Travel dates: July 5–15, 2027

Duration: 11 days / 10 nights

Group size: 6 – 12 participants

Price per person:
• USD 2,590, for groups of 10 – 12 participants
• USD 2,790, for groups of 8 – 9 participants
• USD 2,990, for groups of 6 – 7 participants

*A 10% discount applies for bookings made before January 27, 2026.

All-inclusive (including three meals a day), with the exception of:

• international flights to Srinagar (India) and back from Leh (India),
• international medical insurance,
• India visa (issued online in advance; cost for Russian citizens is USD 80 for a 5-year visa).

Estimated cost of the Moscow – Srinagar (India) and Leh (India) – Moscow flights: from USD 650 (usually booked independently; we provide guidance).
Estimated cost of the Delhi – Srinagar (India) and Leh (India) – Delhi flights: from USD 150 (usually booked independently; we provide guidance).

Single room supplement: USD 700 (single accommodation is available throughout the entire route).

TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to ladakh and kashmir

Day 1. July 5, 2027 (Monday). SRINAGAR

Morning arrival at Srinagar airport. This is likely one of the most scenic flights in the world. Srinagar is widely known as the "City of Rishis and Sufis" and is the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Our local guide will meet us and take us to the hotel. In the evening, we will take a shikara ride on the world-famous Dal Lake, where we will see floating gardens and a variety of birds, such as the kingfisher, bittern, pariah kite, and others. Houseboats first appeared in the 19th century, when Europeans expressed interest in buying land in the valley and settling here. However, the local ruler firmly refused to allow this and issued a decree banning foreigners from purchasing land in the valley — a law that, incidentally, remains in effect to this day. In response, the British began building homes without buying land — directly on the water! This is how houseboats came to be. At first they genuinely floated around the lake, but as their numbers grew, they became permanently moored along the shore. Even before the British left India after it gained independence, another clever idea helped these beautiful houseboats survive: they were converted into hotels for tourists visiting the valley. Dal Lake was a symbol of Srinagar, and no one wanted to miss the chance to live on its magnificent waters. As a result, houseboats became a steady source of income for their owners.

Meals included: lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Sarai, Srinagar or similar


Day 2. July 6, 2027 (Tuesday). SRINAGAR – BABA RESHI SHRINE – GULMARG – SRINAGAR (50 km one way, 1.5 hours)

After breakfast, we leave the hotel and head to the revered shrine of the Sufi saint Baba Reshi, set amid picturesque mountains along the road to Gulmarg. The Ziarat of Baba Reshi is dedicated to Sheikh Baba Payam-ud-Din Reshi — a courtier of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin who left palace life for a spiritual path and became one of Kashmir's most revered saints. He died in 1480, and the shrine above his tomb has since remained a place of pilgrimage for people of many different faiths. The building is adorned with the finest wood carving and papier-mâché work — the very Kashmiri craft for which the valley is famous.

From there, our journey continues to Gulmarg. Known as the "Meadow of Flowers," Gulmarg sits at an altitude of 2,900 meters and is a renowned ski resort as well as the highest 18-hole golf course in the world. Gulmarg's legendary beauty, favorable location, and proximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of the country's finest mountain resorts. It was originally called "Gaurimarg" by shepherds, and its present name was given by Sultan Yusuf Shah in the 16th century, inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes covered in wildflowers. Gulmarg was a favorite retreat of Emperor Jahangir, who once gathered 21 varieties of flowers here.

Here we will have time to stroll leisurely across the alpine meadows, admire the panorama of snow-capped peaks, and understand why this place has been cherished for centuries. In the afternoon, we return to Srinagar.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Sarai, Srinagar, or similar


Day 3. July 7, 2027 (Wednesday). SRINAGAR

After a leisurely breakfast, we set out on a city sightseeing tour, beginning with a visit to the Shankaracharya Temple. This is believed to be the place where the great philosopher and saint Shankaracharya stayed when he visited Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive Sanatana Dharma (the eternal law). Next, we head to the Hazratbal Mosque. Located in a village on the western shore of Dal Lake, opposite Nishat Bagh, this white marble building casts its reflection across the waters of the lake. Unlike other mosques in Srinagar, which have pagoda-style roofs, Hazratbal is the only mosque with a domed roof. The structure is a blend of Muslim and Kashmiri architecture. In 1634, Syed Abdullah, a custodian of the Prophet Muhammad's mosque in Medina, came to India carrying a priceless relic — a hair from the Prophet's beard. He gave the hair to Khwaja Nur-ud-Din, who in turn brought it to Kashmir in 1700. Here, the relic was presented to the people, and it is now kept in this mosque. We will also, of course, visit Jamia Masjid, located in the heart of the old city. This vast mosque is visited by thousands of people who gather here for Friday prayers. In the afternoon, we will visit the Mughal Gardens, beginning with Nishat Garden, known as the "Garden of Pleasure," built in the 17th century by the Mughal noble Asif Khan. We will then continue to Shalimar Garden, known as the "Garden of Love," built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan. We will conclude our walk at Chashme Shahi Garden — the "Royal Spring" — the smallest of Srinagar's Mughal gardens, laid out in 1632 around a spring of crystal-clear water. This garden was equally beloved by emperors and ordinary townspeople, who came here to picnic.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Sarai, Srinagar or similar


Day 4. July 8, 2027 (Thursday). SRINAGAR – SONMARG – KARGIL (204 km, 7 hours)

After breakfast, we leave Kashmir and set off for Ladakh. Along the way, we will stop in Sonmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." From Sonmarg, one can hike up to the Thajiwas Glacier, where snow remains year-round. We then continue on to Kargil, passing through the village of Drass (one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth), and enjoy magnificent views of Tiger Hill and Tololing, Kargil's famous peaks.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Zojila Residency Hotel 3* (Super Deluxe room) or similar


Day 5. July 9, 2027 (Friday). KARGIL – DHA HANU (ARYAN VALLEY) – THE VILLAGES OF DHA, HANU, AND BEMA OF THE BROKPA PEOPLE

After breakfast, we leave Kargil, and our first stop is the rock carving of Maitreya, the Buddha of the future. The four-armed figure is carved in deep relief and, according to researchers, dates back to the 8th century — a time when an ancient trade route ran through this valley and Buddhism was just beginning to take root in the Himalayas. The statue has survived centuries, changing religions, and changing rulers, and still greets everyone traveling from Kashmir to Ladakh — it is the first, and one of the most powerful, Buddhist images along our route.
We then head into the remote Aryan Valley to meet the "true Aryans," visiting the villages of Dha, Hanu, and Bema — three of the five villages inhabited by the Brokpa (Minaro) people. This is a small community of around 2,000 people whose features are purely Indo-Aryan, and who have preserved their racial purity across the centuries. The road into the valley is mountainous and scenic, so we will take our time — which is why we spend the night here, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the life of this remarkable people.

Here we will learn about the Brokpa way of life, visit a local family, and, of course, share a cup of fragrant tea. The Brokpa, descended from Indo-Aryan tribes, have preserved their ethnic purity for centuries: marriage is only permitted within the community. In appearance, the Brokpa differ markedly from other residents of the region — tall, with wide-set eyes, full lips, and sharply defined noses.
The pride of local women is the perak, a hereditary headdress. It is made of leather and embroidered with turquoise, silver plates, and beads. The number of rows of turquoise reflects the wealth of its owner. But the perak's centerpiece is the physalis flower. The Brokpa believe it wards off demons and brings prosperity.
In the evening, we are treated to something special — a traditional Brokpa dance performance, offering an even deeper glimpse into the unique culture of this region.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Aryan Residency, Aryan Valley, or similar


Day 6. July 10, 2027 (Saturday). LAMAYURU – LIKIR – NIMMU VALLEY – PATHAR SAHIB – LEH

After breakfast, we head to Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Along the way, we will visit a number of monasteries, starting with the 11th-century Lamayuru Monastery. Lamayuru is dramatically situated along the valley floor and surrounded by mountains on every side. Nearby await the famous "moonscapes" — upon seeing these folds of weathered rock, you will immediately understand why the area is called Moonland: the terrain here almost perfectly mirrors the surface of the moon. We will also stop at Alchi Gompa, a complex of temples located in a village that is among the most celebrated monasteries in Ladakh. The monastery complex has three main shrines — the Dukhang (assembly hall), the Sumtsek, and the Manjushri Temple. The wall paintings are the main highlight here, as they display elements of both Buddhist and Kashmiri artistic styles. The complex also houses a huge statue of the Buddha, along with lavish woodcarving and artwork reminiscent of Baroque style. After this, we will also visit Likir Monastery, built in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 18th century, home to an eight-meter gilded statue of the Buddha. In the afternoon, we will visit the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. The Indus originates in the Great Himalayan ranges, while the Zanskar River originates in the Zanskar ranges. The Zanskar River has a bright blue color, while the Indus appears slightly green. The Zanskar meets the Indus in the Nimmu Valley, and for a while after the confluence, each river retains its own color. Just 4 kilometers from Nimmu lies Magnetic Hill, which appears to defy the laws of gravity. It has been observed that when a car is parked in neutral gear on this stretch of road, it appears to roll uphill. After this, we will stop at Pathar Sahib Gurudwara. Dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, this sacred site beautifully commemorates his visit to Ladakh. The gurudwara, dating back to 1517, houses a boulder bearing the imprint of Guru Nanak Dev's head, shoulders, and back.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Casa Galwan 4* or similar


Day 7. July 11, 2027 (Sunday). LEH – CHUMATHANG – TSO MORIRI (240 km, 6 hours)

The morning begins with our departure for the legendary Tso Moriri Lake, traveling through the scenic expanses around Chumathang. Along the way, we will stop in the village of Sumdo — here you can experience the authentic life of local residents and feel the rhythm of these high-altitude lands. After another 55 km, Tso Moriri Lake comes into view, sitting at 4,500 meters above sea level, near the small village of Korzok.

Tso Moriri remained closed to foreigners for a long time due to its proximity to the Chinese border, and these lands are now opening their doors to those seeking wilderness and breathtaking landscapes. The lake is known for its therapeutic hot springs, where visitors come to bathe for their health and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the high mountains.

This region is a true treasure trove for birdwatchers: the lake is a breeding ground for numerous bird species, including the bar-headed goose, great crested grebe, ruddy shelduck (Brahminy duck), and brown-headed gull.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Korzok Eco Lounge Resort, Tso Moriri, or similar


Day 8. July 12, 2027 (Monday). TSO MORIRI – TSO KAR – TANGLANG LA – LEH (240 km, 7 hours)

After an early breakfast, we head toward the village of Korzok, a true gem of the high mountains. Here, houses and gompas seem like mirages against the harsh landscape, and its several barley fields are among the highest-altitude fields in the world.

Our route then continues to Tso Kar, where we will meet the nomadic Changpa people. These people live in harmony with their herds of goats, sheep, and yaks — their sole source of wealth. Day after day, they move from pasture to pasture depending on the season, milking their animals, turning the milk into butter, making rope, and weaving mats and clothing — all by hand. Their traditional way of life remains almost entirely untouched by modern civilization, and watching it unfold is like glimpsing the past.

The road here offers breathtaking views, and Tso Kar Lake is one of the most beautiful in these remote lands. After a short rest and some photographs, we continue on to Leh. Along the way, we stop at the impressive Thiksey Monastery complex, which rises majestically tier upon tier on a hill above the village. After another 5 km, views open up onto Shey Palace — the ancient capital of Ladakh, which still holds the atmosphere of history and grandeur.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Casa Galwan 4* or similar


Day 9. July 13, 2027 (Tuesday). LEH – HEMIS FESTIVAL (full day)

Today is the highlight of our journey. After an early breakfast, we head to Hemis Monastery — the largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, majestically set on a green hillside amid dramatic mountain scenery. This is not merely an architectural landmark but an important spiritual site for Tibetans in exile, where one can feel the depth of religious tradition and the grandeur of history.
The monastery is more than 500 years old, and once a year it becomes the focal point of all Ladakh: this is where the Hemis Festival is held — the region's most famous celebration, dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, who brought Buddhism to Tibet and the Himalayas. People from all the surrounding villages gather here in their finest traditional dress, and the monastery courtyard is transformed into a living stage.
The central event is the sacred masked dance known as Cham. Lamas in heavy brocade robes and enormous carved masks depicting deities, protectors of the faith, and spirits, accompanied by the sound of long trumpets, drums, and cymbals, perform a mystery play about the triumph of good over evil. For the monks, this is not a performance but a ritual, and witnessing it up close is a rare opportunity to experience a living Himalayan tradition rather than a museum exhibit.
After spending the whole day at Hemis, we return to Leh in the evening.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation included: Casa Galwan 4* or similar
Day 10. July 14, 2027 (Wednesday). LEH
After breakfast, we will immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the local market, with its vivid colors, scents, and bustle, before visiting Spituk and Phyang monasteries, each home to its own unique rituals and secrets. Spituk, founded in the 11th century 8 km from Leh, is famous for its collection of ancient masks and thangkas, as well as a giant statue of the goddess Kali, unveiled only once a year during the monastery festival. Phyang belongs to the "Red Hat" school of Buddhism — once granted royal favor, all the surrounding hills were given to the monks.
We will also visit Sankar Gompa, located just 3 km from the center of Leh — a small working monastery rarely visited by tour groups.
We will then climb up to the Shanti Stupa, a pure white domed stupa on a hilltop in the Changspa area. It was built in 1991 by the Japanese Buddhist monk Gyomyo Nakamura, and the relics of the Buddha enshrined at its base were consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama himself. From here, one of the finest panoramic views of the valley unfolds.
The final part of the day takes us up to Leh Palace, whose architecture and imposing façade recall the famous Potala Palace in Lhasa. Built in the 17th century for his family by King Sengge Namgyal, this nine-story palace now houses a museum and a prayer hall. From its heights, panoramic views stretch out over the city and surrounding mountains, letting us truly feel the scale and spirit of Ladakh.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Casa Galwan 4* or similar


Day 11. July 15, 2027 (Thursday). LEH – DELHI

Our journey comes to an end. Today, we will be transferred to Leh airport in good time to catch our flight to Delhi and, from there, our onward international flight.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: none

Recommended flights from Leh to Delhi:

– IndiGo, departing Leh at 13:30, arriving Delhi at 14:55 – IndiGo Flight 6E-2007, departing Leh at 8:30, arriving Delhi at 9:55
– Air India Flight AI-2602, departing Leh at 9:05 AM, arriving Delhi at 10:30
– or any other flight departing Leh at any time on July 15

Recommended international flights from Delhi:

– Aeroflot, departing Delhi on July 15 at 5:00 AM, arriving Moscow at 9:00 AM the same day
– Air Arabia Flight G9-466, departing Delhi on July 15 at 18:35, arriving Sharjah at 20:30
– Etihad Airways Flight EY-217, departing Delhi on July 15 at 21:15, arriving Abu Dhabi at 23:25
– or any other flight departing Delhi on July 15, or during the night of July 15–16, that connects with the Leh–Delhi flight

*The order of visits and excursions may be adjusted depending on local conditions, including road conditions, security situation, flight schedules, and confirmed festival dates. If certain visits and/or tours cannot take place due to external circumstances, they will be replaced wherever possible.