Cultural Journey to Ladakh
From the Alchi monastery to the turquoise waters of Pangong Lake, a journey to the heart of Himalayan Tibet.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,620/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Isolated in the western Himalayas near the Chinese border, Ladakh is a Tibetan Buddhist land with lunar landscapes, between rocky plateaus, remote valleys and snow-capped peaks. The circuit begins with a spectacular flight to Leh, an ancient trading post on the Silk Road perched at 3,500 meters, whose way of life remains faithful to its Tibetan roots. After two days of acclimatization around the capital, comes the Alchi monastery (11th century), followed by a trek to Mangyu across the Tibetan plateaus. An essential stop, Lake Pangong Tso reveals its sapphire waters where herds of nomadic yaks graze, before a return via the Hemis monastery, listed as a UNESCO site. The journey continues towards the Nubra valley via the Khardung La pass, the world's highest motorable road, offering an exceptional panorama of the Himalayas. The expedition ends with the discovery of the Taj Mahal in Agra.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Flight to Leh
This morning, we fly over the Himalayan range which offers us a breathtaking view of its mountains with gigantic glaciers and dazzling peaks. In contrast, we then perceive the fertile valleys of Leh, north of the imposing Indus River (flight subject to weather conditions). Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel.
Free day to relax and acclimatize to the altitude (3,500m). In late afternoon, stroll through the streets of Leh and its bazaars. Once, the city was an important commercial hub on the Silk Road from China.
From its height of 9 stories, the Nyamgal Palace stands out over the city, making it a mini-version of the Potala Palace in Lhassa.
Discovering the sites of Leh
Today, we begin our day with a visit to Sankar Gompa, a subsidiary of the Spituk Gompa monastery. From Sankar Gompa, we head to a recently built Shanti Stupa, by a Japanese Buddhist organization and inaugurated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The magnificent white dome structure, the Shanti Stupa, offers spectacular views of the Leh bazaar and Stok Kangri. We conclude today's excursion with a visit to the Leh Palace, located above Leh on Namgyal Hill. The palace was built by King Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century, but was later abandoned when Dogra forces took control of Ladakh in the mid-19th century. The majestic palace overlooks Namgyal Hill.
Visit of the Monasteries
After breakfast, we leave Leh for Alchi. On the way, we stop to visit the famous Rizong monastery and Alchi. Built by Lama Tsultim Nima in 1831. Rizong is a yellow hat sect Gompa, and is situated on a cliff overlooking the Indus valley. The monastery holds special significance for Tibetan Buddhists, due to its affiliation with the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
Next, we head towards Alchi Gompa, which is the largest and most famous of all. Its massive Buddha statues and sumptuous wooden carvings have earned it its reputation. The construction of the monastery was led by Tibetan translator Rinchen Zangpo during the 12th century. This religious edifice is composed essentially of three structures: Duhang, Sum-Tsek and the Manjushri temple.
Journey to Mangyu Monastery
This morning, a short hike is on the program towards the Mangyu monastery, located in the village of Mangyu. It is one of the earliest monasteries in the Ladakh region and more contemporary than the Alchi monastery and Sumda Chun. The oldest structures would date from the late 12th century or early 13th century, but according to beliefs and certain stories, some monasteries would have been built by Lotsava Rinchen Zangpo. Return to Alchi a bit later.
Return to Leh and Visit to Likir Village
Back to Leh, we visit the village Likir. Located in the Indus Valley, it is considered one of the oldest villages in Inde, and according to some, its monastery was built in the 11th century under the orders of the Yellow Hat sect. The latter is also known for its 23m statue representing Buddha. Next, past Likir, we make another stop at the Basgo monastery, which introduces us further to Buddhist religion. Also known as Basgo or Bazgo Gompa, the monastery is located about 40 km from Leh. Although the monastery was built for the Namgyal rulers in 1680, Bazgo itself was integrated in the early days of Ladakh and is often mentioned in the Ladakh Chronicles when it was then the political and cultural center. The monastery is located at the top of the hill, overlooking the ruins of the ancient city and is known for its statue of Buddha as well as for its murals. In the 15th century, a palace was built at Basgo.
Exploration around the lake
The day is free for your personal exploration in Leh.
On the way to Pangong Tso Lake. Along the way, we visit the villages of Tak Tak and Sakti to get a glimpse of local life in the heart of this isolated land.
Explorez le lac pangong
Today we explore Pangong Tso, a lake of crystalline water, surely one of the most beautiful of all high altitude lakes. Because of its saline water, micro-vegetation is almost non-existent, as are fish and other aquatic species. This lake is a small paradise for tourists, but also a favorite place for geologists who come to study the region. After exploring Pangong Tso lake, we return to Leh. And check-in at the hotel.
Return to Leh via Thiksey and Hemis
Today, after breakfast, we visit the Hemis monasteries and Thikse. While the Thikse Monastery belongs to the Gelugpa order (yellow hats), the Hemis Monastery is under the Drukpa order (red hats). We first visit Thikse, which stands on the heights of a hill. Its red and white walls are visible from kilometers away. Another temple was recently built and houses a magnificent image of the Future Buddha. Then we continue with a visit to Hemis Gompa, considered the largest and richest monastery in Ladakh. It also houses the richest collection of ancient relics, rare murals as well as painted stones that adorn the gallery courtyard. A truly worthy site of UNESCO World Heritage
On the way to the Nurba Valley
A new day that takes us to the Nubra Valley, also known as Ldumra (the valley of flowers) and is located north of Leh. The average altitude of the valley is approximately 3000m above sea level. Bactrian camels constitute the main attractions of the region, in addition to the Diskit monasteries and Samstanling. To reach this natural wonder, we must follow a winding road to the pass of Khardung La(5,602 meters), the highest motorable road in the world. Upon arrival, we take some rest and comfort at the camp Hunder.
Another day in Nubra Valley
Head towards Sumur with a short stop at the Diskit monastery, dating from the 14th century. It is surely the largest and oldest monastery in the Nubra Valley. After the visit, we continue our journey to Sumur. Upon arrival, check-in at the Camp.
Visit of the Samstanling monastery, founded by Lama Tsultim Nima 140 years ago and located in the village of Sumlur.
We can also enjoy a camel ride through the dunes (optional).
Visit to Agra and Return to Delhi
Today, we start our day very early to enjoy an incredible sunrise over the Taj Mahal. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj is a true masterpiece in white marble. A symbol of love, it stands on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was built by the 5th Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to his fourteenth child.
In the afternoon, visit the Red Fort of Agra, a complex of semi-circular red sandstone forts richly decorated with double ramparts and monuments.
After the visit, we drive towards Delhi where we are transferred to the airport to take our return flights.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Domestic flights: (Delhi - Leh and Leh - Delhi)
- The travel package indicated above is not valid during the period: From December 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027. There will be a supplement for Christmas and New Year during this period.
- Travel Insurance
- Indian visa fees
- Personal expenses, souvenirs and drinks
- Usage Rights for a Camera or Video Camera at Tourist Sites
- Insurance for baggage loss and repatriation, as well as rescue expense insurance
- Tips for the driver and other staff
- Other services not included in the "price includes" column
Included
- Accommodation for 11 nights on half board in the hotels / camp / Tent mentioned or similar in double room (Fixed camp at Hunder and Sumur)
- 2 nights at hotel in Delhi and Agra with breakfast, double/twin room basis
- All ground transportation included in the program in a private air-conditioned vehicle, with an English-speaking driver
- Entrances to the monuments mentioned in the itinerary
- The English-speaking guide throughout your journey in Inde (Applicable if there is a minimum of 06 people)
- Government taxes
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to India for a tourist stay. Entry rules may evolve, so we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter India, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist Visa – e-Visa (Tourist eVisa)
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada must be in possession of a valid visa to enter India. There is no visa exemption for a tourist stay.
The most common solution is the Tourist eVisa, available online on the official Indian government portal. It is available for several durations:
Tourist eVisa 30 days (double entry),
Tourist eVisa 1 year (multiple entries, maximum stay of 90 days per visit),
Tourist eVisa 5 years (multiple entries, maximum stay of 90 days per visit).
The application must be submitted online at least 4 days before your arrival date and at most 120 days before. The eVisa is linked to your passport and is available only at certain designated airports and ports of entry.
Arrival and Immigration
When passing through immigration, Indian authorities may ask for:
confirmation of your eVisa (printed document or digital version),
an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
the address of your first accommodation in India.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccine is officially mandatory to enter India from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada, except in the case of transit through a country at risk of yellow fever (a yellow fever vaccination certificate will then be required).
As a preventive measure, health authorities generally recommend the following vaccinations:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
tetanus-poliomyelitis,
rabies (depending on planned activities),
Japanese encephalitis (depending on regions and length of stay).
Antimalarial treatment may be recommended depending on the regions you visit and the time of year. Consult a doctor or international vaccination center before your departure.
Traveling with Children
Minors must be holders of their own valid passport and their own eVisa covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other Nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the Indian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance policy, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claims notification procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims notification procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A tourist visa is required. The e-visa can be applied for online before departure (approximately 25 USD). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date and you must have two blank pages available. We guide you through the process. Before booking, verify the specific conditions applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, expect between 140 and 230 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation, and English-speaking guide. International flights (600-900 euros round trip) are additional. India offers incredible diversity of experiences at varying price points.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to suit your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories and anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Indian Himalayas
India's Thousand Faces Expert, based in New Delhi
India can surprise, disorient or amaze you all in one day. My role is to help travelers find their own pace to truly enjoy the country.
— Mandeep
