Expedition from Kashmir to Zanskar and Lake Tso Moriri: To the Brokpa Aryans, Changpa Nomads, and the Hemis Tsechu Festival
LADAKH + KASHMIR
June 28 - July 8, 2025
tour India
June 28 - July 8, 2025
tour India
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Our "Above the Clouds" expedition ventures to the far north of India to explore the remote regions of Kashmir, Ladakh, and Zanskar.
We'll glide across the serene waters of Dal Lake in a shikara, marvel at the tranquil majesty of the snow-capped Himalayas, and traverse lush valleys and crystal-clear mountain rivers that cradle the origins of the mighty Indus.
In the Aryan Valley, we'll visit Brokpa villages—home to the last true Aryans—and discover numerous gompas, the iconic Buddhist monasteries. At one of these sacred sites, we’ll join the vibrant celebration of the Hemis Tsechu Festival. Finally, we’ll reach the high-altitude Lake Tso Moriri and meet its nomadic inhabitants, the Changpa
We'll glide across the serene waters of Dal Lake in a shikara, marvel at the tranquil majesty of the snow-capped Himalayas, and traverse lush valleys and crystal-clear mountain rivers that cradle the origins of the mighty Indus.
In the Aryan Valley, we'll visit Brokpa villages—home to the last true Aryans—and discover numerous gompas, the iconic Buddhist monasteries. At one of these sacred sites, we’ll join the vibrant celebration of the Hemis Tsechu Festival. Finally, we’ll reach the high-altitude Lake Tso Moriri and meet its nomadic inhabitants, the Changpa
Kashmir Ladakh Zanskar Above the Clouds expedition Dal Lake Shikara Himalayas Mountain rivers Indus Aryan Valley Brokpa villages True Aryans Buddhist monasteries Gompas Hemis Tsechu Festival High-altitKashmir Ladakh Zanskar Above the Clouds expedition Dal Lake Shikara Himalayas Mountain rivers Indus Aryan Valley Brokpa villages True Aryans Buddhist monasteries Gompas Hemis Tsechu Festival High-altitude Lake Tso Moriri Nomadic inhabitants Changpa Northern India Exotic tourism Cultural heritage Himalayas nature Vibrant festivals Gorges and valleys Buddism in Ladakh Authentic villagesude Lake Tso Moriri Nomadic inhabitants Changpa Northern India Exotic tourism Cultural heritage Himalayas nature Vibrant festivals Gorges and valleys Buddism in Ladakh Authentic villages
SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: June 28 – July 8, 2025
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Number of Participants: 6–12 participants
Cost per person:
Everything included (all accommodations and three daily meals), except:
Estimated airfare:
Single Supplement: $650 (single accommodations available throughout the itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to india
Day 1. June 28, 2025 (Saturday). SRINAGAR
Morning arrival at Srinagar Airport.
This could very well be one of the most scenic flights in the world. Srinagar, widely known as the "City of Saints and Sufis," serves as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Our local guide will meet us and take us to our hotel. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a Shikara ride on the world-famous Dal Lake, where we’ll see floating gardens and a variety of birds, such as kingfishers, herons, and pariah kites.
Floating houses first appeared in the 19th century when Europeans expressed interest in settling in the valley. However, the local ruler refused to sell land to foreigners, issuing a decree that still stands today. In response, the British began building houses on water—thus, houseboats were born. Initially, they floated freely on the lake, but as their numbers grew, they became permanently anchored along the shores.
Before India gained independence, a brilliant idea ensured the survival of these charming houseboats—they were transformed into hotels for tourists visiting the valley. Dal Lake became synonymous with Srinagar, and the chance to stay on its serene waters has remained irresistible. Today, houseboats continue to provide a livelihood for their owners.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Asian Park 3*
*Recommended international flights to Delhi:
— Aeroflot, Flight SU-232, departs Moscow on June 27 at 18:40, arrives in Delhi on June 28 at 03:20.
— Air Arabia, Flight G9‑806, departs Sharjah on June 27 at 23:15, arrives in Delhi on June 28 at 04:00.
— Any other flight from any city, arriving in Delhi during the night of June 27–28, compatible with onward flights to Srinagar.
**Recommended flights to Srinagar:
— IndiGo, departs Delhi at 07:30 on June 28, arrives in Srinagar at 09:10.
— IndiGo, Flight 6E‑2356, departs Delhi at 09:40 on June 28, arrives in Srinagar at 11:05.
— Any other flight arriving in Srinagar no later than 11:00 on June 28.
Day 2. June 29, 2025 (Sunday). SRINAGAR – GULMARG (50 km, 1.5 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll depart for Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." Located at an altitude of 2,900 meters, it’s a renowned ski resort and home to the world’s highest 18-hole golf course. Gulmarg’s legendary beauty, convenient location, and proximity to Srinagar make it one of India’s premier mountain resorts. Originally named "Gaurimarg" by shepherds, it was renamed in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, inspired by its grassy slopes adorned with wildflowers. Gulmarg was also a favorite of Emperor Jahangir, who once collected 21 varieties of flowers here.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, followed by a gondola ride to the first or second phase. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, reaches an altitude of 3,979 meters. This two-stage lift carries around 600 people per hour from Gulmarg to the shoulder of Mount Apharwat (4,200 m), offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Nanga Parbat.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Zahgeer Gulmarg Continental 3*
Day 3. June 30, 2025 (Monday). GULMARG – PAHALGAM (148 km, 4 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll depart for Pahalgam, also known as the "Valley of Shepherds." Situated at the confluence of streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherds' village surrounded by stunning landscapes.
On the way, we’ll visit saffron fields and the 19th-century ruins of Avantipur. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel. After lunch, we’ll head to Aru Valley, located 10 km from Pahalgam. The village of Aru lies on the left bank of the Aru River, a tributary of the Lidder River. This valley is renowned for its picturesque meadows and tranquil atmosphere.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pahalgam Retreat 3*
Day 4. July 1, 2025 (Tuesday). PAHALGAM – SRINAGAR (96 km, 3 hours)
Upon arrival in Srinagar, we’ll begin a sightseeing tour, starting with the Shankaracharya Temple. It’s believed that the great philosopher and saint Shankaracharya stayed here during his visit to Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive Sanatana Dharma (the eternal law).
Next, we’ll visit the Hazratbal Mosque, located on the western shore of Dal Lake, opposite Nishat Bagh. This white marble mosque reflects beautifully in the lake. Unlike other Srinagar mosques with pagoda-style roofs, Hazratbal features a domed roof. Built in 1634 by Said Abdullah, a custodian of the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in Medina, it houses a precious relic—a strand of the Prophet’s beard, brought to Kashmir in 1700 and now preserved in this mosque.
We’ll also visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh ("Garden of Delight"), built in the 17th century by Mughal king Asif Khan, and Shalimar Bagh ("Garden of Love"), built by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan.
Finally, we’ll see Jamia Masjid, located in the heart of the old city. This grand mosque attracts thousands of worshippers for Friday prayers.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Asian Park 3*
Day 5. July 2, 2025 (Wednesday). SRINAGAR – SONAMARG – KARGIL (204 km, 7 hours)
After breakfast, we leave Kashmir and head to Ladakh. En route, we’ll stop at Sonamarg, also known as the Golden Meadow. In Sonamarg, you can hike to the Thajiwas Glacier, where snow remains year-round. We continue to Kargil via the village of Drass, one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Tiger Hill and Tololing, the iconic peaks of Kargil. We'll also make a brief stop at the Vijay Smarak war memorial, located right on the highway at the base of Tololing.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Zojila Residency 3* (Super Deluxe room)
Day 6. July 3, 2025 (Thursday). KARGIL – DHA HANU (ARYAN VALLEY) – VILLAGES OF DHA, HANU, AND BIMA (BROKPA PEOPLE) – LAMAYURU
After breakfast, we set off for the remote Aryan Valley to visit the villages of Dha, Hanu, and Bima, home to the Brokpa people (Minaro). These villages, three of the five inhabited by this unique community of around 2,000 people, are known for their pure Indo-Aryan features, preserved over centuries.
We'll explore the way of life of this extraordinary group, visit a local family, and share a cup of aromatic tea. The Brokpa people, descendants of Indo-Aryan tribes, maintain strict endogamous traditions, with marriages permitted only within their community. They are distinctive in appearance, with tall stature, broad eyes, full lips, and sharply defined noses.
The pride of the local women is the perak, an heirloom headdress made of leather and adorned with turquoise, silver plaques, and beads. The number of turquoise rows signifies the owner’s wealth, while the main decoration—physalis flowers—is believed to protect against demons and bring prosperity.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Grand Moonland 3* in Lamayuru
Day 7. July 4, 2025 (Friday). LAMAYURU – LIKIR – NIMMU VALLEY – PATHAR SAHIB – LEH
After breakfast, we head to the capital of Ladakh, Leh, visiting many monasteries along the way. The first stop is the 11th-century Lamayuru Monastery, dramatically situated in a valley surrounded by mountains. We’ll also visit Alchi Gompa, a temple complex in a village, known as one of Ladakh’s most famous monasteries. The complex houses three main sanctuaries: the Dukhang (assembly hall), Sumtsek, and the Manjushri temple. Alchi’s wall paintings, blending Buddhist and Kashmiri styles, are its main attraction, alongside a massive Buddha statue and exquisite baroque-style carvings.
Next, we’ll visit Likir Monastery, built in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 18th century, featuring an 8-meter gilded Buddha statue.
After lunch, we’ll stop at the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. The Indus originates in the Greater Himalayan Range, while the Zanskar begins in the Zanskar Range. These rivers meet in Nimmu Valley, their colors - blue for Zanskar and green for the Indus—briefly remaining distinct after merging.
We’ll also visit Magnetic Hill, where gravity seems reversed, and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, dedicated to Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. The gurudwara, dating back to 1517, preserves a boulder with imprints of Guru Nanak’s head, shoulders, and back.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Maitreya Ladakh 4*
Day 8. July 5, 2025 (Saturday). HEMIS TSECHU FESTIVAL – LEH (85 km, 2 hours)
After an early breakfast, we visit Hemis Monastery, Ladakh’s largest and wealthiest monastery, perched on a verdant hillside and surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. This heritage site, over 500 years old, hosts the annual Hemis Tsechu festival. During the festival, local lamas perform the sacred masked chaam dance, celebrating the victory of good over evil.
In the evening, we return to Leh to explore the local palace, Shanti Stupa, and market.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Maitreya Ladakh 4*
Day 9. July 6, 2025 (Sunday). LEH – CHUMATHANG – TSOMORIRI (240 km, 7 hours)
In the morning, we set off for a journey through Chumathang towards Tsomoriri Lake, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Along the way, we’ll pass Sumdha village, reaching Tsomoriri after another 55 km. This lake, situated at 4,500 meters near the village of Korzok, was only recently opened to foreign visitors due to its proximity to the Chinese border. This land of untouched wilderness and breathtaking landscapes is also a breeding ground for various bird species, including bar-headed geese, great crested grebes, Brahminy ducks, and brown-headed gulls.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Tsomoriri Hotel Lake View 2*
Day 10. July 7, 2025 (Monday). TSOMORIRI – KORZOK – TSOKAR – TANGLANGLA – SHEY – LEH (240 km, 7 hours)
After breakfast, we leave the camp and visit Korzok village, where traditional homes and a gompa stand amidst some of the highest barley fields in the world. Continuing to Tsokar Lake, we’ll encounter the nomadic Changpa people, herding yaks, goats, and sheep. Their way of life has remained unchanged for centuries, relying on their animals for food, clothing, and shelter.
The road offers stunning views, and Tsokar Lake is one of the most picturesque spots in this remote region. We’ll then head back to Leh, stopping at Thiksey Monastery, a tiered architectural marvel, and Shey Palace, the ancient capital of Ladakh.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Maitreya Ladakh 4*
Day 11. July 8, 2025 (Tuesday). LEH – DELHI
Our journey concludes. Today, we’ll have a timely transfer to Leh airport for our flight to Delhi, followed by an international flight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: None
*Recommended Flights from Leh to Delhi:
— IndiGo, departure from Leh at 13:30, arrival in Delhi at 14:55.
— IndiGo Flight 6E-2007, departure from Leh at 08:30, arrival in Delhi at 09:55.
— Air India Flight AI-2602, departure from Leh at 09:05, arrival in Delhi at 10:30.
— Or any other flight departing from Leh on July 8.
*Recommended International Flights from Delhi:
— Aeroflot, departure on July 9 at 05:00, arrival in Moscow at 09:00.
— Air Arabia Flight G9-466, departure on July 8 at 18:35, arrival in Sharjah at 20:30.
— Etihad Airways Flight EY-217, departure on July 8 at 21:15, arrival in Abu Dhabi at 23:25.
— Or any flight departing from Delhi on July 8 or the night of July 8-9 that aligns with the flight from Leh to Delhi.
**The itinerary and schedule are subject to change based on local conditions, such as road status, safety concerns, flight schedules, and festival dates. If certain visits or tours cannot take place due to external factors, they will be replaced whenever possible.
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Number of Participants: 6–12 participants
Cost per person:
- $2,490 for 10–12 participants
- $2,690 for 8–9 participants
- $2,890 for 6–7 participants
Everything included (all accommodations and three daily meals), except:
- International flights to Srinagar (India) and return from Leh (India).
- International medical insurance.
- Indian visa (to be obtained online in advance; $80 for Russian citizens for a 5-year visa).
Estimated airfare:
- Moscow–Srinagar (India) and Leh (India)–Moscow: from $650 (usually booked individually; we provide guidance).
- Delhi–Srinagar (India) and Leh (India)–Delhi: from $150 (usually booked individually; we provide guidance).
Single Supplement: $650 (single accommodations available throughout the itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to india
Day 1. June 28, 2025 (Saturday). SRINAGAR
Morning arrival at Srinagar Airport.
This could very well be one of the most scenic flights in the world. Srinagar, widely known as the "City of Saints and Sufis," serves as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Our local guide will meet us and take us to our hotel. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a Shikara ride on the world-famous Dal Lake, where we’ll see floating gardens and a variety of birds, such as kingfishers, herons, and pariah kites.
Floating houses first appeared in the 19th century when Europeans expressed interest in settling in the valley. However, the local ruler refused to sell land to foreigners, issuing a decree that still stands today. In response, the British began building houses on water—thus, houseboats were born. Initially, they floated freely on the lake, but as their numbers grew, they became permanently anchored along the shores.
Before India gained independence, a brilliant idea ensured the survival of these charming houseboats—they were transformed into hotels for tourists visiting the valley. Dal Lake became synonymous with Srinagar, and the chance to stay on its serene waters has remained irresistible. Today, houseboats continue to provide a livelihood for their owners.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Asian Park 3*
*Recommended international flights to Delhi:
— Aeroflot, Flight SU-232, departs Moscow on June 27 at 18:40, arrives in Delhi on June 28 at 03:20.
— Air Arabia, Flight G9‑806, departs Sharjah on June 27 at 23:15, arrives in Delhi on June 28 at 04:00.
— Any other flight from any city, arriving in Delhi during the night of June 27–28, compatible with onward flights to Srinagar.
**Recommended flights to Srinagar:
— IndiGo, departs Delhi at 07:30 on June 28, arrives in Srinagar at 09:10.
— IndiGo, Flight 6E‑2356, departs Delhi at 09:40 on June 28, arrives in Srinagar at 11:05.
— Any other flight arriving in Srinagar no later than 11:00 on June 28.
Day 2. June 29, 2025 (Sunday). SRINAGAR – GULMARG (50 km, 1.5 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll depart for Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." Located at an altitude of 2,900 meters, it’s a renowned ski resort and home to the world’s highest 18-hole golf course. Gulmarg’s legendary beauty, convenient location, and proximity to Srinagar make it one of India’s premier mountain resorts. Originally named "Gaurimarg" by shepherds, it was renamed in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, inspired by its grassy slopes adorned with wildflowers. Gulmarg was also a favorite of Emperor Jahangir, who once collected 21 varieties of flowers here.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, followed by a gondola ride to the first or second phase. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, reaches an altitude of 3,979 meters. This two-stage lift carries around 600 people per hour from Gulmarg to the shoulder of Mount Apharwat (4,200 m), offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Nanga Parbat.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Zahgeer Gulmarg Continental 3*
Day 3. June 30, 2025 (Monday). GULMARG – PAHALGAM (148 km, 4 hours)
After breakfast, we’ll depart for Pahalgam, also known as the "Valley of Shepherds." Situated at the confluence of streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherds' village surrounded by stunning landscapes.
On the way, we’ll visit saffron fields and the 19th-century ruins of Avantipur. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel. After lunch, we’ll head to Aru Valley, located 10 km from Pahalgam. The village of Aru lies on the left bank of the Aru River, a tributary of the Lidder River. This valley is renowned for its picturesque meadows and tranquil atmosphere.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pahalgam Retreat 3*
Day 4. July 1, 2025 (Tuesday). PAHALGAM – SRINAGAR (96 km, 3 hours)
Upon arrival in Srinagar, we’ll begin a sightseeing tour, starting with the Shankaracharya Temple. It’s believed that the great philosopher and saint Shankaracharya stayed here during his visit to Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive Sanatana Dharma (the eternal law).
Next, we’ll visit the Hazratbal Mosque, located on the western shore of Dal Lake, opposite Nishat Bagh. This white marble mosque reflects beautifully in the lake. Unlike other Srinagar mosques with pagoda-style roofs, Hazratbal features a domed roof. Built in 1634 by Said Abdullah, a custodian of the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in Medina, it houses a precious relic—a strand of the Prophet’s beard, brought to Kashmir in 1700 and now preserved in this mosque.
We’ll also visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh ("Garden of Delight"), built in the 17th century by Mughal king Asif Khan, and Shalimar Bagh ("Garden of Love"), built by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan.
Finally, we’ll see Jamia Masjid, located in the heart of the old city. This grand mosque attracts thousands of worshippers for Friday prayers.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Asian Park 3*
Day 5. July 2, 2025 (Wednesday). SRINAGAR – SONAMARG – KARGIL (204 km, 7 hours)
After breakfast, we leave Kashmir and head to Ladakh. En route, we’ll stop at Sonamarg, also known as the Golden Meadow. In Sonamarg, you can hike to the Thajiwas Glacier, where snow remains year-round. We continue to Kargil via the village of Drass, one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Tiger Hill and Tololing, the iconic peaks of Kargil. We'll also make a brief stop at the Vijay Smarak war memorial, located right on the highway at the base of Tololing.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Zojila Residency 3* (Super Deluxe room)
Day 6. July 3, 2025 (Thursday). KARGIL – DHA HANU (ARYAN VALLEY) – VILLAGES OF DHA, HANU, AND BIMA (BROKPA PEOPLE) – LAMAYURU
After breakfast, we set off for the remote Aryan Valley to visit the villages of Dha, Hanu, and Bima, home to the Brokpa people (Minaro). These villages, three of the five inhabited by this unique community of around 2,000 people, are known for their pure Indo-Aryan features, preserved over centuries.
We'll explore the way of life of this extraordinary group, visit a local family, and share a cup of aromatic tea. The Brokpa people, descendants of Indo-Aryan tribes, maintain strict endogamous traditions, with marriages permitted only within their community. They are distinctive in appearance, with tall stature, broad eyes, full lips, and sharply defined noses.
The pride of the local women is the perak, an heirloom headdress made of leather and adorned with turquoise, silver plaques, and beads. The number of turquoise rows signifies the owner’s wealth, while the main decoration—physalis flowers—is believed to protect against demons and bring prosperity.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Grand Moonland 3* in Lamayuru
Day 7. July 4, 2025 (Friday). LAMAYURU – LIKIR – NIMMU VALLEY – PATHAR SAHIB – LEH
After breakfast, we head to the capital of Ladakh, Leh, visiting many monasteries along the way. The first stop is the 11th-century Lamayuru Monastery, dramatically situated in a valley surrounded by mountains. We’ll also visit Alchi Gompa, a temple complex in a village, known as one of Ladakh’s most famous monasteries. The complex houses three main sanctuaries: the Dukhang (assembly hall), Sumtsek, and the Manjushri temple. Alchi’s wall paintings, blending Buddhist and Kashmiri styles, are its main attraction, alongside a massive Buddha statue and exquisite baroque-style carvings.
Next, we’ll visit Likir Monastery, built in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 18th century, featuring an 8-meter gilded Buddha statue.
After lunch, we’ll stop at the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. The Indus originates in the Greater Himalayan Range, while the Zanskar begins in the Zanskar Range. These rivers meet in Nimmu Valley, their colors - blue for Zanskar and green for the Indus—briefly remaining distinct after merging.
We’ll also visit Magnetic Hill, where gravity seems reversed, and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, dedicated to Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. The gurudwara, dating back to 1517, preserves a boulder with imprints of Guru Nanak’s head, shoulders, and back.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Maitreya Ladakh 4*
Day 8. July 5, 2025 (Saturday). HEMIS TSECHU FESTIVAL – LEH (85 km, 2 hours)
After an early breakfast, we visit Hemis Monastery, Ladakh’s largest and wealthiest monastery, perched on a verdant hillside and surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. This heritage site, over 500 years old, hosts the annual Hemis Tsechu festival. During the festival, local lamas perform the sacred masked chaam dance, celebrating the victory of good over evil.
In the evening, we return to Leh to explore the local palace, Shanti Stupa, and market.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Maitreya Ladakh 4*
Day 9. July 6, 2025 (Sunday). LEH – CHUMATHANG – TSOMORIRI (240 km, 7 hours)
In the morning, we set off for a journey through Chumathang towards Tsomoriri Lake, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Along the way, we’ll pass Sumdha village, reaching Tsomoriri after another 55 km. This lake, situated at 4,500 meters near the village of Korzok, was only recently opened to foreign visitors due to its proximity to the Chinese border. This land of untouched wilderness and breathtaking landscapes is also a breeding ground for various bird species, including bar-headed geese, great crested grebes, Brahminy ducks, and brown-headed gulls.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Tsomoriri Hotel Lake View 2*
Day 10. July 7, 2025 (Monday). TSOMORIRI – KORZOK – TSOKAR – TANGLANGLA – SHEY – LEH (240 km, 7 hours)
After breakfast, we leave the camp and visit Korzok village, where traditional homes and a gompa stand amidst some of the highest barley fields in the world. Continuing to Tsokar Lake, we’ll encounter the nomadic Changpa people, herding yaks, goats, and sheep. Their way of life has remained unchanged for centuries, relying on their animals for food, clothing, and shelter.
The road offers stunning views, and Tsokar Lake is one of the most picturesque spots in this remote region. We’ll then head back to Leh, stopping at Thiksey Monastery, a tiered architectural marvel, and Shey Palace, the ancient capital of Ladakh.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: The Maitreya Ladakh 4*
Day 11. July 8, 2025 (Tuesday). LEH – DELHI
Our journey concludes. Today, we’ll have a timely transfer to Leh airport for our flight to Delhi, followed by an international flight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: None
*Recommended Flights from Leh to Delhi:
— IndiGo, departure from Leh at 13:30, arrival in Delhi at 14:55.
— IndiGo Flight 6E-2007, departure from Leh at 08:30, arrival in Delhi at 09:55.
— Air India Flight AI-2602, departure from Leh at 09:05, arrival in Delhi at 10:30.
— Or any other flight departing from Leh on July 8.
*Recommended International Flights from Delhi:
— Aeroflot, departure on July 9 at 05:00, arrival in Moscow at 09:00.
— Air Arabia Flight G9-466, departure on July 8 at 18:35, arrival in Sharjah at 20:30.
— Etihad Airways Flight EY-217, departure on July 8 at 21:15, arrival in Abu Dhabi at 23:25.
— Or any flight departing from Delhi on July 8 or the night of July 8-9 that aligns with the flight from Leh to Delhi.
**The itinerary and schedule are subject to change based on local conditions, such as road status, safety concerns, flight schedules, and festival dates. If certain visits or tours cannot take place due to external factors, they will be replaced whenever possible.
COST INCLUDES:
- All ground transportation as per the program: a 15-seater TEMPO TRAVELLER minibus for groups of up to 8 people, or 2 TEMPO TRAVELLER minibuses for groups of 9 or more
- Three meals a day throughout the trip
- Drinking water available at all stops along the route
- Admission fees for the Hemis Tsechu festival events
- All necessary permits and documentation
- All activities and excursions listed in the program
- Airport pick-up on the day of arrival and return transfer
- Professional English-speaking guide (regional specialist) throughout the trip
- Russian- and English-speaking team leader for the entire journey
COST EXCLUDES:
- International flights to Srinagar and return from Leh
- International medical insurance
- Indian visa (to be arranged online in advance; $80 for a 5-year visa for Russian citizens)
- Single accommodation
- Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and personal expenses
- Tips or gifts for the local population
TO TAKE WITH:
- Three sets of clothing (pants, long-sleeved shirt, t-shirt, underwear, socks)
- Sun hat
- Lightweight trekking jacket
- Warm windproof jacket for mountain conditions
- Lightweight gloves and a mountain hat (it can be cold in the mountains)
- Comfortable trekking shoes and lightweight shoes (sneakers)
- Raincoat
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Personal first aid kit (painkillers, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration salts, medications for stomach issues, and any other necessary personal medicines)
- Personal hygiene items (including a towel, wet wipes, and soap)
- Headlamp
- Various repellents for skin and clothing
- Waterproof document holder (optional)
- Photo and video equipment
- Additional batteries and power banks for photo and video equipment
- Waterproof case for camera equipment (recommended)
- Trekking poles
- Travel backpack (duffel bag or small suitcase)
- Small backpack for personal items
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- 1UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - 2ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - 3SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - 4EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - 5LOW PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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