay in Dharamshala to further explore the city, Intrepid  are happy to help in booking accommodation (subject to availability).

Departure transfer:
Included on Group flight basis only

Meals included: Breakfast

Altitude:
Much of this tour will be at altitude,  which can potentially cause some issues with altitude sickness. We have taken steps to minimise the effects though. We have built in time to acclimatise when we arrive in Leh, and although we do cross the high Khardungla Pass, we will swiftly drop down to a much lower altitude.

At altitudes between 2500 and 4000 metres, there is generally thought to only be a risk of Mild AMS, where symptoms include headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.

On our first four nights in Ladakh, we will be sleeping below 4000 metres (Leh is at 3524 metres; Nubra is 3144 metres). In fact our only night in our entire time in Ladakh where we will be above above this will be our fifth night in Pangong Lake, which is at 4350 metres. By this time, we should all be acclimatised, and after one night we will drop to a much lower altitude.

This will be the sixth trip I have run to Ladakh, and of all of these no one has had any significant issues with the altitude, other than light breathlessness, and this has included people of all ages, statures and levels of fitness. You are advised to seek a medical opinion in advance though if you are concerned.

There are some things that you can do to minimise even mild effects of altitude though. Take the altitude seriously and go easy on our first acclimatisation day avoiding exertion. Also, try to avoid alcohol.

It is possible to take Diaomox to minimise the effects of altitude. This is available in the UK off prescription for around £30 for 28 tablets. Diaomox is also available in India at a much cheaper rate. Obviously seek a medical opinion before buying any medicines, as there are certain contraindicated conditions.

We will have a blood-oxygen meter with us to monitor oxygen levels on the trip as a precaution.

If you would like to discuss the potential effects of altitude, or have any more information of this aspect of the trip, then please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Driving times:
This is unashamedly a road trip. If we want to get to such remote places as Zanskar, the Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake, then there is no option but to hit the road. The positive side of this is that we will be passing through stunning Himalayan scenery, and have built in time for some incredible photo stops. On this trip, the journey is a part of the whole experience.

In order to make the journey more comfortable though, we have specified Innova Crysta vehicles for our time in Ladakh, with only three people, plus the driver in each vehicle. This means that everyone will benefit from sitting next to a window, making photography and photo stops much easier.

That being said, please do review the travel times which are specified in the itinerary to make sure that this adventurous expedition is right for you. As ever, if you have any questions at all, please do get in contact with us, using the contact links on this page.

Photography in Monasteries:
Over the years, the restrictions on photography in Monasteries and religious places in Ladakh has toughened up. This is a result of the increased tourism in the region. There are some places where it is strictly forbidden: such as Hemis Museum and Prayer Hall and all of the Alchi Temple interiors. The use of flash is generally forbidden everywhere.

Photography in Monasteries:
Over the years, the restrictions on photography in Monasteries and religious places in Ladakh has toughened up. This is a result of the increased tourism in the region. There are some places where it is strictly forbidden: such as Hemis Museum and Prayer Hall and all of the Alchi Temple interiors. The use of flash is generally forbidden everywhere.

In other monasteries there may well be restrictions on photographing inside of the Prayer Halls, especially when there are monks praying. Photography of the exteriors is allowed everywhere.

As with anything in India,  the actual rules can depend on the day, and the way that people are approached. On our last trip, we were invited to take pictures of the morning prayers in Diskit Gompa by the Head Lama, who leaned over to inspect each picture I took, without pausing his chanting: usually photography would not be allowed!

We will, as ever, do our best at all times to get the best access possible at the time.

Flights from Dharamasala:
We have not included the flight from Dharamasala  to allow you the freedom to spend a little longer here, or even explore further afield in Shimla or Chandigarh. Adding your domestic flight to your international flight will also give you more baggage allowance on the flight,  for all of those souvenirs you will have picked up along the way. Having the domestic flight as a part of your international flights also means that the airline has more liability in terms of delayed connections.