Ladakh explored: Leh, Alchi & Nubra Valley

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 set amidst an apricot orchard in the village of Stok. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to acclimatize. However, you may go on a gentle walk through Stok village, which has remained largely unchanged for centuries with its whitewashed mud-brick homes, fluttering prayer flags, and chortens standing as quiet guardians of Buddhist devotion.

Relish breakfast on the patio overlooking an ancient garden. Later, visit Stok Palace, a 200-year-old royal residence showcasing Ladakh’s rich history, architecture, murals, monastic traditions, and priceless artifacts. The remainder of the day will be at leisure.

Today, travel to Nurla via Alchi, a rare 12th-century temple sanctuary built on flat terrain. Explore its exquisite murals, ancient Buddhas, and rich artistic heritage before savouring authentic Ladakhi cuisine at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Nurla, check into your hotel that overlooks the River Indus and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Enjoy breakfast with views of the mighty Indus. Today you will travel to Nurla via Likir, visiting Lamchung Tsephel, one of Ladakh’s last traditional potters, preserving a fading craft with care. On arrival in Leh, you will check in at your hotel. This evening, a monk will meet you at your hotel for a short session, where you'll try your hand at the beautiful art of Tibetan calligraphy — creating a unique piece to take home as a souvenir.

Begin your day at Hemis, Ladakh’s richest monastery, home to ancient murals, statues, and a massive thangka. Continue to Shey, the former royal residence built in 1645. While its fortress has faded, the palace gompa, with its towering seated Buddha, remains well-preserved by Drukpa monks from Hemis. Upon returning to Leh, you will enjoy a locally-hosted lunch, where a renowned culinary historian brings Ladakh’s rich history to life through food in a storytelling experience woven into every bite.

The day will begin with a photo stop at Thiksey Monastery, a striking blend of deep red, ochre, and white hues. Then, you will visit an all-woman enterprise at a nearby farm to explore the exquisite artistry of Pashmina, from natural dyeing to lap loom weaving. You will conclude with tea, taking home a beautifully handwoven fabric as a treasured keepsake.

After an early breakfast, we set off on a five-hour journey via Khardung La, the world’s second-highest motorable pass, leading into Nubra Valley, a serene expanse of rugged desert, sand dunes, and glacial rivers. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. If the journey hasn’t worn you out, consider a stargazing session on the dunes, followed by a carefully curated barbecue, ensuring a truly unforgettable night in the high-altitude desert (optional).

After a warm cup of tea, you will ascend toward the lesser-known Samstanling Monastery, offering an intimate morning prayer experience. This tranquil setting provides a glimpse into daily monastic life. Later, wander past Ladakhi homes, apricot orchards, and barley fields, following a gentle stream as it guides you back to your hotel. In the afternoon, unwind as you enjoy a picnic at a peaceful location using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, some gathered straight from the farm, offering a genuine farm-to-table experience. The rest of the day will be at leisure.

Your morning begins with a short walk from your hotel that brings you to a 400-year-old heritage home, meticulously preserved by a women’s cooperative. This exclusive experience includes a guided exploration of its storied past, followed by a traditional Ladakhi breakfast. The rest of the day is yours to unwind. Relax with a book on the private patio, nestled beneath the shade of willow trees, or indulge in a soothing massage.

At dawn, you will set out toward the sand dunes of Sumur. Joined by a yoga instructor, the calm and spacious setting, surrounded by rugged peaks, provides an ideal place to practice yoga, allowing you to connect with the peaceful rhythm of the landscape. You will return to your hotel for breakfast before embarking on the journey back to Leh via the high pass. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon, perhaps exploring the local bazaars.

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 a charming UNESCO-awarded heritage property. You may wish to enjoy a meal at their renowned in-house restaurant on your final evening before heading home.

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