Heritage-luxury experience in Kashmir and Ladakh

Delhi
Arrival at Delhi airport. Transfer to hotel for some rest. Around 10 am after breakfast you will start your guided tour of Old Delhi. In particular, you will visit the Red Fort (visit only from outside), a UNESCO World Heritage since 2007, built in 1639 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (the creator of the Taj Mahal), the the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, where an ancient copy of the holy Quran written on Deer skin is preserved. Visit small lanes of this part of the city such as Chawri Bazar, one of the busiest street of Old Delhi. Later visit Raj Ghat, the site of Mahatma Ghandi cremation. After lunch you will visit new Delhi with its Government buildings such as the India Gate, an arch erected in memory of the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during World War I, and the Parliament House. In the late afternoon we will continue the visit with the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most prominent Sikh gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship in India, known as the “Sarovar.” Then transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Delhi (D)

Delhi – Srinagar
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir. On meet our representative and transferred to the Houseboat. Later you will visit the famous Mughal garden of Shalimar and Nishat to wonder at leisure among the flowers, fountains, waterfalls and beautiful chinar trees before a late afternoon unforgettable experience of being paddled around Dal Lake at dusk in a shikara (wooden boat) as the sun sets over the panorama of mountains that surround the Vale of Kashmir perfectly reflected in the mirror calm water. Back onboard Kashmiri musicians will perform a traditional classical music recital as you enjoy a sumptuous feast under the stars on deck.
Overnight in Srinagar. (B, D)

Srinagar
After breakfast on deck, you will start a guided walking tour of Srinagar’s atmospheric old city. Starting at Zaina Kadal bridge you will enter a living museum of Islamic architecture and lively bazaars piled high with local treats like walnuts, apricots, red chillies and honey as well as many tempting pashminas and beautifully embroided shawls. We will visit the Patthar Masjid or “slipper mosque”, the exquisitely decorated sufi shrine Khanqah of Shah Hamadan, the Zain Ul Abedin tomb with its silk road style Byzantine domes and the 370 wooden pillared Jama Masjid with a lunch break at Ahdoos’, an authentic Kashmiri restaurant in the old city. The Last stop will be the hilltop Shankarachariya Temple reached just before sunset for the glorious view it offers. After sundown you will return to the houseboat.
Overnight in Srinagar. (B, L, D)

Srinagar – Sonmarg – Kargil
After breakfast drive to Kargil via Sonamarg and Drass through the adventurous Zojila Pass. Sonamarg (2740 mts) also known as ‘The Meadow of Gold’ or “The Gateway of Ladakh’ and is surrounded by colourful mountains and thick Pine forests. Drass (3280 mts) is the second coldest inhabited place in the worl after Siberia and is famous for the 1999 Kargil war. Enroute visit the Draupati Kund where as per legends Draupati used to bath during the exile of the Pandavas. Onwards drive to Drass and pay homage to the Kargil War Heroes at the famous Kargil War Memorial. Attend the brief history of the Kargil war memorial by an Army Jawan if available. Enjoy the view of Tiger Hill and Tololing. Reach Kargil by evening
Overnight in Kargil (B, D).

Kargil – Passo Fotu La (4166 m) – Lamayuru – Nimmu
A full day drive, a transition from green valleys to barren stark mountains of ladakh. Today we ascend few passes and experience the first Buddhist village, Mulbek, the gaint statue of Matreya buddha, believed to be naturally existed. We cross the highest pass (Fotula 4166 mtrs), reaching Lamayuru village whereyou will have lunch. Later you will visit Lamayuru Monastery, dated 11th century, it is not only the oldest and most picturesque, but is said to have been the first place of learning in Ladakh of the Drikung Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Visit to the meditation centre of Lamayuru, which hosts a small community of yogis, who still practice a sort of tantric meditation from ancient Tibet, already practiced by great yogis such as Milarepa, Naropa. After continue drive through the lower valleys of ladakh (shyam) with crossing basgo village, reaching Nimmu you will stop and check in the Hotel.
Overnight in Nimmu (B, D).

Nimmu
Spend this day fully dedicated to acclimatizing and easing into the rhythm of Ladakh. Take your time to relax in the serene garden of your charming heritage retreat, hydrating well with herbal teas, fresh juices, and water while enjoying the calm atmosphere.
After a light lunch, join a guided Pranayama session with a yoga master, designed to help you adjust to the altitude and reconnect with your breath and body. Later, take a guided walk through the house to discover its beautifully preserved Ladakhi architecture, intricate wood carvings, and colorful traditional paintings — an authentic insight into the local way of life.
In the evening, gather around the outdoor bonfire for a drink before dinner is served, closing the day in a warm and convivial atmosphere.
Overnight in Nimmu (B, L, D)

Nimmu – Leh
After breakfast, drive just 30 minutes to Seaspool to visit ancient meditation caves, known for their impressive frescoes and spiritual significance.
Continue to Alchi Monastery, an 11th-century landmark renowned for its exceptionally preserved murals painted by Kashmiri and Tibetan masters. Visiting this site gives you rare access to one of Ladakh’s most important cultural and artistic heritages.
Stop for lunch at Alchi Kitchen, where traditional Ladakhi recipes are served with care in an authentic setting.
In the afternoon, head to Likir Monastery, famous for its 75-meter Buddha statue and outstanding views of the Himalayas. Explore the surrounding area, with its quiet villages and dramatic landscapes — a perfect setting for memorable photographs and a closer look at local life.
By late afternoon, continue to Leh and check in at an exclusive contemporary retreat that blends modern design with Ladakhi craftsmanship and understated luxury. Wide open views, elegant interiors, and a warm, attentive service create an atmosphere of quiet sophistication — a perfect balance after a day exploring Ladakh’s heritage. Dinner is served in a refined yet relaxed setting, featuring flavors inspired by the region.
Overnight in Leh (B, L, D)

Leh
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to two of Ladakh’s most important monasteries to witness the morning prayers.
At Thiksey Monastery, perched dramatically on a rocky hilltop in the Indus Valley, you’ll take part in the monks’ morning chanting. This 12-story monastery, reminiscent of Lhasa’s Potala Palace, houses ten temples, richly painted assembly halls, and the iconic statue of Maitreya Buddha — whose serene gaze invites quiet reflection.
Continue to Hemis Monastery, the largest and most celebrated in Ladakh. Belonging to the Drukpa order of Tibetan Buddhism, it is known for its colorful annual Cham dance festival and its impressive collection of thangkas, statues, and sacred artifacts.
Return to Leh in the afternoon and take time to explore the fascinating labyrinth of winding streets and picturesque local bazaars, where you can shop for handicrafts, pashminas, and prayer flags, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. Visit the Royal Palace of Leh, an imposing 16th-century structure that dominates the town. With its striking resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Ladakh’s royal history. As the sun begins to set, head to the Shanti Stupa, a gleaming white monument overlooking Leh. Here, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the city and the mountains bathed in golden light — the perfect way to close your day.
Overnight in Leh (B)

Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder, Nubra Valley
After breakfast, depart from Leh for the Nubra Valley — one of the most picturesque regions of Ladakh, with its striking sand dunes, winding rivers, and snow-capped peaks. The drive takes approximately 4–5 hours, crossing the legendary Khardung La Pass (5,359 m), one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and stop for memorable photographs of the dramatic landscape. On arrival in the valley, visit Diskit Monastery, the largest and oldest monastery in Nubra, and admire its impressive 32-meter-high statue of Maitreya Buddha, with sweeping views over the valley.
Continue to your accommodation in Hunder, an exclusive property that combines contemporary comfort with panoramic views of the desert and surrounding mountains. Settle in and enjoy the tranquility of its refined spaces before heading out for the final experience of the day. Later in the evening, take part in a short camel safari on the sand dunes of Hunder, surrounded by surreal desert scenery and snow-clad peaks — a truly unique way to close the day.
Overnight in Hunder (B, D)

Hunder – Turtuk
After breakfast, depart from Hunder and drive towards Turtuk, a remote village on the edge of the Shyok Valley, just a few kilometers from the Line of Control. The scenic two-hour journey takes you through stark desert landscapes and along the banks of the Shyok River, offering incredible contrasts between barren mountains and fertile valleys. On arrival, you’ll discover one of Ladakh’s most fascinating cultural enclaves: Turtuk, home to the Balti people — an ethnic group with Indo-Tibetan roots that has preserved its unique traditions, language, and way of life for generations. Guided through the village, you’ll walk its narrow alleys lined with traditional stone houses, visit the modest royal house now converted into a small museum, and learn about Turtuk’s remarkable history as part of Baltistan before the borders changed in 1971. You’ll have the opportunity to meet and interact with villagers, sample fresh, locally grown apricots, and enjoy an authentic Balti lunch prepared with care by your hosts. The afternoon offers time to explore more of the village at a relaxed pace, visit a small monastery with sweeping views over the valley, or simply immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of daily life here. This evening, you’ll stay in Turtuk itself — in a boutique property that blends comfort with authenticity, giving you an intimate connection to the culture and traditions of Baltistan. Thoughtfully designed spaces, warm hospitality, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make this an unforgettable overnight experience in one of Ladakh’s most unique settings.
Overnight in Turtuk (B, L, D)

Turtuk – Sumur
After breakfast, depart from Turtuk and begin the scenic drive to Sumur, crossing the Shyok River and traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Nubra Valley. The journey takes several hours, but the changing scenery — from fertile Balti fields to stark Himalayan deserts — makes it an unforgettable experience. On arrival in Sumur, check into your accommodation — an exclusive retreat surrounded by orchards, open skies, and mountain views, offering a refined yet authentic Ladakhi atmosphere. Take some time to rest and refresh before heading out in the late afternoon. As the day cools, head to the iconic Sumur sand dunes, where golden desert sands meet snow-capped peaks in a surreal and breathtaking setting. Stroll through the dunes, soak in the silence, and enjoy the unique landscape as the sun sets behind the mountains. As the evening approaches, you’ll be treated to a magical dinner under the stars, set on the sand dunes of Sumur, surrounded by the stillness and beauty of the Nubra Valley. A refined yet authentic culinary experience in an unforgettable setting.
Overnight in Sumur (B, L, D)

Sumur
Wake up early for a serene morning at Samstanling Monastery, where you’ll witness the monks’ daily prayers and explore its colorful murals and ancient Buddhist architecture. You’ll also have the rare chance to take part in a guided mindfulness walk and meditation session in the monastery’s grounds, connecting deeply with the spiritual traditions of the region.
Return to your accommodation for a leisurely lunch, with time to relax and enjoy its serene atmosphere and attentive hospitality.
In the afternoon, set out for Ensa Monastery, dramatically perched on a mountainside. Take time to explore this quiet and lesser-known gompa, famous for its panoramic valley views and the mythical footprint of Dachompa Nyima Gungpa. The visit offers a sense of solitude and authenticity rarely found in more frequented sites.
You’ll then stop at Panamik Village, renowned for its natural hot springs. Here you can relax and experience a traditional hot-water soak, appreciated by locals for its therapeutic and rejuvenating properties — the perfect way to unwind after the day’s discoveries. Return to the retreat for a relaxed dinner, served either in the elegant dining space or in the quiet of the gardens — a perfect way to close the day.
Overnight in Sumur (B, L, D)

Sumur – Leh
Wake up early for a serene yoga session by the Holy Lake, surrounded by pristine nature and the quiet energy of this sacred place. A short drive and walk lead you to this peaceful high-altitude sanctuary, where you’ll practice yoga and mindful tea meditation at the water’s edge — a profound way to connect with yourself and the spirit of the mountains.
Return to your accommodation for a relaxed breakfast before beginning the journey back to Leh, crossing once again the spectacular Khardung La Pass. The drive takes approximately 6 hours, with scenic stops to enjoy the dramatic Himalayan views and capture the last glimpses of Nubra Valley’s unique landscape.
Upon arrival in Leh in the afternoon, you check in at an exclusive retreat nestled in a lush orchard of apricot and willow trees. The property combines heritage charm with modern elegance: private garden villas, traditional Ladakhi architecture, and serene courtyards create the perfect setting to unwind after the long drive. As the evening approaches, you are invited to witness a private prayer ritual performed by the resident monk in the property’s intimate Buddhist temple. Guests have privileged access to this spiritual experience, usually reserved for the palace family, offering a moment of quiet reflection in a deeply authentic atmosphere.
Later, enjoy an elegant dinner served in the orchard gardens, under the starlit Himalayan sky — an unforgettable culinary experience in a setting that combines history, intimacy, and natural beauty.
Overnight in Leh (B, D)

After breakfast, transfer to Leh airport for your onward flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Ladakh’s culture, landscapes, and unique experiences.