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Ladakh, Mountains and Monasteries

19 days Guided Group, Fixed Departure

Ladakh is truly a world of its own. Being isolated for many months of the year by snow it is the place to experience unspoiled Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries and explore the unparalleled scenic beauty of the Indian Himalayan landscape and its majestic mountains. A land where local people, living in simple yet picturesque rural villages, are busy working in the fields, grazing their yaks or praying in the village Gompas. This high altitude trek provides a rare chance to interact with them whilst trekking through lush valleys, lunar landscapes, historic mountain-top villages and over rugged high passes. Famous monasteries line the route providing a precious insight into the spiritual life of this fascinating and serenely beautiful country.
Days 1 to 3. Outbound
Fly from the UK to Delhi and onto Leh. This spectacular flight takes you over the Himalayas giving you a breathtaking bird's eye view of this incredible range.
Days 4 and 5. Leh
With two days in Leh to acclimatise to the thin air at 3500 metres, you have time to visit some of the famous monasteries of the Indus Valley. The Hemis Gompa is home to the head monk of the area, whilst Thikse is one of the most impressive and Shey one of the oldest. You can also browse the bustling bazaars of this atmospheric city.
Days 6 to 10. Trek to Lamayuru
Supported with ponies, the trekking starts at the Likir Monastery with its impressive 12 metre high statue of Buddha. The path winds through lush valleys, over passes and onto fields dotted with local workers. The incredible oasis of Thimesgam and its vast fertile valley (one of the greenest in Ladakh) is a site never to be forgotten. Cross another Himalayan pass and several historic villages perched on mountaintops, before finally descending down to the Indus River. The ponies leave you here, rejoining you at the beautiful Lamayuru monastery, where you will be taken by car.
Days 11 to 14. Over the Tar pass
From Lamayuru you trek up towards the valley, which brings you to the Wanlah Monastery. The views over the surrounding countryside are stunning with a contrast between green valleys and the rugged stretches of high Ladakh. The walk continues through small villages with apricot orchards, and bridges over narrow gorges. Finally a hard day's walking over the Tar La pass (5225 metres) is rewarded by breathtaking views, great satisfaction and a deserved rest day at a riverside camp.
Days 15 and 16. Back to Leh
The final leg of the trek involves crossing two more passes to reach the monastery of Mang Gyu. A narrow passage through a small but beautiful valley takes you to the bank of the Indus River, from where you have a gentle climb upstream to Alchi to meet your vehicles. With constant views of the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas these two days bring a memorable end to your high altitude trek.
Days 17 to 19. Delhi and Homeward
Fly back to Delhi over the Himalayas. Free day in Delhi for sightseeing before returning to the UK.
India, Rajasthan

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  • Tour grade: B/C
  • Cost per person: £1,950.
  • Single supplement: £390.
  • CO2 Offset Cost: £14.12
  • What is included: Flights, transfers, accommodation, most meals, guide, trek staff, ponies, entrance fees.
  • Accommodation: Hotels, camping.
  • Departure date: Friday, 4 July 2008.