Winters in Ladakh are enchanting, with a serene landscape blanketed in snow, offering nature a chance to hibernate or take a long winter nap. As the harsh winter comes to an end, Ladakh awakens in the spring. The snow and ice begin to melt, rivers and streams start flowing, trees sprout new leaves, and the valleys burst into bloom. Part of the Trans-Himalaya, Ladakh is renowned for its fascinating landscapes, with its unique mountains and peaks.
Despite a short farming season, Ladakh’s farmers cultivate crops such as wheat, barley, and mustard, alongside a variety of vegetables and fruits like walnuts, apples, grapes, and, most notably, Himalayan apricots.
The apricot blossom season is one of the most beautiful times to visit Ladakh. Several valleys, including the Aryan valley of Dha, Beema, Darchik, and the Turtuk valley in Nubra, are famous throughout Ladakh for their diverse apricot varieties.
Each season in Ladakh has its own unique charm, but this spring, we set out to explore as many places as possible to capture and share the exquisite beauty of the apricot blossoms in Ladakh.
DAY 1: Arrival in Leh
Arrive at Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, where you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Given Leh's high altitude of 3,500 meters, today will primarily be for acclimatization and rest. In the evening, you will visit Leh Palace and the Shanti Stupa, which offer panoramic views of Leh town.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
DAY 2: Leh Town Sightseeing
Today, we will explore the rich cultural heritage of Leh by visiting several monasteries, which will provide insight into Tibetan Buddhism and the history of Ladakh. The itinerary includes visits to Thiksey Monastery and Hemis Monastery. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to explore the bustling Leh market.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
DAY 3: Journey to Sham Valley (Dha-Beema, 2,700 meters)
We will head towards Sham Valley, stopping at significant landmarks such as the Hall of Fame, Magnetic Hill, and the Sangam, where the Zanskar and Indus rivers meet. The journey continues west to Alchi village, known for its ancient monastery. We will then proceed to the Brokpa valleys, also known as Aryan Valley.
Overnight Stay: Guesthouse or Homestay in Beema or Dha
Duration: 4-hour drive
DAY 4: Beema to Leh via Lamayuru Monastery
After an early breakfast, we will explore the villages of Garkon, Dha, and Beema, renowned as the Land of the Aryans and home to the Brokpa or Drokpa communities of Ladakh. En route back to Leh, we will pass through Lamayuru village, famously known as Moonland for its unique lunar-like landscape.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
Duration: 4-5 hours drive
DAY 5: Journey to Nubra and Turtuk Valley (3,000 meters)
Departing early, we will travel to Nubra Valley via the Khardong La pass (5,359 meters/17,982 feet). The trip includes a visit to Diskit Monastery, perched on a hill, and the nearby 32-meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. After a lunch break at Diskit market, we will continue our journey to Turtuk Valley.
Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Turtuk
Duration: 4-5 hours drive
DAY 6: Explore Turtuk and Travel to Hunder
Turtuk, situated on the banks of the Shayok River, offers a unique glimpse into Balti culture. It is one of the northernmost villages in India and has been open to tourists only since 2009. After exploring Turtuk, we will drive to Hunder.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Hunder
Duration: 2 hours drive to Hunder
DAY 7: Journey to Pangong Lake (4,225 meters) via Shayok Valley
Early in the morning, we will set off for Pangong Lake via Shayok Valley. This route offers stunning vistas and passes through villages such as Agyam, Shayok, Durbuk, and Tangtse. Pangong Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear saline waters and is an excellent spot for stargazing.
Overnight Stay: Accommodation near Pangong Lake
DAY 8: Return to Leh via Changla Pass
Spend a leisurely morning at Pangong Lake before driving back to Leh via the Changla Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,360 meters (17,590 feet). In Leh, you will have time to explore the market and purchase souvenirs.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Leh
Duration: 5-hour drive
DAY 9: Departure
Today marks the end of your tour. You will be transferred to Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport for your departure.
Itinerary
Inclusions
Exclusions
All accommodation on twin sharing basis with two meals (Breakfast and Dinner) across all hotels in Leh.
Transportation in Toyota Innova from the Airport Pick up till Airport drop off.
Experienced Naturalist/Guide along the tour.
First aid with oxygen cylinder.
All permits
Any kind of expenses in a personal nature like soft drinks, hard drinks, and any toiletries.
Extra expenses due to delays arising from bad weather and any unforeseen circumstances.
Insurance.
Meals while traveling.
Expenses of any kind not included in the inclusion section.