Overview
Leh, the capital of Ladakh is surrounded by snow-covered mountains of the impressive Himalayan range. It is the start-up point for exploring Ladakh’s ordinary and extraordinary towns and trekking trails. Since walking is the best way to explore the city, the tour focuses primarily on trekking voyages undertaken by adventure aficionados. En route, one can savor scenic beauties and colorful bazaars as you make your way through winding lanes.
Apart from picturesque landscapes, Leh is famous all over the world for its monasteries which are built with intricate architectural designs and are visited not only by Buddhist pilgrims but also by non-Buddhist travelers. The tranquility and peace evident in these sacred monasteries cannot be expressed in words. Embark on this expedition which promises fun, adventure and serenity and make your journey an indelible one.
Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu has rightly said, “A journey of thousand miles begins with a single step”. In Leh, the travelers can literally follow this axiom as one prepares for an exciting trekking trail from Leh to Khaltse. What better way to explore this tiny city than by walking and inhaling fresh air as one traverse through the trekking routes. The journey is not only a visual treat but also a cultural extravaganza as one stride from one village to another. The generous hospitality of villagers will enamor your hearts and will compel you to come here again and again.
Trip Highlights
- Visit Leh monastery. Trek to Yangthang village and Sumdo village.
- Halt at Rhizong monastery and Chulichan nuunery.
- Get enchanted by the blissful environs of Spituk, Alchi and Likir monasteries in Uleytokpo.
- Trek to Temisgam. En route pass through Maptek La and Ang village.
- Trek from Temisgam to Lamayuru. En route visit Bongbongchan La and Yundrung monastery.
Tour Itinerary
Day 01 - New Delhi to Leh
On arrival, you will be met by a travel representative who will assist you in your journey. Visit Leh monastery, located on a hill top. Then drive to Liker. From Liker, trek to small pass Phobe La. Continue climbing and reach Charatse La. Reach Yangthang village followed by an expedition to Sumdo village. Yangthang village is situated on a small plateau and is isolated completely from other part of the valley and is circumscribed by lofty mountains. Sumdo village is located downstream from the hot springs. The view around the Sumdo village is breathtaking. Spend the night in a camp at Yangthang.
Day 02 - Rhizong to Shukpachan
After a scrumptious breakfast in the morning, visit the Rhizong monastery. A leisurely walk through the verdant forests will lead you to Chulichan, a nunnery with 20 nuns residing here. On the right is Rhizong monastery where 40 monks stay and follow strict rules and regulations. According to a legend, Guru Padmasambhava resided in the caves around Rhizong and went into deep meditation thus spiritualizing the whole atmosphere. After spending some time here, continue your journey to Shukpachan and stay overnight in Shukpachan.
Day 03 - Shukpachan to Temisgam
After a delicious breakfast, continue trekking from Shukpachan to Temisgam. En route pass through Maptek La which is at a height of 3750 m. Also you will come across, Ang village, a quaint looking village steeped in traditional culture and customs. Reach Temisgam which has relics of a historical fort and a holy statue of Avalokitesvara made of marble. Stay overnight in Temisgam village.
Day 04 - Temisgam to Lamayuru
Post breakfast, proceed to Khaltsey . En route visit Bongbongchan La. Continue your journey to Lamayuru. Visit Yundrung Monastery which is a 11th century monastery built over a rock and was earlier known as Swastika Monastery. Stay overnight at the guest house in Lamayuru.
Day 05 - Return to Leh
After a hearty meal, visit Rhizong monastery once again and enrapture yourself in its blissful aura. Drive back to Leh. En route visit Alchi and Liker monasteries. Alchi monastery is the oldest Buddist learning centre in Ladakh . Likir monastery on the other hand, is situated on a hilltop and houses the biggest statue of Lord Buddha and offers a brilliant view of the surrounding areas. Arrive at Leh. After reaching, you will be transferred in time to the Leh airport for your onward journey.