Jama Masjid • Rickshaw Ride • Rajghat • Passing India Gate and the government buildings • Bungalow Shaib Gurudwara • Laxmi Narayan Temple

Namaste -Welcome!

After a night spent above the clouds, we arrive in Delhi. Upon arrival, we first complete the entry formalities—which time—before meeting our tour guide. Together, we drive to our accommodation, where we check into our rooms before setting out to gather our first impressions of this metropolis. First, we drive past the Red Fort and reach Old Delhi and visit Jama Masjid - a marvel in red sandstone, built on the banks of River Yamuna by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan

There, we board a rickshaw and let ourselves be chauffeured through the narrow lanes teeming with life—where merchants transport all manner of goods in wooden carts, women in colorful garments do their shopping, and the occasional sacred cow crosses our path.

Now you leave the Old City behind and enter the Government Quarter. Here, the streets transform into grand boulevards, and you will make occasional brief stops—including at India Gate and the famous statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, drive pass through the iconic War Memorial India Gate.

After it we will end the day with 2 Prominent Temples 1. Bungalow Sahib Gurudwara Sikh Temple and 2. Hindu Laxmi Narayan Temple also known as Birla Mandir.

Later you will return to your accommodation!

1 Night in Delhi

Flight to Leh • Free time to acclimatize • Stroll through the local market

The mountains are calling!

Early in the morning, we set off for the airport with a packed breakfast to catch our flight to Leh in case we have an early flight. The approach to the former Kingdom of Ladakh is an experience in itself—the view of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas is guaranteed to be unforgettable. Upon arriving in Leh (3,500 m), we spend the morning acclimatizing to the altitude. We will enjoy lunch at our accommodation. In the late afternoon, we take a leisurely stroll together to the Market, immersing ourselves in the colorful bustle of Ladakh’s capital—amidst fragrant spice stalls, Tibetan handicrafts, and friendly merchants and later we will return to our accommodation just in time for dinner.

3 Nights in Leh

Leh Palace (former royal palace) • Meeting with a Ladakhi family • Sunset at the Shanti  Stupa Leh and Its Surroundings

Today, we will discover the most important sights in Leh and its surroundings. First, we drive to Stok Palace, located just outside the city, which still serves as a part-time residence for the former royal family of Ladakh. Back in Leh, we visit the historic Royal Palace, which is perched atop a steep rocky outcrop overlooking the city. During a meeting with a local Ladakhi family, we will have the opportunity to ask any questions we may have about daily life in Ladakh and enjoy a relaxed conversation over a cup of warming tea. After enjoying a hearty lunch served at our accommodation, you will have some free time to yourself. We will meet again in the late afternoon. Together, we will visit the Shanti Stupa, which sits on a hill overlooking the city—a magnificent vantage point for watching the sunset. We will bring the day to a close with dinner at our accommodation.

Hemis Monastery • Thiksey Monastery • Shey Royal Palace 

The Indus Valley

Morning after Breakfast, we turn our attention to three impressive structures deeply rooted in the history and culture of Ladakh. We begin with Hemis Monastery—the largest and wealthiest monastery in the region, renowned for its magnificent frescoes and precious treasures. Next, we proceed to Thiksey Monastery, which clings to the mountainside like a fortress at an altitude of 3,300 meters; its architectural layout bears a striking resemblance to the Potala Palace in Tibet. In Shey, we visit the former royal Shey Palace—the very place where the destiny of Ladakh was once decided. We will take ample time to explore all three sites. Your tour guide will share fascinating background stories while also allowing you plenty of space to take photographs at your leisure or simply soak up the unique atmosphere. In the late afternoon, filled with vivid impressions, we return to Leh.

(Distance: approx. 90 kms; Driving time: approx. 2 hours)

Likir Monastery • Alchi Monastery

Enchanting Wall Paintings

Today after Breakfast you will leave for your next Destination Uleytokpo and on the way you will pass through a Magnetic Hill, The hill lies within a high-altitude desert valley framed by the Himalay and after a short while we will stop at out first Destination Likir Monastery, as it belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism, it is renowned for its serene setting, traditional architecture, and its towering outdoor statue of Maitreya (the Future Buddha. And its complex features whitewashed walls, painted verandas, and prayer halls decorated with vivid murals depicting Buddhist deities and protective figures and after this get ready to visit Alchi Monastery. Also known as Alchi Choskor or Alchi Gompa, is one of the oldest surviving Buddhist monastic complexes in Ladakh. Unlike most Ladakhi monasteries perched on cliffs, Alchi stands on flat ground near the Indus River and after reaching Uleytokpo check-in Hotel and relax. Overnight in a Hotel.

2 Nights in Uleytokpo

(Distance: approx. 85 kms; Driving time: approx. 2 hours)

Drive through a moon-like landscape to Lamayuru Monastery • Rizong Monastery • Saspol Caves

Incredible landscapes, remote monasteries.

The scenery of the past few days has certainly been impressive—yet today, it feels as though we are traveling into another world. The road leads us through a barren, almost lunar landscape, past bizarre sandstone formations that wind and weather have sculpted into towering "chimneys." After about two hours, we reach Lamayuru (3,510 m), home to the monastery of the same name, which sits spectacularly perched atop a steeply sloping mountain ridge. We take our time exploring the nearly 1,000-year-old monastery and soaking up the unique atmosphere of this place. For lunch, we will return to Uleytokpo. In the afternoon, we take a walk to RizongMonastery, nestled deep within a valley basin and renowned for its particularly strict monastic rules. Later you will visit the Saspol Caves. It’s a magnificent cave on a hill. By late afternoon, we are back at our accommodation, ready to wind down and bring the day to a relaxed close.

Phyang Monastery • Spituk Monastery • Free afternoon

Yellow Hat or Red Hat?

Today, we head back to Leh along the same—yet by no means less exciting—route. Shortly before reaching the city, we make two worthwhile stops: First, we visit Phyang Monastery, which belongs to the Red Hat Order; afterwards, we visit Spituk Monastery—the headquarters of the Yellow Hat Order. Your tour guide will be happy to explain the differences between these two important schools of Tibetan Buddhism. At Spituk, we enjoy our packed lunches while taking in the view of the surrounding mountains. We arrive back in Leh in the afternoon, where the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure—perhaps strolling through the market or enjoying a relaxing cup of tea at one of the small cafés. We have dinner together at our accommodation.

1 Night in Leh

(Distance: approx. 85 kms; Driving time: approx. 2 hours)

Drive over the Khardung La Pass into the Nubra Valley • Visit to the hot springs of Panamik

Into the Valley of Flowers

Today, we leave Leh heading north, where not only impressive monasteries but also surprisingly lush vegetation await us. After a drive of about two hours, we reach one of the highest motorable passes in the world—Khardung La, at an altitude of 5,340 meters. The air here is noticeably thinner, so we move slowly and savor the breathtaking views across the Himalayan mountainscape. Beyond the pass, the Nubra Valley (3,050 m) opens up—a fertile oasis fed by the Nubra River, whose banks are lined with strips of greenery that are almost forest-like in appearance. En route, we refuel with a packed lunch before reaching our accommodation in the afternoon. Time permitting, we will visit the hot springs at Panamik. The people of Ladakh are firm believers in the healing powers of these mineral-rich waters—even if they might look a bit unusual to our eyes.

2 Nights in Nubra Valley

(Distance: approx. 140 kms; Driving time: approx. 3-4 hours)

Hike through the village to the monastery • Excursion to Diskit • Hundar Sand Dunes

Excursions in the Nubra Valley

Did you sleep well amidst nature? After breakfast, we set out on a hike (1.5 hours, moderate difficulty). The trail leads us along winding paths, past small streams, and through a tranquil landscape to a nearby monastery. We return to our accommodation for lunch before setting out again in the afternoon to visit the valley's larger settlements. In Diskit and Hundar, we explore not only the noteworthy monasteries but also a unique natural phenomenon: Sand Dunes that have formed at the confluence of the Shyok and Nubra rivers—an almost surreal scene at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Here, we encounter the two-humped Bactrian camels—relics from the caravan era of the ancient Silk Road. Those interested may take a short camel ride (optional). In the evening, we once again enjoy the tranquility of our accommodation.

(Distance: approx. 40 kms; Driving time: approx. 1-2 hours)

Hike to a village • Sankar Gompa • Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

Back to Leh via Khardung La

Today, a long return journey lies ahead, as there is only one route—via the Khardung La Pass—back to Leh. Before setting off, we stretch our legs with a Hike (1.5 hours, moderate difficulty) to a nearby village. This offers a wonderful opportunity to chat with the locals and learn how they navigate their daily lives in this remote mountain region. Afterward, we board the bus—sit back, relax, and enjoy the six-to-seven-hour drive through the magnificent scenery. We will stop for a picnic lunch at a spot that particularly catches our fancy. We arrive back in Leh in the late afternoon, leaving you time to freshen up at your accommodation or take a moment to relax and later you will visit Sankar Gompa. It is a subsidiary of Spitok gompa, having the same head lama. About 25 lamas of the yellow-hat sect are attached to Sankar but only a few live here permanently. Thus, it is only open to the public from 7 to 10 am and from 5 to 7 p.m. If possible, you can visit the Gompa in the evening during the Ceremony. Sankar gompa is about 90 years old but is located on the site of a small temple that was built about 500 years ago. And later or before according to your plan you can visit Namgyal Tsemo Monastery. It is located at the highest point of the town on a hilltop. Tsemo Castle (Fort) is on a hilltop while Tsemo Monastery is just below it. Overnight Stay at Hotel.

1 Night in Leh

(Distance: approx. 150 kms; Driving time: approx. 3 hours)

Over the Baralacha La Pass to Keylong or Jispa

Mountain Passes at Lofty Altitudes

In the morning we will leave Leh finally and drive to Keylong. Keylong altitude is considered one of the highest in Himachal Pradesh and is only accessible during summer. It is open for roughly 4-5 months throughout the year. Also, Keylong remains inaccessible throughout the year due to heavy snowfall. That’s one of the most stunning road journeys in India—high-altitude deserts, turquoise lakes, crazy mountain passes, and remote Himalayan villages and you will pass sheer mountains and military camps. Here You’ll cross Tanglang La (one of the highest motorable passes in the world 5,328 m) and the continue toward Pang / Sarchu, and Gata Loops.As Gata Loops is a dramatic stretch of 21 consecutive hairpin bends on the Leh–Manali Highway, and finally descend into Keylong or alternative you can choose Jispa too if you want one day stay at Camp in Jispa. After a long journey, take a moment to relax before we meet up for a group dinner in the evening.

1 Night in Keylong

(Distance: approx. 320 kms; Driving time: approx. 6-7 hours)

Journey to Manali • Shashur Monastery • Kardang Monastery

Into Green Manali

 We leave Keylong after breakfast. The vegetation becomes noticeably lusher and greener, and the towns once again feel more distinctly Indian—and less Tibetan in character—than those we encountered over the past few days. First we visit Shashur Monastery also called Shashur Gompa. The monastery is renowned for its large thangka paintings, sacred cham dances, and striking mountain views over the Bhaga River valley and later another Kardang Monastery. It is a prominent Buddhist monastery. It serves as the spiritual center of the Drukpa (Red Hat) lineage in the region and is among the most significant monastic sites in Lahaul and proceeds to our next destination Manali.

We will reach the popular resort town of Manali (2,050 m) in the late afternoon. After checking into our accommodation, you will have time to explore the town on your own. We will meet up again for a group dinner at the hotel restaurant.

2 Nights in Manali

(Distance: approx. 70 kms; Driving time: approx. 2.5 hours)

Forest walk to the Hadimba Devi Temple • Stroll through Old Manali • Manali Mall Road

A place for lovers

Here in Manali—the gateway to many high-altitude treks in the Himalayas and a popular destination for Indian newlyweds—we plan to take a closer look around. The Hadimba Devi Temple, which we reach after a short stroll through the woods, stands out above all for its impressive wood carvings. In Old Manali, time seems to have stood still: as we wander through the narrow lanes, we feel as though we are in an open-air museum—and all this just a few kilometers from bustling, rather modern New Manali. Back in New Manali, we will take a walk together along the main shopping street, "The MallRoad"; after that, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you please.

Journey to Dharamsala • Market Visit

A Long Drive to "Little Lhasa"

An eight-hour drive awaits us before we reach our day's destination: Dharamsala (1,460 m). Naturally, we will make frequent stops along the way wherever particularly beautiful views present themselves. In the late afternoon, we finally arrive in this mountain town, nestled amidst forests. It was here that the Dalai Lama and his Tibetan government found refuge following their expulsion from Tibet in 1959. The town—particularly Upper Dharamsala—teems with Tibetans, who radiate a cheerful and quite lively atmosphere. Reason enough to stay here for two nights. Our hotel is located in Lower Dharamsala, where things are a bit quieter and in the evening we will have the opportunity to visit the local market.

2 Nights in Dharamsala

(Distance: approx. 220 kms; Driving time: approx. 4-5 hours)

Bhagsunath Temple • Dalai Lama Temple • McLeod Ganj Market • St. John Church • Norbulingka Institute • Up close to the Dalai Lama

After breakfast you will proceed to McLeod Ganj and first we visit Bhagsunath Temple. It is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Snake God Bhagsu Nag. Surrounded by natural springs, sacred pools, and the trail to the Bhagsu Waterfall later proceed to Dalai Lama Temple also known as Tsuglagkhang Complex is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, temple, and cultural centre. It is the largest Tibetan monastery outside Tibet and serves as the spiritual and political headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile and stroll around the McLeod GanjMarket (Tibet Market) and St. JohnChurch in the Wilderness. Later we will visit the beautiful Norbulingka Tibetan Art & Culture Institute. It is one of the most renowned and significant centres of Tibetan culture, learning, and craftsmanship in the world. Stay overnight at the hotel. 

(Distance: approx. 40 kms; Driving time: approx. 2 hours)

Wagah Border

Welcome to Punjab!

In the morning, we resume our journey and leave Himachal Pradesh behind. As we enter the state of Punjab, we step into the world of the Sikhs. Sikhism is a religious tradition that originally aimed to blend Hinduism and Islam. The Sikhs look back on a turbulent history—one that your tour guide will tell you all about. We reach Amritsar after a drive of approximately five hours, and you will initially have some free time to head out and explore on your own. In the late afternoon, we will take a stroll through the market together, letting ourselves drift along, engaging our senses, and perhaps sampling an Indian snack or two along the way and Experience the beating retreat at Wagah Border, famous for the ceremonial closing of gates

 We will enjoy our included dinner back at our accommodation.

1 Night in Amritsar

(Distance: approx. 200 kms; Driving time: approx. 5 hours)

Golden Temple • Jallianwala Bagh Park • Train journey to Delhi

The Enchanting Golden Temple

Let yourself be enchanted today by the city's absolute highlight: the Golden Temple, as it is reflected in the "Pool of Nectar"; the countless pilgrims circumambulating the sanctuary in a clockwise direction; and the mantras booming from the loudspeakers—the atmosphere is simply unique! The complex is the most important shrine for Sikhs and the second most famous landmark in India, after the Taj Mahal. We will take our time exploring the site, including a visit to the community kitchen, where up to 35,000 people are fed for free every day—regardless of their background or religious affiliation. Afterward, at Jallianwala Bagh or Park, we will learn about the horrific massacre committed there against peaceful demonstrators just under 100 years ago. In the afternoon, we must head to the train station to catch our train to Delhi. The journey takes approximately five hours, not including potential delays. You should therefore pack some snacks and drinks, as the food served on board does not necessarily meet our hygiene standards. We should arrive at our hotel in Delhi before midnight.

(Distance: approx. 400 kms; Driving time: approx. 5 hours)

Free Day

Delhi on Your Own

A full free day in Delhi: Discover the city at your own pace and customize your stay to suit your preferences! How about another visit to Old Delhi to browse for spices and other souvenirs? Or a day trip to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal?

Return Flight

Goodbye!

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to India today. A driver will pick us up and take us to the airport. From there, our flight departs for your homeland.