16-Day Ladakh with Taj Cultural Tour

Welcome to India! Upon your international arrival in Delhi, you will be warmly received with a traditional ‘Swagat’ ceremony. Our representative will assist you with transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Delhi is a vibrant metropolis where ancient heritage beautifully blends with modernity. Its strategic location attracted numerous empires through centuries—from the mythic Indraprastha of the Mahabharata era to the architectural marvels of the Mughal and British periods. Explore the layered history reflected in monuments built by rulers like Qutub-ud-din Aibek, Shah Jahan, and the visionary Lutyens who designed New Delhi as the administrative heart of British India.

Overnight: Hotel in Delhi (Breakfast included)

Today’s guided tour begins in Old Delhi, the 17th-century walled city of Shah Jahanabad. Visit the majestic Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque built in 1656, stroll through the bustling bazaars of Chandni Chowk, and explore the imposing Red Fort.

In New Delhi, visit the solemn Raj Ghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Pass by iconic landmarks such as India Gate and the Presidential Palace, and admire the UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and the towering Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world.

Overnight: Hotel in Delhi

Drive to Agra, a city famed for its Mughal-era architectural gems along the Yamuna River. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra is home to the stunning Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri—all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Overnight: Hotel in Agra (Breakfast included)

Visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of eternal love built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Next, explore Agra Fort, a sprawling red sandstone fortress, and Sikandra, the tomb of Emperor Akbar. After the tour, return to Delhi for an overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Delhi (Breakfast included)

Catch your morning flight to Leh, the gateway to Ladakh. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring Leh’s vibrant bazaar.

Overnight: Hotel in Leh

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion visiting prominent monasteries around Leh: Shankar, Spituk, and Phyang. In the afternoon, stroll through Leh town visiting the Leh Palace ruins, local market, Leh Gompa, and the serene Shanti Stupa.

Overnight: Hotel in Leh

Visit Shey, the ancient capital featuring a giant gilded Buddha statue. Proceed to Thiksey Gompa, an impressive hilltop monastery housing a 30-meter-high golden statue of Maitreya Buddha. Continue to Hemis Gompa, the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, known for its vibrant annual monastic festival dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava. Return to Leh for dinner and rest.

Overnight: Hotel in Leh

After a relaxed morning, drive to Lamayuru Monastery, one of Ladakh’s oldest and most spectacular monasteries, renowned for its ancient frescoes and tranquil setting. Experience a prayer ceremony with the monks for a deeply spiritual moment. Then proceed to Alchi Monastery, unique for its ground-level location and exquisite wall paintings reminiscent of those in Spiti Valley.

Overnight: Hotel in Alchi

Visit Likir Monastery, famous for its towering Buddha statue and museum of ancient artifacts. Next, explore Basgo, once a key capital of Ladakh, where you’ll see the ruins of the royal palace and temples housing impressive frescoes and a large gold-copper Maitreya Buddha statue. Return to Leh for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel in Leh

Embark early on a scenic drive along the Leh-Manali road to Tso Moriri Lake. En route, visit Chumathang, known for its therapeutic hot springs, and the quaint village of Sumdah. Arrive at Korzok village by evening and check into your camp near the pristine high-altitude lake, home to one of the world’s highest permanent settlements. Visit Korzok Monastery before dinner.

Overnight: Camp at Tso Moriri

Drive to Mahe village and onward to Puga Valley, famous for its geothermal activity. Continue to Tso Khar (White Lake), known for its salt deposits and sightings of Kiangs (Tibetan wild asses). Cross the spectacular Tanglang La Pass, the world’s third-highest motorable pass, passing picturesque villages before returning to Leh.

Overnight: Hotel in Leh

Early morning departure crossing the Khardong La Pass (one of the highest motorable passes in the world) to Nubra Valley. Upon arrival in Diskit, check into your camp and visit the 515-year-old Diskit Monastery.

Overnight: Camp in Nubra Valley

Visit the Panamik hot springs renowned for their therapeutic properties. On the return journey, explore Samstanling and Sumur monasteries. Later, visit the sand dunes of Hunder, known for their rare double-humped Bactrian camels.

Overnight: Camp in Nubra Valley

Return to Leh via the Khardong La Pass. Enjoy the scenic drive and settle in at your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Hotel in Leh

Transfer to the airport for your breathtaking flight over the Himalayas back to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Delhi

Today, you will be transferred to the international airport to board your onward flight, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Ladakh and Taj Cultural Tour. We thank you for traveling with us and hope to welcome you again soon!