— Tour overview
Experience the Majestic Himalayas, Kashmir & North India's Cultural Treasures
Embark on an unforgettable 19-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Begin in the vibrant capital of Delhi before flying to Leh, where you'll acclimatise to the high altitude while exploring ancient monasteries, royal palaces, bustling local markets and authentic Ladakhi culture. Cross the legendary Khardung La Pass (5,340 m) into the spectacular Nubra Valley, known for its dramatic mountain scenery, sand dunes, Bactrian camels and traditional villages. Continue through the scenic Sham Valley to Uleytokpo, discovering iconic monasteries including Hemis, Thiksey, Shey, Likir, Alchi, Mangyu and Lamayuru before travelling onward to Kargil and the stunning landscapes of Drass and Zoji La Pass.
The adventure continues into the paradise of Kashmir with a memorable houseboat stay on Dal Lake in Srinagar, a scenic excursion to Gulmarg and its famous Gondola ride, and visits to the beautiful Mughal Gardens and Shankaracharya Temple. From there, travel to Katra before exploring the spiritual atmosphere of Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Conclude your journey in Amritsar with the magnificent Golden Temple, the historic Jallianwala Bagh and the patriotic Wagah Border ceremony before returning to Delhi. Featuring comfortable hotels and traditional houseboats, spectacular Himalayan drives, immersive cultural experiences and expertly guided sightseeing throughout, this tour perfectly blends adventure, spirituality, history and the unforgettable beauty of Northern India.
Complete itinerary
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)
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)
Sangam River Point • Likir Monastery • Mangyu Monastery • Alchi Monastery and Market • Saspol Caves
Enchanting Wall Paintings
Today, you head into the Indus Valley to visit two remarkable monasteries. Our first stop is Sangam River Point, which is a scenic and culturally significant confluence where the Indus River and Zanskar River merge near Nimmu village in the Union Territory of Ladakh and later proceed to Likir, which welcomes us from afar with its imposing, seven-meter-tall golden "Buddha of the Future." As the monastery remains active, we may encounter some curious monks here and have the opportunity to strike up a conversation. On the way we will visit Mangyu Monastery, a Hidden Gem in Sham Valley. It is one of the most ancient and historic monasteries in Ladakh. The monastery is almost as old as Alchi Monastery.
Afterward, we drive to Alchi (3,100 m)—an absolute highlight of any trip to Ladakh. From the outside, the monastery appears unassuming, as it sits at ground level rather than being perched atop a hill. Yet, hidden within are intricate wood carvings and vibrant murals, counted among the most significant artistic treasures of the Western Himalayas and finally before reaching to your accommodation if time allows you will visit the Saspol Caves. It’s a magnificent cave on a hill. In the late afternoon, we arrive at Uleytokpo (3,040 m). Our simple yet cozy accommodation sits like a green oasis amidst apricot and apple trees, overlooking the Indus River. Overnight Stay at Hotel.
1 Night in Uleytokpo
(Distance: approx. 70 kms; Driving time: approx. 1-2 hours)
Moon landscape • Lamayuro Monastery • Mulbekh Monastery • Jama Masjid Kargil • Suru River
Incredible landscapes, remote monasteries
The morning 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." In some time, we will reach to 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 and on the way to Kargil will see Mulbekh Monastery, a giant rock-carved Maitreya Buddha statue (~9m tall) and proceed to our destiny Kargil. In the afternoon you will check in and relax for some time and later visit a mosque Jama Masjid Kargil. It is the principal mosque of Kargil town in the Union Territory of Ladakh, India. Serving as the central place of worship for the town’s Muslim community. Its distinctive façade includes carved woodwork and domed towers, reflecting the fusion of Central Asian and Ladakhi aesthetics and relax some time at Suru River and local market visit.
In the evening we are back at our accommodation.
1 Night in Kargil
(Distance: approx. 150 kms; Driving time: approx. 3-4 hours)
House Boat Stay
Paradise on Earth
Morning after breakfast drive to Srinagar via Drass and Zoji La Pass.
Drass (also spelled Dras) is a small town in the Kargil district of Ladakh, India. Situated in the Drass Valley, it is widely recognized as the world’s second coldest inhabited place after Oymyakon in Russia and this adventurous journey does not stop here. Then we will drive through one of the most dramatic roads in India, Zoji La Pass. This pass lies on the main Himalayan range, forming the gateway between the lush valleys of Kashmir and the stark high-altitude plateau of Ladakh.and the finally we will arrive to our Destination Srinagar.
Upon arrival check-in at Houseboat. Overnight stay in a houseboat.
3 Nights in Srinagar
(Distance: approx. 180 kms; Driving time: approx. 3-4 hours)
Nishat Bagh • Shalimar Bagh • Zabarwan Hills • Shankaracharya Temple • Shikara Ride
Morning after breakfast proceed to visit Srinagar Local City Tour – Exploring the Heart of Kashmir visit The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar — Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi—are beautifully terraced gardens built during the Mughal era, famous for their flowing fountains, manicured lawns, and stunning views of Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Hills and Next ascend to the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. This ancient Hindu shrine not only holds religious significance but also provides panoramic views of Srinagar, the Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains—a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
Evening – Conclude the day with Shikara ride on Dal Lake, gliding over the tranquil waters dotted with floating gardens and houseboats. The reflection of the snow-capped mountains in the calm lake waters creates a magical ambiance, making it a perfect end to the day. Overnight stay in a houseboat.
Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Ride • St. Mary's Church • Srinagar Market visit
Meadow of Gold
Morning after breakfast excursion tour to Gulmarg which is one of the most beautiful summer resorts in the valley. It is also popular for its golf course in summer), the highest in the world and skiing during the winter season. Enjoy Gondola ride (cable car) which splits into 2 phases as you said phase 1st (from Gulmarg to Kungdoor) and phase 2nd (from Kungdoor to Apharwat Peak). Phase 1st is a near point where you can start your ride and phase 2nd is the top most point where you can see the panoramic view of excellent Snowy Mountains after it you will visit St.Mary's Church Gulmarg a rare Christian landmark in the region, it embodies Victorian mountain architecture and remains a tranquil heritage site within Kashmir’s famed resort landscape. St. Mary’s Church in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, is a small British-era stone chapel built in 1902 amid pine forest.
In Evening return back to Srinagar visit market and return to our Houseboat
(Distance: approx. 50 kms; Driving time: approx. 1-2 hours)
The Divine City
After breakfast check out from the hotel and transfer to the railway station to board the train to Katra. Enjoy the scenic journey through the beautiful valleys and mountains. Upon arrival in Katra check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.
1 Night in Katra
(Distance: approx. 220 kms; Driving time: approx. 3-4 hours)
Local Market Visit
Home of Dalai Lama
After early breakfast, proceed by road to Dharamshala. En route enjoy picturesque views of the Himalayan foothills. Dharamshala is not just a beautiful Himalayan town—it is a vibrant spiritual refuge and the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in exile. It became a sacred site for Buddhists around the world when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama made it his home after fleeing Tibet in 1959. Since then, the town—especially the upper area called McLeod Ganj—has grown into a global center for Buddhist teachings, learning, and meditation. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and in the evening visit the local Market. Stay overnight at the hotel.
2 Nights in Dharamshala
(Distance: approx. 220 kms; Driving time: approx. 4-5 hours)
Bhagsunath Temple • Dalai Lama Temple • McLeod Ganj Market • St. John Church • Norbulingka Institute
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 center. 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 Ganj (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. 1-2 hours)
Wagah Border
Welcome to Punjab!
After breakfast, we will drive to Amritsar. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, visit the famous Wagah Border to witness the retreat ceremony.
The Wagah Border is the principal land crossing between India and Pakistan, located near Amritsar in India’s Punjab state and Lahore in Pakistan’s Punjab province. It is renowned for the daily military flag-lowering ceremony jointly performed by the border forces of both nations, symbolizing both rivalry and cooperation. Each evening before sunset, soldiers from India’s BSF and Pakistan’s Rangers perform a synchronized parade culminating in the simultaneous lowering of national flags. Characterized by high-kicking marches, sharp salutes, and theatrical movements, the event ends with a handshake at the gate. Stay overnight at the hotel.
2 Nights in Amritsar
(Distance: approx. 200 kms; Driving time: approx. 4-5 hours)
Golden Temple • Jallianwala Bagh Park • Train journey to Delhi
The Enchanting Golden Temple
In the morning after Breakfast, we resume our journey and 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 the Golden Temple. The Golden Temple, known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is one of the most iconic and spiritually significant religious sites in India. It is renowned for its stunning golden architecture and tranquil sarovar (holy pool), attracting millions of devotees and tourists each year. The temple symbolizes the values of equality, humility, and selfless service, and was originally built in the 16th century and later visit a infamous garden Jallianwala Bagh. It’s the witness to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919 and visit Hall Bazaar as it is a historic and bustling marketplace in the heart of Amritsar, Punjab, India. In the evening we will go back to the accommodation. Stay overnight at the hotel.
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?The hotel reception staff will be happy to assist you with the arrangements.
(Distance: approx. 400 kms; Driving time: approx. 5 hours)
19 Days of Grand Himalayan Expedition
| Duration | 19 Days / 18 Nights |
| Starts & Ends | Delhi (DEL) |
| Group Size | Private & Custom |
| Highest Altitude | 5,340 m — Khardung La Pass |
| Accommodation | Hotels, Houseboats & Mountain Resorts |
| Travel Style | Adventure · Culture · Spiritual · Nature |
| Destinations | Delhi · Ladakh · Kashmir · Himachal Pradesh · Punjab |
| Best Season | June – September |
Tour Highlights
- Delhi City Tour with Jama Masjid & Rickshaw Ride
- Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa & Local Market
- Hemis, Thiksey & Shey Monasteries
- Khardung La Pass (5,340 m)
- Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery & Hunder Sand Dunes
- Panamik Hot Springs & Ladakhi Village Experience
- Sangam Point, Likir, Mangyu & Alchi Monasteries
- Saspol Caves & Lamayuru Moonland
- Kargil, Drass & Zoji La Pass
- Houseboat Stay & Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
- Srinagar Mughal Gardens & Gulmarg Gondola Ride
- Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj & Dalai Lama Temple
- Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh & Wagah Border Ceremony
Included Services & Policy
Tour including domestic flights, chartered bus, jeep, boat rides (as per itinerary), and all transfers.
Accommodation in double rooms with private bathroom (bath/shower & WC). Some hotels feature air conditioning and a swimming pool. If any listed accommodation is unavailable, an equivalent standard hotel will be provided whenever possible.
Hotel check-in time: 2:00 PM.
Daily breakfast, dinner, and local snacks at noon.
Mineral water provided during bus journeys.
Entrance fees to monuments, attractions, and sightseeing locations as per the itinerary.
Your native language Insight Indien tour guide and an English-speaking transfer guide.
Local family interaction and cooking experience with an Indian family (wherever possible).
Tea or coffee at a local home (wherever possible).
24/7 emergency support and medical assistance coordination.
Lost luggage assistance.
One tree planted for every guest.
Tuk-tuk city adventure (wherever possible).
Transportation in comfortable air-conditioned vehicles.
Rickshaw ride in Delhi and food walk (wherever possible).
Boat rides according to the itinerary.
Participation in ceremonies and cultural activities such as weddings, festivals, celebrations, and school visits (subject to approvals and availability).
Reality Check (Straight Talk)
This is a true Himalayan expedition that takes you through Ladakh, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab over 19 days. Expect several scenic but long driving days across high mountain passes, remote valleys and winding Himalayan roads. Much of your time in Ladakh is spent above 3,000 metres, with the journey crossing the iconic Khardung La Pass (5,340 m), so proper acclimatisation is an essential part of the experience.
The itinerary includes multiple nights in Leh before venturing deeper into the Himalayas, allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude. Along the way, you'll stay in comfortable hotels as well as a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake in Srinagar. While accommodations are carefully selected, some mountain destinations such as Nubra Valley, Uleytokpo and Kargil offer simpler facilities than those found in larger cities. Weather and road conditions in the Himalayas, especially around Khardung La and Zoji La Pass, can occasionally affect travel times.
If you're looking for breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient monasteries, authentic Himalayan culture, unforgettable road journeys, a peaceful houseboat stay in Kashmir and iconic experiences like the Gulmarg Gondola, Golden Temple and Wagah Border ceremony, this tour delivers an incredible adventure. However, if you prefer shorter travel days, lower altitudes or a luxury-focused holiday, a shorter North India itinerary may be a better choice.
Want to Customize Your Grand Himalayan Expedition?
We can upgrade your hotels, arrange premium accommodation, add private sightseeing, extend your stay in Delhi, Leh, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Dharamshala, Katra or Amritsar, and personalize the itinerary to match your travel style, interests, comfort level and budget. Whether you'd like extra time in the mountains, a luxury houseboat experience, or exclusive guided excursions, we'll create a journey that's perfect for you.

