Over the next few days, you shall explore the Sham Valley, often called the “Apricot Valley” of Ladakh. Travel through charming Himalayan villages like Alchi, Likir, and Nimmu, and, if you are up for it, as far as the dramatically located Lamayuru Monastery. These village visits offer a genuine window into local Ladakhi life, from traditional homes and kitchens to age-old farming practices.

You will also witness one of Ladakh’s most iconic sights: the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, a stunning natural phenomenon where two mighty rivers meet in vibrant shades of turquoise and green. Experience the traditional copper art if you are inclined towards artisanal experiences.

Living in quiet villages takes you away from the busy tourist circuits and lets you experience the life of a local. Spend time taking a pottery class, walking on the farms, or visiting the stunning monastery during prayers. Having a local storyteller by your side makes this experience even more meaningful.

Prefer to walk instead? We can organise this stretch as a hiking tour through Ladakhi villages, perfect for those who love immersive, slow travel. Trip length may vary based on your pace and interest.

Over the next few days, we travel across one of the highest motorable roads in the world—Khardung La Pass (La means ‘mountain pass’), offering panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. From here, we descend into the Nubra Valley, a lush green region that defies Ladakh’s stark desert image. True to its name, ‘Nubra’, meaning garden in the local language, welcomes us with apricot orchards and pretty villages.

We travel through Khardung and Khalsar villages, eventually reaching Disket, located at the scenic confluence of the Nubra and Shyok rivers. The serenity of these riverside settlements and the kindness of the locals make this part of Ladakh unforgettable. Visit the Disket monastery and Hunder dunes.

Our next stop is Turtuk, a remote frontier village with a unique blend of Muslim, Buddhist, and ancient Persian influences, shaped by centuries of trade through the Silk Road. This region’s culture, language, and architecture reflect this rare mix, making it one of Ladakh’s hidden gems.

Experience the warmth of Ladakhi hospitality as you stay with a family for the next two nights in Thiksey, with a splendid view of one of Ladakh’s biggest monasteries. Go on a guided tour during the early morning prayers in the Thiksey monastery and taste homemade Ladakhi delicacies. Thiksey monastery is affiliated with the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism (monks wearing yellow hats) and features a stunning, tall statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Optional: If you are a textile enthusiast, ask us for a hands-on pashmina weaving experience.

Drive to Pangong Lake, stretching between India and China, and shimmering with ever-changing shades of blue. Nestled at 14,000 feet, it is a surreal Himalayan jewel – silent and vast. If you are a slow traveler, we recommend staying two nights here.

Option: If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you can choose to extend the tour for a few nights at the Hemis National Park.

Drive back to Leh via the Hemis monastery, one of the largest in Ladakh and often compared to the Potala Palace in Tibet. Spend a few hours leisurely exploring this 17th-century monastery dedicated to the influential Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism (noticeable via their monks with red hats).

The Drukpa lineage is also known for ‘Kung-Fu nuns’ who are black belts in the martial arts and perform other leadership roles in nunneries.

Optional: You may want to plan your tour during the Hemis festival (ask us for the calendar).