Jamwai Journeys is a more thoughtful way of exploring India. Each itinerary is crafted with care to honor culture, support local communities, and leave a positive impact.
Arrival in Delhi: Arrive at Delhi (DEL) in the early morning. There is no hotel stay planned in Delhi for this short transit.
Domestic Flight to Leh: Take a connecting flight from Delhi to Leh. This domestic flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes). Arrival in Leh: Upon arrival at Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport – IXL), you will be transferred to your hotel. Leh is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 feet).
Acclimatization Day: The entire day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. It is crucial to take it easy, hydrate well, and avoid strenuous activities.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Start by Rest and Acclimatization: Continue with a day of rest and further acclimatization in Leh. This is vital for preparing your body for the higher altitudes of the coming days.
Optional Light Exploration: If you feel well, you may take a very light stroll around the local market in Leh, but avoid any strenuous walking.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Monastic Excursion: Today, embark on a full day of spiritual and cultural exploration, visiting some of Ladakh’s most prominent monasteries. Thiksey Monastery: Located about 19 km from Leh, Thiksey is a magnificent monastery of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) order, resembling the Potala Palace of Lhasa. It houses an impressive 15-meter high statue of Maitreya Buddha. Chemrey Monastery: Situated around 40 km east of Leh, Chemrey Monastery is known for its tall Padmasambhava statue and its collection of scriptures. Hemis Monastery: This is the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, belonging to the Drukpa Lineage. It is famous for its annual Hemis Festival, masked dances, and rich collection of Buddhist relics and Thangkas. Return to Leh: After a day of exploring these spiritual havens, return to Leh.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Drive to Lamayuru: Begin your journey west, departing for Lamayuru Monastery, located approximately 125 km from Leh. The scenic drive follows the course of the Indus River, offering stunning views of the stark Ladakhi landscape. Likir Monastery: En route, stop at Likir Monastery, a significant Gelugpa monastery founded in the 11th century, known for its large golden Buddha statue. Lamayuru Monastery: Upon arrival, visit Lamayuru, one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is renowned for its surreal “Moonland” landscape, shaped by unique geological formations.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Explore Aryan Valley: Depart from Lamayuru to explore the valleys of Sanjak and Dha. This region is home to the Brokpa people, believed to be the last pure Aryan race.Cultural Immersion: Discover their unique culture, traditions, and distinct physical features. The villages offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Return to Leh : Begin your return journey to Leh, passing through more cultural and historical sites. The total drive with stops will be approximately 4-5 hours.
Visit Alchi Monastery: Your main stop will be at Alchi Monastery, a monastic complex unique for its location on flat ground (unlike most other monasteries perched on hilltops). It is famous for its remarkably well-preserved 11th and 12th-century Tibetan school frescoes and wooden sculptures, considered among the finest in the country.
Khaltsi: Pass through Khaltsi, a small town strategically located on the Indus River.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Today, embark on an adventurous drive from Leh to Tso Moriri Lake, one of the highest brackish lakes in the world, located at an altitude of approximately 4,522 meters (14,836 feet). The journey is about 220 km and takes approximately 6-7 hours. Chumathang: En route, you will pass through Chumathang, known for its hot springs. Scenic Route: The drive is incredibly scenic, passing through remote villages, vast plains, and rugged mountains. Tso Moriri: Arrive at Tso Moriri, a designated Ramsar site, known for its stunning turquoise waters and as a habitat for various migratory birds and wildlife like the Tibetan wild ass (Kiang).
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Explore Tso Moriri & Drive to Tso Kar: Spend the morning appreciating the wild nature and walking along the serene shores of Tso Moriri Lake.
Drive to Tso Kar: Afterwards, continue your journey to Tso Kar Lake, a fluctuating salt lake also known as the “white lake” due to the white salt deposits on its shores. The drive is approximately 50 km and takes about 1-2 hours. Arrive at Tso Kar, another beautiful high-altitude lake.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Drive back to Leh: Begin your return journey to Leh, crossing challenging yet spectacular high mountain passes. The drive will take approximately 5-6 hours.
Taglang La: Ascend to Taglang La pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, at an elevation of 5,303 meters (17,398 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. Arrive back in Leh in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Morning – Leh City Tour: Explore the charming town of Leh.
Leh Palace: Visit the Leh Palace, a former royal palace of the Ladakh kingdom, offering great views of the town.
Shanti Stupa: Drive up to Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist stupa offering panoramic views of Leh town and the surrounding mountains.
Choglamsar Tibetan Children’s Village: Visit Choglamsar, located a few kilometers from Leh, which is home to the only Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) in Ladakh. This community provides education and care for Tibetan refugee children.
Meeting: Have the opportunity to meet with the TCV president to learn about their work and the children’s lives.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
In the morning, transfer to Leh Airport for your domestic flight to Delhi (e.g., departure at 07:45 AM, arrival at 09:25 AM with Jet Airways).
Arrival in Delhi & Old Delhi Tour: Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met by a minibus and an Language-speaking guide for a tour of Old Delhi.
Sightseeing: Visit iconic sites in Old Delhi, including the magnificent Jama Masjid mosque, one of the largest mosques in India, and another significant historical site in Delhi.
Accommodation: Check in to your locally-owned hotel, contributing directly to the local economy.
Transport : Private Vehicle
Morning Departure: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Airport: Transfer to Delhi International Airport (DEL) for your international flight.
Transport : Private vehicle
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