A spectacular flight across the Indian Himalayas takes you to the barren landscapes of Ladakh, where the stark contrast between these windswept hills and the rest of India is immediately apparent. In this remote area monasteries and ancient palaces have striking locations, perched on lofty hilltops. The people appear different too - Ladakhis are Tibetan in their religion and culture, making this one of the world's most remote corners of Buddhism.
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Day 1 - Delhi
Arrive in Delhi where you are met and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2 - Leh
Fly to Leh (3,500m) on a breathtaking flight across the Himalayas.
Day 3 - Leh
Short morning walk of Leh. The rest of the day is free for acclimatization.
Day 4 - Leh
Tour the magnificent Indus Valley gompas of Shey, Tikse & Hemis. Tikse is a good place to watch religious ceremonies which are preceded by the playing of large standing drums and long horns.
Day 5 - Lamayuru
Drive to to Lamayuru Monastery. Lamayuru is one of the most famous and spectacular gompas in Ladakh, perched on a steep cliff overlooking a strange and alien land formation called 'moonlandscape'.
Day 6 - Leh
Drive to Alchi to visit the famous 12th century Alchi Monastry. This monastery survived the restoration of the 16th century and still has the original paintings in Kashmiri style. After visiting the monastery you return to Leh.
Day 7 - Jispa
Drive along the legendary Leh to Manali highway (the world's second highest!) with unsurpassed views along the way. You stop for the night in Jispa.
Day 8 - Manali
Continue to the hill-station of Manali, one of the most scenic areas of Himachal Pradesh. The scenery is stunning - snowcapped peaks tower above green hills that are carpeted with pine forest and fruit orchards.
Day 9 - Manali
Full day at leisure. This area is ideal for easy hikes with stunning views or you can explore the town with its many Tibetan shops.
Day 10 - Dharamsala
Travel to the hill-station of Dharamsala in a spectacular mountain setting perched on the slopes of the Kangra Valley.
Day 11 - Dharamsala
Dharamsala is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. Their settlement at Mcleod Ganj is a colourful example of Tibetan culture with many brightly coloured prayer flags and temples. You have day at leisure to explore the town.
Day 12 - Amritsar
Travel to Amritsar, the sacred capital of Punjab.
Day 13 - Delhi
Morning visit to the exquisite Golden Temple, one of the most impressive temples in India and the holiest site for Sikhs. Evening express train to Delhi.
Day 14 - Delhi
Tour ends. Transfer to Delhi airport to connect with your onward travel.
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