Family Trip to Ladakh (A heritage trip)

You’ll embark on an early morning flight from New Delhi to Leh. Nestled between the majestic Himalayas and the formidable Karakoram ranges, Leh boasts an altitude of 3500m. Upon landing, the GHE team leader will welcome you at the airport, presenting you with the traditional Ladakhi silk scarf called “Khatak.” Subsequently, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you’ll be based for the next two days. The remainder of your arrival day is dedicated to acclimatizing to the altitude. You’ll spend the night at a hotel in Leh.

Today kicks off with an exploration of Leh City, delving into its rich historical heritage. We’ll embark on a guided tour of Leh Fort, Tsemo Castle, & the Old City, immersing ourselves in ancient lore. A visit to Leh market offers insight into its vibrant trading history along the Silk Route & its strategic location on the banks of the Indus River, once the heartland of the Indus Valley Civilization. As dusk sets in, enjoy an enchanting stargazing session at over 11,000 feet, followed by a visit to the venerable 800-year-old Phyang Monastery. Conclude the day with a delectable feast of Ladakhi cuisine. Rest comfortably overnight at a Leh hotel.

Today marks the start of our journey from Leh to the captivating Nubra Valley, tracing the ancient Silk Route. We’ll traverse the renowned Khardung La pass, standing at 17,582 ft, once acclaimed as world’s highest motorable roads. Upon arrival in the picturesque Nubra, we’ll pay tribute to the towering 33m statue of Maitreyi Buddha at Diskit Monastery. Continuing our exploration, we’ll visit Hunder, renowned for its unique Double-humped camel and striking sand dunes. This region, once integral to the ancient Silk Route, is also known as the cold desert. Tonight, we rest in a homestay at Agyam

Today, our team will journey from Agyam to Khungru Village. The day will be dedicated to the Impact activity and you will be electrifying a monastery of Khungru Village, The monastery receives minimum amount of sunlight throughout year as it is surrounded by high mountains from all sides, thus light is currently the most pressing need of the monks as it becomes an important factor to perform their daily chores and prayer. The impact will benefit the locals visiting the monastery as well as the monks performing daily rituals there. After the installation, we will be a part of a small traditional prayer at Khungru Monastery performed by the Monks. Overnight stay at Akgyam.

The Shyok River, a tributary of the Indus River, winds its way through Northern Ladakh. Traveling alongside this river, you’ll pass through Shyok Village enroute to the breathtaking Pangong Tso. Historically, Shyok Village served as a crucial stop along the winter caravan route from Leh to Yarkand in China. The journey to Pangong Tso takes approximately seven hours, offering stunning vistas along the way. In the evening, marvel at the world’s highest saltwater lake, Pangong, as locals narrate the mesmerizing changes in its colors. Rest for the night at a cozy homestay in Maan Village.

Following breakfast, we’ll set out on a one-hour excursion to Chushul, Ladakh’s final border village. Our agenda for today revolves around visiting 1962 Rezangla War memorial & immersing ourselves in the nomadic lifestyle, engaging with the Pashmina herders of the Changthang Region. Gain firsthand insights into the intricate processes of harvesting Pashmina wool and dehairing. Our return journey to Leh will be via the scenic Sato-Kargiyam Route. Keep your senses keen, as you may have the opportunity to catch sight of Tibetan wild asses and playful marmots along the way.

After breakfast, we’ll commence a two-hour journey to Hemishukhpachun from Leh, our starting point for the trek. Setting out from the village, we’ll traverse Mebtak La pass (3750m) enroute to Tingmosgang Village. The path ascends between two hillocks west of the village, offering scenic vistas along the way. Upon reaching Tingmosgang, you’ll be greeted by picturesque apricot orchards. This moderate trek spans 11.3 kilometres and approximately 5 hours. Rest for the night in Tingmosgang, where you can unwind amidst the tranquillity of the village.

Today, our team will journey from Tingmosgang to Likir village to experience the pottery session in the home of the last pottery family. Get your hands dirty while making the clay models with the potter and enjoy traditional lunch with the family.Following this, we’ll drive back to Leh for an overnight stay at the hotel, reflecting on the trip’s meaningful contribution to the community. Rest of the day offers a leisurely opportunity for one to explore the vibrant Leh market and collect souvenirs, such as Pashmina, Apricot-based delicacies, and local handicrafts.

As our journey amidst the majestic Himalayas draws to a close, it’s time to bid adieu and head back to the airport for our early morning flight to Delhi. Rest assured, our GHE Team Leader will be there to assist you and ensure your safe departure.