Bears & beyond: discovering Ladakh

Your driver will collect you from the hotel and drive you to the airport for your flight from Delhi to Leh. On arrival, you will be met and driven to your hotel, which is tucked away in the village of Nimmu, an hour away from Leh. Later this afternoon a momo-making session will be arranged in the house. The remainder of the day will be at leisure.

Begin your day with a peaceful garden breakfast before heading out to explore Basgo Fort, a once-formidable stronghold and cultural centre of the Namgyal dynasty. In the afternoon, relax with a riverside picnic along the scenic Zanskar River. As evening approaches, you will go on a guided walk through the traditional village of Nimmu, where a warm cup of namkeen chai awaits in a welcoming Ladakhi home.

Today’s journey takes you to Uleytokpo, with a stop at Alchi. Just an hour and a half's drive from Nimmu, you will arrive at the revered 12th-century temple sanctuary, one of Buddhism’s great treasures. After a day immersed in culture, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant run by an inspiring all-women team, serving up authentic Ladakhi flavours. Then, continue to Uleytokpo, a half-hour's drive away.

Set off early from Uleytokpo for a six-hour drive through the mountain landscape, arriving in Dras by mid-afternoon. Along the way, consider visiting a delightful family-run museum that offers a glimpse into the vibrant trade history between India and Central Asia during the 19th and early 20th centuries. On arrival, settle into your lodge tucked deep within the remote Mushkow Valley, prime territory for spotting the elusive Himalayan brown bear.

Begin your day as expert spotters lead you through wild valleys in search of the elusive Himalayan brown bear, an immersive experience shaped by the natural rhythm of sightings. With prime viewing hours at dawn and dusk, your afternoons open up to riverside village strolls or more demanding hikes, tailored to your pace and curiosity.

Just like the day before, your morning begins in the wild, guided once more by local experts in pursuit of the elusive Himalayan brown bear, while afternoons remain open for local discoveries or simply enjoying the landscape of Dras from the comfort of your lodge.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning and take in the valley views one last time before setting off for Nurla, a journey of around five to six hours. The remainder of the day will be at leisure once you arrive in Nurla.

Following breakfast, your journey continues toward Leh, with a visit to the historic Stok Palace en route. Opened to the public in 1980 with the blessings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, this 200-year-old residence remains home to the royal family of the Namgyal dynasty. After a brief exploration of the palace and its museum, you will proceed onward to Leh. If you're feeling rested, a sunset visit to the Shanti Stupa can be arranged.

Begin your day with the ritual of early morning prayers at Thiksey Monastery, followed by a chance to explore its sacred halls and striking architecture. After a light breakfast at a nearby café, continue onward to the famous Hemis Monastery. On your return, stop at the historic Shey Palace and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon brings you back to Leh town, where the rest of the day is yours to relax and unwind at the hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a guided heritage walk through the heart of Leh town, where you will discover its rich cultural legacy and meet artisans dedicated to preserving age-old traditions. In the afternoon, enjoy a unique culinary experience crafted by a monk-turned-chef, offering an authentic taste of Ladakh’s flavours. After lunch, you may choose to return to the hotel to enjoy the spa facilities or take a stroll through the bustling Leh Market, enjoying its colourful atmosphere and browsing local crafts.

Your driver will collect you from the hotel and drive you to the airport for your flight from Leh to Delhi. On arrival in Delhi, you will spend a night at an airport hotel before heading home.

Your driver will collect you from the hotel and drive you to the airport for your return international flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day. Your return flight will arrive the same day.