Legacy of Leh/Ladakh


8 days/7 nights

Ladakh is a remote region in Northern India, located between the Himalayan and Kunlin mountain ranges. Historically a Buddhist kingdom, Ladakh was strategically placed at the crossroads of major trading routes. The region is commonly called "Little Tibet" and many travelers have discovered this destination as an alternative to visiting the disputed territory of Tibet. Journey to Leh, the former capital, and experience one of the few remaining abodes of Buddhism in South Asia.

Highlights

Hemis, the largest monastery in Ladakh

Leh Palace, modeled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa

Thiksey, an 800 year old gompa with panoramic views of the Indus Valley

Lamayuru Monastery, currently housing 150 resident monks

Itinerary Details: 8 days/7 nights

Day 1: Arrival

Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport and meet our representative, who will transfer you to your hotel. Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India's legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi's spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a full day tour of Delhi. First, explore Old Delhi: Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, tour New Delhi. Visit the Qutub Minar, which is the tallest stone tower in India. Then visit Humayun's tomb, built by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, and an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style. Later, drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President's residence. Evening at leisure and overnight in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi—Leh

In the morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Leh. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Located at 11,975 feet, Leh was once the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh. The town boasts a strong religious co-existence of Tibetan Buddhism and Islam. Afternoon at leisure to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. We advise you not to indulge in physical activity, as the high altitude and rarefied air could result in physical discomfort or illness. Overnight in Leh.

Day 4: Leh

Day at leisure for rest and acclimatization. Overnight in Leh.

Day 5: Leh

Proceed on a full day tour of nearby monasteries: Shey, the 15th century summer palace and monastery that belongs to the royal family of Leh; Thiksey, an 800 year old gompa with panoramic views of the Indus Valley; and Hemis, the largest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh. Hemis is also the stage for the famous Hemis Festival that celebrates Guru Padmasambhava. Splendid masked dances are performed to the accompaniment of cymbals, drums and long horns. A colorful fair, displaying some beautiful handicrafts, is the special highlight of the festival. Overnight in Leh.

Day 6: Leh

After breakfast, visit the Leh Palace, modeled after the famous Potala Palace in Lhasa. Built at the beginning of the 17th century, the palace is both a colossal fortress and an architectural masterpiece. Ravaged by heavy rains, you may only explore the ruins and the museum, which displays some beautiful thankas, paintings and arms. For those seeking an adventure, proceed to the Leh Gompa, situated at a level above the palace. The remains of the Leh Gompa houses a large golden Buddha, painted scrolls, murals and old manuscripts. Following the visit to the Palace, continue to the main Leh bazaar. Overnight in Leh.

Day 7: Leh

This morning, travel outside Leh to Lamayuru Monastery. Lamayuru is one of the largest and oldest gompas in Ladakh, with a population of around 150 permanent resident monks. It has, in the past, housed up to 400 monks, many of which are now based in gompas in surrounding villages. In the afternoon, an optional visit can be arranged to the Women's Alliance of Ladakh. The alliance of 3,500 Ladakhi women are concerned with raising awareness on traditional agriculture, preserving the status of women, and creating an alternative development model based on self-reliance. Instead, you may visit the Ecological Center, which focuses on generating awareness on the environment and alternative technology in the community. Evening at leisure and overnight in Leh.

Day 8: Departure

In the morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. A vehicle and driver will be provided in the afternoon for leisure activities, shopping, or optional tours. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Inclusions

  • Hotel accommodations in Delhi, including breakfast buffet
  • Hotel accommodations in Leh, including daily meals
  • Economy airfare from Delhi – Leh - Delhi
  • Air-conditioned vehicle with driver as per the itinerary
  • Comprehensive touring, including a private English speaking guide and entrance fees to the monuments
  • Airport transfers
  • Road/interstate taxes, fuel surcharges, and parking fees

Exclusions

  • International Airfare
  • Delhi Departure Tax
  • Any items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • India Visa Fees

Supplemental Information

  • A visa is required to visit India. 
  • To protect your travel investment, Sodha Travel strongly recommends Travel Insurance.
  • Visit our FAQ page for additional information on traveling to India.

Legacy of Leh/Ladakh Map