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Embarking on your adventure from the charming city of Srinagar, the journey begins with the first light of dawn illuminating the serene streets during early Morning. With a sense of anticipation, you set out on the road towards Sonamarg, a captivating destination nestled amidst the Himalayan peaks. As the wheels roll over winding roads, the landscape unfolds in a mesmerizing display of verdant valleys, gurgling streams, and snow-capped mountains standing sentinel in the distance. After a leisurely drive spanning approximately 80 kilometers, you arrive in Sonamarg, welcomed by the crisp mountain air and the promise of exploration. Here, amidst the breathtaking scenery, you immerse yourself in the natural splendor, indulging in pony rides along meandering trails or embarking on invigorating treks that lead to hidden wonders awaiting discovery.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast in Sonamarg, embark on a journey towards Drass, a town located approximately 60 kilometers away. The scenic drive through winding mountain roads typically takes about two hours, offering travelers ample opportunities to marvel at the majestic beauty of the landscape. Along the way, a must-visit landmark is the iconic Zoji La Pass, renowned for its panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, which never fail to leave visitors in awe. Upon reaching Drass by afternoon, take a solemn moment to visit the Drass War Memorial, a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Kargil War. It’s a solemn yet deeply moving experience, offering a profound insight into the valor and sacrifice of those who fought for their nation in the rugged terrains of this region.
After fueling up with a hearty Lunch, your journey from Drass to Kargil begins, spanning approximately 60 kilometers of winding roads that unfurl through breathtaking landscapes. En route, you’ll be captivated by the charm of the picturesque town of Kargil, nestled serenely along the banks of the Suru River. Upon reaching your destination, settle into your chosen accommodation, allowing the tranquility of the surroundings to wash over you. As the afternoon unfolds, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Kargil’s culture by wandering through its bustling local market. Engage with locals, savoring the warmth of their hospitality and perhaps indulging in some traditional delicacies. As the day gently fades into evening, retreat to your lodgings, where the day’s adventures and newfound experiences can be savored, ensuring a restful night’s sleep amidst the tranquil ambiance of Kargil.
Our drive continues through some of the most unforgettable scenery you will ever see. We will stop briefly at the Mulbek Maitreya Buddha statue (9m tall) and then proceed to Lamayuru, home to one of the most majestically situated monasteries in Ladakh. We continue our journey towards Uleytokpo, stopping en-route for a walk around the little-visited mud-brick fortress of Basgo Monastery, which again occupies a splendid position overlooking villages and stark barren landscapes. A short drive later we will finally arrive at the eco-retreat in Uleytokpo in time for dinner.
Overnight in Ule Ethnic Resort, Uleytokpo
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
After breakfast, we set off for Leh via the Sangam (confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers) and stop off at Spituk Monastery. Arrive in Leh and afternoon and evening at leisure.
Overnight in Ladakh Eco Resort, Leh
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
In the morning we will head into the old part of Leh, where we will take a heritage walk and visit the impressive Central Asian Museum. The engaging museum showcases photos and artifacts illustrating the importance of Leh and Ladakh’s importance in the Silk Road trading route. Afterwards, we will visit Shanti Stupa and then have lunch in one of Leh’s finest local restaurants. Rest of day at leisure.
After Lunch we will visit the quaint village of Matho and walk down from the Matho Monastery to the Indus River. Enjoy chai and snacks by the river and then head to nearby Thiksey Monastery, one of the most iconic monasteries in Leh, perched on a cliff-face. Afterwards visit the nearby Tibetan Library where monks come to study from all over Ladakh. Drive to Stok village for lunch with the local family. Visit their 300 year-old house, which has now been converted into a museum, and then take a walk around Stok Palace. Return to Leh.
Overnight in Ladakh Eco Resort, Leh
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Early start to the day for your drive to the Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass. At a breathtaking (literally) 5,500m/18,000ft, it’s one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Despite its altitude and barren mountains, the landscape here is dotted with lush greenery, the winding River Indus, sporadic wildlife and snow-capped peaks. If you are lucky you might spot pikas, marmots, red foxes, wolves and/or golden eagles. Arrive in the village adjoining Sumur, near the banks of the Nubra river, where your eco-retreat, and your lunch awaits.
Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Lchang Nang Retreat, Sumur
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
After breakfast we drive to Hunder, and its white, rolling dunes, meandering river and snow-capped mountains away in the distance. Hunder’s sand dunes present an opportunity not only to hone those photography skills, but also to glimpse the rare, Bactrian one-humped camel.
We follow this up with a visit to Diskit’s isolated monastery.
Return to the eco-retreat for lunch, and the remainder of your day at leisure.
Overnight in Lchang Nang Retreat, Sumur
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive back to Leh. Rest of the day is at leisure. After dark, we can look forward to our farewell dinner in our Leh hotel.
Overnight in Grand Dragon Ladakh, Leh
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Transfer to airport for morning flight to Delhi. Transfer to hotel. Afternoon and evening at leisure.
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Join us on an unforgettable journey through the Indian Himalayas, retracing the travels of merchants, monks, and missionaries along a forgotten segment of the Silk Road from Kashmir to Ladakh. This region was once a hub of an important network of trading routes linking Central Asia and China with India and Tibet, and though modern borders have severed economic ties, strong cultural links survive.
Your adventure will begin in Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, which is known for its rich Islamic culture, Mughal gardens, and the romantic houseboats moored on its lakes. One of the world’s most dramatic drives then awaits as you continue onto Kargil, a strategic Silk Road trading post, and start climbing beside the Indus River to the high altitude desert of Ladakh. Spectacular Buddhist monasteries dot the landscape and colourful prayer flags flutter above mountain passes, providing physical reminders of why Ladakh is so often called “Little Tibet”
