Best of Leh - Kashmir

The Vale of Kashmir - Set like a jeweled crown on the map of India, Kashmir is a many faceted diamond, changing character with the seasons - always extravagantly beautiful. The contrast of Kashmir valley led the poets of all nations to speak of it as an "Emerald set in Pearls.

Tour Information
Total Duration	17 Nights / 18 Days
Season	Mid-June to Mid-October
Special Features	Hill stations, Lakes, Monasteries, Villages, High Passes
Maximum Altitude	Tanglangla Pass (5329 m)
Region	Ladakh

The Journey begins Now!!!

Day 01: Arrive Delhi

You arrive at Delhi by International flight . After a traditional 'Swagat' (Welcome) our representative would assist you at the airport and take you to the hotel for check-in. After breakfast we will take you on a guided tour of Delhi at 1000 hrs, beginning with a morning sightseeing trip to Birla Temple followed by the drive around India Gate and President's House. In the afternoon we visit Humayun's Tomb, Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar and Chhatarpur Temple.

Overnight stay at the Hotel.(B)

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Day 02: Delhi - Srinagar (Flt: 9W-603 / 1115 hrs - 1235 hrs)

Post breakfast on time transfer to the Domestic Airport to catch the flight for Srinagar, also known as "Paradise On Earth" Upon arrival at Srinagar (1730 m) our representative would assist you at the Airport and transfer to the Houseboat / Hotel.

Later we visit the ancient Shankaracharya Temple  and the famous Mughal Gardens - Nishat (Garden of Pleasure), Shalimar (Adobe of Love) and Chashme Shahi (Royal Spring).

Nishat Bagh (Abode of pleasure) was built by Asif Khan brother in-law of Jehangir in 1632 AD. The largest of the gardens, Nishat has seven terraces with beautiful water channel flowing right in the middle. Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love) was built in the year 1619 A.D for was built by Emperor Jehangir for his wife Empress Noor Jehan. The Garden has four terraces; the 4th terrace was once reserved for royal ladies. Chashme Shahi (The Royal Spring) was originally laid out by Shah Jehan in 1632 AD. It is a tastefully laid garden in terraces, which commands a magnificent view of the Dal Lake below and surrounding mountain ranges. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive.

All the gardens are situated on the banks of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan mountains in the background and Shankracharya Temple located on a hillock, thus providing a panaromic view of entire city, Dal Lake and River Jhelum. Shankaracharya Temple is located at 1100 ft. above surface level of the main city on the Shankaracharya hill, also known as Takht-e-Suleiman. The Shiva temple was constructed by Raja Gopadatya in the year 371 B.C. and as such is the oldest shrine in Kashmir.

Later  in the evening we can visit handicraft & handloom centres famous for production of Pashmina / Shahtoosh shawls, world famous Carpets etc. Evening at leisure and overnight stay at the Houseboat / Hotel. (B,D)

Day 03 : Srinagar - Gulmarg (60 Km / 2 hrs approx.)

Shikara boatride on Dal lake is one of the most soothing & relaxing aspects of a holiday in Kashmir.

Early morning before breakfast we explore the Dal Lake and its Waterways and visit the floating vegetable market in a traditional Shikara boat. This unique kind of market can be only witnessed in Thailand and Kashmir. En route we shall see many species of aquatic birds on the lake, nestling on surrounding trees on floating  marshes used for growing vegetables by local people, who have inherited a unique lifestyle living on the Lake for over decades.  Return to Houseboat / Hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast we drive to Gulmarg (Meadows of Flower), 2730 m above sea level. On arrival we check-in the Hotel.
Gulmarg is a huge cup-shaped meadow, lush & green, with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cow-bells. Gulmarg has been the venue of many Indian films because of its breathtaking natural beauty. All around are snow-capped mountains, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Nanga Parbat mountain (8126 m) on one side & Srinagar on another.

From Gulmarg a 6 km pony track leads upwards to Khilanmarg, Kongdoori & Seven springs. Beyond Khilanmarg, 13 km from Gulmarg at the foot of the twin 4511 m Apharwat peaks is Alpather Lake (3843 m), which is frozen until mid-June and even later. For horse riding aficionados, Alpather Lake makes an exciting day's excursion, starting early morning and returning late evening. Gulmarg also has one of the world’s highest green golf courses with 18 holes, as well as a clubhouse, which is a historical building in its own right. For a fun-filled ride of a most unusual kind, Gulmarg’s newly constructed “gondola” cable-car (2.5 km) takes people through pine-clad slopes, to Kongdoori, which is at 3930 m. During winters Gulmarg becomes India's premier skiing resort and during this time this 2.5-km ropeway is used by skiers and other tourists to reach higher slopes. 
Evening at leisure and overnight stay at the Hotel. (B,L,D)

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Day 04 : Gulmarg

Morning post breakfast, day at leisure to explore the destination at your own.

Overnight stay at the Hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 05 : Gulmarg - Pahalgam (160 km / 5 hrs approx.)

After early breakfast we drive to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds) via Srinagar. On arrival we check-in the Hotel.

En route we visit Saffron fields of Pampore and Avantipur ruins, 1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by King Avantiwareman. The drive is through beautiful pine forest, countryside, rice fields and shepherds grazing sheep, goats and cattle.  Situated at the confluence of the stream flowing from the Sheshnag Lake and river Lidder, Pahalgam was once a humble shepherds' village with breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir’s premier resort, cool even during the height of summer. Around Pahalgam are many places of interest because it set between fairly steep hills. The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan on the way to Chandanwari is an idyllic spot for a picnic. It has been the location of several Indian film scenes. In the afternoon have a walk around and take picture of magnificent view all around. U may also enjoy horse ride (extra cost).

Overnight stay at the Hotel.  (B,L,D)

Day 06 : Pahalgam

Morning post breakfast, day at leisure to explore the destination at your own.

Overnight stay at the Hotel. (B,L,D)

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Day 07 : Pahalgam - Srinagar ( 96 km / 03 hrs approx.)

After breakfast drive back to Srinagar and check-in to the Houseboat. Rest of the day free for shopping or individual activities.

Overnight stay at Houseboat / Hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 08 : Srinagar - Sonmarg - Kargil (3440 m) (204 km / 7-8 hrs approx.)

After breakfast we depart for full day drive to Kargil via Sonmarg. Sonmarg, which means Meadow of Gold, has its backdrop of snowy mountains against the blue sky. The drive offers incredible scenic beauty, dense pine forests and gigantics mountains.The place  provides an ideal base for various trekking routes, high mountain lakes, glaciers, and Sri Amarnath Holy cave.The river meanders along here & abounds with Trout & Mahseer. Sonamarg’s importance lies in the fact that it is the last halt on the Kashmir side for the drive from Srinagar to Leh. After Sonamarg the road is steep and mostly rough till Zojila Pass (3527 m), known as "Gateway to Ladakh". Just after the Zozila Pass the topography suddenly changes and greenery of the Kaskmir valley is replaced by the rugged, dry mountain scenery of Ladakh plateau against the deep blue sky. We continue drive towards Drass, second coldest place in the world after Verkhoyansk in Siberia, RUSSIA. Here we stop for tea and passport check and then continue to drive to reach Kargil. On arrival we check-in the Hotel.

Overnight stay at the Hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 09 : Kargil - Lamayuru - Alchi (161 km / 5 hrs)

After breakfast we start our drive to Alchi via Lamayuru. On the way we cross the high Passes,  Namikala (3718 m) and Fotula (4094 m), and also visit the huge rock-cut statue of Lord Buddha at Mulbekh. Lamayuru Monastery (106 km from Kargil) is one of the most popular and magnificent monasteries of Ladakh. It is known to be the oldest monestic establishment in Ladakh and was founded by Rinchen Zangpo in the 10th century. This Monastery is located amidst the massive mountains. The spectacular setting of this Monastery and its renowned collection of carpets, thangkas and frescoes has been attracting many people all over the world over a long time. After visiting the Monastery we drive towards Alchi (55 km from Lamayuru). About 5 km before Alchi we arrive at Uleytokpo Camp and check-in the Camp.  

Dinner and overnight stay at the Camp. (B,L,D)

Day 10 : Alchi - Likir - Basgo - Leh (3521 m) (69 km / 2 hrs)

After breakfast we drive towards Alchi (5 km from Uleytokpo Camp). Just before Alchi we drive across the mighty River Indus over the bridge and reach Ladakh's most loved Alchi Monastery.
Over a century old, its wall paintings are very similar to those of the Tabo monastery in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. Unlike other monasteries which are usually on a cliff top or cling to a mountainside, Alchi is at ground level and is nestled in the shade of a garden.

After that we drive to Likir (16 km) and visit Likir Monastery, situated atop a windy cliff  overlooking the beautiful village of Likir. It was founded in the 12th Century although the present construction dates back to the 18th century as the original one was destroyed by fire. In its courtyard is a yellow colored 3 storey high mammoth statue of the Buddha, which was constructed by a resident monk. The top floor has an impressive museum containing old thangkas and weapons used many centuries back.

From Likir we drive 9 km to Basgo. It was an important centre in the old days, having been the capital of lower Ladakh when the kingdom was divided in the 15th & 16th centuries. We visit the ruins of the Royal Palace at Basgo, Ser Zung Temple, which is known for its great frescoes and finally the  temple with an enormous gold and copper statue of the Maitreya Buddha.

Later we drive to Leh (3521 m), Capital of Ladakh and check-in Hotel. Evening at leisure.

Overnight stay at Hotel. (B,L,D)

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Day 11 : Leh Monasteries

After breakfast we leave on a full day tour of the monasteries around Leh and vist Shankar, Spituk and Phyang monasteries. Later in the afternoon we walk around Leh town and visit Leh Market, Leh Palace ruins, Leh Gompa & Shanti Stupa. Overnight stay at the Hotel.(B,L,D)

Day 12: Leh - Chumathang - Tso Moriri Lake (Korzok Monastery) (4572 m) (227 km / 9-10 hrs)

After early breakfast, we drive towards Tso Moriri Lake.From Leh we reach Upshi on Leh-Manali road and then turn to another valley and drive along the mighty Indus River. It is one of the most interesting areas and goes through narrow valleys, sandy deserts, rocky paths, and our vehicle crosses number of mountain streams. On the way we visit Chumathang, famous for its  hot springs that has medicinal properties and Sumdah village from where Korzok village is another 55 km. Little before Tso Moriri Lake we drive past a small green valley famous for wild Marmots locally known as Phya.  We arrive at Korzok village (4572 m) in the evening and check-in the Camps little away from the village. Korzok (4572 m), the only village near Tso Moriri Lake, is the only permanent settlement in Rupshu region with an approximate population of 500 people. The few barley fields at Karzok must be among the highest cultivation in the world. In the evening we visit Korzok Monastery.

Dinner and overnight stay at the Camp. (B,L,D)

Day 13: Tso Moriri Lake (Korzok Monastery)

Day free to explore the Lake area, Korzok Monastery and the village.
The Lake has brackish water and is 8 km wide and 28 km long. This brackish water lake is considered sacred by the locals. The surroundings of the Lake are very beautiful and the reflection of the opposite mountains in the shimmering clear blue waters of the Lake is one of the most breathtaking sights. The Lake is a breeding ground for numerous species of birds like Great Crested Grebe, Brahmini ducks (ruddy sheldrake) , Bar Headed Geese, Brown-headed gull etc. This region also has large number of Kiangs (Tibetan Wild Ass) and it is not difficult to spot them roaming around in groups.  Dinner and overnight stay at the Camp. (B,L,D)

Day 14: Tso Moriri Lake (Korzok Manastery)- Tso Khar Lake - Tanglang La Pass - Leh

After breakfast we visit nearby Korzok Manastery (4572 m) and then drive to Mahe village where the road turns left towards Puga Valley, a grassy plain with a small sacred stream, Sulphur springs and Geysers (shooting fountain). Continue drive to Tsokar via Polokongka Pass (4116 m) and visit Tso Khar (4485 m). It is also called White Lake because of salt deposits around it. The Lake is so salty that the salt extracted from its margins are still sold all over Ladakh. The place is also famous for Kiangs (Tibetan Wild Ass), which are generally seen here grazing and moving in groups. From here after short drive we reach Leh-Manali road and continue drive towards Leh via Tanglangla Pass (5329 m), the third highest motorable point in the world. En route we drive past beautiful villages of Rumtse, Gya, Miru and Lato. We arrive Leh in the evening and check-in the Hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel.(B,L,D)

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Day 15: Leh Sightseeing

After breakfast proceed for Indus Valley Monastery Tour. We start with a visit to Shey, the ancient capital of Ladakh. The monastery here has a huge gold-gilded statue of Buddha Sakyamuni with a large silver lamp burning in front of the statue. Then we visit Thiksey Monastery (Gompa), an impressive complex rising tier upon tier on a hill above the village. The monastery has a beautiful 30 m high gold-plated statue of Maitreya Buddha, the Buddha of the future.

Drive further to visit the famous Hemis Monastery, founded in the year 1630 by Stag-tsang-ras-pa under the royal patronage of Sengge Namgyal. Hemis is one of the largest and richest monasteries of Ladakh. The two-day festival of monastic dance in July / August has raised the reputation of Hemis particularly high. The festival is dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, popularly known as second Buddha and responsible for spreading Buddhism in the Tibetan world.

Later we visit the Stok Palace, the Royal residence of the King of Stok & the Museum that has a rich collection of ancient Ladakhi artefacts including old Thangkas, precious stones, arms and armoury, the Queen’s necklace and the crown of the King of Ladakh among others.  We drive back to Leh.

Overnight stay at the Hotel.(B,L,D)

Day 16: Leh - Delhi (Flt: 9W-610 / 0840 hrs - 0955 hrs)

After early breakfast we transfer you to the Airport to board the flight to Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi our representative would assist you at the airport and take you to the hotel for check-in. Rest of the day at leisure for shopping or individual activities.

Overnight stay at the Hotel. (B)

Day 17: Delhi - Agra - Delhi (220 km / 5 hrs one way)

After an early breakfast, we drive at 0730 hrs to Agra, the erstwhile capital of great Mughals and known for the Taj Mahal. It has always fascinated Indians and foreigners alike. Most of Agra is on the West bank of river Yamuna, with the Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at its nucleus. Taj Mahal is quite simply one of mankind's most remarkable creations.

At Agra we visit the incredible architectural excellence of Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Next we visit Agra Fort, built principally as a military establishment by Akbar in 1565. Tthe red sandstone Agra Fort was partially converted into a palace during Shah Jahan's time. This massive Fort is 2.5 km long and is considered as the predecessor of the Delhi Red Fort. After visiting the Fort and if time permits, we will visit Sikandra (Tomb of Emperor Akbar) on the way back to Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi we will have dinner and later transfer you to the International airport for your onward travel to your next destination. (No accommodation) (B)

Day 18: Depart Delhi

Our tour concludes: Caper thanks you for your patronage and ensures a punctual transfer to the International airport for your onward travel to your next destination.