Tour Overview
Best Travel Season: Mid-June to Mid-October
Key Highlights: Majestic hill stations, crystal-clear lakes, ancient monasteries, scenic villages, and high-altitude mountain passes
Highest Altitude: Tanglang La Pass (5329 m)
Region Covered: Kashmir Valley & Ladakh
A Journey Through the Crown of India
Kashmir – often described as a jewelled crown on the map of India – is a breathtaking land of contrasts. With its changing moods across seasons, it’s a place of poetic inspiration and surreal beauty. The Kashmir Valley has long enchanted poets and travellers, earning the nickname: “An emerald set in pearls.” This journey through Kashmir and Ladakh brings you face-to-face with the serene lakes of Srinagar, the wildflower meadows of Gulmarg, the rugged landscapes of Ladakh, and the sacred monasteries nestled amid stark Himalayan peaks.
Arrive in Delhi on an early morning international flight. After a traditional Indian welcome, you’ll be escorted to your hotel.
Sightseeing Highlights:
Visit Birla Temple
Drive past India Gate and the President’s House
Explore Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, and Chhatarpur Temple
Overnight: Delhi Hotel | Meals: Breakfast
Fly to Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir and often called “Paradise on Earth.”
Sightseeing Highlights:
Explore Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi
Visit Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake
Discover traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and Pashmina shawls
Overnight: Houseboat/Hotel in Srinagar | Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Start the day with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, visiting the floating vegetable market and observing local life on water. Later, drive to Gulmarg (2730 m), the Meadow of Flowers.
Highlights:
Scenic meadows surrounded by snow-covered peaks
Optional activities: pony rides to Khilanmarg, Gondola cable car to Kongdoori
Visit Alpather Lake (seasonal access)
Overnight: Hotel in Gulmarg | Meals: B, L, D
Enjoy a free day to relax and explore Gulmarg’s alpine scenery at your own pace.
Overnight: Hotel in Gulmarg | Meals: B, L, D
Drive to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds), via Srinagar, through pine forests and saffron fields.
En route:
Visit Pampore’s saffron fields and Avantipur’s 1100-year-old Vishnu temple ruins
In Pahalgam:
Discover Baisaran meadow, Hajan picnic spot, and enjoy optional horse rides
Overnight: Hotel in Pahalgam | Meals: B, L, D
Explore the serene riverside town and its lush surroundings at your own leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Pahalgam | Meals: B, L, D
Return to Srinagar for a restful day and shopping.
Overnight: Houseboat/Hotel in Srinagar | Meals: B, L, D
Embark on a scenic drive to Kargil via Sonmarg, the Meadow of Gold.
Highlights:
Cross Zojila Pass (Gateway to Ladakh)
Tea stop and passport check at Drass, second coldest inhabited place on Earth
Overnight: Hotel in Kargil | Meals: B, L, D
Drive through dramatic landscapes and high mountain passes:
Cross Namikala (3718 m) & Fotula Pass (4094 m)
Visit the ancient Lamayuru Monastery and Mulbekh rock-cut Buddha
Continue to Uleytokpo Camp near Alchi
Overnight: Camp near Alchi | Meals: B, L, D
Visit Alchi Monastery, famed for its murals and peaceful garden setting
Explore Likir Monastery with its 3-story Buddha statue and museum
Stop at Basgo for its fortress ruins and giant Maitreya Buddha
Overnight: Hotel in Leh | Meals: B, L, D
Visit Shankar, Spituk & Phyang Monasteries
Explore Leh Market, Leh Palace, Leh Gompa, and Shanti Stupa
Overnight: Hotel in Leh | Meals: B, L, D
Drive past Upshi and follow the Indus River
Visit Chumathang Hot Springs and Sumdah village
Spot wild marmots en route to Korzok village near Tso Moriri Lake
Overnight: Camp near Tso Moriri | Meals: B, L, D
Free day to explore the pristine lake, Korzok Monastery, and village life.
Wildlife: Birds like Bar-headed Geese, Brahmini Ducks; herds of Kiangs (Tibetan wild asses)
Overnight: Camp | Meals: B, L, D
Visit Tso Kar (White Lake), famous for its salt deposits and wildlife
Cross Polokongka Pass and Tanglang La (5329 m) – among the world’s highest roads
Drive past charming villages like Rumtse and Gya
Overnight: Hotel in Leh | Meals: B, L, D
Visit Shey Palace, with its massive gilded Buddha
Explore Thiksey Monastery – home to a towering Maitreya statue
Tour Hemis Monastery, Ladakh’s largest and wealthiest
Conclude with a visit to Stok Palace and Museum
Overnight: Hotel in Leh | Meals: B, L, D
Begin your adventure toward the high-altitude Nubra Valley via Khardung La (5602 m), one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
Highlights:
• Stunning panoramic views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges
• Descend into the Nubra Valley, famed for its contrasting landscapes of desert and snow
• Visit the serene Diskit Monastery, home to a grand Maitreya Buddha statue
• Enjoy a Bactrian camel ride among the dunes of Hunder
Overnight: Camp/Guesthouse in Nubra Valley | Meals: B, L, D
Nubra – Khardung La – Leh
Return to Leh via Khardung La, soaking in the incredible Himalayan vistas once more.
In Leh:
• Afternoon free for shopping, relaxing at cafes, or local exploration
• Optional visit to Stok village for a cultural interaction with a Ladakhi family
Overnight: Hotel in Leh | Meals: B, L, D
Transfer to Leh Airport for your return flight to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll be assisted with your international departure or connected to further travel plans.
Meals: Breakfast
Tour Inclusions
• Accommodation: Premium hotels, heritage houses, deluxe camps, and traditional houseboats
• Meals: Daily breakfast and dinner; lunch on all days during travel in Kashmir & Ladakh
• Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle in Delhi/Kashmir and non-AC SUV in Ladakh
• Permits: Inner line permits for restricted areas in Ladakh
• Experiences: Shikara ride, camel safari in Nubra, monastery visits, and cultural interactions
Tips for Travellers
• Acclimatization: The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to help you adjust to high altitudes gradually
• Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, warm layers, comfortable walking shoes, reusable water bottle
• Health: Carry basic medicines; consult your doctor before travel to high-altitude regions
• Local Etiquette: Respect monastery customs—remove shoes, dress modestly, and avoid loud noises
Optional Add-ons
• Day trip to Pangong Lake (extra day recommended)
• White-water rafting in Zanskar River (seasonal)
• Photography tour or meditation retreat extension
